Best Dash Cams for Fleets in 2026

We evaluated leading commercial dash cams used by US fleets, scoring them on price, AI safety tools, video quality, and telematics integration. Our top pick for 2026 is the Samsara CM34 dual-facing AI dash cam, which offers 2K road-facing video, live streaming, and tight integration with Samsara’s Vehicle Gateway for mixed-size fleets.

For large fleets that already use Verizon Connect Reveal, the Verizon dual-facing AI dash cam is the best bundled option, while the Garmin Dash Cam 57 remains a strong, no-subscription choice for owner-operators and very small fleets. Read on for a full comparison of our top-rated options.

Top 6 Dash Cams for Fleets: 2026 Roundup

Here’s a quick comparison of our top-rated dash cams according to our research, to help you weigh up pricing, features, and functionality at a glance.

Not sure which dash cam suits your fleet best? Get a tailored recommendation by using our quote-finder tool from top-rated dash cam providers based on your specific fleet size, vehicle type, and other company needs.

1. Samsara CM34 – Best All-Round Fleet Dash Cam

Remaining our favorite all-around dash cam series, the Samsara CM34, also known as the Samsara Dual-Facing AI Dash Cam, is an upgrade from the previous CM32 model. It offers slightly improved features to aid both driver safety and fleet management efficiency, as we’ll detail shortly, keeping it as our number one pick.

What features does the Samsara CM34 offer?

Key points:

• • Dual-facing dash cam with upgraded resolution (up to 2K front, 1080p driver-facing)
  • Continuous recording with on-demand cloud retrieval (87 hours)
  • AI-powered event detection and real-time driver coaching
  • Better tilt flexibility and HDR support than its predecessor (CM32)

The CM34 features a 129° front-facing camera (compared to 121° on the CM32) with a configurable resolution of up to 2K (1440p) and HDR support for better image quality in varying light conditions (meanwhile, the CM32 had HD 1080p resolution).

It also includes a driver-facing 167° camera (compared to 177° on the CM32) with IR-optimized night vision, configurable up to HD 1080p (the CM32 offered up to 720p), and a high-speed 4G LTE connection for automatic uploads of safety events. The CM34 has a more versatile 75° independent tilt for the front camera and a 45° tilt for the driver-facing one.

Better yet, unlike the CM32, which could only upload 60-second video clips, the CM34 stores continuous recordings that can be retrieved on demand via the cloud, thanks to enhanced storage of up to 87 trip hours.

Clips are analyzed to judge which actions or behaviors in the vehicle or on the road are high-risk using Samsara’s AI technology, such as distracted driving and running red lights. The camera can also identify speed limit signs and will notify the driver if they are not observing the rules of the road.

To this end, the CM34 also supports in-cab coaching using its optional built-in speaker, promoting real-time driver improvement.

How much does the Samsara CM34 cost?

Key points:

• Included in a broader Samsara license, not sold separately
• Typical cost: ~$630/year or ~$52.50/month (prices vary)
• 3-year minimum term for small fleets
• Installation may cost extra (~$150 per device)

Prices for the Samsara CM34 dash cam, or any CM-series hardware, are included as part of a Samsara license fee. This fee covers hardware, cloud software, cables, ongoing firmware updates, and cellular data connectivity for cellular gateways.

However, the exact cost is custom and depends on how many hardware items, dash cam or otherwise, you purchase from Samsara. The more items you purchase, the lower the per-item cost. Our research tells us an annual license costs around $630 or around $52.50 per month, though we’ve seen prices of between $40 and $90 per month reported on user forums.

Software licenses to use CM-series dash cams are sold in 1, 3, 5, and 7-year license terms. However, for small business fleets with fewer than 11 vehicles or fewer than 31 pieces of equipment purchased via Samsara, you’ll have a 3-year minimum contract term.

You may also face installation costs of up to $150 per device, though given the installation is fairly straightforward, as we’ll show you shortly, this may not be necessary.

How does the Samsara CM34 work?

Essentially, the Samsara CM34 works by connecting to Samsara’s Vehicle Gateway (VG) devices (e.g. VG34 or the newer VG54/VG55). This is a 4G LTE-enabled piece of hardware that uploads data from your dash cam and your vehicle diagnostic data to Samsara’s data storage cloud. Naturally, this is fully integrated into the Samsara system for features such as driver safety scoring.

How to install the Samsara CM34

Installation remains simple with the Samsara CM34, taking about ten minutes in total. All you need to do is attach the device to your windshield, as shown below.

The camera then connects directly to the Samsara Vehicle Gateway without additional wiring, just as the CM32 did.

Thereafter, you’ll complete the installation on the Samsara Fleet app via a smartphone. The process is pretty simple; follow the instructions shown below to make sure the dash cam is positioned correctly.

2. Verizon Connect AI Dual-Facing Dashcam – Best Dash Cam for Large Fleets

Positioned as one of the best dash cams for large-scale fleets, the Verizon Connect AI Dual-Facing Dashcam is integrated with Verizon’s renowned fleet management software, providing a comprehensive view of both road conditions and driver behavior.

This dash cam offers seamless integration with the Verizon Connect Reveal software, aiding fleet management, driver safety, and operational efficiency in one comprehensive package. As we’ll detail shortly, this makes the Verizon Connect Dual-Facing AI Dashcam a standout choice for large fleet owners, especially those interested in or already using the services Verizon Connect offers.

What features does the Verizon Connect dash cam offer?

Key points:

• Dual 150° HD cameras (front and driver-facing), both 1080p
• Modular design for easy lens replacement
• On-device AI processing for real-time alerts (no internet needed)
• Event-based recording only; uploads only relevant footage
• Up to 170 hours of local storage, 90 days of cloud retention

The Verizon Connect AI Dual-Facing Dashcam boasts two 150° HD cameras, providing full coverage of both the road ahead and the driver inside the vehicle. Both cameras support a 1080p resolution, ensuring high-quality visuals for critical events. The device’s modular design allows for easy replacement of individual lenses should they break, extending the overall lifespan of the hardware. That’s a feature we think is particularly beneficial for long-haul fleets.

Unlike traditional dash cams, Verizon’s model processes data locally, thanks to its internal graphics processing unit (GPU), meaning real-time driver feedback is provided even without continuous internet connectivity.

Like Samsara’s device, each clip of footage is analyzed using advanced AI to identify risky driving behaviors, such as phone usage, fatigue, and harsh cornering, with alerts sent directly to both drivers and fleet managers.

Only event-triggered footage is uploaded to the cloud, so that only harsh driving incidents, distracted behaviors, or unexpected stops are captured. In other words, fleet managers can take a look at data that is important to them, rather than being overwhelmed by hours of unnecessary footage.

The trigger footage is retained for up to 90 days on the cloud, enabling fleets to manage compliance and easily access critical incident data. Though it can store up to 115 hours of dual-facing footage locally via its 256GB of storage, or roughly 170 hours of road-only footage.

How much does the Verizon Connect Dashcam cost?

Key points:

• Included in Verizon Connect Reveal subscription
• Pricing ranges from ~$40 to $55/month per vehicle
• Includes hardware, installation, cloud storage, and updates
• Pricing is quote-based and scales with fleet size

Verizon’s dash cam is not available as a standalone purchase but rather as part of the Verizon Connect Reveal subscription.

This subscription covers the cost of hardware, installation (which is optional but provided free of any additional charges), cloud storage for video footage, and ongoing software updates. On average, this costs between $40 and $55 per month, but pricing may vary depending on the fleet size and specific requirements, as Verizon uses custom, quote-based pricing like Samsara.

The subscription model means that costs can scale depending on how many vehicles you operate, which can be ideal for growing fleets but potentially prohibitive for small operators. As part of the subscription, Verizon offers cloud-based video storage.

How does the Verizon Connect Dashcam work?

The Verizon Connect dash cam works through seamless integration with the Verizon Connect Reveal platform, which also tracks vehicle performance, driver safety (via AI scoring of behaviors such as phone usage while driving) via GPS, and provides diagnostic insights.

Once physically installed, the dash cam is activated via the Verizon Reveal Integrated Video mobile app, which links the camera with the Reveal platform. The camera’s GPU processes incidents locally, such as harsh braking or acceleration, and sends real-time alerts to drivers when unsafe behaviors are detected, while simultaneously notifying fleet managers.

How to install the Verizon Connect dash cam

Installation of the Verizon Connect AI Dual-Facing Dashcam into a relevant vehicle is straightforward.

The device can be attached to the windshield, connected via a cable to the vehicle’s diagnostic port, and paired with the Verizon Reveal app for activation. Verizon offers a choice between a DIY installation and a professional installation service, with the latter being free of charge.

The app guides users through the final setup steps, including camera positioning verification. This quick and intuitive process takes about ten minutes to complete, after which the dash cam will begin to record footage and analyze driver behavior in real time.

3. BlackVue DR770X-2CH II – Best Dash Cam for High-Quality Recording

The BlackVue DR770X-2CH II is the latest version of BlackVue’s premium dual-channel dash cam, built for fleets that care about image quality above all else. With Full HD Sony STARVIS™ CMOS sensors on both the front and rear cameras, it delivers crisp, detailed footage in low light and fast-changing conditions, making it one of the clearest systems we’ve tested in this price range.

What features does the BlackVue DR770X-2CH II offer?

Key points:

• Dual 1080p Full HD cameras with Sony STARVIS sensors
• Front camera: 60 fps; rear camera: 30 fps, both around a 139° viewing angle
• Built-in GPS, Wi-Fi, and BlackVue Cloud connectivity via app
• Optional plug-in LTE module for remote access without a separate hotspot
• Parking Mode with voltage monitoring and event-based triggers
• microSD support up to 1TB for extended recording capacity

Both front and rear cameras record in Full HD 1080p using Sony STARVIS sensors, with the front camera capturing at 60 frames per second for ultra-smooth video and clearer motion detail, and the rear at 30 fps. Combined with a wide ~139° field of view, the DR770X-2CH II gives a broad, detailed picture of what’s happening around the vehicle.

The unit has GPS and Wi-Fi built in, so fleet managers can pull clips, adjust settings, or check the vehicle’s speed and location through the BlackVue app or desktop viewer. For fleets that want live access and alerts while vehicles are on the road, the camera can connect to BlackVue Cloud either via an in-vehicle hotspot or the optional plug-in LTE module.

Parking Mode is handled intelligently: the DR770X-2CH II can monitor for motion and impacts while the vehicle is parked, logging and tagging events while using a built-in voltage monitor to protect the battery from over-discharge. For fleets that leave vehicles on the street or in depots overnight, that means round-the-clock coverage without risking a dead battery.

Crucially for commercial use, the Series II refresh increases storage headroom. The DR770X-2CH II now supports microSD cards up to 1TB, allowing far longer recording loops before footage is overwritten – especially helpful if you’re running 60 fps recording on busy routes.

How much does the BlackVue DR770X-2CH II cost?

Key points:

• Starts at around $348 for the 64GB kit (prices vary by retailer and bundle)
• Higher-capacity kits (e.g. 256GB/512GB/1TB) cost more but extend video retention.
• One-time hardware purchase; no mandatory monthly fee for core recording
• 2-year manufacturer warranty on dash cams via BlackVue North America

Pricing for the BlackVue DR770X-2CH II depends mainly on how much storage you opt for. US retailers generally list the 64GB kit from roughly $347.99, with 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB versions climbing into the mid-$400s to low-$500s.

It’s a one-off hardware cost rather than a subscription device, so there’s no compulsory monthly fee to keep recording. However, if you want longer Cloud retention or extra features, BlackVue offers optional paid Cloud plans on top of the free tier. All BlackVue dash cams sold through BlackVue North America come with a two-year manufacturer warranty, which is useful reassurance for fleets that want kit to last.

The DR770X-2CH II kit typically includes the front and rear cameras, a microSD card, power and connection cables, mounting hardware, and basic tools for routing and securing the install, though exact contents can vary slightly by bundle and reseller.

How does the BlackVue DR770X-2CH II work?

The DR770X-2CH II continuously records through its front and rear cameras in loop mode, saving footage to the microSD card and tagging files automatically when an impact, motion event, or manual trigger is detected. Footage can be reviewed from the BlackVue app over Wi-Fi or via the desktop viewer using the microSD card, with GPS data overlaid to show speed and location alongside the video.

When connected to BlackVue Cloud, fleet managers can access live view, trigger remote downloads, receive push notifications for critical events, and – with the optional LTE module – keep cameras online without relying on a separate in-vehicle hotspot. BlackVue also offers a Fleet SDK and Cloud API, which some third-party fleet management platforms can use to pull in footage and event data from cameras like the DR770X-2CH II.

How to install the BlackVue DR770X-2CH II

The DR770X-2CH II uses the same discreet tubular design as previous BlackVue models, with a front camera that mounts behind the rearview mirror and a smaller rear camera that sticks to the inside of the rear windshield. The two are linked by a coaxial cable that can be tucked along the headliner and trim for a tidy, low-profile install.

Power can be supplied either through a 12V accessory outlet (using the included plug-in cable) or via a hardwiring kit to the vehicle’s fuse box, which is recommended for Parking Mode.

Once installed, setup is completed in the BlackVue app, where you pair the camera over Wi-Fi, confirm its viewing angles, and configure Cloud access if needed. Professional install services are available, but most fleets with basic in-house auto-electrical know-how should find the process straightforward.

4. SmartWitness KP2 – Best Dash Cam for Modular Flexibility

The SmartWitness KP2 dual-facing dash cam stands out for its innovative modular design. It allows fleets to start with a road-facing camera and easily upgrade to a dual-facing system by adding a driver-facing module without the need for additional wiring or installation costs. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for fleets seeking scalable video telematics solutions.

What features does the SmartWitness KP2 offer?

Key points:

• 4G/LTE dash cam with HD video at 30 fps
• 140° road-facing & optional 130° driver-facing cameras
• Modular design (add driver cam anytime, no rewiring)
• Built-in ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and DSM (Driver State Monitoring) systems with features such as tailgating & distraction alerts
• Smart cloud AI refines event accuracy over time

The SmartWitness KP2 is a 4G/LTE-enabled dash cam that records HD video at up to 30 frames per second, per channel. The road-facing camera offers a 140° field of vision, while the optional driver-facing camera provides a 130° view. That’s less coverage than other devices on this, but still more than enough to have full eyes on the road and inside a vehicle.

A standout feature of the KP2 is its modular design. Fleets can begin with a road-facing camera and, if needed, easily attach a 1″ x 1″ driver-facing module without additional wiring or installation costs.

Most dash cam providers are either separate or already integrated, as the top three picks on this page are. This flexibility allows for scalable deployment based on evolving fleet requirements over time. KP2 can also be deployed as part of a multi-camera solution, with additional side or rear cameras linked through SmartWitness’s video-telematics platform, depending on the reseller’s configuration.

The KP2 also includes real-time ADAS features such as tailgating alerts, forward collision warnings, lane departure notifications, and pedestrian presence detection.

When equipped with its driver-facing camera, it offers DSM capabilities, including monitoring for fatigue, distraction, and phone use. Alerts are delivered to the driver through natural voice notifications, audio beeps, or chimes, enhancing driver awareness and safety.

To minimize false alerts, the KP2 utilizes SmartWitness’s cloud-based Artificial Intelligence Driving Events (AIDE) software, which analyzes telematics data and contextual factors to refine event reporting over time.

How much does the SmartWitness KP2 cost?

Key points:

• Hardware typically in the mid-$300s to low-$400s per unit, depending on configuration and dealer
• Sold via resellers and telematics partners rather than direct
• Ongoing software, cloud storage, and data are priced on a quote-only basis

SmartWitness doesn’t sell the KP2 directly to fleets, so pricing runs through US resellers and telematics providers. Several dealers currently list KP2 hardware in roughly the $335–$400 range per unit, depending on whether you opt for a basic forward-facing kit or a forward + driver-facing “cloud” bundle.

On top of the hardware, you’ll typically pay a monthly fee for cloud access, AI event analysis, and cellular data. Those software and connectivity costs are quote-based and will vary by partner, contract length, and fleet size, but you should expect the overall monthly spend to be in line with other mid to high-end video-telematics systems once SIM data and platform access are included.

How does the SmartWitness KP2 work?

The SmartWitness KP2 operates by connection to the vehicle’s OBD-II port (with a J-1939 connection version available for heavy-duty trucks if required). Captured data and video footage are transmitted via 4G/LTE to the cloud, where the AIDE software analyzes events to filter out false positives.

It also records locally, too, via its Nano Sim and MicroSD cards. However, we couldn’t find any information about whether the dash cam integrates with fleet management platforms. ]

Previously, this device didn’t appear to offer API support. However, SmartWitness now positions the KP2 as part of an open video-telematics platform. It supports API access and can integrate with partner fleet management systems, but the exact integrations you’ll get will depend on which reseller or telematics provider you work with.

How to install the SmartWitness KP2

Installing the SmartWitness KP2 is designed to be quick and straightforward, typically taking about 15 minutes according to the manufacturer. The base unit attaches to a windshield-mounted bracket and connects to the vehicle’s OBD-II port, as noted above.

Setup and configuration are facilitated through a mobile app with auto-calibration features, just like Verizon and Samsara’s devices.

If you are adding the driver-facing module, it can be snapped onto the base unit without additional wiring or installation steps. This plug-and-play approach minimizes vehicle downtime and installation costs, as we reckon most people will be able to do this themselves.

5. Motive AI Dashcam – Best Dash Cam for Proactive Safety Coaching

The Motive AI Dashcam is built for fleets that want to tackle risky driving head-on. Paired with Motive’s wider fleet management platform, it uses high-resolution dual-facing video, an industry-leading AI processor, and automated coaching tools to identify unsafe behaviors in real time and help prevent collisions before they happen.

What features does the Motive AI Dashcam offer?

Key points:

• Road-facing 1440p camera (DC-53) and optional dual-facing 1440p/1080p model (DC-54)
• 150° road-facing and 180° driver-facing field of view with IR-based night vision in-cab
• Detects 15+ unsafe behaviors, including close following, phone use, drowsiness, and speeding
• Configurable recording: roughly 2 to 9 days of video depending on quality and configuration
• Engine-off recording with industrial-grade battery backup
• Integrated coaching tools (Safety Hub, DRIVE risk score, Driver App) for video-based feedback
• Live streaming and live image capture for real-time checks (with permissions)

The Motive AI Dashcam is available in both road-facing (DC-53) and dual-facing (DC-54) models. The road-facing camera records at 2560 x 1440 (1440p) at 30 fps with a 150° field of view, while the driver-facing lens records at 1080p at 15 fps with a 180° field of view and IR-assisted night vision for low-light conditions. Together, they provide highly detailed coverage of both the road and the cab.

Under the hood, Motive uses a high-performance Ambarella AI processor designed specifically for computer vision. This allows the dash cam to detect more than 15 unsafe behaviors in real time, from close following, unsafe lane changes, and stop-sign violations through to phone use, distraction, drowsiness, seat belt violations, and speeding. In-cab audio and visual alerts notify drivers instantly when risky behavior is detected, helping them self-correct before an incident occurs.

For fleets, video events flow into Motive’s Safety Hub, where they’re ranked by severity and tied to an overall risk score. Safety teams can review clips, assign coaching, and track improvement over time using built-in workflows. Motive’s latest Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) benchmarking shows its AI dashcam identifies unsafe driving events at a significantly higher rate than major rivals, making it a strong choice if driver behavior is your primary priority.

Storage is configurable: depending on resolution and configuration, fleets can retain tens to hundreds of hours of footage per device, with on-demand recall of recent trips and up to around 60 minutes of HD video per request when using timelapse-style recall modes. Engine-off recording and an industrial-grade internal battery mean critical footage is still captured if power is lost during a collision.

How much does the Motive AI Dashcam cost?

Key points:

• Quote-based pricing – bundled with Motive’s wider fleet management and safety platform
• Third-party data suggests pricing of roughly $25 to $35 per vehicle per month for core tracking, plus around $40 per month for camera services, with one-off hardware from about $300 (road-facing) to $400 (dual-facing)
• Minimum contract terms usually 12+ months, with discounts for larger fleets and longer deals

Motive does not publish official public pricing for its AI Dashcam or its fleet management bundles, instead using quote-based pricing that varies by fleet size, configuration, and contract length. In practice, you’ll be buying into the Motive platform rather than just a single camera, so budgeting should assume software, hardware, and AI video together rather than a standalone dash cam cost.

Third-party fleet technology reviews and pricing roundups, and our own research, indicate that Motive’s core fleet management and compliance plans typically start at around $25 to $35 per vehicle per month, with AI dashcam functionality sitting on higher-tier or add-on plans. Exact figures will depend on your configuration, contract length, and fleet size, so you’ll need to request a custom quote.

Installation is generally bundled into the subscription cost for qualifying contracts, especially for larger fleets, which can help offset the higher monthly fees compared with simpler “camera-only” systems.

How does the Motive AI Dashcam work?

The Motive AI Dashcam connects to the Motive Vehicle Gateway via high-speed LTE, using that connection to upload safety events and requested video clips to the cloud. When the camera detects a risky event – for example, hard braking, a close-following scenario, or a driver using their phone – the device creates a video clip and sends it to Motive’s Safety Hub alongside telematics data such as speed, GPS location, and vehicle ID.

From there, Motive’s platform prioritizes events by severity and provides fleets with dashboards for monitoring driver performance, reviewing footage, and assigning coaching. Drivers can access their own events and feedback via the Motive Driver App, which supports video-based coaching sessions and a configurable safety score to help them track their progress.

Optional live streaming and live image features let authorized managers view the road or cab in real time when needed (for example, after a high-severity alert or during severe weather), with clear in-cab indicators and audio prompts to preserve driver privacy. If the dash cam is disconnected, both the driver and administrator are notified automatically.

How to install the Motive AI Dashcam

Installation for the Motive AI Dashcam is designed to be quick for most US commercial vehicles:

1. Mount the camera
   • Clean the windshield area behind the rear-view mirror.
   • Attach the adhesive mounting bracket and click the dashcam into place.
2. Connect to the Vehicle Gateway
   • Run the supplied cable from the dashcam to the Motive Vehicle Gateway.
   • The gateway itself plugs into the vehicle’s diagnostic port (typically OBD-II or a heavy-duty connector) and provides power plus LTE connectivity.
3. Pair in the Motive app
   • Use the Motive Fleet app or web dashboard to add the new camera to a vehicle.
   • Confirm the camera angle, run a quick test recording, and enable desired safety alerts.
4. Fine-tune coaching and alerts
   • Adjust alert sensitivity (for example, how strict you want lane departure or tailgating detection to be).
   • Set up automatic coaching workflows so safety events turn into tasks for drivers, rather than just clips in a library.

For fleets already using Motive for ELDs or GPS tracking, adding the AI Dashcam is essentially an add-on module – you’re extending the same platform you already use, rather than introducing a new standalone camera system.

6. Garmin Dash Cam 57 – Best Value Dash Cam

The Garmin Dash Cam 57 is a compact, feature-rich dash cam that offers high-quality video recording and a suite of advanced functionalities. Its discreet design, user-friendly features like voice control (not found on our other top picks), and Wi-Fi connectivity make it an excellent choice for drivers seeking a reliable and unobtrusive dash cam solution. Best of all, there’s no monthly fee to pay, just the one-off cost of the device.

What features does the Garmin Dash Cam 57 offer?

Key points:

• Records in 1440p at 60 fps with a 140° field of view
• Built-in GPS, Wi-Fi, and voice control for hands-free use
• Driver alerts for lane departure and forward collision
• Parking Guard mode and 24-hour Vault cloud storage

The Garmin Dash Cam 57 records in 1440p resolution at 60 frames per second, providing clear and detailed footage. Its 140° field of view ensures a wide coverage area, capturing critical details on the road.

This dash cam includes built-in GPS to log location and speed data, and Wi-Fi connectivity for easy access to footage via the Garmin Drive app. Unlike the other devices on this page, voice control allows for hands-free operation. Drivers can start and stop audio recordings, take still pictures, or save video clips with simple voice commands.

Driver assistance features such as lane departure and forward collision warnings enhance safety by alerting drivers to potential hazards. The Dash Cam 57 also offers a Parking Guard mode, which monitors the vehicle while parked and alerts the driver to incidents affecting the parked vehicle.

Each video clip is saved in the online Vault for up to 24 hours from the time of the upload. There is no size limit for the amount of data stored.

How much does the Garmin Dash Cam 57 cost?

Key points:

• Costs $230 via Garmin (retail prices may vary)
• No monthly fee required for basic use
• Optional paid Vault storage for extended access

The Garmin Dash Cam 57 is priced at $230 via the Garmin website, though prices may vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. This pricing reflects its advanced features and high-quality build, positioning it as a mid-range option in the dash cam market.

As noted, saved videos are stored securely in the online Vault and can be accessed using the Garmin Drive app on your compatible smartphone. Garmin offers extended storage plans via paid subscriptions per dash cam. Here’s a quick overview.

How does the Garmin Dash Cam 57 work?

The Garmin Dash Cam 57 operates by continuously recording video to a microSD card (a 16GB card is included). When the built-in G-sensor detects an incident, it automatically saves the footage before, during, and after the event to ensure a complete record. The device’s GPS also logs location and speed data, as noted above.

While you can get these incidents on the Garmin Vault, with a subscription, as far as we can tell, there isn’t an ability to integrate the Garmin Dash Cam 57 with fleet management software, however. That could be a drawback if you need your footage connected to your telematics or want dash cam footage analysed by driver behavior scoring on platforms like Verizon Connect.

How to install the Garmin Dash Cam 57

The Garmin Dash Cam 57 attaches to the windshield using an adhesive-backed magnetic mount, which provides a secure and discreet installation. If you’ve ever used a satnav in your car, this installation is pretty similar to that: prepare the windshield by making sure it’s clean, mount the suction cup/adhesive disc, and leave it for 24 hours.

The power cable can then be routed neatly along the windshield and connected to the vehicle’s OBD II port. You should have a Constant Power Cable 12V adapter that connects to the OBD II port in your vehicle to power the device appropriately.

What To Know About Dash Cam Recording

Before choosing the best dash cam for your fleet, it’s important to understand how different recording modes work. From continuous recording to event-based triggers and parking surveillance, each method offers unique benefits, whether it’s capturing critical incidents, reducing storage use, or monitoring vehicles while parked.

Below, we break down the most common recording types and how they can support your fleet’s safety, accountability, and operational efficiency.

Recording methods

There are three main recording methods for dash cams, but each has its relative benefits depending on your preferences (and sometimes, a dash cam lets you pick between them). Here’s a table to summarise each dash cam recording type:

Saving and accessing dash cam footage

With saving and accessing your dash cam footage, there is a similar trifecta of options depending on the optimal option. In the case of video storage and access, that’s often around logistical and financial preferences. Here is a table exploring these three options’ respective strengths:

Avoiding accidental “eavesdropping”

If you or your drivers are concerned about privacy, something to consider is how a dash cam deals with audio when it’s recording and when it’s not.

Audio recording

Dash cams with audio recording capabilities capture sound along with video footage. However, depending on your location, recording audio could be subject to state or country-specific laws.

Why it’s important for fleets: Privacy laws vary greatly, and some regions require consent from all parties before recording conversations. Fleet managers should ensure that they are not violating any local eavesdropping laws by unintentionally recording audio in situations where consent is required.

Mute function

If you’re concerned about the legality of audio recording, many dash cams offer a mute function, which allows you to turn off the microphone during recordings.

Why it’s useful for fleets: Using the mute function provides peace of mind, ensuring that no sensitive audio is unintentionally recorded. This can help protect against privacy issues and potential legal complications.

Retaining your evidence

It’s also important that, in case of any legal issues, your company retains your footage for use when needed.

Saving footage for legal use

Dash cams automatically overwrite old footage once storage reaches capacity. However, many dash cams allow you to save a specific clip, preventing it from being overwritten. In the event of an accident, this feature is crucial for protecting the evidence.

Why it’s important for fleets: If footage can be used for legal purposes (e.g., accident liability), it’s vital to ensure that it is not deleted or overwritten. Discarding footage could be seen as evidence tampering, and in some cases, could be a legal offense.

The Different Types of Dash Cams for Fleet

There are various types of recording equipment for your fleet, and the benefits of dash cams vary according to type. Here are the different types so you can decide which one is best suited to your business:

Front dash cams

• What: These are designed to film collisions that occur at the front of the vehicle.
• Pros: Great for capturing head-on collisions and incidents occurring in front of the vehicle; Typically easy to install and may be more affordable than multi-camera systems; Useful for recording the road ahead, which is often most relevant in the event of a collision.
• Cons: Limited to a single perspective, so it may miss incidents happening on the sides, rear, or other blind spots of the vehicle; May lack coverage for side or rear blind spots, potentially missing critical details in case of sideswipes or rear-end accidents.

Exterior dash cams

• What: These are mounted outside the vehicle, typically on the side.
• Pros: Provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle, eliminating blind spots and helping capture sideswiping accidents and incidents on all sides; Can assist in parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces by covering more angles.
• Cons: More complex to install, as they may require mounts or additional wiring outside the vehicle; Can be more expensive due to the advanced setup and all-around coverage; Vulnerable to weather and vandalism, which could impact the camera’s durability or performance.

Interior dash cams

• What: These are mounted inside the vehicle and can be used to protect cargo and passengers as well as deter thieves.
• Pros: Monitors inside the vehicle, providing security for passengers, cargo, or valuables left inside; Acts as a deterrent for theft or vandalism; Useful for rideshare or taxi driver industry to document interactions with passengers.
• Cons: Limited coverage of the vehicle’s exterior, so it may not capture incidents outside; Privacy concerns, as recording the interior may be sensitive for drivers who share their vehicles.

Rear dash cams

• What: These cams record the road behind the vehicle and are helpful for providing drivers with a clearer view when reversing.
• Pros: Provides coverage of the area behind the vehicle, helpful for reversing and detecting rear-end collisions; Complements a front dash cam by adding perspective to incidents; Can be useful for parking assistance and for spotting cars or obstacles behind the vehicle.
• Cons: Limited to rearview, so it won’t capture incidents happening on the sides or front of the vehicle; May require additional installation time and wiring, especially if connecting to a front camera system; Not as useful on its own without a front camera, as many incidents occur at the front of the vehicle.

Ultimately, each of these dash cam types serves a specific purpose, and many drivers may opt for a combination of front and rear dash cams or multi-camera setups for comprehensive coverage.

What type of fleet vehicles does your company use?

One of the first considerations you need to make about the dash cams suitable for your fleet is the type of fleet vehicles they are paired with. Let’s go through some of them and explain what type of dash cams will be most relevant for your team.

Other Dash Cam Features To Look For

Once you’ve decided what type of dash cam you want, it’s time to figure out what features you want. Figuring out these two categories will help you narrow down which dash cam is right for your fleet.

• AI – Inbuilt AI in dash cams can detect safety issues faster than human controllers. AI helps to coach drivers on mistakes and risky driving behavior.
• Resolution – the higher the image quality, the easier it will be to detect any hazards, the road ahead, and see license plates clearly. Typically, we would recommend at least 1080p (Full HD) resolution, and this tends to be the minimum standard for top-rated dash cams today.
• Audio recording/speaker – some cams have built-in speakers that can record audio during an incident, as well as play audio alerts when risky behavior has been detected.
• Night vision – this is useful for fleets operating at night and may be accounted for via improved sensors or specific night vision modes within the dash cam’s settings.
• Safety features – many dash cams have detection features to monitor unsafe actions and report them in the corresponding web or mobile application software for review.
• Storage – video clips of incidents are recorded in cloud or local storage; however, the amount of storage available will vary depending on the local or cloud storage and the amount of time clips are stored on the cloud for the latter.
• Internet connection – most footage is stored on a memory card; however, a dash cam with an internet connection (either via LTE data or a Wi-Fi connection) can instantly upload footage to the cloud, providing much quicker and easier access.

Our Methodology: Deciding The Best Dash Cams for Fleets

We know how important it is for fleets to find dash cams that are suited to both drivers and management. That’s why our team conducted research in the industry to find the best on the market. Our research areas include:

• Price: We look at pricing, asking how much each dash cam costs upfront, whether there are any ongoing costs of using the dash cam (or more likely, the associated cost of using software features), and if there are any additional costs besides this (such as installation, if required).
• Technology: We consider which providers offer the most advanced technology, such as the highest resolution cameras, the widest angle of view, the largest amount of storage (cloud, local, or both), and software tech like AI detection to assess driver safety.
• Features: The providers that offer the widest range of features and strongest overall functionality for drivers rank above those that have a thinner, less capable offering.

If you’re dealing with larger vehicles, you may want to check out our research into the best dash cams for truckers.