When it comes to wireless vs wired dashcams, the one you should choose totally depends on what you expect from your camera safety solution. If you want something straightforward that’s without too many bells and whistles, a wireless option might work. But if you’re looking for higher quality and telematics features, then the wired choice is definitely it.
Wireless dashcam setups are still dominating the global market, making up a whopping 60% of global sales. Many everyday motorists are continuing to be attracted to the easy, DIY, and quick configurations, although some are becoming attuned to more durable, premium options.
On the other hand, hardwired cameras for fleet systems are flourishing at a 10.7% annual growth rate. Fleet managers have long ditched the wireless options and recognise the safety of high-end, insight-driven hardwired choices.
Let Cartrack make the decision easy for you. Keep reading to find out more about each camera category and what we have available!
Generally speaking, whether a wireless or wired dashcam is better actually depends on what you’re looking for and the role your dashcam will play. But it's also widely known that wired dashcams are the better choice. They offer far more features and benefits, like high-quality recordings, better battery life, and telematics capabilities.
Let’s look more at each dashcam category:
Wired and wireless dashcams are dashcams that have the same core function—mounted in-car recording devices—but are connected differently. As their categories suggest, one is hardwired to the car battery, and the other is connected a bit differently.
But no dashcam is 100% wireless in its connection.
Wired devices are typically connected to the vehicle’s battery, giving them uninterrupted power. On the other hand, it’s rare that wireless devices have no cord at all; they’re usually connected via the 12V (cigarette lighter) socket. ‘Wireless’ is more in reference to how the video data is transferred, like using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Some wireless hardware designs, especially if battery-powered, will allow you to use them without the wires connected, although they’ll only last for a few hours before needing to be recharged.
Yes, wired is typically more reliable than wireless.
There’s an uninterrupted source of power and, without the need for rechargeable energy, there’s far less risk of a fire hazard occurring (due to swelling batteries, etc.). Wired cams are usually cellular-network-equipped, meaning they don’t have to connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, or potentially face signal interference.
Some wired cams also support bystander or parking mode, adding to the security and safety levels. Yes, it’s likely that it’ll cost more than a wireless cam, but the pros heavily outweigh the cons.
If you’re looking for absolute security, long-term reliability, full telematics, and a clean, professional finish to your installation, a wired option is your best bet.
PICTURE THIS:
You’re managing a fleet where you need to equip 60 delivery vans with dashcams before the holiday rush. At first, you strongly consider the wireless dashcams for their easy installation and flexibility. But considering the long-distance routes, you recognise that a consistent power source is non-negotiable.
If footage is lost during an incident or accident, this could mean serious financial and legal headaches for all involved.
Realising this, you decide you’d rather go for the wired dashcams and use them in your dedicated fleet, while reserving the wireless ones for contractors or rentals.
This combo offers the flexibility you’re looking for without sacrificing reliability when it counts.
As you can see, both of these options play a pivotal role depending on the context of your need. While wireless is all about flexibility and ease, wired is strong and massively dependable for businesses.
So what exactly are the benefits of each?
Both provide defence against incidents and potential false claims. These dashcams also have the potential to reduce insurance premiums, as many insurers favour everyday drivers and fleet companies who go the extra mile to protect themselves and their vehicles.
The dashcam and camera solutions that Cartrack offers you are five core solutions: Road Vision, Dual Vision, Multi Vision, AI Dash Pro, and AI Multi Vision. Whether you’ve got a complex fleet or you just want to protect your beloved car, we’ve got the perfect solution for you.
We don’t offer wireless cameras, and all our core options are hardwired, guaranteeing far better quality and additional features to keep you, your family, or your fleet completely protected.
Here’s a breakdown on what YOU can expect:
Road vision is a single, road-facing camera. Our everyday drivers and small businesses love this option because it’s a simple solution to safety needs, providing accident evidence and helping consumers handle insurance claims more quickly.
This device offers:
Dual Vision is a dual-camera system that’s both road-facing and cabin-facing. This is another winning solution for small businesses and the everyday driver. It works well for accident and insurance claims, adds an extra layer of security, and encourages drivers to behave safely & responsibly on the road.
The in-cabin monitoring keeps drivers on their toes!
Dual offers:
Multi Vision has up to 4 cameras: road, cabin, internal, and external-facing. This solution is an entry into the big leagues, catering to larger-scale businesses like logistics and delivery. Larger fleets tend to require more visibility, especially when cargo is involved.
There’s greater operational oversight in addition to stronger security, and you and your drivers can keep an eye on the blind spots.
Multi Vision offers:
AI Dash Pro is a dual-camera system that’s both road-facing and cabin-facing. It has an additional 2 camera channels and the option to add an extra camera to places like your fuel tank, cargo area, etc.
Most importantly, it has AI capabilities that help monitor driver behaviour and record events, such as fatigue, distraction, and smoking.
This is the perfect solution for businesses that have large, complex fleets that prioritise total visibility and safety. The AI event recording also makes it far easier for you to monitor your drivers, allowing you to implement driver coaching when necessary and prevent costly downtime.
The AI Dash Pro offers:
🆕 NEW ADD-ONS to consider:
The Seat Vibrator is available as a feature to combat fatigue and distraction. The device sits under the seat, giving the driver a gentle "jolt" to remind them to stay focused or take a quick break from driving.
A small AI monitor for drivers can be included, so they’re visually alerted to the triggered event (sometimes, event audio alerts are missed). Here, the cargo door sensor can also be linked.
AI Multi Vision has up to 8 cameras that are road-, cabin-, internal-, and external-facing. This is the ideal solution for large, complex fleets that are carrying high-risk cargo. Basically, if you’re looking for airtight security, complete visibility, and stronger compliance, this is the option for you.
AI Multi Vision offers:
🆕 NEW ADD-ONS to consider:
The Seat Vibrator and the small AI monitor, as previously mentioned under AI Dash Pro.
Simple and easy might seem like the most attractive choice, but going the extra mile can truly seal in your vehicle security. Do you want the ease of wireless cams that show you the action, but overlook the bigger picture? Or are you looking for effortless, uninterrupted, advanced, and airtight protection that wired cams can bring you?
This is where Cartrack steps in.
Partner with us to ensure you’re always connected and always protected. With us, and the help of our sophisticated camera solutions, you know you can always account for the truth.
Ditch the messy wires. Forget the dead batteries. Just focus on the real protection. Call us today and get a complete, professionally installed camera solution!
Choose the right eye for the road. Compare wireless vs. wired dashcams to find the best fit for your needs. Assess high-grade options vs quick, DIY setups.
