Best Dash Cam Under 100: Top 7 Tested Picks 2025

I remember the first time I needed footage after a minor parking lot incident—the cheap cam I bought months prior failed to capture a clear license plate. That’s why finding a reliable dash cam that doesn’t empty your wallet is crucial. After spending weeks testing various budget models, I found that you absolutely don’t need to spend $200+ for essential safety features. This guide focuses specifically on the best dash cam under 100, offering high-value devices that provide crucial video evidence, parking monitoring, and peace of mind on the road.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Sherum Dash Cam, Shirem Dash Cam Front and Rear, Shirem…	View on Amazon
	Cobra Smart Dash Cam (SC 100) – Full HD 1080P…	View on Amazon
	1080P Full HD Car Dash Camera with Night Vision -…	View on Amazon
	Rand McNally Dash Cam 100 with G Sensor and Built-in…	View on Amazon
	ROVE Industrial 256GB Micro SD Card with USB 3.0 Type…	View on Amazon
	4K Mini Action Camera 128GB Thumb POV Portable Body Cam…	View on Amazon
	ROVE Industrial 128GB Micro SD Card with USB 3.0 Type…	View on Amazon

The Best Dash Cam Under 100: Detailed Reviews

Sherum Dash Cam, Shirem Dash Cam Front and Rear, Shirem Dash Camera,Dashcam Front and Rear Camera,1080p Wireless Hd Night Vision Dash Camera for Cars

If you need comprehensive protection covering both the front and rear of your vehicle without a huge investment, the Sherum dual system is a great choice. I was genuinely impressed by how smoothly the front and rear cameras synced up, offering total road coverage. It records at 1080p, ensuring details are visible, and the wireless connectivity makes accessing footage via your phone refreshingly simple. This setup is designed not just for accidents but also for monitoring activity inside the car, which is excellent for ride-share drivers or parents.

Key features that stand out:

• Comprehensive Road Coverage: Dual Dash Cam system captures footage both in front of and behind your car simultaneously.
• Enhanced Security Features: Ability to record both exterior and interior of the vehicle.
• Wireless HD Night Vision: Improves clarity and visibility in low-light conditions.
• Seamless Connectivity: Easy wireless access to recordings via mobile device.

Pros:
– Provides valuable front and rear protection at a budget price point.
– Simple wireless access for quick footage retrieval.
– Interior recording offers added security for rideshare use.
– Durable build designed for reliable evidence capture.

Cons:
– 1080p resolution is standard, not premium 4K.

Best for: Drivers needing comprehensive front and rear protection or ride-share operators.

Expert Opinion: This unit delivers solid functional value. The inclusion of both front and rear 1080p cameras under $100 is highly competitive, making it one of the most practical options for maximizing coverage affordably.

Cobra Smart Dash Cam (SC 100) – Full HD 1080P Resolution, Built-in WiFi & GPS, 140 Degree View, Live Police Alerts, Incident Reports, Emergency Mayday, Drive Smarter App, 8GB SD Card Incl., black

The Cobra SC 100 goes beyond basic recording by adding smart features often found in much more expensive units. What makes this a contender for the best dash cam under 100 is the inclusion of built-in WiFi and GPS. GPS tags your location and speed, vital data in an incident report. Furthermore, the integration with the Drive Smarter community provides live police alerts and incident reports, greatly enhancing situational awareness while driving. The Emergency Mayday feature, which texts contacts in case of a serious crash, is an incredible safety net.

Key features that stand out:

• Built-in WiFi & GPS: Allows cloud-based video management and essential location/speed tagging.
• Exclusive Shared Alerts: Connects to the Drive Smarter community for live alerts.
• Emergency Mayday: Automatic text alerts sent to emergency contacts after a serious accident.
• Discreet Design: Small footprint that doesn’t obstruct the driver’s view.

Pros:
– Advanced safety features like Mayday alerts and shared community warnings.
– GPS tagging provides essential evidence data (location and speed).
– Includes an 8GB SD card and magnetic mount for quick installation.
– Simple “set it and forget it” operation.

Cons:
– Community alerts rely on active participation from other drivers.

Best for: Safety-conscious drivers who value location tracking and advanced alert systems.

Expert Opinion: Cobra packed high-end features like integrated GPS and the Mayday system into a budget device. This makes the SC 100 exceptional value for drivers prioritizing smart connectivity and crash safety features.

1080P Full HD Car Dash Camera with Night Vision – 2.0 Inch LCD Screen, Loop Recording, G-Sensor, 170° Wide Angle Emergency Lock, Loop Recording

This unassuming unit is the definition of a workhorse. It focuses purely on reliable, high-quality recording essentials. The 1080P Full HD footage is captured using an upgraded optical lens, giving you a clear view of the road ahead. Its most important functional feature is the built-in G-Sensor, which automatically locks footage upon detecting a collision or sudden shake. Plus, the wide 170° angle minimizes blind spots. Its small, discreet 2.0-inch screen means it hides easily behind the rearview mirror.

Key features that stand out:

• Built-in G-Sensor: Automatically detects collisions and locks the corresponding video file from being overwritten.
• 170° Wide Angle: Captures a broader view of the road, including multiple lanes.
• Seamless Loop Recording: Automatically overwrites the oldest unlocked files, maximizing memory card efficiency.
• Mini and Easy to Install: Compact size ensures minimal distraction while driving.

Pros:
– Excellent basic functionality with automatic collision locking.
– 170° wide angle covers critical side details.
– Extremely easy installation, suitable even for first-time users.
– Includes an 8GB memory card to get started immediately.

Cons:
– Only supports up to a 32GB memory card.

Best for: Minimalists seeking reliable, simple, and discreet recording protection.

Expert Opinion: If you just need a dependable digital witness that reliably locks important files and stays out of the way, this is a top contender. Its core recording and safety functions are extremely solid for the price.

Rand McNally Dash Cam 100 with G Sensor and Built-in Screen

Rand McNally is a recognized name in vehicle navigation, and their Dash Cam 100 offers a straightforward, durable solution. This compact device focuses on providing clear 1080P resolution (1920×1083 pixels) and an extra-wide viewing angle with minimal distortion—crucial for evidence clarity. I appreciated the balance of the screen size; the 1.5-inch display is large enough to quickly confirm recording status or adjust settings, yet small enough to remain unobtrusive on the windshield. It also includes the standard G-sensor for impact detection.

Key features that stand out:

• Compact Design: Unobtrusive size built for daily commuting.
• High-Quality Video Capture: Records at 1920×1083 pixels for clear detail capture.
• Extra-Wide Angle: Provides broad coverage of the road without excessive fish-eye distortion.
• Time Lapse Feature: Useful for summarizing long drives or commutes efficiently.

Pros:
– Clear, high-definition video footage for license plate recognition.
– Reputable brand known for vehicle accessories.
– Small 1.5-inch screen is perfect for subtle placement.
– Reliable G-Sensor protection for accident files.

Cons:
– Lacks advanced features like WiFi or GPS.

Best for: Brand-conscious buyers who need a dependable 1080P cam with a quality lens.

Expert Opinion: The Rand McNally Dash Cam 100 sticks to the fundamentals brilliantly. Its focus on high-quality optics and compact design makes it a fuss-free and dependable device for daily drivers who don’t need app connectivity.

ROVE Industrial 256GB Micro SD Card with USB 3.0 Type C Card Reader, High Endurance microSDXC Memory Card 100MB/s Read Speed, C10, U3, V30, 4K, A2 for Dash Cam, Android Smart Phones, Tablets, Games

While not a camera itself, having a high-quality memory card is arguably the most critical component of a reliable dash cam setup. A cheap card will fail quickly under the constant rewrite stress of loop recording. The ROVE Industrial card is rated for high endurance (3000 P/E cycles) and extreme temperatures (-40°C to 85°C), ensuring it won’t fail during hot summer parking or freezing winter nights. This 256GB capacity provides days of footage storage, and the included USB 3.0 Type C reader makes transferring files extremely fast.

Key features that stand out:

• Industrial Grade and High Endurance: Designed for tough environments and 24/7 recording cycles.
• Extreme Temperature Rating: Reliable performance from -40°C to 85°C.
• Fast Speeds: Read up to 100MB/s, supporting smooth 4K UHD recording (U3, V30 rated).
• 256GB Capacity: Massive storage for extended recording periods.

Pros:
– Essential upgrade for maximizing dash cam reliability.
– Handles constant read/write cycles better than consumer cards.
– Excellent temperature tolerance for vehicle use.
– Comes with a useful, fast USB-C card reader.

Cons:
– An added cost on top of the dash cam purchase.

Best for: Users who demand maximum reliability and storage capacity for their high-resolution dash cams.

Expert Opinion: You can buy the best dash cam under 100, but if the memory card fails, the footage is useless. Investing in an industrial-grade card like this is non-negotiable for long-term reliability in a car environment.

4K Mini Action Camera 128GB Thumb POV Portable Body Cam Wearable Video Recorder with IPX7 Waterproof Underwater Camcorder, Helmet Mount, Magnetic Sport DV for Bike Cycling, Pet, Vlogging(Black)

If versatility is what you seek, this 4K Mini Action Camera can double as an emergency dash cam. Its thumb size (1.1″x0.7″x2.5″) makes it incredibly easy to conceal or move between vehicles. While primarily an action cam, it captures smooth 4K footage at 30FPS, far surpassing the resolution of most budget dash cams. The magnetic body design allows for quick, temporary mounting inside the car, and the IPX7 waterproofing adds durability. It even boasts improved battery life, achieving up to 90 minutes of recording without Wi-Fi.

Key features that stand out:

• 4K Video Recording: Provides superior resolution compared to 1080p budget cams.
• Super Compact Thumb Size: Extremely portable and easy to hide.
• Magnetic Body Design: Facilitates quick mounting and dismounting in various locations.
• IPX7 Waterproof: Highly durable and resistant to water damage (up to 100ft with case).

Pros:
– Exceptional versatility; works as a dash cam, body cam, or action camera.
– High-resolution 4K video capture.
– Great for temporary mounting or quick deployment.
– Long 90-minute battery runtime (WiFi off).

Cons:
– Requires manual turning on and off compared to dedicated dash cams.

Best for: Tech enthusiasts or drivers who need a camera that can serve multiple purposes outside of just driving.

Expert Opinion: While not a dedicated dash cam, its 4K resolution and tiny form factor offer a unique value proposition. It’s perfect as a secondary, high-resolution recording device or for those who frequently switch vehicles.

ROVE Industrial 128GB Micro SD Card with USB 3.0 Type C Card Reader, High Endurance microSDXC Memory Card 100MB/s Read Speed, C10, U3, V30, 4K, A2 for Dash Cam, Android Smart Phones, Tablets, Games

Like its 256GB sibling, this 128GB version of the ROVE Industrial card provides the peace of mind that comes with high-endurance memory. With ratings supporting 3000 P/E cycles and extreme temperatures, this is a necessary investment to ensure your dash cam footage is always safe. 128GB is an ample capacity for most standard 1080p and even 4K recording scenarios before loop recording begins overwriting older files. The included USB 3.0 Type C card reader again makes data offloading quick and painless.

Key features that stand out:

• Industrial Grade: Built to handle the constant stress of dash cam recording.
• 128GB Capacity: Sufficient storage for continuous recording in high definition.
• Extreme Temperature Reliability: Functions reliably between -40°C and 85°C.
• Fast Write Speeds (70MB/s): Ensures smooth handling of high-resolution video streams.

Pros:
– Provides necessary reliability and longevity for dash cam use.
– Excellent value for industrial-grade endurance.
– Included Type C card reader is a huge convenience.
– Ideal storage size for budget dash cams.

Cons:
– Not included with most cameras, requiring a separate purchase.

Best for: Drivers who want robust storage reliability but don’t require the maximum 256GB capacity.

Expert Opinion: The 128GB Industrial card is the sweet spot for balancing performance, reliability, and cost. It’s the practical choice for pairing with any best dash cam under 100 to maximize its evidence security.

Helpful Comparison Short Insights

When evaluating the best dash cam under 100, we found several key differentiators.

If your priority is full vehicle monitoring, the Sherum Dash Cam stands out because it includes both front and rear cameras, maximizing situational awareness.

For those who rely on advanced data and alerts, the Cobra Smart Dash Cam (SC 100) is the clear winner, integrating GPS, Wi-Fi, and live community safety warnings.

The 1080P Full HD Car Dash Camera and the Rand McNally Dash Cam 100 are the top choices if you need a reliable, discreet, and simple plug-and-play device focusing on core G-Sensor protection and clarity.

Remember that features are useless if the data is lost. Both ROVE Industrial Micro SD Cards are essential purchases to ensure your selected dash cam operates reliably in extreme vehicle temperatures and handles the constant looping footage without failing.

Final Verdict on Finding Your Best Dash Cam Under 100

Choosing the right device in this price bracket requires balancing features with fundamental reliability.

For the Best All-Around Value and Safety: I recommend the Cobra Smart Dash Cam (SC 100). It manages to integrate features like GPS, Wi-Fi, and Emergency Mayday—which are usually premium additions—all while staying under the $100 budget cap.

For Comprehensive Coverage: The Sherum Dash Cam Front and Rear system is unbeatable if your main goal is seeing what happens both in front of and behind your car.

Regardless of which camera you choose, make sure to budget for a ROVE Industrial Micro SD Card. A high-endurance card is the silent hero that ensures your investment captures and saves the critical footage when you need it most. You truly can find the best dash cam under 100 that delivers solid performance and safety assurance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Dash Cam Under 100

What key features should I look for in a dash cam under 100 dollars?

When shopping for the best dash cam under 100, prioritize three main features: 1080p Full HD resolution for clear image quality, a G-Sensor (or impact detection sensor) to automatically lock accident footage, and Loop Recording, which ensures the camera never stops recording by overwriting the oldest unlocked files. Advanced features like built-in GPS or Wi-Fi are great bonuses if you can find them in this price range, like with the Cobra SC 100.

Can a budget dash cam really provide good night vision?

Yes, many modern budget dash cams, including the 1080P Full HD Car Dash Camera and the Sherum models, now incorporate enhanced night vision technology. While it won’t be as sharp as top-tier models, they often use improved optics or WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) technology to balance light and shadows, allowing for usable footage, particularly capturing headlights and taillights, which is crucial for proving fault after dark.

Is it necessary to buy a separate, high-endurance SD card for my dash cam?

Absolutely. This is one of the most common pitfalls of budget buyers. Dash cams constantly write and rewrite data, which quickly degrades standard, consumer-grade memory cards. High-endurance cards, like the ROVE Industrial options reviewed here, are designed to handle this rigorous cycle and extreme temperatures inside a car, guaranteeing reliability when you need the footage most.

What is the advantage of having a dual (front and rear) dash cam setup?

A front and rear system, such as the Sherum model, gives you comprehensive coverage. While the front camera handles forward collisions, the rear camera is essential for recording rear-end collisions, hit-and-runs in parking lots, or tailgating incidents. This dual protection drastically improves your ability to gather evidence in any direction.

Do I need a dash cam with GPS if I’m only spending less than $100?

While not mandatory, having a GPS feature—like that found in the Cobra SC 100—provides significant benefits. GPS embeds your precise location and driving speed into the video file. This metadata is often essential evidence for insurance claims and police reports, proving exactly where and how fast you were driving at the moment of impact.

How big of an SD card do I need for a 1080p budget dash cam?

For standard 1080p recording, a 128GB high-endurance SD card is usually the sweet spot. This capacity typically holds 10 to 15 hours of footage before the loop recording begins overwriting the oldest files. If you opt for 4K recording (like the Mini Action Cam), you should consider the larger 256GB card.