The best rear view cameras for cars for 2024

It is extremely difficult to park a car in a city, because you often have to back up, while maneuvering between various obstacles. In addition, there are various “blind spots” that are not accessible for the driver's view, and into which a person or animal can fall. Therefore, to make life easier for a car enthusiast, it is better to use a rear view camera.

In addition to the device, it is possible to install several parking sensors - a system of non-contact devices, which will signal about approaching obstacles.

How the rear view camera works

The camera itself does not differ from a standard "webcam" or any other similar video surveillance device. Usually it is mounted on the rear of the car in the area where the license plate is located, and the captured image is transmitted to the driver in the car's interior on the installed monitor. In this case, you can use both a separate monitor and a monitor integrated into the car (for example, an on-board computer). For convenience, the picture is transmitted to the driver in a mirrored reflection, this effect is needed so that the driver does not get confused in the sides if he insures himself through the rear-view mirror. Parktronic lines (a kind of grid) can be superimposed on the resulting image, which will allow you to more accurately assess the situation behind the car.

The main advantages of the device

• They can work flawlessly in intensive mode;
• They have a long service life;
• Simple and easy to use;
• Most of the models comply with international standards;
• They have an aesthetic appearance.

In addition, in the Russian consumer market, rear-view cameras are technically complex devices and undergo a multi-stage quality control before they go to retail. Therefore, purchasing such devices at retail is safer than ordering them on various Internet sites. This even applies to Asian manufacturers - their products are also confirmed by Russian quality certificates.

Varieties

The appearance of his car is important to any car enthusiast, so the installed camera should be either the least noticeable, or harmoniously fit into the overall design of the car.

Devices are divided into the following types:

• Standard devices - they are delivered immediately with new cars and are fixed by the manufacturer in a specially designated place in the car body (for example, in the place where the backlight is installed, while the backlight itself will be realized by means of the camera.Other standard places include the rear emblem of the car brand or the trunk opening handle). These standard gadgets are the least noticeable to the case - it's understandable, because everything is provided by the manufacturer in advance. Their main drawback is extremely narrow specialization and the inability to be modernized, because they are made for a specific make and model of a car. Even if you try to install such a camera on another car, then it simply may not be supported by the on-board computer of a car of another brand due to their incompatibility;
• Devices mounted in a license plate frame - are the most versatile gadgets and can be easily installed on any car brand. The installation process is not complicated and it is quite possible to do it yourself. However, such cameras have a significant drawback - they are extremely easy to dismantle, therefore they can become objects of theft for thieves. In addition, if the body of the car in the area where the rear license plate is located has a specific factory bend (mainly for Asian car brands), then some problems may arise with the installation.

There are also camera models whose versatility lies in their visual installation:

• Mortise devices - installed in a special hole drilled in the rear bumper of the car and secured with latches / lock nuts. Drilling a special hole is the main disadvantage of installing such a camera, because if it becomes unnecessary in the future, then the bumper will remain with traces of damage. But of the advantages, it can be noted that this device will be unobtrusive;
• Overhead devices - they are simply mounted on brackets on the rear bumper (again, a drilling procedure will be required). It is even possible to fix them on double-sided tape, but in this case they can be easily lost over time, when the adhesive base of the tape loses its operational properties.

Video output conditions

Devices for receiving video signals can differ in several ways. Depending on their combination, the driver can choose the most acceptable scheme for himself.

Display devices:

• External screen - can be installed on the dashboard in the car's interior, or installed on the rear-view mirror, as if replacing part of the reflected image;
• Screen of an integrated car radio or navigator (an appropriate resolution is required) or a standard DVR module.

Wired and wireless transmission:

• Cable connection - the video signal is first digitized by the camera's processor, then converted to analog by the same processor and transmitted to the display device via wires laid inside the car. The main thing is that the display device supports either American (NTSC) or European (PAL) color standards;
• Wireless connection - this option has a beneficial advantage, since it does not require laying a cable inside the car. However, it has limitations on the distance of signal reception (no more than 15 meters) and with such transmission, interference may occur in the image.

Wireless connection can also differ in the type of signal modulation:

• FM-wave connection - both the monitor and the camera have an external receiver and transmitter, respectively, through which their communication takes place;
• Wi-Fi connection - the camera creates its own password-protected access point, through which you can output to any external display device that supports Wi-Fi technology. The signal is transmitted in real time.

Image output options

As mentioned above, most cameras display images in a mirror format so as not to confuse the driver about the image in the rearview mirror. However, professionals believe that it is better to choose an option where this function will be disabled.Here a situation arises that can be compared to forcing left-handers to write with their right hand - some people are better off perceiving images in their direct form.

More about parking sensors

The rear view camera can superimpose a virtual coordinate grid with information about the distance to the nearest object on the displayed image. However, for this function to work fully, it is required to calibrate the camera as accurately as possible during its installation. Usually, the parameters required for this (viewing angle, installation height) are specified in the operating instructions. If you do not comply with these recommended specifications, the camera's grid will give false information. It will also be nice if this functionality is optionally disabled.

More about viewing angles

The more the camera model has a viewing angle, the more it can cover objects behind the car. But it is always worth remembering that the extremely wide viewing angle will affect the distortion of the image ("fish eye" effect). Also, when this angle is increased too much, the output image may appear “blurry”. Angles from 120 to 170 degrees are considered optimal. Below the minimum limit, cameras are considered narrow-focus, and above the upper limit, cameras are considered wide-directional.

Matrices used in cameras

At present, rear-view cameras practically do not differ from modern video equipment, and even in their designs one can find the use of professional elements (for example, lenses from "Carl Zeiss"). The following matrices are used as standard in modern designs:

• CCD - excellent image, excellent light sensitivity, but not the highest processing speed of the output image at a rather large cost;
• HCCD - the same as the previous one, but the output image resolution is increased;
• CMOS is the most common system and is relatively inexpensive. It is characterized by a high speed of image processing, but the light sensitivity is slightly reduced. Although this disadvantage when the camera is operating at night can be easily compensated for by the taillights. Moreover, the inclusion of rear lights can be configured automatically when the car starts to move in reverse.

Minimum required light

In order for the camera to work reliably in conditions of minimal illumination, its sensitivity must be in the range from 0.01 to 3 Lx. For a CCD matrix, an indicator of 0.01 Lx will be sufficient, but for a CMOS, higher parameters are already needed - 0.1 Lx.

Resolution used in rear view cameras

It is usually extremely small - only 628 by 582 pixels. Converting to standard values, this is only 0.3 Megapixels. At first glance, it may seem that the resolution is extremely small, but more is not required. Hardly anyone wants to park on a 24-inch widescreen monitor that can support a resolution of 1900 x 1600.

Operating temperature

After all, rear view cameras are extremely sensitive devices, so they are quite capricious about the environmental conditions. More expensive models are equipped with special cases that maximally protect the working elements of the device from external influences, by using special technologies of dust and moisture protection. Standard devices are capable of operating in the temperature range from +25 to –65 degrees Celsius.

Special functionality

Devices can be equipped with additional functions:

• Infrared illumination - the devices are complemented by special LEDs that emit light in the invisible infrared range. This option allows better coordination of the parking sensors.
• Auto exposure adjustment - depending on the current illumination, the transmitted picture automatically becomes lighter / darker.
• Auto white correction - if there are super-powerful light sources (street lights, bright sun, etc.) near the picture, the picture will darken.
• Remote control - found in sets of expensive video cameras and it displays the ability to enable / disable various options ("mirroring" the rear view, changing the viewing angle, etc.).

Ranking of the best rear view cameras for 2024

Mortise devices

3rd place: AUTOEXPERT VC-214 (393348)

This model is a classic budget option. It has a relatively large functionality, but at the same time its price is much lower than the flagship models with the same characteristics. Users report good picture quality when transmitting a signal in analog format. The ratio of image noise and color quality is quite satisfactory.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country.	China
Resolution, pixels	648x488
Viewing angle, degrees	170
Operating temperature, Celsius range	+25 to -70
Lighting, Lx	0.6
Supply voltage, V	19
Diameter, mm	19
Warranty, month	12
Price, rubles	1700

• Budgetary price;
• Multifunctionality;
• Excellent analog signal.

• Reduced light sensitivity.

2nd place: INCAR VDC-002 (408002)

It is capable of providing excellent visibility in practice thanks to a high-quality and large matrix based on CMOS technology. Visibility is maintained equally good both during the day and at night. Has increased image clarity.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country.	China
Resolution, pixels	628x582
Viewing angle, degrees	170
Operating temperature, Celsius range	+25 to –60
Lighting, Lx	0.1
Supply voltage, V	18
Warranty, month	12
Price, rubles	2200

• Large matrix;
• High contrast of the image;
• Enlarged sensor.

• There are no additional accessories in the kit;
• There is a non-switchable "mirroring" mode.

1st place: AVIS 311CPR (433954)

This sample is truly the leader among inset cameras. Has a reinforced CCD-matrix, maintains high light sensitivity, requires a minimum of lighting for normal operation. The direct and mirror image mode can be changed optionally at the request of the user. It is possible to purchase many different accessories for this model (for example, a remote control).

Name	Index
Manufacturer country.	China
Resolution, pixels	512x492
Viewing angle, degrees	170
Operating temperature, Celsius range	+25 to -55
Lighting, Lx	0.1
Supply voltage, V	18
Warranty, month	12
Price, rubles	4700

• Upgraded high resolution matrix;
• Direct / mirror image function;
• Possibility of using additional accessories.

• Non-standard screw design.

Overlay Cameras

3rd place: BLACKVIEW UC-27

This sample has a grid overlay function to simplify the parking process. Good light sensitivity allows difficult reversing maneuvers even at night. Structurally, the working elements of the chamber are perfectly protected by a dust-and-moisture protective casing.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country.	China
Resolution, pixels	628x582
Viewing angle, degrees	130
Operating temperature, Celsius range	+25 to -65
Lighting, Lx	0.2
Supply voltage, V	12
Warranty, month	12
Price, rubles	1000

• Quite budget price;
• Possesses a parktronic system;
• Dust-waterproof housing.

• Narrow directional lens (120-130 degrees).

2nd place: XIAOMI 70 MAI HD REVERSE VIDEO CAMERA

This device is considered universal in terms of its recognition by regular on-board computers of various car brands. Image transmission is carried out in high definition conditions. The case has a European degree of dust and moisture protection. The model is equipped with a highly sensitive sensor.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country.	China
Resolution, pixels	1280x720
Viewing angle, degrees	138
Operating temperature, Celsius range	+25 to -70
Lighting, Lx	0.1
Supply voltage, V	12
Warranty, month	12
Price, rubles	1800

• A high resolution;
• Wide viewing angle;
• Versatility.

• Installation and connection of the camera to the systems of the car is difficult for a non-professional to do on his own.

1st place: ALPINE HCE-C1100

This model is flagship, which is directly evidenced by its considerable price. High definition images can be transmitted in both digital and analog formats. For such characteristics, it has a rather low level of required light sensitivity - only 1.5 Lx. The kit includes a remote control. The camera can automatically adjust the white balance and exposure.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country.	Japan
Resolution, pixels	1280x960
Viewing angle, degrees	180
Operating temperature, Celsius range	+25 to -70
Lighting, Lx	1.5
Supply voltage, V	12
Warranty, month	12
Price, rubles	8000

• Reinforced equipment;
• Compactness of the case;
• Optional image output mode.

• Not found.

Frame Cameras

3rd place: AUTOEXPERT VC-204

It can be installed in the license plate frame and can be freely adjusted vertically for better picture quality. The body of the device itself is resistant to various operational vibrations, the joints fit perfectly, and the body is also resistant to direct exposure to ultraviolet rays. The 170 degree viewing angle simply leaves no blind spots.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country.	China
Resolution, pixels	648x488
Viewing angle, degrees	170
Operating temperature, Celsius range	+25 to -70
Lighting, Lx	0.6
Supply voltage, V	15
Warranty, month	12
Price, rubles	2800

• Image clarity;
• Increased viewing angle;
• The presence of parking sensors;
• Installation on the front license plate is also possible.

• Does not have a wireless interface;
• The image is transmitted only in a mirror image.

2nd place: SHO-ME CA-6184LED

It has an infrared LED illumination, which does not require additional switching on of the taillights. A parking sensor grid is superimposed on the transmitted image. Even without a wide-angle lens, the camera confidently captures all the interference at a distance of a meter from its location, which is quite enough to perform a safe maneuver. Requires a special installation height - at least 50 cm from the roadway (thus perfect for SUVs and crossovers).

Name	Index
Manufacturer country.	China
Resolution, pixels	545x420
Viewing angle, degrees	170
Operating temperature, Celsius range	+25 to –60
Lighting, Lx	0.6
Supply voltage, V	12
Warranty, month	12
Price, rubles	2000

• Ease of installation;
• The presence of a coordinate grid for parking sensors;
• Confident fixation of possible interference.

• Transmits only analog signal;
• More suitable for large cars.

1st place: AVS303CPR (CMOS)

This sample is the simplest in terms of integration - you just need to insert the number into the frame and fix it on the car, all other steps have already been performed at the factory during assembly. The camera supports color analog image and its video input is universal for almost any receiver. Equipped with infrared illumination does not require additional use of taillights. The housing is completely sealed and the viewing angle can be adjusted horizontally.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country.	China
Resolution, pixels	648x488
Viewing angle, degrees	165
Operating temperature, Celsius range	+25 to –30
Lighting, Lx	0.2
Supply voltage, V	12
Warranty, month	12
Price, rubles	2100

• Versatility of connection to receivers;
• Horizontal adjustment;
• The presence of infrared LEDs in the design.

• Afraid of low temperatures (down to -30).

Devices on external mounts (brackets)

3rd place: INCAR VDC-412

Despite its Chinese origin, this model is focused on installation on European brands of premium cars. The installation of the device in the factory is very easy and does not take much time. The technical characteristics of the gadget will allow you to use it as fully as possible. The infrared technology used in the device allows reversing with a sufficient degree of safety even when the rear lights are inoperative.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country.	China
Resolution, pixels	648x488
Viewing angle, degrees	170
Operating temperature, Celsius range	+25 to -50
Lighting, Lx	0.5
Supply voltage, V	12
Warranty, month	12
Price, rubles	7500

• The body is combined with a brake light;
• Infrared illumination;
• Versatility for European car brands.

• Low functionality at a relatively high price.

2nd place: AVS325CPR

A universal model, again focused on the manufacturer of European cars. Provides good picture in zero light conditions thanks to its infrared illumination. The body itself is made of durable ABS plastic and can duplicate the brake light. Resistant to ambient temperature extremes and UV light. Users note the increased service life of the model.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country.	China
Resolution, pixels	762x504
Viewing angle, degrees	170
Operating temperature, Celsius range	+30 to -70
Lighting, Lx	0
Supply voltage, V	12
Warranty, month	12
Price, rubles	8000

• Ability to work in zero light;
• Increased resolution;
• Extended temperature range.

• Not found

1st place: GARMIN BC 30

The most functional device in its segment. Capable of transmitting a signal in both digital and analog formats, it has infrared illumination. Despite the average capture angle (140 degrees), it copes well with detecting potential interference when reversing. The case is equipped with the best water and dust protection according to the European standard IP7.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country.	USA
Resolution, pixels	1280x960
Viewing angle, degrees	140
Operating temperature, Celsius range	+30 to -50
Lighting, Lx	0.1
Supply voltage, V	12
Warranty, month	12
Price, rubles	16000

• Wireless communication with the receiver;
• Variable mounting method by means of a bracket;
• Increased resolution.

• High price.

Instead of an epilogue

The analysis of the rear view camera market shows that today it is quite easy to choose the necessary device - there are models that can satisfy every taste and wallet. However, attempts to save money on this security device can turn into some troubles, therefore, always when buying a camera anywhere (both in an online store and in a retail outlet), it is better to ask the seller for certification documents for the selected model.