Accidents happen quickly and the consequences can be severe. Your onboard footage could be your best chance to defend your position both legally and for your insurance claim. Every truck should have a dash cam. That’s a given, but there’s more than one good reason to ensure that you buy a trucker camera with all of the features that you need, starting with the ability to record action on the road in real-time. Keep reading to explore the best dash cams for truckers based on the most important features and considerations.
7 Best Dash Cams for Truckers
Here are our picks for the best dash cam for truckers.
- Best all around option for truckers: Konexial My20 AI Dashcam
- Best for high-resolution recording: BlackVue DR900X-2CH
- Best for compact design: Garmin Dash Cam 57
- Best for comprehensive coverage: Vantrue N4
- Best for advanced features: Nextbase 622GW
- Best for value for money: Rove R2-4K Dash Cam
- Best for durability: FalconEye EagleEye 2nd Gen Triple Cam
Konexial My20 LogiCam AI Dashcam
Best for: AI-powered safety monitoring & ELD integration
The Konexial My20 LogiCam AI is built for commercial fleets, pairing HD video with real-time AI alerts and seamless integration into the My20 ELD platform for compliance and performance tracking. Built-in cellular keeps critical clips flowing to the cloud.
Special Features
- AI alerts for tailgating, lane departure, and forward collision
- My20 ELD integration for compliance & driver performance
- Built-in cellular for auto uploads & live streaming
- AI event detection with automatic incident tagging
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Real-time AI monitoring reduces risk
- Automatic uploads preserve key footage
- ELD tie-in streamlines fleet reporting
- Clear HD video for investigations
Cons
- Requires My20 subscription for full features
- Setup/installation can be complex
- Limited standalone use without ELD
BlackVue DR900X-2CH
Best for: High-resolution recording
A dual-channel 4K/1080p system with a 162° front lens, GPS and Wi-Fi, the DR900X-2CH delivers highly detailed footage front and rear. Optional LTE cloud features add remote access and alerts for added security.
Special Features
- Front 4K UHD & rear Full HD
- 162° front wide-angle lens
- Built-in GPS & Wi-Fi
- Cloud-ready (optional LTE module)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent detail for critical evidence
- Wide FOV reduces blind spots
- Cloud access enables remote viewing/alerts
Cons
- Higher price than many rivals
- Cloud features may require a subscription
Garmin Dash Cam 57
Best for: Compact design
This compact 1440p dash cam packs GPS, voice control, and driver alerts (forward collision and lane departure) into a discreet body with a magnetic mount for easy removal. A strong pick when you need small size without sacrificing features.
Special Features
- 1440p HD recording
- Hands-free voice control
- Forward collision & lane departure alerts
- Parking Guard incident notifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very discreet footprint
- Safety alerts aid prevention
- Wi-Fi for quick sharing via app
Cons
- 140° FOV is narrower than some
- No rear camera included
Vantrue N4
Best for: Comprehensive coverage
A three-channel system that records front (up to 4K), rear, and cabin simultaneously, the N4 is a coverage powerhouse. Infrared night vision boosts cabin clarity and 24-hour parking mode monitors for motion/impacts.
Special Features
- Triple-channel: front 4K, rear 1080p, interior 1080p
- IR night vision for interior
- 24-hour parking surveillance
- GPS support via optional mount
Pros & Cons
Pros
- All-angle capture for thorough documentation
- Strong interior night visibility
- Parking protection while unattended
Cons
- More wiring/setup time than single/dual cams
- Higher storage needs; large SD cards recommended
Nextbase 622GW
Best for: Advanced features
A premium 4K@30fps dash cam with image stabilization, extreme weather mode, GPS data, and intelligent parking mode. The 622GW emphasizes safety with features like Emergency SOS and a bright 3" touchscreen.
Special Features
- 4K UHD @ 30 fps with 140° viewing angle
- Image stabilization for smoother video
- Extreme Weather Mode for clarity in adverse conditions
- Emergency SOS to share your location if needed
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent detail and stabilization
- Safety-forward feature set
- 3" touchscreen for easy control
Cons
- Pricier than basic models
- Some add-ons (e.g., rear camera) require extras
Rove R2-4K Dash Cam
Best for: Value for money
The R2-4K records in 4K with a 150° lens, Wi-Fi for easy transfers, GPS for speed/location, night vision, and parking mode—an appealing mix of premium features at a budget-friendly price.
Special Features
- 4K Ultra HD recording
- Built-in GPS (speed & location)
- Wi-Fi app transfer
- Parking mode with motion detection
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Sharp video and strong feature/value balance
- User-friendly companion app
Cons
- No rear camera
- Night vision more limited than some rivals
FalconEye EagleEye 2nd Gen Triple Cam 2K
Best for: Durability
A rugged, truck-focused triple-camera system: 2K front plus two 1080p waterproof rears for full situational awareness. On-device 4" LCD, Wi-Fi, GPS logging, and IR night tech round out a feature-packed setup.
Special Features
- 2K front + dual 1080p waterproof rear cameras
- Built-in Wi-Fi & 4" LCD for live view/playback
- GPS for speed/route/location records
- Infrared night vision for low-light clarity
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Near 360° coverage
- Weatherproof rears for all conditions
- Supports up to 256 GB microSD
- Easy mounting; hardwire option
Cons
- Costlier due to triple-camera hardware
- Larger footprint vs. single/dual systems
What Is a Trucker Dash Cam?
A dash cam goes by many other names, like an event data recorder, car digital video recorder, black box and in-car camera system. With a simple installation process of mounting the truck driver dash cam to the windshield or the dashboard, you can record your journey’s video as well as audio on some models.
Truck dash cams improve visibility on the road and prevent potential driving hazards. Drivers and owner-operators can use the high-quality video footage to report reckless drivers that they encounter on their routes. In case of an impending lawsuit, the recordings from truck dash cams become invaluable evidence that is admissible in court. They can help you protect your drivers by showing who is to blame in the event of an accident.
How Does a Truck Dash Cam Work?
A dash cam for semi trucks mounts to the windshield and records when it detects motion or power. Most devices capture video in a continuous loop, overwriting the oldest clips once storage fills. Power typically comes from the vehicle, ensuring the camera runs whenever the truck is on. Some units add event triggers—such as hard braking or a collision—to automatically save and lock key clips for later review.
Importance of Dash Cams for Truckers
There are many reckless and unpredictable drivers on the road. But for owner-operators, contractors or anyone who is part of a large fleet, driving is their livelihood. One accident can put the driver’s license, as well as the integrity of the entire company, at risk. The stakes are too high, but a dash cam can provide the necessary evidence to protect drivers and fleets.
When accidents occur, perceived blame typically falls on the truck driver. Typically, courts determine liability based on the doctrine of negligence. Laws set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration also apply. Without proof, the driver will most likely receive the blame based on negligence. A truck dash cam can show how the accident actually happened and help clear the truck driver’s name.
Types of Dash Cams for Truckers
There are two main types of dash cams for trucks. Owner-operators should understand the difference between the two to decide which one is best for their fleet.
Standard
Also called a road-facing or front-facing dash cam, a standard dash cam has one lens. It can be mounted on the dashboard and tilted near the windshield in a way that makes it possible for the camera to record the road.
All dash cams have different features, but the standard dash cam will show road conditions, other drivers on the road and the flow of traffic. It will also record footage that owner-operators or drivers can look at late, should the need arise.
Dual-Facing
A dual-facing dash cam does the same thing as a standard dash cam, but it has a second lens that records the driver inside of the cabin as well as the road. While the camera records the road, it also videos the driver to ensure they aren’t acting erratically, failing to pay attention or engaging in other dangerous behavior.
This additional footage can act as an excellent source of evidence that can be used in court if blame is placed on the driver as a result of alleged negligence. It can prove that the drivers were following the laws and driving safely, which is excellent to supplement with the footage that shows the road conditions as well.
What to Consider With Dash Cams for Truckers
Choosing the right device comes down to matching features with your routes, cargo, and budget. Use the factors below to compare options and prioritize the capabilities that will meaningfully improve safety, visibility, and claims support.
Automatic Storage
Video evidence is invaluable when disputes arise after an incident. Automatic cloud storage ensures the dash cam begins recording as the vehicle moves and that critical clips are backed up off the device. Remote access lets fleets and drivers retrieve footage quickly to support insurance claims or customer inquiries. Look for options that let you set retention rules and mark high-priority events so important files are never overwritten.
Viewing Angle
Wide coverage helps capture adjacent lanes, merges, and roadside activity. Many trucker dash cams offer fields of view up to 150–180 degrees; beyond about 150 degrees, the edges can distort, so more width is not always more useful. Prioritize a balanced angle that shows lane lines clearly without excessive fisheye effects. If you regularly operate in tight urban areas, consider adding side or interior channels to cover blind spots.
GPS
Integrated GPS pairs location and speed with the video timeline, providing crucial context during a claim or safety review. These data points can corroborate where the truck was, how fast it was traveling, and the sequence of events. When combined with telematics, GPS also supports accurate estimated times of arrival and route verification. Ensure your system makes GPS metadata easy to export alongside the corresponding clips.
Night Vision
Many runs happen after dark, so low-light performance matters. Look for sensors and lenses that capture clear, high-quality footage in poor lighting, tunnels, and unlit yards. Features such as wide dynamic range and larger apertures help reduce glare and headlight washout. Test sample night footage before you buy to verify readability of lane markings and license plates.
Size
Dash cams range from discreet, screenless units to larger models with built-in displays. A compact footprint keeps sightlines clear and reduces attention from would-be thieves, while a larger screen can simplify setup and on-the-spot reviews. Whatever you choose, confirm it mounts securely without obstructing the driver’s view or violating local windshield-mounting rules. Cable management should allow power and memory media to tuck neatly into trim panels.
Camera Resolution
Resolution determines how much detail your recordings capture. Common options include 720p, 1080p, 2K, and 4K; most front cameras are at least 1080p, with some rear channels at 720p. Higher resolutions can make plates and signage more legible, but they also consume more storage and bandwidth. Balance clarity with file size, and verify that your storage plan can handle your preferred settings.
Multi-Channel
Multi-channel systems record from multiple viewpoints—front, rear, sides, and interior—at the same time. This comprehensive coverage helps reconstruct incidents, monitor blind spots, and document cargo areas and driver behavior when policies allow. For long combination vehicles or frequent city deliveries, extra angles can reduce liability and speed claims decisions. Ensure your platform can sync and play all channels in a single timeline for efficient reviews.
Where To Install Dash Cams for Truckers
Install the camera high and centered on the windshield to capture the road ahead and peripheral activity. Avoid placing it behind the rearview mirror or other accessories that could block the lens, and aim the unit straight ahead without exceeding about a 30-degree tilt. Proper positioning helps the camera document intersections, road signs, and close calls clearly. Route power and memory cables cleanly so they do not interfere with legroom, storage, or driver movement.
FAQ
What is the downside of a dash cam?
Dash cams can be distracting if they are poorly mounted or have bright screens, so placement and settings matter. They may also be targeted by thieves if visible from outside the cab, which is why a small footprint and discreet routing help. Storage and data plans add ongoing costs, and higher resolutions consume more bandwidth. Finally, video retention must be managed carefully so sensitive footage is handled according to company policy.
Can police look at your dash cam?
Law enforcement can request or subpoena footage if it is relevant to an investigation. During a routine traffic stop, they generally need your consent or a warrant to access your device or files. Many fleets centralize footage in the cloud so requests are handled through formal channels. If you are unsure, consult your company’s legal policy for responding to evidence requests.
Are truckers required to have a dash cam?
There is no U.S. federal rule mandating dash cams in commercial trucks. However, many carriers require them to improve safety, manage liability, and streamline claims. Shippers increasingly prefer carriers with video programs, which can influence contract awards. Even when not required, cameras often deliver a strong return through faster dispute resolution.
In what states are dash cams legal?
Dash cams are legal in all 50 states, but rules differ on windshield mounting locations and audio recording. Some states restrict where devices can be attached on the glass, and two-party consent laws may affect in-cab audio. Check state and local regulations before installation to avoid fines or evidentiary issues. When in doubt, mount the unit to preserve a clear field of view and disable audio where consent is not feasible.