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.
Reasons to Buy
- 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
Reasons Not to Buy
- 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.
Reasons to Buy
- Great image quality
- Excellent connection options
- Well-regarded reliability
Reasons Not to Buy
- 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.
Reasons to Buy
- 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
Reasons Not to Buy
- Pricey for the resolution
- Lack of IR or LED lighting limits image quality in dark conditions
