Driving a Volkswagen Golf in 2023 is an exhilarating experience, and to capture those moments or protect yourself on the road, a reliable dash cam is essential. This article will provide an in-depth review of the best dash cams suitable for your Volkswagen Golf, considering key features, pros, and cons. We’ll also discuss essential factors to consider when choosing a dash cam and share installation tips.
Top 6 Dash Cams for VW Golf
1. Nextbase 622GW
The Nextbase 622GW is a best all-rounder dash cam, offering 4K video at 30 fps with a 140° field of view. Key features include GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a 3″ IPS touchscreen, Emergency SOS, Alexa integration, digital stabilization, and a 1-year warranty. The optional rear camera makes it even more versatile. However, it’s more expensive than some alternatives.
The Best Over All Dash Cam
Nextbase 622GW dash cam for crystal-clear 4K videos, advanced features, and unmatched safety, all at your fingertips!
- Crystal-clear 4K videos.
- Advanced features.
- Enhanced safety.
- Stable footage.
What we like
- Top-notch 4K video: Crystal clear and detailed recordings.
- Loads of features: GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and touchscreen – it’s got it all.
- Emergency SOS: Extra safety with automatic alerts to emergency services.
- Alexa integration: Control your dash cam with voice commands for safer driving.
- Stable footage: Smooth videos, even on bumpy roads or at high speeds.
What we don’t like
- Pricey: Might be too much for some budgets.
- Rear camera not included: Extra cost if you want both front and rear coverage.
2. Thinkware U1000
Thinkware U1000 is an outstanding 4K performer with a 150° front viewing angle and a 156° rear viewing angle. The dash cam includes GPS, Wi-Fi, and a 2-year warranty. The stable parking mode and striking night vision performance make it a top contender. However, it’s expensive and not budget-friendly.
The Best Dash Cam On The Market.
Capture the Moment in Clarity: Unmatched 4K Performance & Night Vision Excellence”
- AUltra-HD Quality: 4K front and 2K rear cameras for stunning footage. •
- Expansive Viewing Angles: 150° front and 156° rear coverage. •
- Advanced Features: GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless integration. •
- Dependable Protection: 2-year warranty for peace of mind.
What we like
- High-quality video: 4K front, 2K rear
- Wide angles: 150° front, 156° rear
- GPS and Wi-Fi included
- 2-year warranty
What we don’t like
- Expensive
- Complicated features
- Bulky design
3. Vantrue N4
The Vantrue N4 offers spectacular image quality with 4K front, FHD cabin, and rear cameras. The Sony Starvis sensor, WDR, supercapacitor, and 18-month warranty make it a strong choice for VW Golf owners. It also provides simultaneous monitoring of all three cameras and easy installation. However, GPS is not included, leading to additional costs.
Good All Rounder
Capture Your Journey in Stunning Clarity with Vantrue N4’s Triple-Lens System!
- 4K front, FHD cabin, and rear cameras for high-quality footage.
- Sony Starvis sensor and WDR technology for improved low-light performance.
- Supercapacitor for enhanced reliability and extended lifespan.
- 18-month warranty for peace of mind.
- Easy installation and customizable settings for a user-friendly experience.
What we like
- 4k font camera & 1080p rear
- 170° field of view.
- Voice control for convenience.
- Compact and easy to install.
What we don’t like
- No Rear 4K recording quality.
- Limited advanced features.
- No built-in Wi-Fi
- Lower resolution compared to competitors.
4. Red Tiger F7NS
The Red Tiger F7NS is a high-resolution recording dash cam with a 4K front and FHD rear camera. It features a Sony CMOS sensor, night vision, Wi-Fi, GPS, and a 1-year warranty. The user-friendly, budget-friendly, high-performance dash cam is an excellent choice for Volkswagen Golf owners. The only downside is that the MicroSD card is not included.
Great Alternative.
Unlock Exceptional Quality on a Budget with the Red Tiger F7NS Dual-Camera Dash Cam!
- 4K front and FHD rear cameras for high-resolution recording.
- Sony CMOS sensor and night vision for clear footage in low light.
- Wi-Fi and GPS capabilities for easy location tracking and data sharing.
- Budget-friendly option with high-performance features.
- User-friendly interface and easy installation.
What we like
- High-resolution recording.
- Night vision for improved low-light footage.
- Wi-Fi and GPS capabilities.
- Budget-friendly and user-friendly.
What we don’t like
- MicroSD card not included.
- Shorter warranty than some competitors.
- Limited advanced features.
- Additional costs for storage.
The Garmin 67W is a compact dash cam with 1440p HD video quality, Garmin Clarity HDR, a 180° field of view, and voice control. It comes with a 2-year warranty and offers excellent app functionality, easy installation, and operation. However, it lacks 4K recording quality.
Great Littel Dash Cam
Experience Unparalleled Road Coverage with the Sleek and Smart Garmin 67W Dash Cam!
- 1440p HD recording with Garmin Clarity HDR for crisp, clear footage.
- 180° field of view for extensive road coverage.
- Voice control for hands-free operation and convenience.
- Compact size, making it unobtrusive and easy to install.
- 2-year warranty for peace of mind and product protection.
What we like
- 1440p HD with Garmin Clarity HDR.
- 180° field of view.
- Voice control for convenience.
- Compact and easy to install.
What we don’t like
- No 4K recording quality.
- Limited advanced features.
- Additional costs for optional accessories.
- Lower resolution compared to competitors.
6. BlackVue DR900X
The BlackVue DR900X is a high-performance dash cam with a 4K front and FHD rear camera. It features Sony Starvis UHD, a 162° viewing angle, and dual-band Wi-Fi. The built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, along with the spectacular night performance, make it a worthy contender for your VW Golf. However, it’s expensive and not budget-friendly.
Most Expensive.
Experience Ultimate Clarity and Coverage with This Premium 4K Dual-Camera Dash Cam
- 4K front and 2K rear cameras for exceptional video quality.
- 150° front and 156° rear viewing angles for comprehensive road coverage.
- GPS and Wi-Fi capabilities for easy location tracking and data sharing.
- Stable parking mode for reliable monitoring while parked.
- 2-year warranty for peace of mind and product protection.
What we like
- Experience Ultimate Clarity and
- Coverage with This Premium 4K
- Dual-Camera Dash Cam!”
What we don’t like
- Expensive price point.
- Not budget-friendly.
- Limited additional features.
- Additional costs for optional accessories.
Top Pick
Thinkware U1000
- Crystal-clear 4K front Camera.
- Advanced GPS and Wi-Fi capabilities.
- Impressive night vision performance.
Editor’s choice
Nextbase 622GW
- Crystal-clear 4K videos.
- Advanced features.
- Enhanced safety.
- Stable footage.
Best Value
Garmin 67W
- 1440p HD & Garmin Clarity HDR.
- 180° field of view.
- GPS & Wi-Fi enabled.
Features to Consider when Choosing a Dash Cam for Your Volkswagen Golf
Video Quality
The video quality of a dash cam is essential, especially when capturing details such as number plates and road signs. 4K dash cams offer exceptional clarity, while 2K and 1080p options are also available for those on a budget. Look for a dash cam with a high-resolution front camera and, if possible, a rear camera to cover all angles.
Parking Mode
A dash cam with parking mode will continue to record even when your car is parked, offering protection against potential theft or vandalism. Some models feature motion detection or a G-sensor to detect any impact or movement around your vehicle, triggering recording when necessary.
Night Vision
Driving at night requires a dash cam with night vision capabilities to ensure clear footage in low-light conditions. Look for models with a Sony Starvis sensor, which is known for its excellent performance in night-time conditions.
GPS and Wi-Fi Connectivity
GPS functionality allows your dash cam to record your vehicle’s location and speed, which can be useful in case of an accident or dispute. Wi-Fi connectivity enables you to connect your smartphone to the dash cam, making it easy to view, download, and share footage.
Ease of Installation
Choose a dash cam that is easy to install and comes with clear instructions. Some models may require professional installation, while others can be installed using a cigarette lighter or fuse box for power.
Dash Cam Installation Tips for VW Golf
- Read the user manual and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Plan the route for the power cable, usually along the A-pillar and headliner, to avoid obstructing your view or causing damage to your vehicle.
- Use a fuse tap or hardwiring kit to draw power from your car’s fuse box or ignition, ensuring the dash cam only operates when the vehicle is on.
- Attach the dash cam securely to the front windscreen or rear windshield, ensuring it has a clear line of sight and is discreet from the outside.
- Test the dash cam to ensure it is functioning correctly and adjust settings as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a higher-capacity SD card with my dash cam?
Most dash cams support SD cards up to 64GB or 128GB. Check your dash cam’s specifications and user manual to confirm the maximum supported SD card size.
2. Will a dash cam drain my car’s battery?
A properly installed dash cam with a hardwiring kit or fuse tap should not significantly drain your car’s battery. However, it’s essential to monitor battery levels and unplug the dash cam if necessary.
3. Are there any legal concerns with using a dash cam in the UK?
While dash cams are legal in the UK, it’s essential to ensure that the device does not obstruct your view of the road. Additionally, it’s crucial to respect privacy laws when sharing footage online.
4. Can I connect my smartphone to my dashcam?
Many modern dash cams offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to connect your smartphone to the camera using a dedicated app. This feature enables you to view, download, and share footage easily.
5. What is the best way to maintain my dash cam?
Keep your dash cam clean, update firmware as needed, and regularly format the SD card to ensure optimal performance. Check the user manual for specific maintenance instructions for your device.
Conclusion
Investing in the best dash cam for your Volkswagen Golf is an excellent way to protect yourself on the road and capture unforgettable memories. The Nextbase 622GW, Thinkware U1000, Vantrue N4, Red Tiger F7NS, Garmin 67W, and BlackVue DR900X are all top contenders, offering a variety of features to suit your needs and budget. When choosing a dash cam, consider factors such as video quality, parking mode, night vision, GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity, and ease of installation. Don’t forget to follow our installation tips and consult the user manual for specific guidance. By selecting the right dash cam for your VW Golf, you’ll enhance your driving experience and add an extra layer of protection to your vehicle.
