GoPro as Dash Camera: Pros, Cons, and Alternative Options (2024)

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In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving world of technology, the quest for versatile, high-quality recording devices has led many to consider unconventional options. One such intriguing possibility is using a GoPro as a dash camera. Known for their durability and exceptional video quality, GoPros have become synonymous with adventure sports and outdoor activities.

But how do they fare when repurposed as dash cameras in our daily commutes or long road trips? In this comprehensive blog, we delve deep into the world of GoPro as a dash camera. We’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of using a GoPro in this capacity, ensuring you get a clear, unbiased view. We’ll also present a range of other options that cater to different needs and budgets.

What Is a GoPro Camera?

GoPro is a popular brand of action cameras known for their compact size, rugged design, and high-quality video recording capabilities. These cameras are well-known for their impressive video quality, waterproof design, wide-angle lens, and advanced features such as image stabilization and voice control.

Using a GoPro as a Dash Camera

To use a GoPro as a dash camera, mount it securely in your vehicle, ensure you connect itto a power source, and set it in loop mode for continuous recording.

To optimize the use of a GoPro as a dash camera, essential accessories include a compatible mount, a reliable power source, and a memory card with sufficient storage capacity.

Setting up a GoPro for dash cam use involves adjusting the video settings, ensuring proper placement and stability of the camera, and connecting it to a power source for uninterrupted recording.

Pros of Using GoPro as a Dash Camera

GoPro cameras offer exceptional video quality, capturing clear, sharp, and vibrant footage crucial for capturing important details in accidents or incidents.

Designed to withstand extreme environments, these cameras are highly durable and reliable, ensuring they can handle the rigors of daily use as a dash camera.

Apart from being a dash camera, GoPro cameras can be used for various activities such as outdoor adventures, sports, and travel, making them a versatile investment.

GoPro cameras also offer advanced features like image stabilization, voice control, and mobile app integration, enhancing the overall user experience and functionality.

Cons of Using GoPro as a Dash Camera

GoPro cameras have limited battery life, which may not be ideal for long drives or continuous recording. Using an external power source is essential to overcome this limitation.

Extended use of a GoProas a dash cam can lead to overheating, especially in hot climates. Proper ventilation and precautions should be taken to prevent overheating.

Compared to traditional dash cameras, GoPros can be more expensive, especially when considering the need for additional accessories such as mounts and power sources.

GoPro cameras may lack certain dash camera-specific features like GPS logging or automatic emergency recording, which could be important for some users.

Alternative Options

Utilizing a smartphone as a dash camera is a cost-effective alternative, requiring a dash cam app and a suitable mount or stand.

Similar to GoPro cameras, other action cameras like the DJI Osmo Action or Sony RX0 II can be used as dash cameras, offering similar features and capabilities.

Integrated into a rearview mirror, mirror dash cameras provide a discreet and convenient option for the dash camera functionality.

Conclusion

The GoPro camera can be a great option for those looking to use a dash camera. Its versatility, durability, and advanced features make it a reliable choice for capturing all the action on the road.Whether you go with a GoPro, a traditional dash camera, or an alternative option, having a dash camera can offer peace of mind and valuable evidence in case of any incidents on the road.

GoPro as Dash Camera: Pros, Cons, and Alternative Options (2024)

FAQs

Does a GoPro work well as a dash cam? ›

Additionally, GoPros are not designed specifically for use as dash cams, which means they may not have the necessary features to ensure reliable and consistent recording. This can lead to missed footage or unreliable evidence in the event of an accident.

What are the disadvantages of a GoPro? ›

GoPro cameras have limited battery life, which may not be ideal for long drives or continuous recording. Using an external power source is essential to overcome this limitation. Extended use of a GoPro as a dash cam can lead to overheating, especially in hot climates.

How to make a GoPro into a dash cam? ›

Dash Quick Start Guide
  1. Ensure your HERO4 camera firmware is updated to v04. 00 or higher. ...
  2. Insert Dash into your camera. ...
  3. Mount Dash to your vehicle with your chosen mounting system.
  4. Plug a USB cable into Dash and the other end into your vehicle's accessory jack. ...
  5. Turn the vehicle on. ...
  6. Turn the vehicle off.

Is A GoPro good enough? ›

GoPros are small and light, easy to slip in your pocket wherever you're going. They're rugged—not quite indestructible, but darn close. And the image quality is remarkably good. To top it all off, they're very easy to use and almost foolproof in their default settings.

What are the drawbacks of Dashcam? ›

Summary: Pros and cons of dash cams at a glance
Pros of dash camsCons of dash cams
Can encourage drivers to drive safelyCan be a distraction when driving
Can be used as evidence if accused of dangerous driving in discussions with employersCan result in fines if not installed in the right place
6 more rows

What are the disadvantages of dash cam? ›

One of the main disadvantages of dash cameras is that they can be a distraction while driving. Additionally, some dash cameras may not be legal in all areas, so it is important to check local laws before using one.

Why did GoPro decline? ›

Analysis of GoPro's Performance

GoPro's 2023 performance illustrates the challenges of operating in the competitive hardware industry. The decline in revenue and net income, coupled with a decrease in gross margins, suggests that the company faces cost pressures and a potentially saturated market.

Is A GoPro good for driving? ›

Another reason why you should not use a GoPro as a dash cam is its recording capacity. Let's say you used a GoPro as a dashcam – if you want to record your drive, you need to turn your GoPro on every single time, manually.

How long will a GoPro last? ›

GoPro HERO12 (with Enduro Battery)—155 minutes (1080p / 30fps) GoPro HERO11 (with Enduro Battery)—120 minutes (1080p / 30fps) GoPro HERO10—83 minutes (HyperSmooth High)

Can you use a GoPro as a car cam? ›

Auto start your GoPro camera and begin recording, auto stop and turn off when your vehicle turns off. The CamDo Dashcam Pack provides everything you need to use your GoPro as a dash cam in a handy kit. Mount your GoPro as a GoPro dash cam inside your vehicle, attached to your motorbike or even your push bike.

Can I install a dashcam by myself? ›

Out of the box, you should have everything you need to get started. Installing your dash cam is relatively straightforward and in a few easy steps, you'll have your camera set up in no time!

What can I use instead of dashcam? ›

One of the most popular dash cam alternatives is to use a smartphone app instead. There are a variety of apps available for both iPhone and Android devices, such as Dash Cam Pro and AutoGuard Dash Cam. These apps allow you to use your phone's camera to record your travels, and some even offer GPS tracking.

Which GoPro is best for beginners? ›

The newest HERO12 Black is the best entry-level camera for photography and video you can find with so many modern features included and intuitive design. GoPro HERO11 Black Mini is a close runner-up at an even lower price point making it an affordable camera for beginners without compromising on quality.

How much memory is enough for GoPro? ›

It depends on the length of videos you are planning to record and their resolution. If you are not planning on recording long 4K videos, 32 GB or 64 GB SD cards will be enough. Otherwise, consider buying an SD card with larger storage capacity. For example, SanDisk 128 GB Extreme A2 V30 Micro SD.

Do GoPros take pictures too? ›

GoPros are the must-have cameras for the adventurer in us all. Claiming to be the most versatile cameras out there they offer professional quality videos and photos.

Do professionals use GoPro? ›

Professional Photography

The GoPro has found its way into many professional photographers' camera bags.

What can I use instead of a dashcam? ›

One of the most popular dash cam alternatives is to use a smartphone app instead. There are a variety of apps available for both iPhone and Android devices, such as Dash Cam Pro and AutoGuard Dash Cam. These apps allow you to use your phone's camera to record your travels, and some even offer GPS tracking.

Can I use action camera as Dashcam? ›

An action camera is capable of recording your driving. Unfortunately, they don't have any of the added features that make dashcams easy to use, as they simply were not designed for this purpose.

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