Backup cameras have become an important tool in modern vehicles. The unobstructed view provided by a vehicle’s backup camera gives drivers increased levels of convenience and safety when parking or driving their vehicles in reverse. The latest backup cameras transmit HD video directly to your car’s infotainment screen or a secondary high-resolution monitor, and many will record footage in the unfortunate event of an accident.
After examining dozens of different backup cameras, we have identified the best available on the market today. Considering factors such as video quality, reliability, and ease of installation we have chosen our top picks and broken down many other great models to provide you with a list of the best backup cameras around.
After reviewing a long list of backup cameras we’ve chosen the Yuesem Wireless Backup Camera as our overall top pick. The rugged camera can be attached to any vehicle or trailer and features impressive hardware that wirelessly outputs high-quality video to a large and crisp seven-inch LCD monitor.
The 5 Top-Rated Backup Cameras
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Backup Camera Overall | Yuesem Wireless Backup Camera | 4.9 |
| Best Wireless Backup Camera | CAMONS Digital Wireless Backup Camera | 4.9 |
| Best Budget Backup Camera | eRapta Backup Camera | 4.7 |
| Best License Plate Backup Camera | LeeKooLuu HD Wireless Backup Camera | 4.8 |
| Best Rearview Mirror Backup Camera | VanTop Rearview Mirror Backup Camera | 4.8 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Backup Camera Overall: Yuesem Wireless Backup Camera
Loaded with all of the necessary features we believe a modern backup camera should have, the Yuesem Wireless Backup Camera is a well-rounded device that stands out for its high-quality construction. The rugged metal housing, IP69 waterproof design, and outstanding vehicle compatibility help to put this backup camera a step above all others. With a voltage range of 12-24V DC and a wireless signal that remains uninterrupted well beyond 40 feet, this camera will work well on nearly any vehicle or trailer on the road.
The camera itself has a wide-angle 149-degree field of view which transmits at 1080p resolution to the seven-inch LCD monitor. Night vision kicks in automatically whenever light levels drop, turning on the 18 infrared LED lights via a charged-couple device sensor.
Users have reported that the wireless signal is consistently stable, even when the camera is attached dozens of feet away from the LCD monitor receiver. Trucks, RVs, and tow trailers can make great use of this heavy-duty camera, as can any standard commuter vehicle. The monitor has split-screen functionality and can be paired with multiple cameras if you desire additional dash or side-view cameras.
Yuesem Wireless Backup Camera Key Features:
- Seven-inch monitor at 1080p resolution
- 149-degree camera viewing angle
- 18 infrared lights for enhanced night vision
- Optional reverse driving digital guidelines
Best Wireless Backup Camera: CAMONS Digital Wireless Backup Camera
The CAMONS Digital Wireless Backup Camera was designed specifically for larger vehicles, and it shows. The impressive wireless signal is encrypted to eliminate signal interference, and its stable connection has a working distance of over 200 meters— far greater than any road-legal vehicle could possibly be. You can trust this wireless connection to remain sound no matter the size of the vehicle you drive.
A 1080p resolution video is transmitted to the seven-inch IPS LCD monitor which is equipped with a sun visor and has auto-dimming functionality. Interestingly, the camera also transmits audio to the monitor, a feature that is unique to this device from what we’ve seen. The monitor unit supports SD cards up to 128gb and can be set to record videos on a loop at differently timed intervals in order to save video files for use as evidence if an accident were to occur.
The monitor offers multiple display modes and can support up to four cameras at once. A proprietary starlight AHD sensor within the camera detects light and color levels to adjust video settings for a vivid viewing experience, and 18 infrared LED lights are ready to light up the night when the sky turns dark.
CAMONS Digital Wireless Backup Camera Key Features:
- Seven-inch monitor at 1080p resolution
- 145-degree camera viewing angle
- Built-in DVR
- 36-month warranty
Best Budget Backup Camera: eRapta Backup Camera
If you like to keep things simple and don’t need a wealth of display modes, video settings, or multi-camera functionality, then the eRapta Backup Camera is an affordable solution that won’t let you down. The 4.3-inch monitor may be a bit smaller than what is offered with our other top picks, but it still presents a clear 720p resolution that trounces many other backup camera systems on the market today.
The camera mounts onto the top portion of your license plate and it is connected by a solid wire to the display monitor on the driver’s dashboard. Though wired, the step-by-step installation guide helps to make this an easy install. The monitor’s power cord plugs into the car’s 12V charger or cigarette lighter and features a USB port, making it a multifunctional tool that can charge your smartphone and other devices.
Eight LED lights on the camera’s surface light up when the vehicle is put into reverse, and the protective housing is completely waterproof. Parking guidelines pop up on the monitor to help you back your vehicle into tight spaces without trouble.
eRapta Backup Camera Key Features:
- 4.3-inch monitor at 720p resolution
- 149-degree camera viewing angle
- Wired connection
Best License Plate Backup Camera: LeeKooLuu HD Wireless Backup Camera
Take one look at the LeeKooLuu HD Wireless Backup Camera and you will instantly see that the engineers cared about what they were creating. This is one of the best looking backup cameras we encountered in our research, and those looks come backed up by powerful hardware with chart-topping statistics.
This backup camera pumps out 1080p video to a five-inch monitor, but what’s most impressive is the astounding 170-degree viewing angle it captures. The flat, rear end of your vehicle is home to a total of 180-degrees of possible vision, and this little license plate camera can capture nearly all of it.
It’s also waterproof and equipped with 8 LED lights for enhanced night vision. The video is transmitted wirelessly and can maintain a stable signal connection up to 50 feet from the monitor receiver. You’ll be able to easily equip this outstanding backup camera to anything with a license plate from a tiny sedan to a gargantuan caravan.
LeeKooLuu HD Wireless Backup Camera Key Features:
- Five-inch monitor at 1080p resolution
- 170-degree camera viewing angle
- Two-year warranty
Best Review Mirror Backup Camera: VanTop Rearview Mirror Backup Camera
There’s something special about the VanTop Rearview Mirror Backup Camera. This unit replaces a vehicle’s entire rearview mirror with a large multi-functional touchscreen that can display live Ultra HD video captured by the included backup camera or dashcams, all the while behaving as a traditional mirror when you need it to.
This is the future of vehicle camera integration. The touchscreen interface allows the driver to switch between video feeds, enable a picture-in-picture mode, or access any of the unit’s additional functions such as digital parking guidelines or photography mode. Yes, there’s a photography mode!
Loop recording can be activated and supported by SD card storage for on-demand video recording or G-sensor enabled immediate collision recording. Parking assistance will not only display the typical on-screen guidelines, but it will also notify you when to stop if you are about to back into an object or if something, or someone, suddenly appears behind your vehicle. This fantastic device does it all.
VanTop Rearview Mirror Backup Camera Key Features:
- Ten-inch touchscreen monitor at 2.5k resolution
- 140-degree backup camera viewing angle
- Equipped with a dashcam as well
Who Should Buy A Backup Camera
If your vehicle does not have a backup camera, you should buy a backup camera. The added convenience and safety are worth every penny spent, and the models that record data in the event of an accident could save you money and trouble in the long run.
Drivers who often tow trailers or fifth-wheels should also purchase a backup camera. Your vehicle’s mirrors simply cannot see around the large equipment you tow. A backup camera can be installed in the rear of your trailer to provide maximum visibility when reversing in crowded spaces.
Even if your car already has a backup camera, it could be time to upgrade to a more powerful camera and a higher resolution video monitor. Vehicles have been manufactured with backup cameras for over a decade now, and many are long in the tooth with blurry, pixelated displays. It’d be wise to upgrade now before something bad happens as a result of your distorted sightlines.
Important Features to Consider
There are a few important considerations to think through before purchasing a backup camera.
- Do you already have a backup camera? Backup cameras are now required in all new vehicles sold in the United States, and automakers have been including backup cameras in many vehicles over the last decade. Chances are,your car may already have a backup camera. Many of the backup cameras on our list are of higher quality than dated OEM systems and can serve as an upgrade to your existing backup camera system.
- Infotainment integration or standalone monitor. Aftermarket backup cameras will work with most modern infotainment screens. Older infotainment units, however, may not recognize or be able to properly display the high-quality video of contemporary backup cameras. Drivers with older vehicles will likely want to couple their new backup camera with a new standalone monitor.
- Vehicle length. For the average consumer in a commuter car, this isn’t a concern. Sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks will all work well with any backup camera, whether it be wired or wireless, on this list. You must consider vehicle length if you’re looking for a backup camera for extended trailers, long RVs, and other such lengthy vehicles as cable length and wireless transmission can be a limiting factor. Make sure the backup camera you purchase has either a long enough cable or strong enough wireless signal for the length of your vehicle.
- Additional cameras. The high-end monitors and backup camera systems on this list can work with multiple cameras at a go. If you’d like a dash camera or a suite of 360-degree cameras to go with your backup camera, you’ll want a video monitor that can connect to and display multiple feeds. Some of the systems we listed come packaged with additional cameras. If you’d like to purchase a dash camera to complement your backup camera, take a look at our list of the best dash cameras for cars.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a backup camera and how does it work?
Backup cameras are a safety and convenience feature in modern vehicles that utilize a small camera on the rear of a car to aid the driver’s vision while they are parking or driving their vehicle in reverse. Backup cameras transmit a video feed to either the vehicle’s standard infotainment screen or a secondary monitor.
Backup camera video feeds can be transmitted to a screen wirelessly or through a stable wired connection. Aftermarket backups cameras, such as the ones featured in this article, are often installed in older vehicles that do not have OEM backup cameras or as an upgrade to a vehicle’s default backup camera. Drivers with long trucks, fifth wheels, tow trailers, and otherwise long vehicles can also greatly benefit from the convenience of backup cameras.
How much does it cost to install a backup camera?
Most backup cameras, especially the wireless variety, are easy to install. They come with detailed instructions and most have online videos to watch that showcase the step-by-step installation instructions. Installation is free if you can do it on your own.
If, however, you would like to have it professionally installed, the cost isn’t too great. HowMuchIsIt.org estimates that professional backup camera installation will cost in the range of $75 to $200 depending on the complexity of your system.
Can you add a backup camera to any car?
Yes! Any car of any make, model, age, or condition can be fitted with a backup camera.
Can I leave my backup camera on all the time?
Most models will allow you to leave the camera on at all times. Be default, most backup cameras will automatically activate when the car is put into reverse, and some will automatically activate and record data in the event of an accident. Though you can leave most cameras on all the time, those that do may want to have a standalone monitor for the video feed so that the video does not monopolize your vehicle’s infotainment screen.
Other Backup Cameras We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other backup cameras. Even though they didn’t make our five best backup camera list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your vehicle. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Wired Backup Cameras
- Wireless Backup Cameras
- License Plate Backup Cameras
- Rearview Mirror Backup Cameras
- Budget Backup Cameras
Wired Backup Cameras
The Amtifo Backup Camera Kit is a great option that works well on small cars, large trucks, and even long fifth-wheel trailers. The included RCA video cable is available in different lengths depending upon the length of your vehicle.
Key Features:
- Seven-inch monitor at 720p resolution
- 150-degree camera viewing angle
- Two-year warranty
Cost: $70
Designed for buses, RVs, and box trucks, the DVKNM Upgrade Backup Camera is a waterproof camera with a four-pin connector for reliable camera power and video quality. The monitor screen can be paired with a second camera to utilize its split-screen functionality.
Key Features:
- Seven-inch LCD monitor at 720p resolution
- 140-degree camera viewing angle
- 18 IR LEDs for stellar night vision
Cost: $90
Fookoo II HD Backup Camera Kit
The Fookoo II HD Backup Camera Kit features high-resolution video on an auto-dimming screen that adjusts its brightness depending upon your driving conditions. Parking guidelines appear on screen whenever the vehicle is put into reverse.
Key Features:
- Seven-inch LCD monitor at 1080p resolution
- Two-megapixel camera
- Auto-dimming monitor
Cost: $160
Be discreet with the NATIKIA Low Profile Camera. This waterproof, wide-angle camera can easily be installed on the rear of your vehicle and synced to most vehicle monitors. Supporting monitors can connect to multiple MATIKIA cameras at once, potentially creating a 360-degree on-screen view.
Key Features:
- 170-degree camera viewing angle
- Low profile design and installation
- Two-year warranty
Cost: $40
Upgrade Homder Front and Rear Camera System
Take comfort in knowing that your front and back are covered with the Upgrade Homder Front and Rear Camera System. Not only does this provide an HD backup camera experience, but the head unit also features a front dashcam. Both cameras can be viewed on the monitor at once, and footage can be stored from both in the event of an accident.
Key Features:
- Seven-inch LCD monitor at 1080p resolution
- Dual camera system
- G-sensor automatically saves video when an accident occurs
Wireless Backup Cameras
Amitfo FHD Wireless Backup Camera
The multifunctional Amitfo FHD Wireless Backup Camera has quad-camera compatibility and can be wired into your brake light for enhanced functionality. The 18 LED lights provide excellent night vision when your car is in reverse. This is a great wireless option for trucks and fifth-wheels.
Key Features:
- Seven-inch LCD monitor at 1080p resolution
- Reliable performance on vehicles up to 60 feet in length
- 150-degree camera viewing angle
Cost: $160
Amtifo HD Adjustable Backup Camera System
At about half the price of the last Amitfo camera we listed, you can pick up this Amtifo HD Adjustable Backup Camera System. This model has a smaller monitor and shorter wireless range, making it a great value solution for smaller vehicles.
Key Features:
- 4.3-inch LCD monitor at 720p resolution
- Reliable performance on vehicles up to 40 feet in length
- Two-year warranty
Cost: $80
DoHonest Wireless Backup Camera
With the strongest wireless signal in the bunch, the DoHonest Wireless Backup Camera is the right choice for those who need uninterrupted signal strength in their wireless backup camera. It’s also the right choice for supremely long vehicles such as mega RVs and semi-trucks.
Key Features:
- Seven-inch LCD monitor at 1080p resolution
- Reliable performance on vehicles up to 100 feet in length
- Two-year warranty
License Plate Backup Cameras
Calmoor Wireless License Plate Camera
Sleek and easy-to-install, the Calmoor Wireless License Plate Camera is a great looking, high performing backup camera that blends into the license plate design of your vehicle. Reviewers praise the surprisingly vivid image quality of the five-inch monitor.
Key Features:
- Five-inch digital monitor
- 170-degree camera viewing angle
- Reliable performance on vehicles up to 45 feet in length
Cost: $140
Updated in 2019 with a stronger wireless signal, the Fookoo License Plate Camera is among the most advanced in its class with top-tier signal strength and uninterrupted video streaming.
Key Features:
- Five-inch digital monitor
- Reliable performance on vehicles up to 45 feet in length
- One-year warranty
Cost: $145
LeeKooLuu License Plate Camera System
Most commuter cars fall well within the 23-foot reliable signal range of the LeeKooLuu License Plate Camera System. This camera setup is for those who need a simple license plate backup camera at an affordable price for their daily driver.
Key Features:
- 4.3-inch digital monitor
- Reliable performance on vehicles up to 23 feet in length
- Two-year warranty
Cost: $60
Xroose High Definition Car Backup Camera
The Xroose High Definition Car Backup Camera can serve as an upgrade or addition to your current backup camera. This unit does not come with a monitor. Instead, this camera packed in a powerful control chip which processes and transmits video faster than most other backup cameras on the market.
Key Features:
- Excellent video quality in extremely low light
- 152-degree camera viewing angle
- One-year warranty
Cost: $45
Not quite as powerful as the previously mentioned Xroose camera, but still quite capable, this Xroose Review Camera installs at the top of your license plate frame and transmits wirelessly to an HD monitor fitted with parking guideline functionality.
Key Features:
- Five-inch LCD monitor at 720p resolution
- 150-degree camera viewing angle
- Parking guideline functionality
Rearview Mirror Backup Cameras
AUTO-VOX Wireless Backup Camera Kit
Skip the hassle of adding an additional monitor to your dashboard with the AUTO-VOX Wireless Backup Camera Kit. This waterproof backup camera installs over your license plate and wirelessly transmits to the included backup mirror, displaying a 4.3-inch video feed over the mirror when reversing.
Key Features:
- 170-degree camera viewing angle
- Multiple bracket sizes included
- Auto-dimming brightness
Cost: $140
The full-screen camera dual camera display of the GRC Mirror Backup Camera is a sight to behold. The resolution is gorgeous, and the touch screen control lets you flip between settings while you utilize the mirror, backup camera, and front-facing camera.
Key Features:
- Ten-inch display at 1080p resolution
- Dual camera support
- Front-facing camera included
Cost: $100
Lenovo Mirror Backup and Dash Camera
The waterproof, anti-fog rear camera of the Lenovo Mirror Backup and Dash Camera is worthy of its own praise, but when combined with the equally powerful front-facing camera and touch-sensitive rearview mirror display, it all seems to perform as if by magic. An included memory card stores video data in the case of an accident.
Key Features:
- 9.66-inch display at 1080p resolution
- Dual camera support
- Front-facing camera included
Cost: $90
VVCAR Mirror Touch Screen Camera System
If the best resolution, the largest display, and the longest warranty aren’t enough to convince you that the VVCAR Mirror Touch Screen Camera System is an awesome buy, then we don’t know what to tell you. It also has GPS functionality, automatic video recording during an accident, and a lane departure warning system. Is that enough?
Key Features:
- 12-inch display at 1296p resolution
- Three-year warranty
- Loop recording and G-sensor ensures you’re protected during an accident
Budget Backup Cameras
eRapta 2nd Generation Reversing Camera
The inexpensive eRapta 2nd Generation Reversing Camera is a step above most OEM units. This item does not include a monitor, but it will pair well with factory-made and aftermarket-supplied head units. This is a great option for upgrading your current backup camera.
Key Features:
- 149-degree camera viewing angle
- IP 69 waterproof rating
- Adjustable license plate angle and installation
Cost: $35
The LeeKooLuu Car Backup Camera installs with a four-pin connector for seamless video quality to your vehicle’s current head unit and monitor. This budget-friendly option does not come with its own monitor.
Key Features:
- 150-degree camera viewing angle
- IP 69 waterproof rating
- Two-year warranty
Cost: $20
The SUNNEST Backup Camera is a low profile license plate unit with an impressive wide-angle lens. The lens can be rotated 45 degrees to find the best viewing angle. The universal connectivity and simple design ensure it will work well and look good on just about any vehicle.
Key Features:
- 170-degree camera viewing angle
- Eight LED units for enhanced night vision
- One-year warranty
Cost: $20
