(Part 2) Best vehicle backup cameras according to redditors

thats a 2.7 inch screen, currently the 3.5inch screen one is on sale for $69 on amazon


5 figure vehicles come with their own proprietary 4 camera system already pre installed.

I used this in my last install to avoid running wires. Works great.

Beastron 2.4g Transmitter/ Receiver for Vehicle Camera https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008Z9E4DW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_3KS-BbBAX7ZEP

Once you install one camera, you'll be shocked how easy it is. It will feel like sorcery. The hardest part is choosing how to get the wires from the camera inside. Here is the kit I used for my backup camera which I mounted in the third brake light and conveniently passed the wires through there. The purpose of this post is to show members that you can have a functional 2 camera system for less than $100.

Camera

Monitor

Extra cable I needed this to run the entire length of my van.

This monitor supports two cameras. I got some wago connectors from my job and spliced into the wire for the passenger reading light. This connection is always hot so I additionally added a circuit switch I picked up from autozone.

To add a second camera, I would just need to buy the camera. I am thinking of mounting something like this on the bottom of the passenger side mirror, to assist with parallel parking. I imagine that would also serve your purpose. Again, the hardest part is getting the wires inside :)

As far as monitoring outside, if you find yourself in a precarious situation it is best to just get in the driver's seat and leave if things escalate. The fact that you can see them on your camera means nothing.

Quick note that if you want to spend somewhat more, you can get aftermarket versions of those "around view" birds eye cameras off amazon. The install is more complicated but it turns parking into an easy mode game
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0105XR91O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_yB5hDbSX0BEZX

https://youtu.be/PE5MySNqcMU

As far as the cameras themselves go, you can pick them up for very cheap (like 16-20 each). Mounting is going to vary based on your particular vehicle and the bumpers/etc you've added. I attached my front camera right to the grille, which has the added benefit of allowing me to see right down my winch line.

I installed this one in my MY2013 works great!

[2-LED Night Vision] Esky EC180-19 180° Viewing Angle 100% Waterproof High-Definition https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T2GX37A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Y-7kybQ63NE2F

This is the one I have 360 Degree Bird View Panoramic System Waterproof Seamless 4 Camera Car DVR Universal Recording Parking Rear View Cam for All Car by CarThree https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HSWKP19/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_5ELSDbVKSYY4D

I use the Itronics ITB-70G Black Box Dash Cam but it's far from perfect. Once the SD card starts to fill up, the camera has issues recording and will skip up to 5 minutes or so intervals of traveling. Normally when the SD card fills up, it will replace the oldest video and continue recording but this creates the aforementioned issue. I'm not sure if it's an issue with the SD card they supply or the device itself. Clearing the SD card before it fills up alleviates this issue, though. So if you don't mind clearing out the SD card every week or so, then the device isn't so bad.


Also, the software provided doesn't support Windows 7 64 bit operating system or Mac OS. The software is mainly used to change the settings of the camera (video quality, sound, etc.) and to see the GPS locations of the videos. You can still view the videos by viewing the contents of the SD card and opening them in video playing software (Windows Media Player, VLC).


Now for some of the good aspects to this device. It was very easy to install and the small form factor makes this device discrete and will not obstruct your view. I installed it towards the top of the windshield behind my rear view mirror and ran the wiring along the top then down the sides and hooked it up to the cigarette lighter. Once installed, you won't have to worry about touching the device to record. It will power up when you turn the car on/start the engine but it takes a couple of seconds to initially turn on (5-10 seconds). Once the car is turned off, the device turns off as well. I believe there is a low power consumption setting you can turn on so it will record even after you turn off the car. I have not tested this out myself since I don't want to risk a dead battery.


The video quality? Lets just say don't expect to recover license plate numbers, street names, road signs, etc. from the footage. It's just for evidence purposes to prove so and so did this. Here's a clip from an altercation I witness the other week. This is the raw clip uploaded to YouTube that I just trimmed using their video editor using the highest quality settings available on the camera. (I don't have a night time clip but here's a clip from a different YouTube user.) By default, the camera records in one minute intervals but I believe that can be adjusted in the software.


If you want the device to retain a certain recording, you can press a button on the device and it will save the clips from 3 minutes prior as well as 3 minutes afterwards (or however long you want it to be, this can be altered in the software) and they won't be overwritten. In the event of an accident, the device detects sudden acceleration or deceleration through its impact sensor and will retain the footage automatically. The sensitivity of the impact sensor can be adjusted in the software if need be.


Whoa, didn't expect this post to be this long. Anyways, I felt that this camera would meet your needs so I posted it but gave some extra information. So if you don't mind the SD card issue and the $200 price tag, go for it. If I wasn't clear with something in my review or you have any other question, feel free to ask.

> HDE E336

http://www.amazon.com/HDE-Waterproof-Vehicle-Backup-Viewing/dp/B0081GZDQQ/ref=sr_1_2?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1421684167&sr=1-2&keywords=rear+view+camera

I got this one from Amazon, it's wired because I read that the wireless have a hard time getting through the metal in the bus, depending on how long your bus is. Mine is 34', so I didn't want to chance it. However, since I bought it, I've seen some longer buses on YouTube put in a wireless system, and it works just fine.

eRapta Backup Camera 2.0 with Split Screen Monitor for Bus/Truck/Trailer/Box/RV/Trailer/Tractor/ 5th Wheel When Reversing Parking Backing Car Dash Security Sensor Camera ER0202

I have a BlackVue DR550GW-2CH as a dashcam (I have it for around 4 years, installed originally in another 2 cars).

Intsun Vehicle Rear View Monitor (you clip it to your rear view mirror) cost me $20-25 in Amazon (it has 2 video inputs but I am using one). This works by detecting video signal on the channel and turning it on. You hook the backup camera to the reverse lights in order to show up every time you go in reverse.

And a License Frame with a Rear View Camera eSky Viewing Universal License Camera $40.

Installed on a 2014 Chevrolet Sonic. Works wonders and you can't even tell it's an addon. Looks OEM.

My GF's 2013 Scion FR-S got a DR650GW-2CH as a dashcam and a Pioneer AVH-280BT ($180) and a $15 backup camera that looks like the OEM for the car.

Works great too but the wiring on that is a little difficult. It needs to be wire to the fuse box.

Pretty happy with the result.

EDIT: Added links

$68 https://www.amazon.com/Peak-PKC0RB-3-5-Inch-Wireless-Back-Up/dp/B001W6LGGS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491461654&sr=8-1&keywords=wireless+backup+camera+peak

Problem solved!

haha, ok, quick version:

- you need two of the "backup cameras" that have two cables, 12v dc jack and rca video

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018800TR2/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_mlkUCbNWR7JRR

- you need a wireless transmitter/receiver

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0755W578J/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_ykkUCbD4WXJ0G

- and a lcd display up front

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C7KKVW7/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_jmkUCbVRA5WVG

One camera is mounted on the back of the trailer facing the road

One camera is mounted on the trailer tongue jack facing down at the hitch

An RCA Y-splitter joins the two camera video cables and feeds it to the wireless transmitter

the 12v+ power is connected to a switch (on1-off-on2) on1 sends power to camera1, off is off, on2 sends power to camera2

In your vehicle connect the receiver and display.

When it is time to hitch up, flip the power to the tongue jack camera, backup confidently being able to see yourself place the ball right under the hitch

Get out, hitch up, flip the switch to the rear camera and now enjoy seeing behind the trailer while driving.

Note, put the transmitter up by the tongue jack camera so that you minimize the distance the wireless signal needs to transmit.

​

Good luck, it's an awesome system.

It's actually kinda funny because my dad has an Aliner, super light weight popup camper and also has a rare Saab 9-5 Griffin. He got a tow hitch installed on the Saab and the Aliner has power assisted braking, so the Saab will tow it no problem. But he wanted something more substantial with 4WD because he likes to take the camper out west, and South Dakota mud during heavy rains are no joke.

The camper is only like 1100Lbs, super light, the F150 tows that think as if it was just a Tonka truck. You would never even know it's back there unless you looked in the rearview mirror, haha.

He had this weird system of using these flags on telescoping poles to help him back into the trailer to hook it up, which is when I said screw that and installed a new head unit for him with a little screen and the backup camera. It's super easy to hook up the trailer now. Plus, now he has bluetooth without some stupid cigarette adapter FM modulator doobie.

EDIT: Stereo is this or similar, backup camera is this guy

Pyle wireless backup camera Pyle PLCM4375WIR Wireless Backup Camera Kit (Rearview Reverse Parking Asistance, Night Vision Waterproof Camera 4.3" Monitor) https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00X70UTK6/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_oOjQwbVG9JR7E

This is what I found

Nothing even close. Here’s an aftermarket 360 degree system under $150.

This is the one BJohnston115 (Anytimebackupcamera) had suggested people use from the T4R.org thread from the groupbuy ... Hope it helps...

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00RD05MOO/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1#Ask

Holy hell for that price buy a newer car with it built in or buy this and let them steal it 10 times: https://www.amazon.com/Emmako-Monitor-Fulltime-optional-waterproof/dp/B071WC3YGL

FWIW I got this:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LZOTW6O

and a pure android head unit for $275+$10.

You can. I’ve added one to my 2013 WRX.

It is one of the most difficult installs you can do though, and I doubt many shops will do it.

I used:
https://www.amazon.com/Weivision-Degree-System-Panoramic-Camera/dp/B0105XR91O/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=weivision+1080p+super+hd+360+degree+bird+view+system+panoramic&qid=1562641655&s=gateway&sprefix=weivis&sr=8-1&utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app

Properly connected, hazard lights turn on the front camera, reverse turns on the rear camera, and turn signals turn on lane change cameras. All views have the Birdseye mode.

For the head unit, you can swap to:
Dasaita 10" Android 9.0 Bluetooth Car Stereo Head Unit with 4G RAM/ 64G ROM for Toyota RAV4 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Car Radio Touch Screen GPS Navigation Dash Kit Built in DSP 15Band EQ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RT47S7F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_7uajDb1H6YDD0

Which imo makes the factory one look like hot garbage. The CarPlay dongle costs an extra $100 though. Good upgrade for non-factory CarPlay models though.

The radio is plug and play. Harness’ are specific made for the RAV4 and connect right up.

This Camera is absolutely amazing. I installed one on the back of my truck a few months ago with no issues.

My Dad has been using two of these for quite sometime, one of which is mounted on the front of his truck on a winch. It has been submerged in water, mud, snow and ice and keeps on working. The other is on the back of his truck 24/7 and is completely exposed to all elements and is still working flawlessly. Don't be fooled by the price.

$200: http://www.amazon.com/Itronics-ITB-70G-Camera-Recorder-Record/dp/B004ASMDA8/

I have installed these below... they didnt need any drilling or so, only somebody who understands the very basics of electric. But with youtube everybody can do it:

Camera&Screen

I was too lazy to connect a wire between them

A cursory search yielded this camera on Amazon: http://amzn.com/B004ASMDA8

Great i did more searching and found this https://www.amazon.com/AUTO-VOX-Mirror-Backup-Reverse-Recorder/dp/B078YNW5R5/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1537078499&sr=8-15&keywords=rear+view+mirror+screen

I use this in my Wrangler to solve that problem perfectly.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GQZ4QZ3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Good to see a Vic in the Halloween spirit! Also, I hated that license plate camera and got this one instead...takes a little drilling to the left of the license plate light, but looks WAYYYYY better! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XNM7GNS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is the one I used but I'm pretty sure you can find some that have better video quality than the one I used.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F2GMWCG/

Phone is probably the cheapest option if you don't want to opt for a some kind of a standalone screen.

I was thinking something DIY like this + this, but here's something else that looks like it combines both of those and could be a good option.

Turns out it was a $45. Prime with wireless xmtr/receiver. My rig is 26' and works fine. Scope of view is about 12' but I have it mounted on top looking down. Just wanted to make sure I didn't hit anything. And, it's no longer available...sorry but there are others. Key part was wireless xmtr/rcvr.

Beastron 2.4GHz Wireless Video Transmitter and Receiver for Vehicle Backup Camera/Front Car Camera https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008Z9E4DW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-B4SDbF2P725E

I use this one and couldn't be happier.

http://www.amazon.com/PowerUCC-Panorama2S-DashCam-Panorama-International/dp/B00JFUU5OM/ref=sr_1_4?s=car&ie=UTF8&qid=1407353584&sr=1-4&keywords=dash+camera

Amazing resolution, works at night, holds up to 128GB SD card, video doesn't vibrate over bumps, and the CMOS sensor is outstanding.

I use this for my motorcycle since it will record both front and back:

http://www.amazon.com/BlackVue-Wi-Fi-Channel-DR550GW-2CH-Recorder/dp/B00FKA04HY/ref=pd_sim_auto_4?ie=UTF8&refRID=05RT5MWTJ3CZDGE6KVYB

Nice! Yes I have a front and rear camera. I bought two of those off Amazon. My only complaint is that it lacks decent night vision .

Reverse Backup Camera,RAAYOO L002 2-in-1 Universal Car Front/Side/Rear View Camera,2 Installation Options,Removable Guildlines,mirror non-mirror image,12V only https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074P45P7G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_LCl2DbK336VVB

Boom. Kinda ugly though...
Pyle Wireless Backup Car Camera Rearview Monitor System - Parking & Reverse Safety Distance Scale Lines, Waterproof & Night Vision Cam, 4.3" LCD Screen Video Color Display for Vehicles - (PLCM4375WIR) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X70UTK6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_1dGGzb4RA7FNZ

Something like this replaces your rear view mirror and adds a backup camera built into the mirror.

You can do this over wifi to your phone. It won't activate in reverse...but... if you wire it to ignition (rather than a back up bulb, for example) you can watch it at all times.

https://www.amazon.com/Esky-EC135-05-Waterproof-Definition-Infrared/dp/B005Q65ZIK/ref=pd_ybh_a_7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=WXB4NCM9DXMGKT36DR5R

https://www.amazon.com/WishRing-Backup-Realtime-Transmitter-Android/dp/B011BDY7XA/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1480369718&sr=1-1&keywords=wifi+backup

You could most likely splice in a new camera. Only thing coming out of that one is a component cable, so it's just two conductors. You could grab pretty much any camera floating around eBay or something.

Edit: something like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XNM7GNS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Si-0AbCQS4FQ8

I'm also in the DC area and have numerous friends running them. They all seem to have this model. The quality is surprisingly good, both in terms of video and audio.

Blackvue DR650GW 2-Channel - $400 though (pricey)

Blackvue DR550GW 2-Channel - $300 (still pricey)

Both those are two most recommended 2-channel systems right now that have the most positive feedback.

There is a more budget 2-channel called the BlackSys CF-100 - going for $90 right now.

Also, check out Dashcamtalk. They have a lot of info that you can read up on. Included the pros and cons to all 3 systems I linked. Lot's of great info there and in their forums.

Hope this helps.

Or buy one with a 40% bigger screen for under $70.

https://www.amazon.com/Peak-PKC0RB-3-5-Inch-Wireless-Back-Up/dp/B001W6LGGS

I recommend this one : Amazon

The nice thing is that it is very compact, and the GPS logger/windshield mount makes it super easy to unmount and mount without having to mess with the USB cable, which in turn turns into a very clean looking install.

What about something like this? Should keep things well away from the car's cameras.

I've been using this for about a week and its great for the price, has all the functions I could need for a dash cam and its cheap. Get the 32GB card and you are covered all day whilst driving.

I'm in the same position with the rig I just got, as someone who has ran a ton of analog cameras for residential I'm already comfortable with all the concepts of them.

I was looking on amazon and came across THIS LISTING and in the reviews someone mentioned that it has leads to put real physical switches to select each input.

the ability to install four switches/buttons on my dash to rapidly switch/momentarily use inputs would be awesome, instead of fiddling with the buttons on the screen.

I haven't had the chance to read into the cheaper units, nor have I hooked my existing cameras up to a modern display to see how good they are. this is basically the results of a quick google.

It's [a cheapo cam I got on Amazon](E-Kylin Auto Vehicle Automobile Car Front View Camera Forward Cam with No Grid Lines Non Mirror Image 12V Waterproof Safety Driving No Blind Spot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017GC4GTA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FelRCb3XZX8T1). It just plugs into the yellow front camera RCA jack so I didn't think the camera type mattered.

I do want the cam, I use it for a clear front view when off-roading, but it's annoying to have it come on when I'm around town and frequently slowing down in traffic or stopping at red lights. I'd prefer to only have it come on when I press the cam button on the head unit (which I thought was the default behavior).

I'll poke around on the Maestro website and see if that lends any clues.

I may just add one of these over the present screen.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078YNW5R5/ref=sspa_dk_detail_4?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B078YNW5R5&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=a54d13fc-b8a1-4ce8-b285-d77489a09cf6&pf_rd_r=7FWCX3XSHVMPPZTNNFVZ&pd_rd_wg=PxPMw&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&pd_rd_w=Gxmoz&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pd_rd_r=37c988ec-b05a-11e8-9f1d-0fdf2b561195