Best Backup Cameras
Motor1 Reviews Team Take:
- The best-rated backup cameras on the 2024 market are the Auto Vox CS-2, AMTIFO A8, eRapta ERT01, and DoHonest V25 based on installation, performance, quality, and additional features.
- On average, a backup camera will cost about $100, with a budget version costing under $50 while a camera with extensive features can be upwards of $120.
- The rear viewing angle is important to consider, especially depending on your vehicle’s height and where you install the camera to ensure you’re getting the best possible angle.
A simple but dependable backup camera and monitor.
Multi-Camera
System
A good pick for RVs and trailers that need multiple cameras.
Budget Camera
A stripped-down, inexpensive camera to connect to a monitor.
A wireless secondary camera great for vans and trucks.
It’s safe to say you’ll probably put your car in reverse at some point, but the view out your back windshield doesn’t always give you the full picture of what’s behind you. If your car doesn’t come equipped with rear video, it’s worth thinking about the best backup camera.
Backup cameras are a standard feature on new cars. Since 2018, it has been a federal requirement that any car manufactured for sale in the United States include a backup cam. If your car is older or the OEM backup camera isn’t to your liking, aftermarket backup cameras can be reliable and effective.
In this article, we’ll look at the best backup camera systems on the market, examining our top picks based on features, ease of installation, performance, customer reviews, and more.
Backup Cameras Reviews
For this review, our team thoroughly tested and evaluated each backup camera based on each item’s ease of use, installation difficulty, video quality, and feature set. The scores in each category are compiled into a single overall rating that ranges from 1.0 to 5.0 stars.
What Is The Best Backup Camera?
We named the AUTO-VOX CS-2 Wireless Backup Camera, AMTIFO A8 FHD Wireless Backup Camera, eRapta ERT01 Car Rearview Camera, and DoHonest V25 Digital Wireless Backup Camera as the best-rated backup cameras on the market in 2024.
| Brand/Model | Cost | Overall Rating | Award |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUTO-VOX CS-2 Wireless Backup Camera | $120 | 4.8 | Best Backup Camera |
| AMTIFO A8 FHD Wireless Backup Camera | $140 | 4.5 | Best Multi-Camera System |
| eRapta ERT01 Car Rearview Camera | $25 | 4.4 | Best Budget Camera |
| DoHonest V25 Digital Wireless Backup Camera | $100 | 4.4 | Also Consider |
*Because cost data fluctuates, the prices in the table above are approximate values that our team regularly updates.
Backup Camera Ratings: Our Testing Process
After looking at factors such as key features, ease of installation, customer ratings, and prices, our product testing team ordered the backup cameras that best met these standards. A team member tested each product on various vehicles, including a hatchback-style station wagon and a truck with hauling capabilities. We took note of the video quality, installation process, and overall performance of all the backup cameras in this review. Each backup camera was given a rating out of 5.0 stars based on these criteria.
Learn more about how we tested backup cameras here.
1. AUTO-VOX CS-2 Wireless Backup Camera: Best Backup Camera
- Cost: Around $120
- Amazon review score: 4.3 out of 5.0 based on over 4,800 ratings
- Wireless digital connection
- 110-degree viewing angle
- Adjustable parking assistance guidelines
- Quality night vision
- Relatively simple installation
- Invertible video
- Waterproof camera
We rate the AUTO-VOX CS-2 as the overall best car backup camera for its competitive price, relatively simple features, and easy installation. This backup camera kit comes with a 4.3-inch monitor display, and its wireless connection removes the labor of hiding wires underneath your car’s trim.
Monitor installation is relatively painless with the AUTO-VOX, which provides a suction cup so you can attach the camera to your dashboard or your windshield. You can put the camera itself on your license plate, but this may require drilling an additional hole in your trunk to connect the power cable.
You can see how the AUTO-VOX performed in each of our testing categories below:
| Review Category | Score (Out of 5.0 Stars) |
|---|---|
| Ease of Use | 5.0 |
| Installation | 5.0 |
| Video Quality | 4.5 |
| Features | 4.5 |
| Overall Rating | 4.8 |
If you’re searching for a simple wireless backup camera system with quick installation, the AUTO-VOX CS-2 is a solid pick. It’s a no-frills choice but successfully performs the basics of a backup camera.
Below are the pros and cons of the AUTO-VOX:
- High-quality video
- Relatively easy installation
- Adjustable guidelines
- No touchscreen
- Nighttime performance lacking compared to some other options
The AUTO-VOX CS-2 is a breeze to install, and we found the 110.0-degree viewing angle to be the sweet spot for parking. For around $120, the video quality is excellent, and the AUTO-VOX performed well during nighttime driving.
Our review team didn’t experience any drops in connection or interference while testing, but we noticed some video lag on occasion. These instances were few and far between, however, and only happened while running the camera feed continuously.
Perhaps the most glaring issue with the AUTO-VOX is that the screen is small compared to other backup cameras we tested. This might be a plus if you’re looking for a discreet system.
Users often praise the system for its easy installation process, its superior nighttime performance, and the company’s customer service. It’s a popular option for those looking for an easy-to-use camera with high picture quality.
However, some customers mention issues with the device’s longevity and interrupted connections. Many report that the camera’s WiFi features don’t work as well after a year.
2. AMTIFO A8 FHD Wireless Backup Camera: Best Multi-Camera System
- Cost: Around $140
- Amazon review score: 4.5 out of 5.0 based on over 2,900 ratings
- Can handle up to four camera feeds
- Impressive wireless range
- Works on vehicles up to 80.0 feet long
- Large, straightforward monitor system
- Excellent video quality both day and night
- Relatively simple setup
The AMTIFO A8 FHD may be your best backup camera option if you’re driving an RV, camper, or towing a trailer and want all angles covered. This camera works reliably on vehicles up to 80.0 feet long, features a wireless range of up to 984.0 feet with a wide-angle lens, and has the capacity to support four video feeds.
A 7.0-inch display screen rounds out the package. Unlike smaller monitors, this device has front-facing buttons for easy access and split-screen capabilities so you can see feeds from multiple cameras at once. If you want to mount multiple cameras on your vehicle, you can purchase them separately.
You can see how the AMTIFO performed in each of our testing categories below:
| Review Category | Score (Out of 5.0 Stars) |
|---|---|
| Ease of Use | 4.0 |
| Installation | 4.5 |
| Video Quality | 4.5 |
| Features | 5.0 |
| Overall Rating | 4.5 |
If you haul trailers, drive an RV, or own a heavy-duty truck, the AMTIFO is a good HD monitor system choice. The camera mounting bracket is rock-solid, and the video quality is spectacular – something you want from a system that can support up to four cameras.
Below are the pros and cons of the AMTIFO:
- Can connect up to four cameras
- Rugged design
- Straightforward monitor
- Great wireless range
- Expensive
- Not meant for use in standard vehicles
- Additional cameras sold separately
When testing out the AMTIFO A8, our review team found that the video quality produced a crystal clear image and maintained the wireless connection with almost no issue. This HD backup camera system earns bonus points for having a robust LCD monitor that makes it easy to view your blind spots.
The biggest complaint we have is that the display screen feels less secure if you use the included mount. We didn’t have any issues with the suction cup mount falling, but the screen jostled during test drives.
Although the touchscreen is responsive, the display will sometimes miss a button entry. Also, despite the video quality being adjustable, we barely noticed a difference between the different resolution settings.
In positive reviews, customers often mention being pleased with the number of features for the price. Reviewers also tend to note the camera’s quality construction and ease of installation.
Less satisfied users say the cheaper components, such as antennas, are prone to breaking or have quality issues. Other customers say the system can be susceptible to interference and laggy video.
3. eRapta ERT01 Car Rearview Camera: Best Budget Camera
- Cost: Around $25
- Amazon review score: 4.3 out of 5.0 based on over 27,000 ratings
- Waterproof camera
- Good video quality
- Decent low-light performance
- Easy license-plate installation
- 25.0 feet of wire fits most vehicles and trailers
- Adjustable guidelines for parking
If your vehicle already has an LCD display, the eRapta ERT01 Car Rearview Camera may be the best license plate backup camera for you. Instead of a full system with a monitor, you only get the camera to connect to your in-vehicle display. It comes at an affordable price and allows for relatively simple license plate mounting.
This barebones option is not without other perks. The camera is weatherproof, features a 149-degree field of view, and comes with 25.0 feet of cable, which is likely long enough to cover everything from sedans to trucks to even some RVs. If installed correctly with the proper adapter, the wired connection should provide a clear, stable picture of your car’s surroundings in real-time.
You can see how the eRapta performed in each of our testing categories below:
| Review Category | Score (Out of 5.0 Stars) |
|---|---|
| Ease of Use | 5.0 |
| Installation | 4.0 |
| Video Quality | 4.5 |
| Features | 4.0 |
| Overall Rating | 4.4 |
At this lower price point, you lose the level of customization that some higher-tier backup camera systems offer. The only way to adjust the parking lines on the ERT01 is to physically tilt the rear camera up or down, and you must cut a wire if you want to turn them off completely. Having a wired backup camera also means you may have to hide cabling along your vehicle’s trim.
Below are the pros and cons of eRapta:
- High-quality video
- Easy installation
- Good customer service reviews
- No monitor
- Must connect with vehicle’s display screen
Since the vehicle we tested did not already have a display screen installed, we paired the eRapta ERT01 with the company’s recommended backup display. The design runs a video cable from the LCD screen to the camera, so losing our connection wasn’t a concern.
This backup camera option costs less than $50 for the complete package with the camera and monitor, and it prioritizes function over features. The camera has three buttons that allow you to toggle between the menu screen, although you can invert the image and make basic picture adjustments.
We also aren’t big fans of the eRapta display screen since it only offers 1080p resolution, but you can purchase a better screen.
Many customers rave about the image quality for the price. The wiring setup is simple and many are able to install it with no issues.
Other buyers say the product can have a short lifespan, so you may find yourself eventually contacting eRapta’s customer support.
4. DoHonest V25 Digital Wireless Backup Camera: Also Consider
- Cost: Around $100
- Amazon review score: 4.4 out of 5.0 based on over 5,400 ratings
- Wireless connection
- Supports up to two cameras
- Customizable guidelines for parking
- Superb picture quality
- Strong low-light performance
- Waterproof camera
Designed to work at night and featuring a six-layer glass camera lens, the DoHonest V25 Digital Wireless Backup Camera has you covered if you’re looking for a solid low-light performer.
The range on the unit is 36.0 feet while a vehicle is in reverse, and the range is 30.0 feet during continuous use. You can also choose from multiple parking guidelines to find the one that best suits your car. Plus, the camera is waterproof and resistant to high temperatures to work in extreme heat or cold.
You can see how the DoHonest performed in each of our testing categories below:
| Review Category | Score (Out of 5.0 Stars) |
|---|---|
| Ease of Use | 4.0 |
| Installation | 5.0 |
| Video Quality | 4.0 |
| Features | 4.5 |
| Overall Rating | 4.4 |
The DoHonest V25 has great all-around performance and is a smart option if you want to mount an extra wireless camera on your car. It can also be a decent buy if you’re on a budget and want a wireless backup camera.
Below are the pros and cons of DoHonest:
- Quick wireless installation
- Waterproof
- Can connect up to two cameras
- Great in low-light conditions
- Wireless signals can be prone to interference
- Monitor is fairly basic
Our review team found the DoHonest to be a mixed bag. Overall video quality was decent enough, and the installation was quick considering the display magnetically attaches to the suction cup mount.
Where the DoHonest V25 falls short is menu navigation and video connection. None of the three navigation buttons on the back of the display have marked instructions, so making any tweaks to the display can be frustrating. There’s also no return button, which means the menu resets to the video display after a few seconds with no input.
Although video performance is acceptable, we discovered some latency in the connection. The wide viewing angle is also broader than some of the other options on this list. That noticeably distorted some of the images, including during a driving test when a car right on our bumper appeared to be several feet away.
Picture quality and night vision hit a home run with customers. Happy customers also mention easy installation and general value for the money.
One common complaint among wireless systems is connection stability, so it’s not surprising that some users of the DoHonest V25 note problems with quality control.
Other Best-Selling Backup Cameras
Need more options? We weren’t able to test the following backup cameras, but we did comb through hundreds of Amazon reviews researching backup cameras. The following receive consistently high praise from customers.
Yakry RV Backup Camera
Cost: About $70
Amazon review score: 4.6 out of 5.0 based on over 1,200 ratings
The Yakry is another good option for an RV backup camera. It has a wide, 7.0-inch monitor with two video inputs. The monitor is easily mounted on the dash and connects to your vehicle’s 12.0-volt cigarette lighter. This backup camera even includes a two-year warranty.
Many reviewers have owned this camera for multiple years and report consistent reliability.
Atokit License Plate Frame Backup Camera
Cost: About $40
Amazon review score: 4.4 out of 5.0 based on over 4,800 ratings
If you’re looking for a more discrete backup camera, consider the Atokit license plate frame backup camera. This waterproof and shockproof camera has a wide, 170-degree viewing angle and works well at night.
Customers like that this camera is easy to use and install, but there are mixed reports on longevity. One person said their Atokit worked well for three years, while a few reported device failure after a year.
LeeKooLuu LK3 Backup Camera
Cost: About $50
Amazon review score: 4.4 out of 5.0 based on over 12,000 ratings
This is a waterproof backup camera with a two-year warranty. The settings are highly adjustable, with useful features such as the ability to change the parking lines. LED lights help provide nighttime vision.
Customers say the LeeKooLuu offers crystal-clear images and a wide field of view. Most are able to install and use this backup camera with no issues. For the cost, most would be happy if this camera only lasted a year, but several people reported getting multiple years of reliable use from this camera.
Backup Cameras Buying Guide
When deciding on the best backup camera for your vehicle, you should weigh several factors like added features and your vehicle’s existing hardware. One of the biggest challenges with an aftermarket camera is the installation process. A store such as Best Buy or a mechanic specializing in modifications can install an aftermarket camera for you, but you’ll pay for both parts and installation.
Below are a few things to keep in mind when picking out the best backup camera for you.
Power Source
The power from your reverse lights typically supports an external backup camera, which means you’ll have to do some electrical work to connect everything. Depending on the installation monitor kit and your car’s trim, finding the correct wires can take anywhere from minutes to hours.
You typically power aftermarket monitors by plugging a cord from the device into your car’s auxiliary power outlet – better known as the cigarette lighter – although a savvy electrician can power the display through another part of the car.
Installation Complexity: Wired Vs. Wireless
Figuring out where the reverse camera goes on your car is a relatively simple DIY project. Most manufacturers have a mounting system that fits on your license plate frame, and some manufacturers have a bracket that works on the back of an RV or trailer. Either way, reverse cameras don’t require professional installation.
Depending on the car and the system you purchase, you might need to thread the power cable through a hole or a lighting fixture. If neither is an option, you’ll have to drill a hole through your car’s frame near the camera mount. Drilling a hole comes with the risk of water seeping into the vehicle, so you’ll want to make sure you’ve sealed it correctly.
If you wish to avoid the hassle of hiding wires under your car or the possibility of needing to drill into your vehicle, choose a wireless system. Although a wireless signal can have occasional lags and lower video quality, it’s much easier to install.
Your Car’s Existing Display
Many newer cars come with interactive display monitors from the automaker. Some double as screens for backup cameras, while others are just interactive entertainment centers for drivers. If your car already has a monitor, you might be able to save money by getting a camera rather than a complete system with a monitor.
If you’re unhappy with your screen, an aftermarket display is one way to upgrade to your specifications.
Importance of High-Tech Features
One significant consideration is the level of functionality you want from your vehicle. Do you need a touchscreen with a dash camera, or will a simple backup camera work? Something else to think about is continuously running video, which can serve as evidence in an accident. Other things to consider are how complex of a monitor you want and whether you wish to connect other video sources, such as a dashcam or side cameras.
You can probably modify your car to match whatever level of video recording you desire, but it depends on what you’re willing to spend. The best backup camera systems offer high-quality features at reasonable costs.
Mounting Location
Most backup camera manufacturers allow you to install the wide-angle camera somewhere on the license plate and offer a high-definition view monitor that attaches to either the dash, windshield, or rearview mirror with a surface mount. Dash, windshield, and mirror monitors often allow you to view backup camera angles by sliding your finger across the screen.
While the most common location, other common locations include the rear roof of the vehicle. During testing, we found the view can sometimes be limited in this mounting location.
Compare Backup Cameras
| Brand/Model | Video Resolution | Camera Connection | Rear Angle of View |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUTO-VOX CS-2 Wireless Backup Camera | 480p | Wireless | 110 Degrees |
| AMTIFO A8 FHD Wireless Backup Camera | 1080p | Wireless | 150 Degrees |
| eRapta ERT01 Car Rearview Camera | 720p | Wired | 148 Degrees |
| DoHonest V25 Digital Wireless Backup Camera | 1080p | Wireless | 150 Degrees |
Best Backup Cameras: Bottom Line
Example intro line: In this article, along with sharing helpful purchasing tips for those interested in purchasing a backup camera, we reviewed the top four backup cameras in 2024:
- Best Backup Camera: AUTO-VOX CS-2 Wireless Backup Camera
- Best Multi-Camera System: AMTIFO A8 FHD Wireless Backup Camera
- Best Budget Camera: eRapta ERT01 Car Rearview Camera
- Also Consider: DoHonest V25 Digital Wireless Backup Camera
Backup Cameras: FAQ
Below are some common frequently asked questions about backup cameras:
What is the best cheap backup camera?
Our review team named the AUTO-VOX CS-2 the best backup camera for its design and price at roughly $120.
Consumers searching for a more affordable option can purchase eRapta’s camera-only option.
Are wireless backup cameras any good?
In our research on wireless backup cameras, we found that brands such as AMTIFO and DoHonest make quality cameras with excellent overall connections and video quality.
Are backup cameras worth it?
For under $100 and a little bit of labor, a backup camera is an easy way to improve visibility when you’re backing up and want to boost vehicle safety.
Can an aftermarket backup camera be installed on a vehicle?
While wired backup camera systems are becoming increasingly common features from automakers, high-definition wired and wireless systems are available aftermarket options for a weekend DIY project.
Which Is better: a wired or a wireless backup camera?
Choosing which aftermarket backup to install depends on your vehicle and the amount of work you’re willing to do. Wireless systems are more convenient since you don’t need to hide wires under your vehicle’s trim, but you may not get the best video quality. Wired connections may not be an option for larger vehicles such as trucks and RVs.
Full Backup Camera Testing Methodology
Whether a car backup camera has a wireless or a wired camera connection, it needs to produce clear images while the car is in reverse. We used the cameras under various lighting conditions and even set them up to run a continuous video feed to gauge performance outside of the parking lot. For wireless setups, we also looked at how well each camera maintained a video connection.
Ease of Use
When buying a backup camera, you’ll want to consider how easy the camera is going to be to use. We accounted for this by comparing the user interface of each camera along with how simple it was to connect to our vehicle (either wirelessly or wired). The user interface includes menu navigation ability and reliability. The cameras that scored highest in this category were the easiest to use.
Installation
Depending on the ease of installation, some backup cameras may score higher than others in this testing criterion. If the backup camera connects wirelessly, it may score higher since there will not be any wires or cords involved in the backup camera installation process. Also, if the camera is easy to adjust to get the right angle during the installation and setup process, the backup camera will likely score higher.
Video Quality
When buying any camera, video quality should be at the top of the list. Cameras in our review that had a higher video resolution combined with better angle capturing throughout our testing process scored the highest in this review category.
Features
Additional features such as parking lines, angle rotations, and waterproofing can make or break your purchase of a high-quality backup camera. The cameras in this review that offered the most useful features in a backup camera scored the highest in this category.
How We Score Products
Star ratings help us differentiate between the top-performing products in our review. The backup cameras in this review were honestly evaluated and given a rating of 1.0 to 5.0 stars to accurately differentiate between the best cameras. Our calculations showed an average rating of 4.5 out of 5.0 stars among the cameras in our review.
- 5.0 Stars: A 5.0-star rating is a well above average rating for the cameras in this review. If the backup camera exceeded our expectations while being easy to install and use, you’ll see a 5.0-star score.
- 4.0 Stars: A 4.0-star rating is an above-average rating. If the cameras in our review provided excellent video quality but a narrower viewing angle compared to other backup cameras, you’d likely see a 4.0-star rating.
- 3.0 Stars: A 3.0-star score is an average rating. If the backup camera met our expectations but could have slight improvements with the user interface and additional features, you’d see an average score.
- 2.0 Stars: A 2.0-star rating is a below-average score. For example, if the camera in our review had poor video quality and gave us some difficulty throughout the installation process, we would give the camera a 2.0-star rating.
- 1.0 Star: A 1.0-star rating is the lowest score we give in our reviews. If the camera is defective in some way or breaks during our testing process solely due to camera quality, you’ll see a low score of 1.0 stars.
Why Trust Motor1.com
Each year, we test over 350 auto products on vehicles and in our testing lab. Our team of product testers thoroughly researches top products, unboxes and puts our hands on each component, and tests the items on real vehicles before making recommendations to readers.
We publish hundreds of product and service reviews to bring car enthusiasts detailed guides on automotive tools, detailing kits, car seats, pet products, and much more. For more information on our testing methodology and how we evaluate every product, check out our methodology page here.
*Data accurate at time of publication. Products subject to availability.
