In this article: We'll review a comprehensive list of 15, yes 15, of our best rear view backup camera picks for your car, truck, trailer or RV. We'll break out these cameras by category, including wired and wireless cameras, license plate mounted, camera and monitor combos, multi-camera systems and even motorhome and large trailer camera systems. Skim through the article or click one of the hotlinks below to navigate to the camera section that best fits your needs.
Adding a backup camera to your car or truck can be an easy DIY job that can make you a safer driver, park faster and even give you a little more confidence pulling into that tight parking spot. You don’t appreciate the usefulness of a quality backup camera until you have an opportunity to spend time using one. You’ll gain confidence when parking in tight spots or while parallel parking, be safer exiting parking spaces you can’t see oncoming cars from, and you’ll see pedestrians behind you when you back out of your driveway. Once you've had one, it's tough to go back.
Starting back in 2019, backup camera systems were mandated in vehicles leased or sold in the United States. This decision was fueled by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) and part of the 2008 Driving Safety Act, signed by President George W. Bush. The new safety regulations were triggered by the growing number of accidents, injuries and even deaths from reversing vehicles in the past years. In 2008, NHTSA reported 271 deaths and more than 18,000 injuries resulting from reversing drivers.
If your car or truck was built before 2019, there's a chance you don't have a backup camera. There's also thousands of RVs, trailers and box vans that would seriously benefit from having a backup camera and/or camera system installed to prevent avoidable accidents. This buying guide will help you parse through the options on the market.
There's a variety of rear view backup cameras. When you're browsing through this list there's a few things to consider that will help you narrow your selection:
- Wired or Wireless? This decision is really going to come down to whether or not you want to spend the extra time wiring up a camera from the rear of the vehicle to a monitor on your dash. Wireless options are much easier to install. But note that in many cases, a wireless option is still going to need to be wired to power.
- Monitor or No Monitor? If you don't have an aftermarket touchscreen head unit, odds are you're going to need a separate monitor. You can choose from a monitor that's placed on your dash, one built into the rear view mirror, or one that can actually use your phone as the monitor. Most OEM screens are not compatible with aftermarket backup cameras.
- Mounting Location. Unless you're purchasing a vehicle specific backup camera, there's basically two options: universally mounted cameras that can mount pretty much anywhere, license plate cameras that use the mounting of your license plate to hold the camera in place.
Knowing the answer to these three questions will help you narrow to a few select backup cameras.
Here Are Our Best Rear View Backup Cameras in 2023
Best Wired License Plate Backup Cameras
Let's start with wired license plate backup cameras. This style camera requires you to tap into power from your reverse signal and run a power and video feed to your monitor or in-dash head unit. They're super simple to mount, look great and work well on virtually all vehicles.
1. eRapta ERT11
Latest Prices
Key Features
- Five mounting options included
- 1280×720 resolution
- IP-69-rated
- Includes all necessary wiring to install
eRapta ERT11 Quick Review
The eRapta ERT11 is a newly upgraded version from eRapta that incorporates a better chipset and lens to provide 720P resolution and improved night vision. This camera is easy to install with basic tools. The kit includes two mounts so you can choose to place the camera behind your license plate frame or hang it from your rear bumper.
The kit includes all the wiring you’ll need to make connections to the reverse light power source and connect to RCA camera inputs. If your head unit or monitor uses NTSC connections, you’ll need to purchase an RCA-to-HDMI converter to use this system. The camera is IP-69 rated to ensure years of use, even when used in dusty or wet environments.
Pros
- Affordable way to add a backup camera to vehicles that already have a monitor or touchscreen with camera capabilities
- Better-than-expected night vision from the upgraded sensor
Cons
- Mounting bracket is fixed angle, so you’ll have to bend it to change the angle
- Lack of IR or LED lighting limits performance at night to moderately well-lit areas
2. Esky License Plate Camera
Latest Prices
Key Features
- License plate frame mounting
- IP-67 dust and moisture resistance (not waterproof)
- 480TVL resolution
- Includes wiring to install
- NTSC compatible for use with most aftermarket head units
Esky License Plate Frame Quick Review
When you want a backup camera, but you don’t want to bother with finding a mounting location, this package is perfect. The camera is mounted to a license plate frame, so all you have to do is put it in place and run wiring to the necessary connections. As far as wired systems go, this one is about as easy to install as possible.
Video resolution isn’t spectacular, but at standard TV resolution of 480, you should have no trouble distinguishing between objects. It has a wide-angle view of 170-degrees to ensure you don’t miss anything, however this angle does introduce the “fishbowl” effect that can take some getting used to. Night vision is aided by seven ultra-bright LED diodes.
Pros
- Great image quality
- Excellent connection options
- Well-regarded reliability
Cons
- Low resolution doesn’t give as good of a view as some competitors
- Fixed angle of camera, no adjustment for vertical changes
3. Alpine HCE-C1100
Latest Prices
Key Features
- Easy-to-install license plate frame backup camera
- IP-67 dust and water resistance (not waterproof)
- 480TVL resolution
- Advanced HDR technology and sensor for clear day or night images
- NTSC/ RCA compatibility
- Includes wiring to install
Alpine HCE-C1100 Quick Review
Alpine quality has found its way into this easy-to-install license plate frame backup camera. We've had the HCE-C1100 on our list for some time now, but only recently did we find a camera + license plate mount combination. This camera provides a 131-degree image and is adjustable vertically to accommodate for different license plate heights. It’s also compatible with factory and aftermarket head units and can connect to a switching device to enable the use of multiple cameras.
Resolution i s standard 480, but it’s made better with the use of High Dynamic Range to give you clear, crisp images day or night. It’s IP-67 rated for dust and water resistance and includes all the necessary wiring to install. This is a great option to add a backup cam to your vehicle, particularly if you are installing an Alpine aftermarket head unit.
Pros
- Adjustable viewing angle eliminates the issues with fixed cameras
- HDR provides a clear image in low-light conditions
- Ideal when installing an aftermarket head unit
Cons
- Pricey for the resolution
- Lack of IR or LED lighting limits image quality in dark conditions
Best Wireless Backup Cameras
Taking advantage of WiFi, wireless backup systems don’t require running a video feed from the back of your car to your dash. This can make installation much easier, but can also induce lag between the image capture and the display if you don't purchase the right one. Lucky for you we weeded out laggy choices. But even though wireless cameras can transfer the video feed via WiFi straight to your dash, you'll still need to wire power and ground by tapping into your reverse signal.
1. Rear View Safety RVS-091406
Latest Prices
Key Features
- Wireless connectivity up to 75 ft
- IP68 and 10G ratings
- Includes 4.3” LCD monitor with 12v ACC power cord
- Discreet rear camera with 130 degree angle view
- 2.1 mm sensor
- 1440×234 monitor resolution
Rear View Safety RVS-091406 Quick Review
Wireless cameras like the RVS-091406 is an ideal solution for trucks that haul trailers to be able to see behind the load. It's also great for your typical car or truck with it's universally mounted camera. This backup camera system from RVS is one of our best choices, and includes a 4.3” LCD monitor and connects to the rear-view camera wirelessly.
Rear View Safety advertises a range of 75 feet, but users have noted that achieving this distance sometimes requires additional components including a different transmitter depending on where it's installed. However, many users have had success with distances around 40 feet, making this an ideal backup camera system or motor homes that are typically less than 45 feet long.
Display
The camera system includes a 4.3” TFT LCD monitor. The monitor is only an inch thick and includes a base that can be screwed down or retained with suction cups. The monitor receives power from your 12-volt accessory socket. This monitor is not designed for permanent installation. It offers a resolution of 1440×234. The bracket holding the display provides adjustment to get the screen pointed to the driver.
Wireless Connectivity
A wireless transmitter module receives the signal from the backup camera and routes it to the display wirelessly. This device enables longer distance wireless signal connections. The included device looks like a small antenna.
Camera Capabilities
The camera uses a 2.1 mm sensor to capture images. It has an IP-68 rating making it highly resistant to water and dust and carries a 10g impact rating. The camera requires wiring to connect to the vehicle. Typical installations connect to the power wire of the reverse light signal. Alternatively, the camera can be wired to the running light circuit so that it is on when daytime running lights or headlights are on. The wireless intent makes running a wire to a switch impractical.
Night Vision
The camera features nine infrared diodes that allow views in near darkness up to 30 feet. This can be one of the most important features of a backup camera since darkness is often the most dangerous time to be backing up a truck or trailer.
Pros
- Wireless camera and monitor package simplify installation
- Provides an excellent safety option for motorhomes
Cons
- Some early reports of quality issues and few reviews since 2017 but look to have been since resolved
- Monitor is lower resolution than some of the other cameras on our list
2. AUTO VOX Solar1
Latest Prices
Key Features
- License plate frame mount with included monitor
- Solar-powered battery only requires charging when the camera doesn’t get 30 minutes of sunshine per day
- IP-68 rated for dust and water resistance (not waterproof)
- Easy install with no wiring
AUTO VOX Solar1 Quick Review
One of the worst things about installing a backup camera is running the wiring from the rear of the car back to the head unit. This camera system from Auto Vox makes installation so much simpler. What we love about this choice, and what differentiates it from others on our list is its solar feature. I mentioned that most wireless backup cameras still require you to wire power. This is the only option on our list where there is literally no wiring needed which means you can basically install it with a screwdriver and go. Simply attach the license plate frame mount and connect via WiFi to the included monitor, and you’re ready to roll.
You might be wondering, no power or signal, how does it know I'm reversing? Well, the power cable for the included monitor features a trigger button you can use to view your backup camera anytime, even when driving down the road. Simply flip the switch.
Pros
- License plate frame mount with included monitor
- Solar-powered battery only requires charging when the camera doesn’t get 30 minutes of sunshine per day
- IP-68 rated for dust and water resistance (not waterproof)
- Easy install with no wiring
Cons
- The simplest possible installation
- Included monitor eliminates the need to connect to your head unit
3. Pyle PLCM4590WIR
Latest Prices
Key Features
- Wireless backup camera with mirror/ monitor
- IP-67 rated camera (not waterproof)
- Easy to wire and set up
- 480TVL resolution
- 170-degree wide-angle view
- 4.3” rear view mirror
- Includes wiring to install
- Dual input allows for GPS streaming from smartphone
Pyle PLCM4590WIR Quick Review
Here is a slick setup when you don’t want to clutter your dash with a separate monitor, or your head unit isn’t able to display video. Pyle provides a wireless backup camera that sends video to a rear-view mirror that doubles as a monitor. No clutter, no complex wiring, no problem- this is an easy DIY solution to adding a backup camera to virtually any vehicle.
The camera mounts to your license plate frame with a bar-type bracket. Power is a simple connection to the reverse light wiring to turn the camera on when the car is in reverse. The mirror design replaces your factory mirror easily. Video is sent using a 2.4 gHz WiFi signal that displays on the left half of the 4.3” mirror. When the car is in drive, you can use the mirror normally. It’s also possible to hardwire this system for better reliability.
Pros
- Convenient solution to add a backup camera in nearly any vehicle
- Makes for a great solution when a rear-view mirror won’t work, like when rear view is obstructed
Cons
- Somewhat fussy installation for a wireless product
- Mirror tint takes getting used to
- Won’t work with all factory rear view mirror brackets
4. Lastbus Magnetic Hitch Camera
Latest Prices
Key Features
- Wireless magnetic backup camera
- Streams video to smartphones, iPhone and Android compatible
- Easy setup for short-distance wireless connections
- 6400 mAh rechargeable battery
- IR LED night vision
Lastbus Magnetic Hitch Camera Quick Review
Lastbus brings you this excellent solution to wirelessly connecting a backup camera to trucks, vans, and other vehicles. The rechargeable battery-power camera magnetically mounts to your trailer hitch, providing an ideal view when backing up and helping hook up your trailer, too. Built-in WiFi connectivity lets you stream the rear image to your compatible smart device. This makes installation a snap and it’s an ideal system for your work vehicle, since you can take it with you and easily attach to any vehicle with a hitch.
The magnetic base is very strong so the camera can be used when driving to check the hitch connection or glance directly behind the vehicle. The camera has an adjustable tilt angle using a handy knurled knob and features IR LED diodes to enhance night vision.
Pros
- Easy system to set up and use
- Great for drivers that switch vehicles
Cons
- Easily stolen if you forget to take it with you
- Short WiFi range is okay for most vehicles, but won’t work well for long trucks
Best Backup Camera and Monitor Combos
Although some of the backup camera options we've given you thus far do include a monitor, we've dedicated a section to a few combos that we think work very well together. Each of these products includes a backup camera and some manner in which to view the video in one easy to install package. These are ideal systems for installing in older vehicles that have do not have an aftermarket head unit with a screen. Each of these systems brings convenience to your install by matching the components.
1. AUTO VOX T9
Latest Prices
Key Features
- License plate bar mount backup camera
- IP-68 dust and water resistance
- 9.35” rear view monitor touchscreen
- Full-time run capability
- SD card storage for automatic rear view recording
- Touchscreen functions include dimmer, recording options, access to optional GPS data
- 140-degree viewing angle
- Includes all wiring to install, does not include SD card or GPS module, sold separately
AUTO VOX T9 Quick Review
Auto Vox makes this backup camera and mirror monitor system for use 100% of the time. The mirror replaces your factory mirror, and once installed, displays the camera image on the entire mirror all the time. The mirror measures 9.35-inches and has touchscreen options for controlling your camera image.
The mirror mounts using the factory windshield clip and the camera uses a bar-type license plate frame mount. You’ll need to wire the camera to the monitor and both components to power in order to use it, so it’s a little more complex than some installations. A removable SD card even provides rear image recording full-time that automatically loop records when out of space.
Pros
- Great looking monitor that replaces the mirror for a high-tech solution
- Excellent image day or night
Cons
- Difficult wiring that requires lots of interior trim removal and wiring connections
- Full-time function means you’ll lose rear view if the camera fails
2. LeeKooLuu LK3
Latest Prices
Key Features
- License plate bar mount backup camera and monitor system
- 1080P video resolution with 4.3″ monitor
- IP69K waterproof rated camera
- High definition night vision
- 149 degree viewing angle
- DIY guide lines
LeeKooLuu LK3 Quick Review
This is a complete package to add 1080P HD-quality rear view to your dash. It uses a 4.3” monitor to provide the image. The rear camera mounts to your license plate using a bar-type support. You can wire this system to operate in reverse only or use the included power cable that features an on/off switch. Wiring is simplified from many systems because you only need to make one power connection.
The camera mounts to the license plate. It’s IP-69 rated, the highest possible rating and is considered waterproof. It uses an upgraded chipset and six glass lenses for crystal clear HD images even in fog, rain, and bright light. Built-in IR LED diodes enhance night vision. This is a reliable monitor and camera combo at a great price.
Pros
- High resolution camera (1080p)
- Cigarette lighter power adapter for easy wiring (if needed)
- Adjustable parking lines
Cons
- Non-IR camera (lower quality at night)
- Decent viewing angle (149 degrees). Could be more
- Camera isn't adjustable
3. Rohent R9
Latest Prices
Key Features
- Bumper-mount wireless rear view camera with 7” LCD monitor
- IP-69 rated (waterproof)
- 1080P screen resolution
- IR LED diodes for enhanced night vision
- Can be wired for full-time or reverse-only operation
- Up to 65-foot range
- Includes wiring and instructions
Rohent R9 Quick Review
This system is perfect for large vehicles where running cable from the camera to the monitor isn’t practical. Once connected, the camera wirelessly sends video signal to the included 7-inch LCD multi-function monitor. Resolution is an impressive 1080P for clear images even in low light conditions. The camera bolts in place for a sturdy and secure installation. The multi-function monitor allows two video inputs, so you can add a front camera.
A downside of many wireless systems is poor performance when driving. This system is capable of providing an image from the rear of the vehicle at freeway speeds up to 56 feet from the monitor to the camera. Built-in transmitters and receivers simplify wiring and making this a convenient camera setup with an excellent monitor.
Pros
- Great quality screen
- Easy to set up and operate
- Perfect for large vehicles
Cons
- Bulky camera and monitor setup doesn’t blend with the interior of most vehicles
- Installation instructions and video are not clear
Best Multi-Camera Systems for Car
Today, front, rear, and side-view cameras are becoming more common on new vehicles. So in this section, you'll find a series of systems that come with multiple cameras. You can upgrade any vehicle with multi-camera technology using these products. However, these systems are much more complex to install than single or dual camera systems. Many vehicles will require additional relays and wiring to get all cameras working correctly. Nonetheless, they're excellent options for trying to bring a ‘360 view' to your car, truck or RV.
1. Weivision BDV001
Latest Prices
Key Features
- Complete four camera system that provides birds-eye view
- IP-69 rated (waterproof)
- Includes control box, calibration cloth, and wiring
- G-Sensor for auto recording
- Numerous camera views including directional and 360-degree birds eye
- Suitable for vehicles less than 20 ft. long
Weivision BDV001 Quick Review
This system gives you four cameras that can give you an individual image or the images can splice together to show you a birds-eye view of your surroundings. This is next-level technology that is becoming popular in the newest cars and trucks, so adding it to your older vehicle is a good idea. As with any multi-camera system, wiring is significantly more complex than a single backup camera.
The package features front and rear cameras with surface mount brackets and left and right cameras that are flush mount. The system sends video to a compatible monitor or aftermarket touchscreen stereo. It can be configured in a number of ways, including full time use and an option that brings up the left or right camera depending on the direction you are turning. You can also set it up to automatically record even when the vehicle is parked by using a G-sensor.
Pros
- Cool birds-eye view is great for parking, off-road, and other situations where you need to see all around your vehicle
- Great customer service
Cons
- Complex wiring required to install. Many vehicles will require additional components to use all four cameras
- Must drill holes to mount left and right cameras
2. Pormido Dash and Reverse Camera
Latest Prices
Key Features
- Front, rear, inside cameras that display on a 12” mirror monitor
- 1080P HD resolution
- Sony STARVIS CMOS sensor
- Touchscreen monitor allows view switching
- Parking mode
- Includes all wiring, GPS antenna, and SD card (32gb)
Pormido Dash & Reverse Camera Quick Review
At some point, you may have wondered why a dual camera dash cam system can’t be used for a parking camera. Usually, it’s due to the fact the rear camera is mounted in the rear window for a dash cam system, which limits the use as a backup camera. This package solves the image by combining a two-channel dash camera with a reverse camera, and displaying all three images simultaneously on a 12-inch mirror monitor.
This system is designed to provide you a front, rear, and inside view of your car, perfect for monitoring back seat activity. The monitor gives 1080P resolution and is a touchscreen device so you can easily switch between views. A Sony STARVIS sensor provides excellent HD-quality video from all three cameras. You can also use this system for monitoring your car while parked. It even includes an SD card to get you started and a remote GPS antenna so you can get driving info on-screen.
Pros
- Fantastic all-in-one package
- Excellent image quality during daytime use
- Tons of features normally reserved for dash cam packages
Cons
- Mirror monitor is on the larger side and may obstruct forward vision
3. BOYO VTSW4 (Multi-Camera Switch)
Latest Prices
Key Features
- NTSC/PAL/SeCam compatible video switching device
- Operates on 12V power
- Allows easy switching between up to four cameras
- Ideal solution for custom camera installations
BOYO VTSW4 Mult-Camera Switch Quick Review
One limitation of many multi-camera systems is that you are limited to using the included cameras, which often are not that great. This affordable switch will let you select the cameras you want to use and wire them all to a monitor or aftermarket head unit easily. This is the ultimate tool for building your own custom multi-camera system.
The switch is NTSC/PAL/SeCam compliant, so it’ll work with just about any camera or monitor on the market. Installing this system makes it easy to trigger individual cameras but won’t feed video from different cameras simultaneously. Note that this switch does not come with cameras or monitors. You will need to buy those separately
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Affordable price
- Universal
Cons
- Individual triggering capability only, can’t view multiple cameras simultaneously
- Requires additional components to work with turn signal-operated cameras
Best Cameras for Trailers and Motorhomes / RVs
When you are operating a trailer or a motorhome, having a backup or multi-camera system is essential. Blind spots are bigger on these types of vehicles and being able to see all angles when driving or reversing can save a lot of trouble, headaches and stress. These products are specifically designed to work with your RV, boat, or camper.
1. Furrion Vision S
Latest Prices
Key Features
- Front, rear/doorway, and left & right turn signal cameras with a 7” touchscreen LCD monitor
- Wireless cameras for easy installation
- IP 65 rated for dust and moisture resistance (not dust proof or waterproof)
- IR LED enhanced night vision
- 480TVL resolution
- Can operate as a motion-detecting security camera
- Includes wiring to install
Furrion Vision S Quick Review
There is a reason many brand-new motorhomes and travel trailers are factory-equipped with Furrion cameras- they are a superior solution to long-distance video feed. This wireless four camera setup from Furrion is admittedly expensive- but you get what you pay for. It has front and rear, left and right cameras, and a 7-inch touchscreen multi-function monitor.
Each wireless cam also features a motion sensor, so your Furrion system will record video even when you are away. The rear and doorway cameras also have microphones for recording audio. Cameras stream video to the monitor using a 2.4gHz WiFi connection. Even at high speeds, this system transmits at least 100 feet, making it appropriate for almost any truck and trailer combo, motorhome or fifth wheel trailer.
Pros
- Perfect long-range solution for large motorhomes
- Easy setup and factory-appearing installation
- Pretty comprehensive, high quality setup
Cons
- Lower resolution compared to some competitors in the same price range
- Lower than average IP-rating increases the likelihood of damage during weather
2. Haloview MC5111
Latest Prices
Key Features
- Wireless rear view camera and 7” touchscreen monitor system
- IP-69 rated (waterproof)
- Live view and recording capabilities
- Add up to four cameras
- 120-degree viewing angle
- Perfect for long trailers up to 984 feet open line of sight range
- Built-in microphone
- Compatible with factory Furrion wiring
Haloview MC5111 Quick Review
This single camera system is ideal for travel trailers and fifth wheels that are often difficult to safely back up. The dedicated camera and monitor provide good resolution images and are easy to set up wirelessly. It's even compatible with campers factory equipped with Furrion components. A 120-degree viewing angle is ideal for accurate, fish-eye free images.
The wireless backup camera bolts to the bumper or body of your trailer and has exceptional adjustment to provide exactly the view you need. The monitor can mount to your dash with a bracket or to the windshield using suction cups. The system doubles duty as a DVR, allowing easy recording of the rear view of your vehicle for playback later. Want to add cameras later? The monitor is capable of up to four video feeds.
Pros
- Ideal for large vehicles
- Excellent WiFi connectivity
- Expandable system at a great price
Cons
- Wiring is Furrion compatible, screw holes are not
- Lacks a rain shroud to prevent water obscuring image
Looking for accessories to add to your car? Check out these lists!
Types of Backup Cameras
Only a few years ago, buying a backup camera for your car meant a time intensive installation that requires many components. Moderately priced cameras weren’t very good and high-quality systems were hard to find and out of many buyers' price range. Things have changed and today it’s easier than ever to add a backup camera to your car, truck, van, or even mobile home. There are systems available today to add a single camera or more comprehensive camera systems for larger vehicles. Many of which are DIY friendly and a perfect Saturday project.
We will show you our best pick backup cameras for several different use cases. Everyone has a preference for how they want to install a camera, but everyone needs a system that reliably provides clear and accurate video in all types of light and weather conditions.
We broke this review down into the best cameras depending on the type. We're going to show you the best systems for adding a camera and a monitor, adding a camera to a new touchscreen head unit, and adding multiple cameras all at once. We will also include some wireless units that will meet your specific needs quite well. You’ll find the ideal backup camera solution for your vehicle somewhere on this list. And if you're wondering about how recent this article has been updated, take a peak at the date at the top of the page.
About this List
We take our product lists very seriously. The top pick rear view backup cameras that we compile on this list are based on our own extensive research, first hand testing of products and of course our industry knowledge. This list is a guideline, based on what we think are quality backup cameras that have the features you'll want and are built from manufacturers you can trust. The recommendations on this list are our own and originate here. We do not copy content from around the web. We want you to trust that the information here is legitimate and give you the knowledge and confidence to choose a product that suits your needs. It's our top priority. We're also constantly updating this list so that the products are relevant and up-to-date. So the next time you need a backup camera, be sure to check back to find the latest and greatest.
Backup Camera Buyers Guide – Read Before You Buy
Before you decide to invest in a backup camera for your car, truck, or recreational vehicle, you should consider some of the factors that set some units apart from others. Almost any system out there will give you an image, but buying the right backup camera system for your needs will save you lots of hassle. Below, we will discuss some of the things you should consider before purchasing a backup camera.
Wired or Wireless?
Wireless connections have come a long way and work much better today than they did only a few years ago. There are still some issues. One is the likelihood of lag. A few milliseconds doesn’t seem like much until it’s the difference between stopping short and hitting the kid who just ran behind your truck. A hard-wire system is more reliable and usually provides a faster, cleaner image.
The obvious downside of a hard-wired system is the wiring. It can get very complex, often requires removing a significant amount of interior trim, and is difficult to undue once done. Wireless systems are easier to move from one vehicle to another, where a hard wired system is easier to simply replace when you buy a new vehicle.
Image Resolution
Lots of companies make a big deal about video resolution, and for good reason. The sharper the image, the more easily you can identify the obstacle quickly and still have time to react. Nothing is worse than trying to figure out what's behind you as you hit it. With that said, small screens typically don’t benefit from big resolution increases as much as larger screens. On a small screen, the pixel count is such that even a standard 480TVL image is going to be legible, if not a little grainy. It’s wonderful to have 1080P resolution. But many smaller monitors won’t give you enough difference to justify the increase in cost.
Night Vision
Rear view cameras are particularly handy when it’s dark because you can see objects that otherwise you wouldn’t. Many of the inexpensive cameras out there advertise “night vision”, but without some type of illumination, they are going to give you a dark, difficult to understand image. For optimal night performance, choose cameras that feature multiple IR LED diodes. Trailers and motorhomes can increase the effectiveness of a rear view camera at night by adding brighter reverse lights.
IP-Rating
An IP-rating refers to the level of moisture and dust resistance the equipment is capable of maintaining. The highest rating, IP-69, is considered water and dust proof. These are sealed systems that typically are filled with waterproof glue to prevent moisture from getting inside. Lower IP-ratings indicate a degree of resistance. Devices with low IP-ratings are more likely to fail if you drive in snow, rain, dust, and salty environments.
Mounting Location
Many cameras are intended to be mounted on the license plate. This is a great solution for probably 80% of vehicles. For the rest, you’ll need to identify a different location or mounting style. For example, trucks and trailers with an offset license plate won’t be able to use a license plate mount, but a hitch mount or surface mount camera may be more appropriate. Location also matters for modified vehicles. If your car or truck has an altered suspension, you might need to rethink where the camera is going to mount before picking a device.
Viewing Angle
Viewing angles are typically between 110 and 170 degrees for backup cameras. A narrower angle of the image provides a better image, but you may not be able to see objects off to the sides, possibly leading to an accident. Wider viewing angles show you more of the road, but can contribute to a fish-eye effect in which objects look bent and stretched. This can make it more difficult to quickly identify when you are too close to an object.
Do It Yourself, or Pay for Installation
This is a big one that many people consider when choosing a backup camera system. Even the most simple wired systems still require a certain degree of competency and a good-quality wiring diagram is very helpful. Wireless systems are much easier to install and set up, and usually don’t require professional help. Multi-camera systems are much more of a challenge to install and have work correctly. There are several variables that can affect the success of installation, and it might be worth the time, hassle, and money to have the system installed. You should consider the cost of installation: a wireless installation will cost around $50, while a four-camera system with recording capabilities that’s hard-wired may cost more than $650 to have professionally installed.
FAQ
There are three main types of reverse cameras: wired, wireless, and built-in. Wired cameras require a direct connection to your car's wiring, wireless cameras will transmit the image to a monitor through a wireless signal (typically via WiFi), and built-in cameras are installed in your car from the factory.
Backup cameras aren't legally required in all locations, but some states and municipalities do have laws mandating their use.
It is definitely possible to install a reverse camera yourself, depending on the type of camera you purchase and your own level of technical expertise. Many of the products on our list are DIY. It's worth noting though, wired cameras require a little more technical installation, while wireless cameras can be relatively simple to install in most cases. We recommend reading the instructions thoroughly to gauge whether the installation is within your level of comfort before starting your DIY backup camera install project!
Many reverse cameras come with a monitor included which can be placed on your dashboard or even replace your rear view mirror. Other cameras integrate with the car's head unit and appear directly on the screen when you put the car into reverse.
There are a variety of different backup and rear view cameras on the market – from wired license plate cameras that use the frame of a license plate to house a camera, to wireless multi-camera systems that give you a 360 view of your vehicle. The best backup camera for you is dependent on your preferences, technical know how and vehicle, which is why we've assembled a list of best backup cameras broken down into a variety of categories to help you choose the right one.
We recommend you consider factors like the camera type (wired or wireless), resolution and image quality, viewing angle, night vision tech, installation difficulty and price.
Most decent backup cameras are water resistent or waterproof and are designed to withstand the harsh environment on the road. But be sure to check the specs of the backup camera you are considering. Most notably the IPX rating.
Yes, many backup cameras are compatible with existing head units, rearview mirrors or other car displays that have video input capabilities. In many cases, you can also replace or upgrade your existing factory backup camera with an aftermarket one with the use of a Metra or Scosche camera adapter. Be sure to check the specs and compatibility of the camera and display unit you wish to connect it to, of course.
I need a camera that will fit on my tailgate handle to point down at my hitch receiver when I am hooking my trailer do you have a camera that will replace my handle from my tailgate
I need the RANGE that Wireless Cameras have for the DIGITAL Models, and for Analog Cameras how Strong or Weak the Signal Strength is. The 2.4hz Signal is the most common used by the industry, causing interference issues. Thank you
I’m looking for a backup camera that I can attach to the back of my pickup truck so that I can see the hitch as I am attaching my trailer. I would then like to move the camera to the back of the trailer so that I can see what is behind me while I am towing. Separate cameras on each vehicle that can be viewed on one device would be a very acceptable alternative. It would be nice to be able to view the camera images on my iPhone or iPad so that I don’t need a separate viewing device for camera and mapping software. What options do I have? Thank you
I’m looking for an after-market back-up camera, either wireless (preferable) or wired, with the brightness and clarity of a factory installed system. I tried a QuickVu system, but it failed (twice) and now I’m looking for a system that is comparable to the rear-view cameras that I’ve experienced in some of late-model cars that I’ve rented. Any suggestions?
Anyone have a recommendation for a back up camera to be used as a boat docking aid? The boat is too large to see the dock when within 10 – 15′ of the dock so a camera mounted on the side of the arch looking to the side and slightly forward would solve the problem. A large hard wired screen is preferred.
What about the Audiovox RVM740SM 7.8 Inch Smart Mirror with Built In Bluetooth and Dash Cam DVR that has GPS and a touch menu screen?
Hi Xavier,
Thanks for your comment! The Audiovox RVM740SM is a rear view mirror display unit. This would be a great unit to utilize in combination with one of our recommended backup cameras like the Pearl Rearvision or others that don’t come with a display unit. But the RVM740SM isn’t actually a backup camera so you’ll need to still purchase a camera separately. Hope this helps!
You can even install four cameras in case where you want one for your cowling hood or maybe at the back of your boat trailer. For this purpose, you should also have an extension cable that are sold separately. Wireless cameras can transmit up to 45 feet, but you also have an option of hardwire for the constant power. It also allows you clasp between the navigation display and the backup display modes when you press the button.
I have a 2005 Chevy SSR with the garage remote on the rearview mirror. There is no room on the dash for a monitor. Is there a backup camera I can wire to my existing rearview mirror?
i already have a backup system in my 19 MB Sprinter but no back windows or rear view mirror. would like to see traffic coming up on me and/or tailgaters. prefer wireless.. what do you suggest? thanks