🚗Best Car Rear View Cameras for 2020

Every driver knows what a rear view camera is. But not everyone has it. If a couple of years ago this device was expensive, now the cost is acceptable, and the choice is very large. There are also additional functions that greatly simplify driving and bring additional comfort. The driver can study the advantages and disadvantages of each model and find the right one for himself. This article will help you figure out important nuances.

Why do you need a rear view camera

Only one mirror is not enough for the driver to park at the specified location. This is where the rear view camera comes to the rescue. Thanks to this device, you can see the "blind spots" and "blind spots". With its help, you can see those areas that are not directly visible from the driver's seat. Such a device is used not only by beginners who just got behind the wheel, but also by experienced drivers. The camera does not take up much space, and installation is easy and time-consuming.

The operation of the rear view camera is no different from its counterparts. The resulting image is sent to a screen, which is usually located on the dashboard or rear-view mirror. The advantage is the wide-angle lens, which helps to capture the optimal amount of space around. This makes driving and parking much easier.

Kinds

The first thing to look for when choosing a rear view camera is the type. There are several options.

• Established

Such a model is miniature and is made directly for a specific car. This simplifies installation, instead of backlighting the license plate, which is carried out without any problems. At the same time, the device is not noticeable to others, which will help protect it from theft.

The downside is the cost, which is significantly higher than other options.

• Universal

The universal look is budgetary and fits perfectly for any brand of car. Can be installed in one of these places: license plate frame, bumper, body and so on. Fastened with screws to the surface of the vehicle. If the driver does not want to damage the car, then you can use double-sided tape.

Universal models are divided into three categories: invoice, mortise and in the license plate frame. The disadvantage of the first two cameras is the installation problem. To do this, you need to drill the bumper or body. Framed devices are much easier to install.

main parameters

Direction of view

When choosing a suitable model, you need to pay attention to the direction of the view. It may be of four types:

1. Rear. The picture comes in a mirror image. This is to make it easier for the driver to navigate the sides.
2. Frontal (front). Direct incoming mapping.
3. Side. The image is straight, but sets this view in the side mirrors.
4. All-round visibility system.The image is provided by several cameras from different directions.

Connection

There are two options for connecting a rear view camera.

The first one is wired. That is, the device and the screen are connected by a wire. Many drivers choose this option because of the budget cost, reliability and signal reception without interference. But there is an important disadvantage - the complexity of installation.

Wireless is the second type of connection that makes installation easier. A downside that does not please drivers is periodic radio interference.

Signal arrival

There are four ways in which a camera signal can be fed: a navigator, a visor monitor, a dashboard, or a rearview mirror. It depends on the convenience of the driver and the functionality of the device.

The best option that suits many is the display of the image on the monitor in the instrument model. If it is provided by the design of the car. If not, you can use your phone or tablet.

Optical system requirements

Matrix

The matrix is ​​one of the important criteria when choosing digital technology. The resolution and image quality depend on the type.

There are three types of matrix:

1. CMOS is the most affordable option, which is small in size and good image transfer rate. Today it is not used very often.
2. CCD. The picture quality is better than the previous type, but there is a noticeable delay. They are much more common than other species.
3. HCCD is the best option and offers excellent image quality. It can work even in poor lighting conditions. The cost is higher.

The second criterion that you should pay attention to when buying a device for a car is permission. The higher this indicator, the better the picture will be. The best option for a good view even at dusk is 0.3 megapixels, which corresponds to a resolution of 640x480 pixels.

The diagonal (size) of the matrix is ​​a parameter that affects the image distortion. The higher the indicator, the less distortion.

Viewing angle

The quality of the picture depends on the viewing angle. The exponentially higher, the better for the driver. This way he can see a great view. The optimal indicator is from 150 to 170 degrees. If the viewing angle is higher, then distortion is formed.

Functions

Parking lines

All rear-view cameras, regardless of the parameters and cost, distort the image, so it is rather difficult to calculate the dimensions of the car by eye. Especially for beginners who just got behind the wheel.

This is why the camera can superimpose parking hints on the image. They will help the driver understand exactly how to park.

This feature is available in most models because it makes maneuvering easier. If necessary, you can turn off the parking guidelines in the settings.

In advanced versions, there is not only markings, but also the trajectory of the car when you turn the steering wheel.

IR illumination

The infrared light spectrum will help improve visibility in the dark. The diodes turn on simultaneously with the camera turning on. Such light does not affect a person, because it is invisible to him. The image is black and white.

Additional illumination can be useful in case of breakdown of standard headlights. It is built into the edges of the lens and provides visibility up to three meters.

Exposure Adjustment and White Balance

Automatic exposure and white balance adjusts parameters for specific lighting, adjusting to the source. This will correct the color.

Dust and moisture protection

This function is necessary because the camera is located outside the vehicle. It gets a lot of dust and splashes every day. There are three protection classes: IP66, IP67 and IP68. The first type is quite enough - protection against water and dust ingress.

Tips for choosing

1. When buying, you should pay attention to the temperature regime in which the device can operate. Weather conditions in winter (frost, snowfall) or summer (constant heat) may affect its performance.
2. It is better to choose the option that can provide the best picture even in the dark.
3. The best option is a universal look, because such a model can be installed anywhere. But you need to study in the instructions how to properly install the device and whether you can do it yourself.
4. Some models have parking guidelines to help drivers navigate. This is especially useful for newbies.

Which company to choose

When buying a first rear-view camera, the driver has a lot of questions about the specifications and the manufacturer. You should not choose little-known companies that have appeared on the market recently. It is better to give preference to trusted manufacturers.

• AutoExpert

AutoExpert is a Russian company that specializes in the production of car electrics. The manufacturer has a wide range of goods, reasonable prices and good quality parts. The brand is popular in Russia.

• Sho-Me

The brand produces a large selection of automotive electronics, accessories and lighting equipment. The range of products includes radar detectors, cameras, recorders, LED lamps and headlights, lenses and other necessary parts that simplify the driving process. Sho-Me is comfort.

• Rolsen

This is a Russian company that produces video, audio and other equipment for the home, as well as the car. It was founded in 1994 in Korea and is still popular today. And a year later, she opened her branch in Russia.

• Alpine

It is a prestigious Japanese company that manufactures all kinds of vehicle accessories. The main advantages are a large assortment and good quality of parts.

Rating of the best rear view cameras for a car

Mortise

Swat VDC-002

A versatile device that does its job well. It comes to the rescue when parking and reversing maneuvers.

There are color lines to help you determine the distance to an obstacle. Experienced drivers can disable this feature.

Full body tightness allows using the device in heavy showers, frosts and prolonged snowfalls. This has a positive effect on the duration of the device. You can use it for several years.

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Sho-Me CA-2024

Sho-Me CA-2024 is notable for its cheap cost, but this did not affect its functionality in any way. There is a fixed tilt angle to help eliminate errors. This greatly facilitates operation.

Fastening type - mortise. The camera comes with hooks so that you can pull it out from the outside of the car. The driver will be able to carry out the installation and configuration process without requiring additional assistance. At the same time, there are no external bolts, so there is a minimal risk of theft of the device.

The device is completely protected from moisture and dust (IP 67). Can be used in rain or snow.

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Overlay Cameras

AutoExpert VC-216

It is a versatile device that can be attached in two ways: under the rear window or a license plate. It can be used for any car brand. The difference from most other rear view cameras is that, if necessary, you can view not only the rear view, but also the front view. This expands the functionality of the device.

For an affordable cost, the user receives not only the camera itself, but also a 5-inch monitor that comes with the kit. Not all variants of similar devices have a screen. It usually needs to be purchased separately.

This model is more often used for large vehicles, where the viewing angle is limited. This helps to avoid blind spots. The picture appears on the screen automatically immediately after switching on.

Viewing angle - 170 degrees.Connection type - wired

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Sho-Me CA-9030D

This model has a universal mount, so it can be installed in a place convenient for the driver.

The device works even under the most extreme conditions and temperatures. The lens and the entire body can be cleaned of traces of water or dust if necessary. This operation does not take much time. High-quality materials were used during the assembly, so the body and the lens are practically not scratched.

Viewing angle - 170 degrees.

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On bracket

Sho-Me CA-9J185D1

A convenient mounting option for many drivers is the bracket. This model is installed with its help. But if necessary, you can use a mortise clip.

The main advantage is its small size and wide viewing angle, which helps to see all obstacles. The image is not distorted and fine details can be seen.

You can install the device both on the bumper and on the license plate or spoiler. It only depends on the convenience and preference of the driver. Any rear surface of the car will do.

There is a useful feature for beginners - parking lines. But it is often used by experienced users as well. With their help, you can park your vehicle much more accurately without hitting nearby vehicles or other obstacles.

The viewing angle is 120 degrees, but this did not affect the picture quality. Works in the evening, even in low light conditions.

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Alpine HCE-C1100

The model is distinguished by good quality of resolution and clarity of details. It is possible to work even under conditions of minimal visibility.

In the settings, you can specify the width of the car, and individual distance guidelines will appear on the screen. This will make parking easier for novice drivers who are afraid of damaging their vehicle.

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Frame Cameras

AutoExpert VC-204

One of the best models in the cheap price segment, which creates comfort and safety when parking. This camera has good build quality and versatility. Suitable for any vehicle. It can be actively used both day and night, because there is a bright LED for lighting.

The available viewing angle is 170 degrees. This figure is sufficient for optimal visibility and without image distortion. Connection type - wired.

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Rolsen RRV-200

It is a rear camera frame that is popular with drivers. The device helps to carry out maneuvers safely and without any problems while driving and rear parking. The image is displayed correctly, so using the camera is very easy.

Rolsen RRV-200 is especially preferred by beginners who do not have a lot of driving experience. Responsible drivers would rather spend money on a camera than on car repairs. The model significantly saves time, because the driver is not afraid to run into a foreign object.

The optimal viewing angle is 170 degrees.

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Poor parking is a common problem for drivers. In order to avoid the time and cost of car repairs, you need to buy a rear view camera. When making a deal, you need to take into account the main characteristics and additional functions. It is a great helper for people who are worried about the vehicle. The device will not only help you park without problems, but also avoid hitting an obstacle from behind.