Having a dash cam for your semi truck has become standard practice for drivers across the U.S. The reason for this is that dash cams can offer valuable data in the event of a collision or other driving-related incident. A semi truck camera system can give drivers and fleet managers serious peace of mind. The device stores footage from the dash cam, which can provide companies with video evidence if and when they need it.
Best Dash Cams for Semi Trucks
We have reviewed numerous semi truck dash cams to discover the best choices for your vehicle. Let’s examine some of the most highly-rated dash cams for semi trucks on the market today.
Motive
Best for: Complete Fleet Management
The Motive semi truck dash cam is trusted by over 500,000 drivers and consolidates GPS tracking, asset tracking, electronic logs, safety features, and driver coaching into a single platform. AI detection flags distracted driving and tailgating while alerts keep drivers and managers informed.
Special Features
- AI detection for distracted driving and tailgating
- Real-time alerts to drivers and fleet managers
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fast, ~10-minute installation
- Driver scoring with coaching tips
- Unified fleet management platform
Cons
- No public pricing listed
KDLinks X1
Best for: Long Hauls
KDLinks X1 records 1080p at 30 fps with audio, performs well in harsh weather, and uses motion detection and night vision to capture detail after dark—making it a dependable companion for long routes.
Special Features
- High-performing night vision
- Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) camera
- 110 mAh battery
- Audio recording
- Charging port
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Wide road view for safety
- Handles extreme temperatures
- Audio helps with incident context
- PC data transfer support
Cons
- Software warranty not included
- Hardware-only repair warranty
- No built-in Wi-Fi
Technical Specifications
| Dimensions | 6.6 x 5.1 x 3.2 inches |
| Resolution | 1080p |
| Display Type | 2.7-inch LCD |
| Mounting Type | Suction cup |
| Voice Command | No |
| Camera | Yes |
| Field of View | 165° |
| Storage | 32 GB |
| Lane Assistance | No |
| Speed Limit Indicator | Yes |
| Traffic Services | No |
| Battery | 110 mAh |
| Video Quality | HD |
| Lens Type | Multi-lens |
| GPS | Yes |
| Night Vision | Yes |
Garmin 55
Best for: Large Fleets
A compact, easy-to-use dash cam with a friendly mobile app and G-sensor that auto-saves incident footage. Ideal for large fleets that need reliable, straightforward operation and quick access to clips.
Special Features
- Compact design
- Mobile app
- Memory card included
- G-sensor for incident capture
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Discreet footprint
- Mobile download & review
- Long, uninterrupted recordings
- Auto-saves incidents to prevent overwrite
Cons
- Small battery
- Limited app control
- Can be pricey
Technical Specifications
| Dimensions | 2.2 x 1.6 x 0.8 inches |
| Resolution | 1440p |
| Display Type | 2.0-inch LCD |
| Mounting Type | Magnetic |
| Voice Command | Yes |
| Camera | Yes |
| Field of View | 122° |
| Storage | 64 GB |
| Lane Assistance | Yes |
| Speed Limit Indicator | Yes |
| Traffic Services | Yes |
| Battery | Rechargeable lithium-ion |
| Video Quality | HD |
| Lens Type | Multi-lens |
| GPS | Yes |
| Night Vision | Yes |
Rexing V1 4K
Best for: Short Hauls
A budget-friendly single-lens dash cam with Android/iOS app support, Wi-Fi, supercapacitor power, and parking monitor—great for shorter trips where simplicity and reliability matter.
Special Features
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Supercapacitor power
- Gravity sensor
- Parking monitor
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy app connectivity
- Performs in extreme temperatures
- Collision lock protects footage
- Auto-records on vibration
Cons
- 24 fps may look choppy
- GPS accessory required
- Memory card not included
- Wide FOV can distort distance cues
Technical Specifications
| Dimensions | 3.5 x 2.25 x 1.5 inches |
| Resolution | 1080p |
| Display Type | 2.4-inch LCD |
| Mounting Type | Adhesive tape |
| Voice Command | No |
| Camera | No |
| Field of View | 170° |
| Storage | 256 GB |
| Lane Assistance | No |
| Speed Limit Indicator | Yes |
| Traffic Services | No |
| Battery | Supercapacitor |
| Video Quality | QHD |
| Lens Type | Single lens |
| GPS | Yes |
| Night Vision | Yes |
Vantrue N2S 4K
Best for: Night Drivers
A dual dash cam that captures inside and outside views with sharp night vision and a wide-angle interior lens. Built-in GPS, 24/7 parking mode, and IR illumination make it ideal for night operations.
Special Features
- 24/7 parking mode
- Super high-resolution capture
- Built-in GPS
- Advanced WDR
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Motion/collision detection while parked
- Exceptionally sharp footage
- Route & speed tracking
- Reliable in varied lighting
Cons
- No mobile app
- Records at 25 fps
- Can be expensive
Technical Specifications
| Dimensions | 4.25 x 1.73 x 1.73 inches |
| Resolution | 1440p |
| Display Type | 2-inch LCD |
| Mounting Type | Suction cup |
| Voice Command | No |
| Camera | Yes |
| Field of View | 155° front; 165° cabin |
| Storage | 256 GB |
| Lane Assistance | No |
| Speed Limit Indicator | Yes |
| Traffic Services | No |
| Battery | Supercapacitor |
| Video Quality | QHD |
| Lens Type | Dual-lens |
| GPS | Yes |
| Night Vision | Yes |
Samsara CM32
Best for: Safety-Conscious Owners
Samsara CM32 uses computer vision to analyze road conditions and driver behavior in real time. Hands-free voice control keeps focus on the road while AI flags risky behaviors and harsh events for coaching.
Special Features
- AI/computer vision event detection
- Built-in speaker
- 30 fps recording
- Harsh event capture
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Real-time analysis and feedback
- Smooth recording/playback
- Coaches on braking, acceleration, turns, and more
Cons
- High total cost
- Narrower front lens than some rivals
- OBD-port install reduces portability
Technical Specifications
| Dimensions | 4.2 x 1.6 x 2.4 inches |
| Resolution | 1080p |
| Display Type | 2.7-inch LED |
| Mounting Type | Adhesive |
| Voice Command | Yes |
| Camera | Yes |
| Field of View | 121° front; 177° cabin |
| Storage | Cloud storage; up to 60 hours |
| Lane Assistance | Yes |
| Speed Limit Indicator | Yes |
| Traffic Services | Yes |
| Battery | 1300 mAh |
| Video Quality | HDR |
| Lens Type | Multi-lens |
| GPS | Yes |
| Night Vision | Yes |
Why Is a Semi Truck Dash Cam Important?
Dash cams do more than capture video—they create an objective record that strengthens safety programs, training, and claims handling. Fleets gain clear visibility into road events, while drivers benefit from timely coaching and recognition tied to real-world footage.
Well-implemented dash cams help managers see exactly what a driver sees behind the wheel, making it easier to spot risky habits and address them with targeted coaching. That transparency typically improves rule compliance because expectations are clear and performance is measured fairly. Many fleets pair footage with safety incentives so drivers are rewarded for consistent, low-risk behavior.
Video evidence also speeds up post-incident reviews by showing what happened and why. Whether it is a sideswipe, a harsh-braking chain reaction, or a near miss, video shortens the time it takes to determine fault and close the loop with customers. Clear documentation protects drivers, curbs fraudulent claims, and reduces administrative back-and-forth.
Finally, some insurers offer premium discounts to fleets that use dash cams as part of a broader safety program. Even when discounts are modest, faster claims resolution and fewer preventable incidents can deliver meaningful savings over the course of a year.
Finding the Right Dash Cams for Semi Trucks
With dozens of models on the market, the best choice is the one that fits your routes, vehicles, and safety goals. Use the feature breakdown below to focus on what matters most for performance, visibility, and total cost of ownership.
Video Quality
High-resolution video is essential for reading plates, lane markings, and signage when it counts. Many front-facing units record at 1080p, while premium models offer 2K or 4K; higher resolutions capture more detail but consume more storage and data.
Prioritize consistent clarity over sheer pixel count. A well-tuned 1080p or 2K camera with dependable exposure control often delivers footage that is easier to review than a 4K camera with poor low-light performance.
Lens Type
A single-lens, road-facing camera mirrors the driver’s perspective and covers most use cases. Dual-channel systems add a driver-facing view to verify attention and provide context during coaching sessions.
For the most complete story, multi-lens systems combine front, rear, side, and sometimes interior views. That broader coverage reduces blind spots, supports cargo security, and can speed up liability decisions after an incident.
Night Vision
Serious crashes often occur in low light, so night performance matters. Look for sensors and optics that retain detail on unlit highways and in dark yards without excessive glare from headlights.
Evaluate sample night footage from the vendor. If you can read plates and see lane lines clearly at night, you will likely have what you need for incident review.
GPS
Integrated GPS tags clips with speed, location, and time, aligning video with a precise timeline of events. Those data points help reconstruct an incident and corroborate driver accounts during claims or safety reviews.
Memory (SD Card)
Choose durable, high-endurance SD cards sized to your resolution and channel count. As a rough guide, 32 GB can hold about one to three hours, 64 GB about three to five hours, and 128 GB about six to ten hours; exact capacity varies by bitrate and settings.
Most cameras record in a loop and overwrite older clips, which is fine for uneventful runs. If you use multiple lenses or parking mode, plan for larger cards—or pair local storage with cloud upload—to ensure critical footage is preserved.
FAQ
What is the best dash cam for a semi?
The best dash cam is the one that aligns with your routes, risk profile, and budget. For most fleets, a 1080p or 2K front camera with strong night performance and reliable GPS is a practical baseline. Dual-channel systems add valuable context for coaching and incident review, while multi-channel setups suit high-risk or urban operations. Compare total cost—including storage and connectivity—before you decide.
Is it legal to cam your truck?
In the United States, it is generally legal to use dash cams in commercial vehicles, but mounting and audio rules vary by state. Many jurisdictions restrict where devices can be placed on the windshield, and some require consent for in-cab audio recording. Check state and company policies before installation to avoid compliance issues. When in doubt, position the camera to preserve a clear field of view and disable audio until consent is documented.
Does a dash cam lower insurance?
Dash cams do not guarantee lower premiums, but many insurers offer discounts or program credits when fleets adopt video safety tools. Even without a formal discount, clear footage speeds claims handling and can reduce losses from disputed incidents. Insurers may also view consistent coaching and documented safety practices favorably at renewal. Ask your carrier which program features qualify for savings.
Where do dash cams in semi trucks go?
The proper placement of a dash cam is in the center of your windshield. It should not be situated in a way that obstructs your line of vision.
Are semi truck drivers required to have a dash cam?
There is currently no U.S. law that requires semi truck drivers to use dash cams in their semi trucks. However, many semi truck drivers prefer to use a camera system for peace of mind in the event of an accident or a legal dispute.
