Dash cameras are no longer luxury gadgets.
They have become essential tools for drivers.
Models like the Miden S7 provide solid features at an affordable price.
Whether you’re commuting, heading on a road trip, or just parking your car in a busy lot, having a dash cam can be a game-changer.
But what if you’re on a tight budget? Not a problem.
Nowadays, you can actually find a pretty good dash cam for under 50 dollars.
Let’s explore what makes a great budget dash cam and what you should look for to get the best value for your money.
Why Consider a Dash Cam?
Have you ever been in a fender bender where both sides blamed each other?
Dash cams offer peace of mind by recording your drives.
For $50 or less, you can capture clear footage, protect yourself in disputes, and even lower insurance risks.
A dash cam is also great for capturing scenic drives or documenting road trips.
Imagine having footage of an unexpected meteor sighting or an amazing wildlife encounter.
With the right dash cam, you can preserve these moments without spending a fortune.
Key Features to Look For in a Budget Dash Cam
When shopping for a dash cam under $50, focus on these must-have features:
Video Quality
Video clarity is essential. Models offering 1080p resolution, 30fps frame rate, and 12Mbps bitrate ensure sharp footage. While you won’t get the 4K experience of premium models, 1080p is sufficient for most needs.
Field of View (FOV)
How much of the road can your dash cam see? A wider field of view (120-170 degrees) covers more of your surroundings, which is crucial for capturing side impacts or incidents in adjacent lanes.
Night Vision
Driving doesn’t stop when the sun sets. Night vision cameras use infrared sensors for clear, low-light recordings. The Miden S7 provides excellent night vision with 1080p resolution, making it ideal for night drivers or those parking in dimly lit areas and making them excellent for night drivers or those frequently parking in dimly lit areas.
Motion Detection
Planning to use your dash cam while parked? Motion detection can start recording when movement is detected near your vehicle, making it a great theft deterrent or evidence collector.
Parking Mode
A lifesaver for city drivers, parking mode kicks in when your car is stationary. It records bumps, hits, or any activity around your car, even when you’re not there.
Our Top Pick – Miden S7 Dash Cam Review Video
Find out more about these budget dash cameras by reading reviews on Amazon.
Best Dash Cam Under 50 Starting With Our Favorite (Compare the Specs)
Below are the best dash cam options we’ve found under $50 that live up to their hype. Please note that during the holiday season, the prices fluctuate regularly.
- 【2.5K+1080P FHD & 336°Wide Angle Dual...
- 【3.2 Inch IPS Screen & Aluminum Alloy...
- 【Loop Recording & Evidence Protection】-Miden...
- 【3-Axis G-Sensor & Accident Lock】-Miden car...
- 【Parking Monitor & Splendid Night...
- 【FHD 1080P Dash Cam】Recording FHD...
- 【Built-in 2.4G WiFi & APP Control】This...
- 【Compact & Super Easy to Install】With slim and...
- 【24 Hours Parking Mode】Mini USB hardwire...
- 【Seamless Loop Recording & G-sensor】When the...
We’ve made the choice simple for you. Will it be the Miden S7 or one of the ARIFAYZ dash cams under $50 or near fifty?
Or if you’re still not done researching, we also recommend checking out the 10 best selling dash cameras before you decide which dashcam is the best deal for you…
We also have a special list of dash cams for truckers who live on the road and want videos of their trips.
FAQ
What is the best dash cam under $50?
For reliable performance and essential features, options like the Miden S7 or ARIFAYZ Dash Cam are highly recommended. The Miden S7 offers 2.5K front recording and 1080P rear recording, with wide-angle lenses of 176° front and 160° rear. The ARIFAYZ Dash Cam provides 1080P resolution and a 150° wide-angle lens.
Do cheap dash cams have parking mode?
Yes, many affordable dash cams include parking mode. This feature activates the camera when movement is detected near your vehicle, providing added security.
Can I use any memory card with my dash cam?
Not all memory cards are compatible. Choose a Class 10 microSD card with at least 32GB capacity to ensure smooth recording and compatibility with most devices.
How do I install a dash cam?
Most dash cams come with suction mounts or adhesive pads for easy installation on your windshield. Position it near the center for optimal coverage, and connect it to your car’s power source using the provided cable.
Are dash cams under $50 durable?
While these models are not as rugged as high-end versions, they are built to last under normal conditions. Proper care and following the manufacturer’s guidelines can extend their lifespan.
Do budget dash cams work well at night?
Many budget dash cams come equipped with night vision, using infrared LEDs or low-light sensors to provide clear footage even in dim conditions. Always check product reviews for real-world performance.
What happens if my dash cam runs out of storage?
Most dash cams feature loop recording, which automatically overwrites the oldest footage when the memory card is full. Ensure your card has enough capacity to minimize data loss.
Can I use a budget dash cam for ride-share driving?
Yes, budget dash cams are great for ride-share drivers looking for basic security. However, if you need interior recording, consider models with dual-channel functionality.
Are there dash cams under $50 with wide-angle lenses?
Yes, many affordable dash cams offer wide-angle lenses, typically covering 120 to 150 degrees. This ensures comprehensive coverage of multiple lanes.
Do I need to update my dash cam’s firmware?
Updating your dash cam’s firmware ensures it operates with the latest features and bug fixes. Check the manufacturer’s website periodically for updates and instructions.