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The best backup cameras you can buy right now

A backup camera has become a necessity for drivers. Not all vehicles come equipped with them, but you can buy a separate backup camera for your car to help you get out of tight spaces and tricky parking spots. Our top pick is the Auto-Vox CS2 due to due its ease of installation, wide camera angle, and waterproof build. We found other honorable mentions as well.
Written by Lena Borrelli, Contributing Writer on
Reviewed by Allison Murray

Today, most vehicles come equipped with backup cameras, but the truth is that there are still many vehicles on the road that do not have them. According to CarFax, cars made in 2018 and above are now required to have a backup camera, but what if you have a vehicle made before then?

There are plenty of after-market options for your backup camera, but it can be overwhelming to try to discern which is the best backup camera, but that is where we can help. These are the best backup cameras for your car, truck, or trailer so you can see behind you when parking or backing out.  

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Simple installation
  • Wide camera angle
  • Waterproof build
Cons
  • Limited resolution
  • Best for shorter vehicles
More Details

Specs: Screen size: 4.3" | Installation type: Dashboard mount, surface mount | The real angle of view: 110 degrees | Range: 33 feet | Power source: Reverse light | Image quality: 480P | Dimensions: 4.5" x 0.5" x 3.4"

The Auto-Vox CS2 Backup Camera gets our vote for the best backup camera. In addition to adjustable parking lines, you can also adjust the camera's height to ensure that you receive an image proportional to your vehicle, whether it is a car, truck, or trailer. Simply set up your camera using the suction cup mount for your dashboard or windshield. You will receive a strong, vivid picture thanks to the incorporated PC1058 sensor. 

One hundred and ten golden angles help ensure a clear image free of distortion. Use is reliable, too, with the camera providing its own exclusive digital wireless signal specifically designed to prevent any interference. The camera is waterproof with an IP 68 rating to secure your purchase, but a one-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee also apply. 

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Excellent camera quality
  • Convenient night vision
  • Affordable price tag
Cons
  • Limited details online
  • Installation can be tricky
More Details

Specs: Screen size: 4.3" | Installation type: Surface mount | The real angle of view: 149 degrees | Power source: Reverse light | Image quality: 1080P | Dimensions: 9.4"Lx 1" x 1.3"

The eRapta ERT01 Backup Camera is a wired backup camera with a versatile design that works on a variety of different vehicles, from sedans to trucks. It is adjustable to the height of your vehicle, thanks to a level reversing camera that also provides a 149-degree angle view. Six glass lenses and full true color reproduction all help ensure clarity with this universal rear view camera providing 720p video capture resolution and superior night vision. 

There are eight incorporated LED lights for easy projection in the dark, plus IP69 waterproofing with a durable resin build that works in a variety of different climates. Easy installation is a plus, using an RCA connection for simple installation and use.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Incredible range
  • Night vision
  • Touchscreen monitor
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Designed for RVs and trailers
More Details

Specs: Screen size: 4.3" | Installation type: Rear bracket | The real angle of view: 180 degrees | Range: 492 feet | Image quality: 720p | Dimensions: 8.8" x 2.9" x 7.6"

The Furrion Vision S Wireless Backup System uses a long-range 2.4GHz signal to protect your RV. Features include a built-in microphone with sound and motion detection to keep your RV safe at all times. Viewing is made easy, thanks to an oversized screen of over four inches with built-in anti-glare, 720p resolution, and a 180-degree view. 

When parked, you can see a range up to almost 500 feet, but even at night, the range is impressive at 40 feet. There is live streaming available, plus extras like infrared night vision and IP 65 waterproofing. With a universal fit, this requires just a simple installation to get started.  

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Great image quality
  • Convenient solar panel
  • Simple installation
Cons
  • Size restrictions
  • Must push button to activate reverse filming
More Details

Specs: Screen size: 4.3" | Installation type: Surface mount, dashboard mount | The real angle of view: 149 degrees | Image quality: 1080p | Dimensions: 7.87" x 4.72" x 3.54"

With almost a 150-degree angle of view, the LeeKooLuu LK3 Backup Camera has six white LED lights to provide visibility, even during the dark of night. This camera is all about DIY, with adjustable settings for the height and width to fit your environment. If you prefer automation, that is an option, too, as you can turn off the setting and let the camera move between rear and front views. 

The LCD screen is generous at a size of over four inches with a 1080p resolution. Plus, IP69 waterproofing means extra durability for the long run. Just use the easy surface or dashboard mount to install, and you are on your way.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Affordably priced
  • Compact design
  • G-Sensor Incident Detection
Cons
  • Smaller screen size
  • Mediocre night vision
More Details

Specs: Screen size: 3" | The real angle of view: 150 degrees | Image quality: 3840 x 2160P

The Yada RoadCam 4K UHD Smart Dash Cam has all of the basics you would want in a backup camera and more. There is an ultra-HD resolution with a three-inch screen and a 150-degree angle view. Yada's signature Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) Sensing Technology means that weather like fog and the blinding sun will not interfere with your photos. 

The built-in GPS helps with your location at all times, plus there is loop recording, so you do not have to worry about replacing a memory card. Built-in Wi-Fi is incorporated so that you can use the companion Yada Drive app.

What is the best backup camera?

The Auto-Vox CS2 Backup Camera is the best backup camera, thanks to its clear picture, huge flexibility in use, and affordable price tag. 

To compare it against our other picks, here is an overview of the best backup cameras.  

Backup camera

Cost

Screen size

Angle of view

Auto-Vox CS2

$89.99

4.3"

110 degrees

eRapta ERT01 Backup Camera

$25.99

4.3"

149 degrees

Furrion Vision S Wireless Backup System

$381.78

4.3"

180 degrees

LeeKooLuu LK3

$49.99

4.3"

149 degrees

Yada RoadCam 4K UHD Smart Dash Cam

$119.00

3"

150 degrees

Which is the right backup camera for you?

To help you find the best backup camera for your needs, consider these expert recommendations based on our study.

Choose this backup camera...

If you...

Auto-Vox CS2

Want performance with affordability

eRapta ERT01 Backup Camera

Want the best affordable backup camera

Furrion Vision S Wireless Backup System

Want a versatile backup camera

LeeKooLuu LK3

Plan on doing a lot of night driving

Yada

Want an excellent runner-up option for best backup camera

How did we choose these backup cameras?

When searching for the best backup camera, we consider several specific factors to aid in our decision. 

  • Installation: Many of the best backup cameras use a simple suction mount for installation, but some backup cameras may require hardwired or professional installation. 
  • Vehicle type: Some backup cameras may only be equipped to work with certain types of vehicles, like sedans, trucks, or even RVs. 
  • Viewing angle: The viewing angle is important because it determines how wide your field of view will be. Generally speaking, the larger your vehicle, the wider the viewing angle should be. 
  • Price: We consider cost when finding the best backup cameras that will work across a variety of budgets.

Be sure to carefully review technical specs and features before deciding on the best backup camera for your vehicle.

What is a backup camera?

A backup camera is a type of camera that displays a rear view of your vehicle when you are in reverse mode. Some cameras may also offer front-view cameras, as well.  

How far can I see behind my vehicle?

The field of view for backup cameras varies from one model to the next. The best backup cameras range from 110 to 180 degrees, depending on the option you choose.  

How much is a backup camera?

A backup camera can significantly range in price, depending on the model you choose and the type of vehicle you have. 

Are there alternative backup cameras worth considering?

While searching for the best backup cameras, we found these models that also caught our eye. 

For more ideas for your car, check out our expert picks for the best dash cams, the best wireless car chargers, and the best car vacuums!

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