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.
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
Reasons to Buy
- 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
Reasons Not to Buy
- The simplest possible installation
- Included monitor eliminates the need to connect to your head unit
Rear View Safety RVS-091406
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.
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
Reasons to Buy
- Wireless camera and monitor package simplify installation
- Provides an excellent safety option for motorhomes
Reasons Not to Buy
- 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
Pyle PLCM4590WIR
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.
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
Reasons to Buy
- 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
Reasons Not to Buy
- Somewhat fussy installation for a wireless product
- Mirror tint takes getting used to
- Won’t work with all factory rear view mirror brackets
Lastbus Magnetic Hitch Camera
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.
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
Reasons to Buy
- Easy system to set up and use
- Great for drivers that switch vehicles
Reasons Not to Buy
- 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
