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The Best Backup Camera 2021

best backup camera

Whether you struggle to backup or drive a large vehicle and need some assistance, installing an aftermarket backup camera is the best solution. It provides real time footage directly behind the vehicle to ensure maximum safety and precision parking.

The best backup camera is the AUTO-VOX T2 Kit, which attaches to the rear view mirror to provide video footage from the camera.

Intuitive features that can be found in most aftermarket units include guidelines for helping you judge the distance, night vision for low light situations and much more. Image quality is one of the most important factors and true HD is essential.

Table of Contents

Aftermarket Backup Camera Comparison

Backup CameraTypeViewing Angle
AUTO-VOX T2Rear View Mirror170 Degree
Pyle PLCM4590WIRRear View Mirror170 Degree
Dohonesbest DualExternal Monitor150 Degree
ZEROXCLUB DigitalExternal Monitor140 Degree
Chuanganzhuo KitExternal Monitor165 Degree
Kenwood CMOS-230RCA To Stereo128 Degree
NATIKA OEM StyleRCA To Stereo170 Degree
SVTCAM SV-612FWiFi To Smartphone130 Degree

The majority of modern cars will have a backup camera as a OEM optional extra. However, for those that don’t, they can be easily installed as an aftermarket part. Mostly all backup cameras are mounted to the rear license plate and there are even some devices that use a wireless connection for an even easier installation.

According to a study conducted by Statista in the USA, 45% of drivers under 55 consider a backup camera as a key automotive feature. That is a large portion of drivers who rely on this technology for backing up their vehicle.

Below is a list of the best backup cameras for safely backing up your vehicle with a clear vision and assist features.

The Best Aftermarket Backup Camera


1. AUTO-VOX T2 Aftermarket Backup Camera

The Auto Vox T2 is a rear view mirror backup camera that has been designed to match the existing decor of your vehicle with an OEM design. The dimensions of the rear view mirror are 10.6 x 3.2 inch, which should be compatible with most cars.

Although it’s more expensive than other rear view mirror alternatives, it does have many benefits. For example, you would find it fairly difficult to find a cheaper model with features such as a brightness sensor, adjustment and night vision capabilities.

Other features of the Auto Vox T2 include:

  • LED night vision functionality
  • 4.3 inch LCD display
  • Simple 4 step installation
  • Rated to a waterproof level of IP68
  • Automatically switches to parking footage
  • OEM design to match the interior
  • 170 degrees viewing angle
  • On and off switches

The Auto Vox T2 is the a highly rated rear view mirror backup camera that is designed to be easy to install. It doesn’t have any complex wiring and can easily be installed yourself with the included instructions.

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2. Pyle Rear View Mirror Backup Camera


The Pyle backup camera is another rear view camera setup that is available as a wireless or wired installation. The wireless is the best option and includes two transmitters to boost the connections to a distance of up to 165 feet.

A unique feature of this aftermarket backup camera is the distance scale line display, which helps with reverse parking.

Other features of the Pyle PLCM4590WIR include:

  • 4.3 inch LCD display
  • 628 x 586 video footage resolution
  • Automatically switches as reverse is selected
  • Night vision capabilities
  • 170 degree viewing angle
  • IP67 waterproof rating
  • DC 12V power supply
  • Universal car mounting

The Pyle PLCM4590WIR is an excellent all-round backup camera that is easy to install and has the option of a wired or wireless setup. It’s also much cheaper than many of the alternatives but still maintains the high quality design.

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3. Dohonesbest Dual Wireless Backup Camera


One of the most expensive options that is designed for maximum performance is by the Dohonesbest brand. It’s a dual camera setup that eliminates blind spots and provides maximum visibility whilst backing up your truck or RV.

The brand state that the wireless signal will always remain smooth and clear even at speeds of up to 100 MPH.

Other features of the Dohonesbest Dual Camera Kit include:

  • 150 degree viewing angle
  • IP69K waterproof rating
  • Digital signal up to 990 feet
  • Can add up to 4 cameras to the system
  • 12V or 24V power supply
  • Intuitive 7 inch display

Although this aftermarket backup camera system comes with a premium price, it’s a worthwhile investment. It has a large amount of features available with the high performance to match. For peace of mind, the brand provide a two year warranty and take great pride of their customer support.

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4. ZEROXCLUB Wireless Backup Camera For Truck


One of the most popular aftermarket backup camera system for RVs or trucks is the ZEROXClub wireless backup camera. The manufacturer claims that you can install it in less than 2 minutes, which is great for those that want an easy installation.

Due to the wireless installation, you are able to place the backup camera in numerous locations. For example, many people struggle reversing when using a fifth wheel trailer, therefore you could place the camera on the fifth wheel.

Other features of the ZEROXClub system include:

  • 7 inch LCD display
  • Clear footage even at speeds of 75 MPH
  • IP69 Waterproof rating
  • 18 infrared lights
  • 140 degrees viewing angle
  • Automatically switches to footage
  • HD image processor
  • 360 degree camera adjustment
  • 1 year warranty

Once you have plugged the device into your cigarette lighter outlet (12V/24V), you are ready to use the camera. It’s the best backup camera for trucks, RVs and other large vehicles and the wireless installation is very desirable.

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5. Chuanganzhuo Car Backup Camera Kit

The most affordable option for those on a budget is the Chuanganzhuo backup camera. For a fraction of the cost of the more premium units mentioned above, it comes with a license plate mounting holder, camera and display.

For peace of mind, this backup camera system comes with a 1 year warranty and a 30 day money back guarantee.

Other features of the Chuanganzhuo Kit include:

  • 4.3 inch LCD display
  • 1 year warranty
  • IP67 waterproof rating
  • Supports a range of video inputs
  • 648 x 488 Pixels
  • 165 Degree Wide Angle

It’s a cheap backup camera and by far the most popular in the US. However, due to the low cost, you will have to accept that it doesn’t have the best quality but if that is the case, we strongly recommend going with the Nakita or Kenwood alternative.

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6. Kenwood CMOS-230 Car Backup Camera


Kenwood are a highly reputable brand that are known for their high standards and reliability. Their CMOS-230 aftermarket backup camera follows that great reputation and provides a wide-angle mirror image for video footage.

It’s a plug and play aftermarket backup camera kit that will work with most head units that have a RCA input at the rear.

Other features of the Kenwood CMOS-230 include:

  • 128 degree viewing angle
  • Built-in power supply
  • 1/3.6 inch color CMOS sensor
  • 0.9 Lux rating
  • Mirror reversed image
  • 24 foot cable harness and mounting bracket included

Although you pay a premium for the brand backing this backup camera, it provides peace of mind that it’s built to high standards. The CMOS-230 is a completely waterproof setup that won’t disappoint and will be long lasting.

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7. NATIKA Aftermarket Backup Camera


For those that wish to connect their backup camera to a head unit, the Nakita is one of the best options. Before ordering this, you will want to check that you have a RCA video input on your stereo and if not, invest into a new head unit beforehand.

Nakita claim that this camera has been thoroughly tested for durability. In terms of its waterproof qualities, it has been tested 3 feet underwater for 2 hours. This is very impressive and a great choice considering that it will be mounted low down.

Other features of the Nakita Camera include:

  • IP69K waterproof rating
  • 1,280 x 720 Pixels
  • 170 degree wide viewing angle
  • Camera is adjustable to 125 degrees
  • Starlight level night vision
  • Low illumination at 0.005 Lux
  • Grade A 6G all-glass lens
  • F1.8 large aperture lens
  • 2 years warranty

The NAKITA camera is a great option that easily connects to your stereo. It will require wiring from the stereo to the mounting area (license plate) but once installed, it will continue to provide high quality footage for many years.

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8. SVTCAM WiFi Backup Camera


For those that want to use a wireless connection to connect their backup camera footage to their smartphone, then the SVTCAM SV-612W is the best option. It’s able to provide up to 100 feet of transmission whilst in an open area.

The free application is available for both iOS and Android devices but the brand state you must check whether other phones are compatible.

Other features of the SVTCAM SV-612F include:

  • Wireless signal range of 100 feet
  • Free smartphone application
  • IP69K waterproof rating
  • 130 degrees viewing angle
  • 12 PCS IR LED’s for 30 feet of night vision
  • Includes an antenna, power cable and user manual

Whilst using this type of backup system, we highly recommend using a car phone mount. This means you do not have to hold onto your phone and try to backup at the same time. Overall, it is a cheap WiFi backup camera that is relatively easy to install and packs plenty of functionality for the money.

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Car Backup Camera Buying Guide

Using a backup camera not only improves your parking but also improves safety. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, accidents caused by a vehicle backing up has resulted in approximately 18,000 injuries and 300 deaths.

Backup cameras are becoming a legal requirement in the USA. Steps are in place to make it a legal requirement on every newly sold or leased vehicle. However, there are plenty of aftermarket backup camera options available, which can be installed easily.

To help you make an informed buying decision, we have produced the below guide regarding aftermarket backup cameras.

Types of Backup Cameras

Backup cameras need to be mounted to the rear of the vehicle with three options to choose, which include:

  1. Surface mounted backup camera: Made to be mounted high up but can be placed on any flat surface. It is ideal for large vehicles as it provides an exceptional view.
  2.  License mounted backup cameras: Installation process for this type is quite easy. It requires no modifications or new hole drilling and can be mounted on the available license plate hole. You also have the option to place the camera close to the road or off-center.
  3. Flush mounted cameras: This gives a nice appearance because it is mounted through a hole in the vehicle’s body. The only thing that can be seen is the lens and bezel. This camera does not provide depth as the surface mount will.

Installation of an aftermarket backup camera is usually achieved by a license mounted backup camera. This is because there is no cutting and installation is fairly easy with many openings near the license plate holder to pass cables.

Below is an example of a camera that has been installed via the license plate holder and wired all the way to the head unit.

Best Aftermarket Backup Camera

Connect Backup Camera To Stereo

Not all vehicles have the space to place an external display for the backup footage. However, you do have the opportunity to connect the backup camera to a double din stereo but only on one condition. The stereo must have a video input, which is usually in the form of a RCA plug. However, some manufacturers are known to use unique plugs but this can be overridden with use of an adapter.

If you are still using an old stereo, it would be very rare for it to have a RCA plug. However, upgrading your stereo to one of the latest head units is fairly easy to do and most are backup camera ready. If you only have space for a single din head unit, you can install a motorized flip out unit for video footage.

Installation will require some wiring, which can be fairly complex for certain vehicle but there are many great tutorials that you can use for guidance.

Field of View

Just like a standard camera, the size of the sensor determines the quality of the image you can achieve. The sensor determines how well it will perform in low light and how wide the field of view will for the video footage.

It’s advised that you choose a backup camera with a field of view that’s greater than 90 degrees. It is the minimum you should accept because any less might not work well for its intended purpose.

Nightvision

Many of the best aftermarket backup camera solution are able to enhance the video quality at night. Many cameras that have infrared LED lights that makes it possible to give you a picture even in total darkness.

Although the video in darkness will not provide crystal clear feedback, it will still be beneficial whilst backing up. You could improve the brightness by replacing the reversing bulb with a brighter bulb to output greater light.

Aftermarket Backup Camera

Monitor Type

Due to technological advances, the majority of monitors available include both LCD and TFT-LCD display. These provides excellent video footage feedback for those that are not using their head units for the backup camera.

In terms of sizing, we advise that you choose a monitor that is between 5 to 10 inches. Too small and it will be impossible to see the footage and too large may be far too obtrusive inside of the vehicle.

Weatherproof Design

Be it under the sun, rain, snow or any weather condition, your camera should be able to work without issues. The camera and its wiring are going to be exposed to the outdoor elements at all times, therefore it’s essential that its weatherproof.

Camera and Monitor Power

Most backup cameras have the ability to power up once you start your car. You shouldn’t be going through the process of turning on the camera each time you enter the car. In terms of the power supply, most will run from a 12V source but other may run from a 24V supply.

Mounting and Installation

Before selecting a backup camera, you need to check the rear of your vehicle. Mounting it can be achieved in different ways as suggested below:

  • Mounting on a licensed plate
  • Bracket mounting
  • Lip mounting
  • Vehicle-specific mounting

Depending upon how confident you are with removing interior panels and wiring, you can choose to do it yourself. Alternatively, a professional should only take between 1 to 2 hours depending upon the complexity.

Installation involves running the video connection from the rear of the vehicle to the dashboard. Once it has been passed through, the cable needs to be connected to an external monitor or the back of the head unit.

To speed up the installation, you can opt for a wireless backup camera for your car but you will still need to wire in a power supply.

Below is an excellent example of a DIY backup camera installation using an external display.

Conclusion

Installing a backup camera to your car will allow you to improve your parking ability as well as reversing safety. The best options are those that provide crystal clear footage and a variety of intuitive features such as guidelines and much more.

All of our recommendations are suitable for a range of budgets and different types. To avoid disappointment, we advise that you avoid any cheap cameras that don’t include lengthy warranties.

procarreviews author

Written By Dan

About the Author

Dan is an automotive journalist and owner of over 10 cars ranging from supercars, tuned cars, classics and your good old beater cars. He always likes to get his hands dirty with nut and bolt restorations or detailing sessions using the best products on the market.

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