Wireless Backup Cameras
Auto Parts,  Reviews

Wireless Backup Cameras [Are They Good or Not?]

Backing up your vehicle will be a lot easier with the help of a backup camera. Sometimes I use a backup camera when driving my Honda Civic. There are some circumstances when it can see things that my view through the window or mirror can’t see.

Newer wireless backup cameras work just as well as wired backup cameras. The exception is when the wireless signal is interrupted. This is usually due to the distance the camera is from the monitor or a smaller percentage of the time when the transmission or reception is interrupted.

Wireless backup cameras can be very helpful in the same way a wired camera is, yet it is usually easier to install. If you’re not sure about what you should do to choose the right backup camera continue reading this article for ways you can choose a good camera for your car, truck, RV, or trailer.


The installation of a backup camera will be like having an eye at the back of your vehicle, making sure that you won’t run across anything or someone. It will be vital in the elimination of rear blind spots, making driving safer and more convenient.

Thinking of what backup camera to purchase?

Different Types of Backup Camera Systems

One of the first things that you need to decide upon would be the type of camera to buy. They can be categorized based on their connectivity. With this, the following are the two options that you will have:

  • Wired Backup Camera: As the name implies, you will have to connect the camera to the monitor through long wires. Installation can be a bit complicated. The benefit, however, is that you can expect the image quality to be better. To add, there will also be no interference.
  • Wireless Backup Camera: Most of the newer cameras sport this technology. There is no need to worry about lengthy wires, making the installation a breeze to accomplish. The problem, however, is that the presence of electrical interferences can disrupt the transfer and recording of images.

You can also group these cameras based on where they will be installed:

  • Surface Mount Camera: With this type, there is a need to drill holes to make the electrical connection and to mount the camera. It will be good even for larger cameras and you will have the freedom to select its specific position in the rear of your vehicle.
  • Flush Mounted Camera: This is also popularly known as a keyhole backup camera because of its setup. This is a common choice for many passenger vehicles or private cars. This will be mounted in a hole that you can find in the vehicle’s body.
  • License Plate Mount Camera: As it is named, this type of camera will be mounted on the license plate. There is no need to drill holes as the camera is already on the license plate. This camera can be more exposed to external elements.

What to Be Aware Of With Wireless Cameras

A wireless backup camera sends a signal from the camera to the monitor. These radio signals can be interrupted.

  • Don’t separate the camera too far from the monitor. If you drive an RV and the camera has only a 30-foot range, you might want to invest in something with a longer range for a better quality signal.
  • Turning can interrupt the signal. If you’re turning into a parking area be aware that the signal might not be as strong because it is facing a different angle.
  • Random interference. Sometimes signals from other electronic devices can interfere with the signal from time to time. Expect some interference once in a while.
  • Weather. Cold, snow, or rain can affect both wired and wireless clarity.
  • Metal. While the signal should be fine with most cars if you have a large amount of metal between the camera and monitor the signal can be interrupted.

Choosing the Best Backup Camera

If you are having a hard time narrowing down the possibilities, here are some of the most important factors that you need to take into consideration:

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  • Monitor: The screen that comes with the camera system is an important factor. It should have the right size, providing you with the assurance that you will be able to see the images clearly. The display should also be bright, regardless of it is day or night. Pay attention to the image quality as you try to differentiate the options.
  • Ease of Use: From the installation to the operation of the backup camera system, it must be user-friendly. There should be clear instructions from the manufacturer. You must be provided with all the things that you need. The interface should also be simple.
  • Night Vision: See to it that the camera has a night vision capability. There should be infrared lights and other technologies that will allow the camera to record clear images even when you are in an environment with low light.
  • Audio: Most of the higher-end models will have audio capabilities. These cameras have a microphone, which will make it possible to record sound. In most cases, however, this is a luxury that you will be able to do without.
  • Weather-proofing: If you want a camera that will be able to withstand the test of time, pick one that is weather-proof. Take a look at the waterproof rating from the manufacturer. If it is waterproof, it can withstand the demands of the external environment.
  • Field of View: The goal of the camera should be to allow you to see from the back as much as possible. With this, it is advisable that you pick one that comes with a wide-angle field of view. This enhances your sight of what is in the rear of your car.
  • Vibration and Shock Ratings: This is one thing that a lot of people tend to ignore. It is important that you pick a product with high vibration and shock rating, which means the camera will be able to keep up with demanding use.
  • Image Sensor: Some cameras may be equipped with a CCD sensor, which is better because of its ability to record low-light videos with better quality. Those with CMOS sensor, on the other hand, tends to be a cheaper alternative, but their performance can prove to be dismal.

My Picks for Backup Cameras

To help you in deciding which product should be purchased, we will have a quick rundown of some of the backup cameras that I found I might want to purchase for myself. We will also quickly list down their features, making it easier to weigh the possibilities.

1. AMTIFO A7 HD 1080P Digital Wireless Backup Camera

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With a 7-inch crystal clear display, this backup camera is one of the perfect ways to see what’s on the back of your vehicle when reversing. It comes with a high-speed signal for a clear signal, so you can attach it to your trailer or RV. The universal mount is also a plus, which is one of the reasons why it is excellent in terms of being user-friendly.

This color backup camera can shoot at an angle of 150 degrees, which will allow you to see more from the back. There are also 4 infrared lights, making it possible to see clearly even in the dark.

The camera can be up to 45 feet from the monitor and still have a clear picture.

Another thing that many people will love about this product is the fact that it comes with a 2-channel option. This means that you will have the option to connect two cameras, in case you need to see from a different point of view.

Lastly, it has an IP69 waterproof rating, so there is no need to worry about its outdoor performance. This is the highest IP rating from backup cameras, which is reflective of superior quality.

Features:

  • Solid construction for long-lasting functionality
  • Good night vision technology
  • Offers crystal clear images
  • Installation is effortless to accomplish, even for beginners
  • 30-day money-back guarantee and 2-year warranty

Overall:

From its crystal clear resolution to its waterproof rating to its durable construction to its multi-camera capability, there is no doubt that this backup camera is worthy of being part of your list of choices.


2. AUTO-VOX CS-2 Wireless Backup Camera

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This popular brand has good video quality and claims to work well at night as well, although it does not have infrared lights. Most people like this camera and gave it good reviews.

This product is an excellent choice for easy installation for most people. Install the camera wires onto the reverse light for power and plug the monitor into the cigarette lighter outlet and you’re ready to go. Plus, it also has an IP68 waterproof rating, making it work well in rainy weather.

It has a CS-2 transmission system for stable images that won’t be interfered with by a Bluetooth signal.

It has a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty.

Features:

  • Good quality image and signal
  • Works in most any weather
  • Installation is a breeze to accomplish
  • Excellent night vision capability

Overall:

With the weatherproof construction and good image quality, this backup camera makes another good option on your list.


3. TX Wireless Backup Camera

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I think this camera is worth a look because of the easy installation and the features. It only has a few reviews at the time of writing this article but people seem to think it is a good camera.

Some of the features that are highlighted are the IP68 weatherproofing, the low light visibility, and the guidelines that you can turn on and off to help you line up your car and see how far you are from other vehicles.

It should be a fairly easy install and the signal can go as far as about 33 feet to get a good signal.

Features:

  • 5″ video screen that works well in sunlight and dark
  • Provides images that are static-free up to 33ft
  • Consumes a minimal amount of space in the dashboard or windshield
  • Plug-and-play functionality
  • Two mounting options for the camera

Overall:

The monitor of this model might be small, but when it comes to the performance of the camera, this is definitely a choice to think about.


4. Fookoo 1080P Wireless Backup Camera

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From the long list of features that you can find in this product, one worth mentioning is the 7-inch screen, which is one of the largest within the product category. This means that you will be able to easily see from your end what the camera sees from the back.

The IP69 waterproofing is also a good thing. This allows the camera to deliver optimal performance even when it rains.

To add, the screen also has1080P (1920×1080). This improves the clarity of the images on the screen. This along with the 110 ft signal strength help you get the best signal for large truck and RVs.

The camera comes with a 170-degree viewing angle for a nice wide-angle view, making it great to help with parking and reversing.

Features:

  • Large monitor with easy navigation buttons at the bottom
  • The display is easy to see day or night
  • Comes with infrared lights for seeing at night when lighting is not available.
  • 170-degree viewing angle
  • Waterproof construction

Overall:

One thing to love about this backup camera system is the large monitor with easy-to-use features. The great signal distance and other features make this a tough one to compete against.


Wired Backup Camera

If you are still not convinced that a wireless backup system is best for you, then you could go with a wired system. The benefit of a wired system is that the signal will be consistent and there should never be any loss in video quality due to radio interference or distance.

Here’s one system that is recommended by Amazon.com

Rohent R4 HD 2 Backup Cameras

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The durable and all-weather construction of these two backup cameras is one reason that you might want to choose this system over others. It has an IP69 waterproof rating, guaranteeing its ability to deliver commendable performance even when it rains.

It is also worth pointing out that the camera is equipped with infrared lights, which will make it possible to detect objects even when it is completely dark. Even for nighttime driving, the camera is sure to be helpful.

The 7″ monitor is also great. The latter comes with easy-to-use buttons on the bottom to navigate through all of the menus. You can be sure of the stability of the images that you will see on the monitor.

Lastly, it also has a wide 150-degree viewing angle, which will allow you to see more and prevent blind spots.

Pros:

  • 7″ Monitor can be mounted in several positions
  • Comes with a 2-year warranty
  • Excellent picture quality
  • 2 cameras with infrared for night vision

Overall:

This camera comes with durable waterproof construction, low light, and a multi-position mount that can offer versatility.


Conclusion

With the backup cameras that we have mentioned above, you can identify key features that will help you decide if a wireless or wired backup system is best for you.

I feel both options are viable for cars, RVs, trucks, and other vehicles. Just make sure the signal distance is long enough for the vehicle you are driving to get good image quality.

I personally think that both options have merit purchasing if you get a good quality product. Look at the reviews to get a good idea of what camera is best for your needs.

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