While many of us like to think we have eyes in the back of our heads, the back of our cars is a that's all too vulnerable to dangerous accidents whenever our vehicles are in reverse. A backup camera can see where your eyes—and rear view mirrors—can't, and it provides a reliable solution to this daily driving risk.
Our top pick, Yada, is easy to install and surprisingly affordable. See how it compares to other top best backup cameras and find the right one to help you stay safe and alert.
Product | Price* | Monitor | Mount | Learn more | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall |  Yada
| $59.99 |  Included | License plate | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Most durable |  Garmin BC 30
| $139.47 |  Garmin GPS(not included) | License plate, flush mount | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Best for trailers |  Swift Hitch SH04
| $199.00 | Mobile app | Screws | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Best budget pick |  LeeKooLuu LK3 | $49.99 | Included
| License plate | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Best mirror |  Auto-Vox T9 | $169.99 | Included
| License plate | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Most flexible power source |  eRapta ERT03 | $109.99 | Included
| License plate | View on Amazon | Read Review |
*Amazon.com list price as of 04/06/2021 at 4:35 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer.
*Amazon.com list price as of 04/06/2021 at 4:35 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer.
The Yada wireless backup camera system is our overall pick because it's reliable, affordable, and easy to install. It does have a shorter wireless range than other cameras on our list (so it may not be the best choice for long trailers or campers), but it's got a great viewing angle, a clear picture, and parking assist.
Easy installation
Water-resistant casing
Sharp image
110º view
Suction cup and hardware for monitor
Night vision 
Monitor delay
Short range A water-resistant casing protects the camera from dust and moisture, and the camera mounts easily onto your rear license plate. It comes with zip ties to secure the power cable, as well as two different mounting options for the monitor.
The Yada is designed to automatically turn on and send a live feed to the monitor as soon as you put your car in reverse, but there is a slight lag time of a few seconds before the image appears.
*Amazon.com list price as of 04/06/2021 at 4:35 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer.
The Garmin BC 30 camera doesn't come with a monitor, so you'll have to pair it with a compatible Garmin GPS navigator to see the camera feed on a screen. But because the camera "recognizes" the GPS, there's no syncing required, which is nice. If you have an older car without a GPS or a back-up camera, you can get two handy devices that work together on a single screen.
GPS compatibility
Parking assist adjustment
Easy syncing
Flush mount option
Instructional installation videos
Waterproof casing
Low resolution
No night vision
May require drilling
Required GPS costs extra When you put the car into reverse, you'll see the images from the backup camera. And once you put it back into drive, you'll be able to see your navigation system again.
The camera's picture quality isn't great, but the camera itself is rugged and durable, and we like that you can adjust the parking assist feature using the touch screen on your GPS.
Garmin recommends that you have the BC 30 professionally installed, because it may require drilling a hole to get the power wire connected to the reverse lights.
The Garmin Drive 50 GPS does double duty as a monitor for your backup camera and as a top-notch navigational system. It has extra features like Driver Alerts to warn you of potential dangers up ahead and Real Directions, which gives you directions like a friend would, with landmarks and buildings.
*Amazon.com list price as of 04/06/2021 at 4:35 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer.
Our favorite thing about the Swift Hitch SH04 is that you can power the camera with a wire or use rechargeable batteries for wireless operation. Its 100% wireless feature means you can truly mount it anywhere, making it ideal for trailer hauling or as an RV backup camera. And you'll get a low battery alert when it's time to recharge.
Wireless camera
Viewing app
Built-in microphone
Phone mount
Low battery alert
Image controls
60º field of view
Low resolution There's no monitor included, but the camera creates a Wi-Fi hotspot so you can use your phone or tablet as a monitor without needing an internet connection or using data. The camera app is designed so you can still receive calls and texts while viewing camera footage.
The built-in camera microphone allows you to talk to someone outside the vehicle to help with parking, and the kit comes with a mount for your phone to ensure a hands-free experience. The only downsides to this camera are its narrow 60º field of vision and its less-than-stellar image resolution
*Amazon.com list price as of 04/06/2021 at 4:35 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer.
Unlike most backup cameras that show a picture only when your car is in reverse, the LeeKooLuu has a constant viewing option if you power it using the DC adapter in your cigarette lighter so you can keep an eye on what's happening behind your vehicle at all times.
Continuous video available
Affordable
Easy install
Color distortion in cold weather
Wired installation 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.
*Amazon.com list price as of 04/06/2021 at 4:35 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer.
As one of the priciest cameras on our list, the Auto-Vox T9 has a lot to live up to. But with included video recording, audio recording, and a monitor that doubles as a rearview mirror, this device has it all.
Doubles as rearview mirror
140º field of view
Large touchscreen
MicroSD card slot
Pricey
Power cable on the ceiling We like that it replaces your rearview mirror, 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. 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.
*Amazon.com list price as of 04/06/2021 at 4:35 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer.
If you're not sure you want to rely on a wireless connection for your backup cam, the eRapta ERT03 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.
The camera's 149º field of view 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, though its design might obscure parts of your license plate.
eRapta offers 24-hour customer service to help you if you run into any problems.
Don't worry if your car didn’t come with a backup camera already installed—today's aftermarket backup cameras, like Yada, are affordable and easy to set up. Still, when it comes to choosing one, consider the size of your vehicle, the way you'll use your rear view camera, and the type of installation you're willing to do. It won't take long before you're backing up safer.
Check out the related articles below for more ways to improve your car's safety—like a dash cam to record footage in the event of a car crash, or a vehicle gps tracker to keep tabs on your teen driver.
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.
Yes, and it's an ideal way to connect a camera that doesn't come with an LCD monitor. As long as your head unit has a screen with video capability, you should be able to pair it with your backup camera.
If your vehicle doesn't have a modern head unit, companies like Pioneer make Super Hi-Vision touch screen units that can control your stereo, navigation system, and backup camera.
Keep in mind that if you want to put a new head unit in your vehicle, you'll probably need to get it installed by a pro.
It will definitely reduce the number of blind spots, but depending on the field of vision, most backup cameras can't eliminate them completely.
You should always use your car's rear view mirrors and your own line of sight to check blind spots before reversing or changing lanes.
A backup camera does cover one of the most dangerous blind spots directly behind the vehicle, however, reducing your chances of tragic rollovers and unfortunate parking mishaps.
Yes. You can connect your backup camera to your vehicle's head unit, so you can view your backup camera as soon as you put your car in reverse. The Android Auto app automatically switches the screen to your backup camera so you get a clear view.
Yes, but only if your back up camera has video recording capability. If it does, then you can download the video from the device onto your computer, and then upload it to your iCloud photo library. This is a great way to provide video evidence in case of an accident.
*Amazon.com list price as of 04/06/2021 at 4:35 p.m. (MT). Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.
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