17 best rear view cameras

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Car rear view cameras are a full-fledged alternative to parking sensors with the ability to assess the situation on the roads behind the car. They are miniature broadcasting devices connected to the on-board multimedia system or screens and tablets built-in over the complete set. It is subdivided into several distinct classes:

1. mortise cameras – they are installed like parking sensors, cutting into a hole on the bumper or (which is much less common) in the metal of the body. Technically, the most difficult to install, since for the normal functioning of such a camera, it is necessary to think in advance about the installation location and take into account the viewing angle.
2. overhead cameras are placed on special stands that are attached (by means of a screw pair or screw) to any surface. If you need to review the situation from behind, the most common location for such models is near the license plate lamps. Here there is some variability in the setting of the viewing angle, as a result of which the cameras were classified as universal.
3. cameras on the license plate frame are systems, the installation of which can be considered the simplest of all the proposed options. They represent a metal or plastic frame with built-in cameras, which snaps into place of a standard sub-frame. However, when choosing them, it is worth considering a couple of important nuances, such as the main overall dimensions and the configuration of the mounting holes.
4. cameras in the trunk handle are standard equipment of a number of new car models. They represent a ready-made trunk handle with a built-in camera, which is attached instead of the standard one.
5. cameras in the license plate light – are a hybrid system in which, in addition to the camera, a license plate light source is installed. Due to the fact that standard lampshades are made individually for each car model, such rear-view cameras are made standard.

Due to the huge number of manufacturing companies and the vast range of cameras, choosing a device has become a real problem for consumers. The magazine, together with independent experts in this segment, conducted its own market research, which resulted in a rating of the best rear-view cameras in four thematic categories. The key selection criteria were consumer reviews, as well as the own technical characteristics of the selected products.

Rating of the best rear view cameras

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
Best Overhead Rear View Cameras	1	Alpine HCE-C257FD	RUB 17,870
	2	GARMIN BC 30	RUB 23,790
	3	Avis 985 CMOS	RUB 2,490
	4	Blackview IC-01 Wide	RUB 1,681
	5	Sho-Me CA-9030D	745 RUB
Best Mortise Rear View Cameras	1	AVIS AVS311CPR (185 CCD)	RUB 2,900
	2	Incar VDC-002	RUB 3,490
	3	Swat VDC-002	RUB 1,740
	4	AutoExpert VC-206	RUB 1 720
	5	Digma DCV-210	RUB 1,090
The best cameras to install on the license plate frame	1	Incar VDC-006S	RUB 4 490
	2	Blackview UC-77	RUB 1,900
	3	Rolsen RRV-200	RUB 1,400
	4	Swat VDC-006	3 230
	5	SHO-ME CA-6184LED	1 280 RUB
The best rearview cameras with installation in the trunk handle	1	AVIS AVS326CPR-003	RUB 4,900
	2	Incar VDC-065	RUB 4,200

Best Overhead Rear View Cameras

Alpine HCE-C257FD

Rating: 4.9

Another representative of cameras of the new formation, using a wireless connection, is much better than the main competitor in terms of the consolidated rating. The Alpine HCE-C257FD is a striking example of the achievements of Japanese engineers, who equipped the device with the ability to capture video at HD-resolution (1280×720 pixels). Moreover, they did it in such a way as not to 'bully' the price of the finished product too much. As a result, the rear-view camera turned out to be very balanced in terms of characteristics, gained a number of desirable settings, as well as a pleasant appearance, which is important.

The main functions of the Alpine HCE-C257FD are the ability to automatically adjust the white balance and exposure by changing the shutter speed and aperture value. A nuance here can only be that to obtain a distinguishable picture, illumination in the region of 1.5 lux is required, while even the weakest budget camera models (from other segments) can operate at 0.1-0.2 lux. The camera's viewing angle is 180 °, and therefore the driver has the opportunity to more fully observe the situation behind the car, without blind spots. In general, this device performs very well, and the only condition for its long-term use is not to drown in water under any circumstances, because the moisture protection here is made just for show.

Advantages

• connect to playback display via wireless connection;
• shoots video in HD resolution (1280×720 pixels);
• provides a 180 ° view;
• The optimum ratio of price and quality.

disadvantages

• mediocre moisture protection (may fail when fully immersed in water).

GARMIN BC 30

Rating: 4.8

A premium system for reviewing the situation behind the car, including a remote wi-fi module and a camera directly for capturing an image. It is very expensive, but it symbolizes a new round in the development of tracking systems that have switched from a wired connection to more advanced (albeit not always more reliable) wirless interfaces. GARMIN BC 30 has a resolution of 640×220 pixels, displaying a picture in a clearly landscape orientation. The frame rate has been reduced to 15 per second for the possibility of an unimpeded connection with the receiver, which imposes certain difficulties for the perception of video by drivers at first. Accordingly, there is no question of any projection of marks when parking, since the system is not able to give a reliable estimate of the distance to the obstacle.

What is really suitable in this model is as many as four ports for receiving signals and, accordingly, the ability to install four cameras at once for tracking on all sides of the car. The range of the module and the wireless connection is 13.7 meters, and therefore there should be no situations with poor connection. Ultimately, the GARMIN BC 30 rear camera fell victim to circumstance as it looks pretty damp for its current price. If you cut the cost in half, you get the perfect device, but so far – only an annoying second place in the rating.

Advantages

• wireless signal transmission system, there is no need to lay a cable through the entire car interior;
• signal range is limited to 13.7 meters;
• the ability to connect up to four cameras to one receiving unit;
• high quality performance of the camera and receiver.

disadvantages

• reduced frame rate (15 fps), at which actions in real time are more difficult to perceive;
• extremely high price.

Avis 985 CMOS

Rating: 4.8

An inexpensive, versatile rearview camera that can be mounted either on a lamp / license plate or on a bracket, or through a standard overlay. It got into the rating due to the efforts of manufacturers to create a reliable model with an abundance of protective functions. Such as sealing the case according to the requirements of the IP67 standard, protection against fogging, as well as against clogging of the 'filling' and grooves of the case with dust. In addition, despite the use of a CMOS matrix, the resulting image does not distort the graininess: an infrared emitter is responsible for lighting the frame, which allows drivers to easily navigate the camera data in the dark.

One of the basic, but nevertheless important functions of the Avis 985 CMOS is the presence of the projection of the parking lines. They are not made for show, but really help the user to determine the distance to a visible obstacle, thereby preventing possible damage to the vehicle. The TV picture resolution is 550 lines, and this is the best broadcasting indicator among all the previous nominees in the rating. In general, the 985th model could easily claim a higher place, but it was let down by two important facts. First, communication with the display is established via a wired connection. Secondly, the operating temperature range does not provide the possibility of using the camera in all regions of Russia (from -20 to +50 degrees Celsius). However, experts are very confident that the manufacturer will fix these annoying nuances over time.

Advantages

• high-definition broadcasting over a TV line;
• built-in projection of parking marks;
• the presence of infrared illumination to provide a clear picture in the dark;
• The optimum ratio of price and quality.

disadvantages

• 'modest' operating temperature range;
• an outdated wired connection method for a device of this level.

Blackview IC-01 Wide

Rating: 4.7

Quite an organic contender for a high place in the ranking of the best, providing a view of almost a widened angle (178 ° diagonally). It differs from the Sho-Me CA-9030D in the transmission of a higher quality picture (765×504 pixels), including on TV lines (520 lines). Instead of a CMOS matrix, the Blackview IC-01 Wide uses a more modern 1/3-inch CCD, which makes it possible to shoot more clearly even in low light conditions – down to 0.1 lux.

Additional 'chips' of this rear-view camera are compliance with the highest standard of moisture protection IP68, according to which it can be frankly drowned in water, as well as the presence of projected parking lines, made in accordance with all the canons of refueling parking sensors. The splendor of the model is completed by the fact that it costs mere pennies – you are unlikely to be able to find something more worthwhile for the same 690-900 rubles.

Advantages

• high resolution of the transmitted image (765×504 pixels);
• performance class IP68 – the highest measure of protection against moisture;
• High definition CCD-matrix;
• projection of parking marks to facilitate the car parking process.

disadvantages

• for its price – not revealed.

Sho-Me CA-9030D

Rating: 4.6

A budget version of an overhead camera, the main characteristic of which is a very low price. It has 170 and 105 ° horizontal and vertical viewing angles, respectively, practically not inferior to its direct competitors. Does not display parking lines, however, they transmit a picture without distortion (in a mirror image), thereby allowing you to fairly accurately calculate the moment of stopping and control the distance. They do not allow you to adjust the lens, which is why you should make adjustments right at the time of installation.

The resolution of the broadcast image is 656×492 pixels, but the quality is highly dependent on the shooting time. The CMOS matrix in Sho-Me CA-9030D generates noise in low light conditions, which makes it practically impossible to use the camera in the dark. But during the manufacture, the manufacturers took into account the likelihood of dipping the device in water, and, accordingly, took care of sealing the case (in full compliance with the IP67 standard). But here the temperature indicators slightly pumped up, according to which it is simply impossible to use the model in the harsh winter periods of Siberia, because -20 degrees Celsius here is the standard mode. Otherwise, it is a decent option for those who do not want to spend too much and do not expect sky-high functionality from the camera.

Advantages

• very low price;
• sufficiently high resolution (656×492 pixels);
• acceptable workmanship (strong body + durable elements);
• viewing angles vertically and horizontally (170 and 105 °).

disadvantages

• rather modest functionality (without parking lines, etc.);
• not the most optimal permissible temperature regimes.

Best Mortise Rear View Cameras

AVIS AVS311CPR (185 CCD)

Rating: 4.9

A camera peephole with an even better mechanism for fixing the camera in the socket, using a fundamentally better version of the matrix for image capture. Manufacturers have deliberately abandoned the CMOS matrix, opting for the CCD. There are a lot of positive trends from such a solution: from almost complete getting rid of noise (which is especially noticeable when shooting at night) to uniform light sensitivity of each individual pixel. Accordingly, even at 512×492 resolution, a significant increase in quality is observed, which, within the framework of the rating, simply cannot be ignored.

The minimum required illumination of AVIS AVS311CPR (185 CCD) to obtain a distinguishable image remained at 0.1 lux – it's strange that, having decided to upgrade by replacing the matrix, the manufacturers did not think to equip the camera with a backlight. However, this in no way affects the high level of her work. From the rest stand out IP68 waterproofing, projection of marks to facilitate orientation during parking, as well as a set of mounts that comes (standard) with the camera itself.

Advantages

• The optimum ratio of price and quality;
• high quality of the resulting image;
• availability of projection of parking marks;
• using a more advanced CCD matrix;
• reliable camera locks in the seat.

disadvantages

• not found.

Incar VDC-002

Rating: 4.8

From a purely visual point of view, Incar VDC-002 is a complete analogue of the previous nominee, with the only difference that the fixing 'horns' here are made in a much more reliable manner. Inside the camera is the same 1/3 inch CMOS matrix, the same color formats (PAL, NTSC), the same TVL resolution (480 lines), but a more 'square' image captured by the camera (628×582 pixels).

There are no striking differences between Incar and Swat, even in the functional plane. Here, as in the competitor, there is a projection of parking marks, IP67 waterproof rating, as well as a mirror image of the picture. And only the required illumination (0.1 lux) sets the tone for those few subtleties that take place. Against the background of such small changes, the increase in cost, albeit a penny, does not look the best way … until it comes to the rigidity of the installation and the accompanying moments. The petals mentioned above, fixing the camera in the socket, are made of an elastic metal alloy, which does not allow plastic deformation and, accordingly, weakening of the fit. In this connection, the separation and displacement of the camera becomes almost impossible, in contrast to the cases with the Swat VDC-002.

Advantages

• rigid fixing petals in the camera structure;
• high quality camera manufacturing;
• resolution 628×582 pixels;
• 0.1 lux required illumination for image formation.

disadvantages

• almost a complete analogue of a competitor.

Swat VDC-002

Rating: 4.8

Another built-in tracking eye of the budget segment without the ability to adjust the tilt and location of the view, but with a number of other useful functions. Swat VDC-002 seems to be a slightly weaker analogue of AutoExpert VC-206, the only superior function of which lies in the resolution of broadcasting over a TV line (480 pixels). In normal mode, video is recorded with a resolution of 648×488 pixels by capturing a 1/3 inch CMOS sensor. Fortunately, the supported color modes allow the camera to work seamlessly with PAL and NTSC recorders, providing at least some semblance of variability and versatility.

As for additional functions, here Swat VDC-002 can offer optimal moisture and dust protection in accordance with IP67, projection of parking marks, as well as displaying a picture in a mirror form. Out of the rest, only 0.2 lux of the required illumination for obtaining an image stands out, as well as a complete set of connections, consisting of two coaxial channels.

Advantages

• low price;
• availability of parking labels;
• good dust and moisture protection;
• high quality exposure in terms of camera equipment and body parts manufacturing;
• excellent resolution (648×488 pixels).

disadvantages

• not the best external performance.

AutoExpert VC-206

Rating: 4.7

Versatile rear view camera that can be mounted on a bracket, tripod or in a socket, giving the driver the ability to adjust the tilt and, accordingly, the viewpoint with an angle of 170 °. Despite the low price, it has the ability to project virtual parking lines onto the display in order to facilitate the parking process. The resolution of the picture supplied to the radio tape recorder is 648×488 pixels, and there is a real possibility of shooting at night, since the camera matrix requires only 0.1 lux of illumination to form a clearly distinguishable image.

As an advantageous difference from most of the nominees presented here, AutoExpert VC-206 has the highest degree of protection against moisture: IP68. Thanks to this, the camera is not afraid of complete immersion to a depth of more than 1 meter, as well as sudden pressure drops due to the formation of turbulent and laminar flows in the passable water area. Largely due to this and not the most aesthetic appearance, the camera was strongly chosen by the owners of large crossovers and SUVs who are not averse to leaving the city on the road.

Advantages

• the highest degree of moisture protection (IP68);
• working protection against fogging and dust;
• tilt adjustment of the camera, good viewing angle;
• very low required illumination for the formation of a distinguishable picture (0.1 lux);
• the presence of projected parking marks.

disadvantages

• nondescript appearance.

Digma DCV-210

Rating: 4.6

The cut-in 'peephole' from the Digma company is the most budgetary and attractive solution to the problem of viewing the situation behind the car, which gives an image of adequate quality even in the dark. This DCV-210 owes much to the infrared illumination, which turns on when the camera is set to night mode. The original image resolution is 640×480 pixels, which is a satisfactory result even by the standards of expensive models.

Of the additional features of the Digma DCV-210, we can highlight the presence of moisture protection in case the installation is carried out in the material of the rear bumper to match the sensors of the parking sensors. However, even despite the IP67 mark, it is not recommended to flood them and force them to deliberately work under water: depressurization of individual body elements can overtake the device unexpectedly. Otherwise, the rear-view camera shows itself perfectly, which is naturally expressed in high popularity among car owners.

Advantages

• very low price;
• good resolution (640×480 pixels);
• nice design and reliable plastic camera clips in the nest;
• possibility of night shooting using IR illumination.

disadvantages

• moisture protection is poor.

The best cameras to install on the license plate frame

Incar VDC-006S

Rating: 4.9

It just so happens that the Incar VDC-006S is the most expensive and at the same time the most powerful frame camera in the segment, which has shown itself to be the best in expert testing. Firstly, I would like to note the intangible, but present here, an indicator of reliability, both in terms of the 'insides' of the camera and the strength of the frame itself. Secondly, it is worth noting the highest resolution (628×582 pixels) and more 'square' image at the camera's output, tied to the use of a 1/3 inch CMOS matrix.

The next and final moment of the striking difference of Incar VDC-006S from its competitors exists in the plane of the minimum required illumination for the possibility of image transmission. Here it is 0.1 lux, and allows you to use the camera with a greater degree of efficiency in the dark. Of special note is the presence of parking tags, as well as moisture protection at the IP67 level, thanks to which the sensitive 'stuffing' is not afraid of flooding and the pressure of a meter layer of water.

Advantages

• high degree of reliability;
• high-quality camera filling;
• high resolution (622×582);
• the presence of moisture protection and a projection system for parking arcs;
• the minimum illumination is only 0.1 lux.

disadvantages

• high price.

Blackview UC-77

Rating: 4.8

If with the frame camera model from Rolsen one can feel a hint of budget even in terms of functionality, then with Blackview UC-77 not everything is so simple. A slightly more expensive device is an example of how quality becomes the main derivative of popularity among users of all financial levels. Based on the CMOS matrix, this rear-view camera has a resolution of 648×488 pixels, or 420 lines when outputting via TV lines. Supports color format PAL and NTSC, so it can be interfaced with the vast majority of modern multimedia equipment in the car.

But, perhaps, the main feature of Blackview UC-77 is the presence of parking tags. If the previous representatives of the segment provided only a visual determination of the distance to the alleged obstacle, then here the driver has the right to be guided by standard marks indicating a very specific distance to objects. All this is coupled with the ability to work in direct and mirror image display modes, as well as a viewing angle of 170 °. For its price, the device is more than worthy.

Advantages

• the presence of parking tags that simplify the parking process;
• resolution 648×488 pixels;
• the ability to work in PAL and NTSC color;
• Excellent value for money and quality.

disadvantages

• not found.

Rolsen RRV-200

Rating: 4.7

The main plus of the contender for leadership from the Rolsen company is the extremely low price, which perfectly correlates with those few 'chips' embedded in the camera structure. The Rolsen RRV-200 uses a но-inch CMOS sensor, which is budgetary but very fast in image processing. In this situation, the standard resolution of 640×480 pixels looks like a very decent result.

As for the reliability of the picture displayed on the display of the radio, it turns out to be mirrored, which is typical for all budget devices. On this basis, the RRV-200 is no different from the previous nominees, just as it is not inferior to them in terms of moisture resistance. IP67 is the cherished minimum that all products of this category interested in fighting have undertaken to comply with. Largely due to the low price and the actual 'indestructibility' in the water, the frame camera from Rolsen has become an object of great demand from SUV drivers who like to make frequent trips outside the city limits.

Advantages

• very low price;
• good resolution of the resulting picture (640×480);
• optimal moisture resistance and temperature resistance, making the camera a favorite among SUV drivers;
• high quality frame case.

disadvantages

• lack of white balance calibration and other automatic mode settings.

Swat VDC-006

Rating: 4.6

A frame of a higher level of performance, which has appropriate indicators of protection against moisture and dust penetration, as well as automatic white balance adjustment for transferring the same quality picture at any time of the day. It has a resolution of 648×488 pixels, and in terms of this indicator, it practically surpasses the frame camera made by SHO-ME. However, it costs almost three times as much as mentioned, while giving many other positive properties.

In particular, it is worth highlighting a more stable signal at the level of 48 dB, as well as 0.2 lux of illumination, the minimum required to ensure the capture and presentation of a distinguishable image to the display. Designed to comply with IP67 class conditions, the Swat VDC-006 guarantees stable operation underwater at depths of up to 1.5 meters. It is also noteworthy that the range of permissible temperatures varies between -30 and +70 degrees Celsius, making the camera suitable for use in most regions of Russia.

Advantages

• a complete set of connecting the camera to the receiver (a set of coaxial cables);
• excellent moisture resistance and temperature resistance;
• acceptable viewing angle (170 °);
• high quality construction.

disadvantages

• high price, compensated, however, by a good set of properties and characteristics.

SHO-ME CA-6184LED

Rating: 4.5

According to consumers, SHO-ME CA-6184LED is an exemplary frame-type camera that has absolutely no shortcomings in terms of functionality for its modest cost. Equipped with a 1/3-inch CMOS sensor for fast image processing and minimal noise, even when shooting at dusk. The resolution of the resulting picture is 512×492 pixels, which also contributes to an adequate perception of the situation behind the car when parking or maneuvering in a confined space.

A notable feature of the SHO-ME CA-6184LED is its performance class. Dust and moisture resistance of the device complies with the IP67 standard, according to the interpretation of which it can be immersed to a depth of more than 1 meter without fear of operability and integrity. Thus, this model will be an excellent option for a complete set of off-road vehicles, which are often chosen on the off-road and walk through muddy areas, as well as wade through shallow bodies of water. The price of the issue, as mentioned above, is minimal, but the quality is at the level of more demanding cameras.

Advantages

• performance class IP67 – reliable moisture protection with the ability to work properly under water at a depth of over 1 meter;
• solid assembly;
• satisfactory picture quality;
• full camera connection kit.

disadvantages

• not identified.

The best rearview cameras with installation in the trunk handle

AVIS AVS326CPR-003

Rating: 4.9

The AVIS AVS326CPR-003 rear view camera, suitable for one single car model (but which one) Porsche 2010 Cayenne II, could not pass by the rating. In many ways, it was she who deserved the most complementary reviews from the experts, since it incorporated not only satisfactory dynamic shooting parameters, but also a number of systems that facilitate the parking process and improve the received picture.

First, it is worth highlighting the presence of dynamic (and static) parking markings with very accurate calibration of the distance to the intended obstacle. There is automatic gain control AGC, reflected light compensator and automatic white balance. The viewing angle, as in the case of the Incar VDC-065, is 170 °, allowing the driver to get a complete picture of the road situation from behind. As practice shows, users rarely resort to purchasing this camera, preferring more universal models. The reason here lies in the need for additional costs to replace the handle and laying the contact wire, which is not necessary at all in a car of this class.

Advantages

• low cost (those who can afford a Cayenne can easily buy a camera for 4.7-5 thousand rubles);
• an abundance of automatic adjustments to the camera;
• review at an angle of 170 °;
• the presence of dynamic markings for parking.

disadvantages

• suitable for only one specific car model.

Incar VDC-065

Rating: 4.8

Parking reversing camera for Audi and Volkswagen vehicles rated for excellent visibility. Transmits to the radio tape recorder an image with a resolution of 628×582 pixels, the quality of which is sufficient to assess the situation behind the car. The maximum illumination at which the camera is capable of transmitting a picture is 0.1 lux, and therefore it will be useful if there is even a minimal light source (read, at night).

The viewing angle of the Incar VDC-065 is 170 °, and in this indicator the camera is significantly superior to competitors in the category. The degree of moisture protection, corresponding to the level of performance IP66, also differs positively. The operating temperature of the device is also clearly designed for versatility in terms of climatic zones of operation, adequately working out at rates from -40 to +65 degrees Celsius. As users note, the cost of the camera relative to the entire variety of accessories for German car brands is very, very modest: for a device of this level you need to shell out a little less than 4 thousand rubles from your pocket. Together with high quality and reliability, such a price tag gives a corresponding plus to the popularity, causing high demand from domestic consumers.

Advantages

• suitable for more than eight cars of the brand Audi (A4, A5, Q3 and Q5) and Volkswagen (Touareg, Jetta, Tiguan, Passat);
• high quality and reliability indicators;
• acceptable cost;
• viewing angle equal to 170 °.

disadvantages

• not found.

---

Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.