The Best Aftermarket Back-Up Cameras

While many of us like to think we have eyes in the back of our heads, none of us has eyes in the back of our cars, leaving us vulnerable to dangerous accidents whenever our vehicles are in reverse. A backup camera can see where your eyes—and your rearview mirrors—can't, and it provides a reliable solution to this daily driving risk.

Don't worry if your car didn’t come with a backup camera already installed—today's aftermarket backup cameras are affordable and easy to set up. When it comes to choosing one, you'll need to consider the size of your vehicle, the way you'll use your camera, and the type of installation you're willing to do. We've shopped around to find you the best backup cameras to help you stay safe and alert.

We like that you can connect more than one camera to your LeeKuuLoo monitor in case you want to attach one to a hitch and another to the back of a trailer. Unlike most backup cameras that only show a picture when your car is in reverse, the LeeKuuLoo has a constant viewing option, so you can keep an eye on what's happening behind your vehicle at all times.

We wish that the camera were easier to adjust—it adjusts up and down but not side to side, and you might see some color distortion in the monitor in colder temperatures. When it's time to install your LeeKuuLoo, we recommend searching online for installation videos, as the instructions that come with the kit aren't very clear.

As the priciest camera on our list, the Auto-Vox X2 has a lot to live up to, but with an included dash cam, video recording, audio recording, and a monitor that doubles as a rearview mirror, this device has it all. We like that it fits right over your rearview mirror with elastic straps, putting your backup camera monitor in a spot where you're already used to looking. When you have it in rear camera mode, you can swipe up and down to adjust the view, but there is a glitch that causes a screen flicker when it's in backup mode in some models. Unlike the other backup cams on our list, this monitor does require some wiring for power, but it's basic enough for DIY installation.

If you're not sure you want to rely on a wireless connection for your backup camera, the eRapta might be a good choice. It gives you the option of either plugging in the monitor to your cigarette lighter and using a wireless connection, or running a wire from the monitor to the camera. eRapta offers 24-hour customer service to help you if you run into any problems.

The camera's 149-degree angle is wide enough for a good view, but it’s not so wide that the image gets distorted. It's fully waterproof with LED lights for night vision, but its design might obscure parts of your license plate.

While the Car Rover License Plate Frame Camera doesn't come with a monitor, it has a lot of other notable features, like distance sensors and a voice alert system to let you know how far away you are from objects. The image is as crisp and clear as an Ultra HD television, but there is some delay if you decide to use your phone as a screen. We recommend purchasing a separate monitor or using a dedicated smart device just for your backup camera.

We like that the camera is integrated into a heavy duty frame, so you don't have to worry about clips or mounting, and it looks a lot sleeker than a clunky license plate camera. Car Rover's customer service is also excellent, with lifetime tech support and 24-hour customer care.

To evaluate the best backup cameras, we considered the most important necessary features for vehicle safety and convenience. We compared features and specs on the camera systems currently on the market and picked the best options available. Visit our methodology to learn more.

• Best Car Emergency Kits
• Best Steering Wheel Locks
• Best Car Alarms
• Best Remote Car Starters
• Best GPS Vehicle Trackers 
• Car Safety Guide
• Car Safety FAQ