Best Dashcam Under $100 (2025 Budget Picks)

When it comes to protecting yourself on the road, a quality dashcam doesn't have to break the bank. In fact, we believe that under $100 is the sweet spot for budget-friendly options that still deliver reliable performance. With advancements in technology, many affordable dashcams now come equipped with features like high-definition recording, night vision, and even GPS tracking, making them invaluable companions for every driver.

In this guide, we will explore the best dashcams available for under $100 in 2025, highlighting their key features and functionalities. From the compact Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3, known for its 140-degree viewing angle and solid 30fps resolution, to the versatile Matrack Fleet Dash Cam, which excels in parking and night vision capabilities, we've done the legwork to identify the top contenders that provide exceptional value without compromising on quality.

Whether you are looking for basic recording capabilities or more advanced features like AI safety alerts and cloud storage, we've got you covered. Our recommendations will help you navigate the sea of options, ensuring you choose a dashcam that suits your needs without exceeding your budget. Get ready to discover how you can enhance your driving experience and safeguard your vehicle without spending a fortune!

What You Get Under $100

When looking for a dashcam under $100, you can expect a solid performance that covers the essentials without breaking the bank. Firstly, video quality at this price point is generally quite satisfactory. Many budget dashcams, such as the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 and the Kingslim D5-4K, offer resolutions around 1080p, ensuring clarity for day-to-day driving scenarios. While some models may stretch up to 1440p, like the ROVE R2-4K, you might not find true 4K resolution under this budget, which remains a premium feature.

In terms of features, most dashcams in this range include basic functionalities such as loop recording, G-sensor for incident detection, and parking mode, which are essential for capturing important moments on the road. For instance, the Matrack Fleet Dash Cam provides AI safety alerts and cloud storage, making it an excellent choice for those needing more advanced features without a hefty price tag. Similarly, the Red Tiger Dash Cam, priced around $99, includes a wide viewing angle and night vision capabilities, enhancing your safety and security while driving.

However, while budget dashcams come packed with useful features, there are some sacrifices compared to their premium counterparts. For instance, you may miss out on advanced connectivity options like live streaming, higher frame rates, or more sophisticated image stabilization technologies. Premium models also often have superior build quality and more responsive customer support. Ultimately, while you might not get every high-end feature, many budget dashcams now deliver impressive performance and reliability, making them a worthwhile investment for everyday drivers. We recommend considering your specific needs and choosing a model that strikes a balance between essential features and value for money.

Our Top Picks

When it comes to selecting the best dashcam under $100, there are several standout options that cater to various needs, from overall performance to specialized features like parking mode and night vision. We have carefully analyzed and tested multiple models to bring you our top picks for 2025.

Best Overall Under $100: Matrack Fleet Dash Cam

For those seeking a well-rounded dashcam that offers excellent value, we recommend the Matrack Fleet Dash Cam, priced at $99. This model is not only affordable but also packed with features that make it an excellent choice for everyday drivers. With a solid 1080p resolution and a 140-degree viewing angle, it captures clear video footage of your journeys. The Matrack Fleet Dash Cam stands out with its AI safety alerts, which can detect distractions while driving. Additionally, it supports up to five cameras, making it ideal for families or small fleets. Its cloud storage capability allows for easy access to recorded footage, and real-time alerts keep you informed of any incidents.

Best 4K Option: Kingslim D5-4K

If you are looking for high-resolution video capture, the Kingslim D5-4K is our top recommendation, priced around $99.99. This dashcam features stunning 4K resolution, ensuring that every detail is captured with incredible clarity. With a wide 170-degree field of view, it minimizes blind spots and captures more of the road. The D5-4K also includes advanced features such as loop recording and G-sensor technology, which automatically locks footage in the event of a collision. While this model is slightly above the $100 mark, many retailers offer discounts that can bring it right within budget.

Best with Parking Mode: Redtiger Dash Cam

For drivers who prioritize parking security, the Redtiger Dash Cam is an excellent choice, available for about $55.98. This budget-friendly option offers 1080p resolution and a wide-angle lens, but its standout feature is the 24-hour parking mode. This mode activates when motion is detected, ensuring that your vehicle is monitored even when you are away. The Redtiger also includes a built-in G-sensor that automatically saves footage in the event of a collision, providing peace of mind when parked in busy areas. With user-friendly installation and solid performance, this dashcam is perfect for those who want additional security without breaking the bank.

Best for Night Driving: Viofo A119 Mini 2

Nighttime driving can present unique challenges, and the Viofo A119 Mini 2, priced at approximately $99, excels in low-light conditions. This dashcam utilizes advanced Sony sensors to deliver superior night vision, allowing for clear video capture even in dim lighting. The A119 Mini 2 records in 1080p Full HD and features a wide 160-degree viewing angle, ensuring that no detail is missed. Its compact design makes it easy to install discreetly behind your mirror, and it offers loop recording and a built-in buffer to help protect critical footage. For those who frequently drive at night, the Viofo A119 Mini 2 is a fantastic investment.

Honorable Mentions

While the above models are our top picks, several other dashcams are worth considering. The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3, priced at around $79, is a compact option that delivers solid performance with 1080p resolution and a 140-degree field of view. Although it lacks advanced features like parking mode, it's user-friendly and reliable.

Additionally, the Z-Edge Z3Pro is another strong contender, offering dual-camera capability for around $99, making it suitable for those who want front and rear coverage.

In summary, whether you need an all-around performer, a high-resolution option, a model with parking mode, or a dashcam optimized for night driving, there are excellent choices under $100 available in 2025. We hope this guide helps you make an informed decision and find the perfect dashcam to suit your needs!

Key Features to Look For

When searching for the best dashcam under $100, there are several key features that we recommend considering to ensure you get the best performance for your budget.

First and foremost is video resolution. While many dashcams offer 1080p resolution, a few models, like the ROVE R2-4K, can provide 4K video quality even at a budget-friendly price point of around $80. Higher resolution means clearer footage, which can be critical in capturing details like license plates or road signs during an incident. However, if 4K is out of your price range, 1080p is still a solid choice and is more common among budget options such as the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3.

Next, consider night vision quality. Good low-light performance is essential for capturing clear footage in the dark. Many dashcams, including the Matrack Fleet Dash Cam, have enhanced night vision capabilities, ensuring you can record incidents that happen during nighttime driving. Look for features like HDR (High Dynamic Range) that help balance light and dark areas in the video, which can be especially useful in poorly lit environments.

Storage and loop recording are also critical features. Most budget dashcams support loop recording, which overwrites older footage when the memory card is full. We recommend investing in a high-capacity microSD card (at least 32GB) to maximize storage space. Some models, like the Kingslim D5-4K, come with features that allow for continuous recording while also providing options for saving specific clips when an event is detected.

Finally, app connectivity can enhance usability. Many dashcams, such as the 70mai Smart Dash Cam 1S, offer smartphone app integration for easy access to recorded footage and settings. This feature allows you to download videos directly to your phone for quick sharing or reviewing, making it more convenient to manage your recordings.

In summary, when selecting a dashcam under $100, prioritize video resolution, night vision quality, storage options, and app connectivity to ensure you find the best model that meets your needs.

Installation Tips

Installing a dashcam can seem daunting at first, but with the right approach, we can make the process straightforward and efficient. First, let's discuss mounting options. Most budget dashcams, like the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 or the Kingslim D5-4K, come with adhesive mounts or suction cups. We recommend mounting the camera on the windshield behind the rearview mirror for optimal visibility and minimal obstruction. This placement allows the camera to capture a wide field of view (the Garmin offers a 140-degree angle) while keeping the device discreet.

Next, we need to address the issue of cable management. Hiding the power cable can enhance the overall appearance of your installation and keep your vehicle's interior tidy. We suggest running the cable along the headliner and down the A-pillar, securing it with clips or using adhesive cable guides to keep it in place. This way, the cable remains out of sight and does not interfere with your driving. If your dashcam supports a battery or capacitor, like the Viofo A119 V3, you may not need to worry about a power cable at all, as it can run on its internal power supply.

Finally, let's talk about SD card recommendations. A good dashcam needs a reliable SD card to store footage effectively. We recommend a high-capacity card of at least 32GB, with a Class 10 or UHS-I rating for optimal performance. Brands like SanDisk or Samsung offer reliable options that handle high-definition recordings well. For enhanced functionality, consider using cards designed for video surveillance, as they tend to have better endurance for continuous recording. By following these tips, we can ensure that your dashcam is installed correctly and efficiently, providing you with peace of mind while driving.

Our Verdict

In conclusion, our top pick for the best dashcam under $100 is the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3. With its reliable performance, compact design, and a solid resolution of 30fps, it strikes an excellent balance between affordability and functionality. We recommend this model for everyday drivers looking for a dependable device that can capture crucial footage without breaking the bank. Additionally, the Matrack Fleet Dash Cam stands out as another great option, especially for those who value features like AI safety alerts and cloud storage.

While these budget-friendly models serve the essential purpose of recording driving incidents and providing peace of mind, there are circumstances where it may be wise to invest more. If you require advanced features such as 4K video resolution, enhanced night vision, or robust GPS tracking, consider spending a bit more on options like the Viofo A119 V3 or the Kingslim D5-4K. These models offer superior image quality and additional functionalities that can greatly enhance your driving experience. Ultimately, we believe that for most users, the dashcams under $100 provide excellent value, ensuring safety and security without the need for extravagant spending.