Best Professional Dash Cams for Fleets in 2024

Professional dashcams are an effective way to ensure the safety of your fleet drivers and other road users in 2024. Our top dashcam for US fleets is Samsara’s CM34 dual-facing camera, thanks to its continuous recording of all incidents, low light recording capabilities, and integration with Samsara’s superb fleet management system.

The price of a dashcam, its specific features, and hardware specifications will all factor into your decision-making. And there are many other top dashcams on the market including much lower-cost picks like the Garmin Dash Cam 57. We’ve decided on our five best dashcams for fleets and reviewed them below though, if you are short on time, get quotes from top-rated dashcam providers based on the options best suited to you.

Top 5 Dash Cams for Fleets

Let’s compare the top fleet dashcam tech side-by-side:

1. Samsara CM34 – Best All-Round Fleet Dashcam

Remaining our favorite all-around dashcam series, the Samsara CM34 Dual-Facing AI Dash Cam is an upgrade from the previous CM32 model. It offers slightly improved features to aid both driver safety and fleet management efficiency, as we’ll detail shortly, keeping it as our number one pick.

What features does the Samsara CM34 offer?

The CM34 features a 129° front-facing camera (compared to 121° on the CM32) with a configurable resolution of up to 2K (1440p) and HDR support for better image quality in varying light conditions (meanwhile, the CM32 had HD 1080p resolution).

It also includes a driver-facing 167° camera (compared to 177° on the CM32) with IR-optimized night vision, configurable up to HD 1080p (the CM32 offered up to 720p), and a high-speed 4G LTE connection for automatic uploads of safety events. The CM34 has a more versatile 75° independent tilt for the front camera and a 45° tilt for the driver-facing one.

Better yet, unlike the CM32 which could only upload 60-second video clips, the CM34 stores continuous recordings that can be retrieved on-demand via the cloud, thanks to enhanced storage of up to 87 trip hours.

Clips are analyzed to judge which actions or behaviors in the vehicle or on the road are high-risk using Samsara’s AI technology, such as distracted driving and running red lights. The camera can also identify speed limit signs and will notify the driver if they are not observing the rules of the road. To this end, the CM34 also supports in-cab coaching using its optional built-in speaker, promoting real-time driver improvement.

How much does the Samsara CM34 cost?

Prices for the Samsara CM34 dashcam, or any CM-series hardware, are included as part of a Samsara license fee. This fee covers hardware, cloud software, cables, ongoing firmware updates, and cellular data connectivity for cellular gateways.

However, the exact cost is custom and depends on how many hardware items, dashcam or otherwise, you purchase from Samsara. The more items you purchase, the lower the per-item cost. Our research tells us an annual license costs around $630 or around $52.50 per month, though we’ve seen prices of between $40 and $90 per month reported on user forums.

Software licenses to use CM-series dashcams are sold in 1, 3, 5, and 7-year license terms. However, for small business fleets with fewer than 11 vehicles or fewer than 31 pieces of equipment purchased via Samsara, you’ll have a 3-year minimum contract term.

You may also face installation costs of up to $150 per device, though given the installation is fairly straightforward, as we’ll show you shortly, this may not be necessary.

How does the Samsara CM34 work?

Essentially, the Samsara CM34 works by connecting to Samsara’s Vehicle Gateway device. This is a 4G LTE-enabled piece of hardware which uploads data from your dashcam and your vehicle diagnostic data to Samsara’s data storage cloud.

How to install the Samsara CM34

Installation remains simple with the Samsara CM34, taking about ten minutes in total. All you need to do is attach the device to your windshield, as shown below.

The camera then connects directly to the Samsara Vehicle Gateway without additional wiring, just as the CM32 did.

Thereafter, you’ll complete the installation on the Samsara Fleet app via a smartphone. The process is pretty simple, follow the instructions shown below to make sure the dashcam is positioned correctly.

2. Verizon Connect AI Dual-Facing Dashcam – Best for Large Fleets

Positioned as one of the best dashcams for large-scale fleets, the Verizon Connect AI Dual-Facing Dashcam is integrated with Verizon’s renowned fleet management software, providing a comprehensive view of both road conditions and driver behavior.

This dashcam offers seamless integration with the Verizon Connect Reveal software, aiding fleet management, driver safety, and operational efficiency in one comprehensive package. As we’ll detail shortly, this makes the Verizon Connect Dual-Facing AI Dashcam a standout choice for large fleet owners, especially those interested in or already using the services Verizon Connect offers.

What features does the Verizon Connect dashcam Offer?

The Verizon Connect AI Dual-Facing Dashcam boasts two 150° HD cameras, providing full coverage of both the road ahead and the driver inside the vehicle. Both cameras support a 1080p resolution, ensuring high-quality visuals for critical events. The device’s modular design allows for easy replacement of individual lenses should they break, extending the overall lifespan of the hardware. That’s a feature we think is particularly beneficial for long-haul fleets.

Unlike traditional dashcams, Verizon’s model processes data locally, thanks to its internal graphics processing unit (GPU), meaning real-time driver feedback is provided even without continuous internet connectivity. Like Samsara’s device, each clip of footage is analyzed using advanced AI to identify risky driving behaviors, such as phone usage, fatigue, and harsh cornering, with alerts sent directly to both drivers and fleet managers.

Only event-triggered footage is uploaded to the cloud so that only harsh driving incidents, distracted behaviors, or unexpected stops are captured. In other words, fleet managers can take a look at data that is important to them, rather than be overwhelmed by hours of unnecessary footage.

The footage is retained for up to 90 days on the cloud, enabling fleets to manage compliance and easily access critical incident data. Though, it can store up to 115 hours of dual-facing footage locally via its 256GB of storage.

How much does the Verizon Connect Dashcam cost?

Verizon’s dashcam is not available as a standalone purchase but rather as part of the Verizon Connect Reveal subscription.

This subscription covers the cost of hardware, installation (which is optional but provided free of any additional charges), cloud storage for video footage, and ongoing software updates. On average, the subscription costs between $40 and $55 per month, though pricing may vary depending on the fleet size and specific service requirements as Verizon uses custom, quote-based pricing like Samsara.

The subscription model means that costs can scale depending on how many vehicles you operate, which can be ideal for growing fleets but potentially prohibitive for small operators. As part of the subscription, Verizon offers cloud-based video storage, with

How does the Verizon Connect Dashcam work?

The Verizon Connect dashcam works through integration with the Verizon Connect Reveal platform, which also tracks vehicle performance via GPS and provides diagnostic insights.

Once physically installed, the dashcam is activated via the Verizon Reveal Integrated Video mobile app, which links the camera with the Reveal platform. The camera’s GPU processes incidents locally, such as harsh braking or acceleration, and sends real-time alerts to drivers when unsafe behaviors are detected, while simultaneously notifying fleet managers.

How to install the Verizon Connect Dashcam

Installation of the Verizon Connect AI Dual-Facing Dashcam into a relevant vehicle is straightforward. The device can be attached to the windshield, connected via a cable to the vehicle’s diagnostic port, and paired with the Verizon Reveal app for activation. Verizon offers a choice between a DIY installation or a professional installation service, with the latter being free of charge.

The app guides users through the final setup steps, including camera positioning verification. This quick and intuitive process takes about ten minutes to complete, after which the dashcam will begin to record footage and analyze driver behavior in real time.

3. BlackVue DR770X-2CH – Best for High-Quality Video Recording

The BlackVue DR770X-2CH is a premium dual-channel dashcam renowned for its exceptional video quality and advanced features. Equipped with Full HD Sony STARVIS™ image sensors in both front and rear cameras, it has some of the clearest and most detailed footage under dark light conditions that we’ve come across.

What features does the BlackVue DR770X-2CH offer?

Both front and rear cameras are equipped with Full HD 1080p resolution and Sony STARVIS image sensors. The front camera records at an impressively smooth 60 frames per second to better the other webcams we’ve come across. Meanwhile, the rear records at 30 fps, ensuring smooth video playback in both directions. With a wide 139° viewing angle, it captures a comprehensive view of the surroundings, too.

This dashcam includes built-in GPS for precise location tracking and Wi-Fi for easy access to settings and video files via the BlackVue app. It supports BlackVue Cloud connectivity, allowing users to remotely monitor their vehicle, receive notifications, and access live view features. For direct cloud connectivity without a Wi-Fi hotspot, an optional LTE module is available.

Handily, unlike other models, the DR770X-2CH also offers Intelligent Parking Mode with a built-in voltage monitor, protecting the vehicle’s battery while providing surveillance when the vehicle is parked. This mode can detect impacts and motion, recording events even when the vehicle is unattended.

How much does the BlackVue DR770X-2CH cost?

The BlackVue DR770X-2CH’s pricing depends on the local memory capacity chosen. At the time of writing, prices start at $385 for the 64GB model and go up to $481 for the 512GB model via BlackVue’s website. You’ll get a two-year warranty included as standard.

How does the BlackVue DR770X-2CH work?

The BlackVue DR770X-2CH operates by continuously recording footage through its front and rear cameras, storing the data on a microSD card.

Users can access and manage recordings via the BlackVue app, which connects to the dashcam through built-in Wi-Fi. The built-in GPS logs speed and location data, which can be overlaid on video playback for comprehensive insights, with this all accessible remotely.

How to install the BlackVue DR770X-2CH

Since the BlackVue DR770X-2CH is split into two physical devices, installation is a little different compared to the all-in-one Samsara and Verizon devices.

The front camera mounts discreetly behind the rearview mirror using an adhesive mount, and the rear camera attaches to the rear windshield. The two cameras are connected via a coaxial cable, which can be neatly routed along the vehicle’s interior.

The dashcam can be powered through the vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket or hardwired to the fuse box for continuous power, enabling Parking Mode. Detailed installation instructions are provided in the user manual, and professional installation services are also available for those who prefer assistance.

SmartWitness KP2 – Best for Modular Flexibility

The SmartWitness KP2 Dual-Facing Dashcam stands out for its innovative modular design. It allows fleets to start with a road-facing camera and easily upgrade to a dual-facing system by adding a driver-facing module without the need for additional wiring or installation costs. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for fleets seeking scalable video telematics solutions.

What features does the SmartWitness KP2 offer?

The SmartWitness KP2 is a 4G/LTE-enabled dashcam that records HD video at up to 30 frames per second, per channel. The road-facing camera offers a 140° field of vision, while the optional driver-facing camera provides a 130° view. That’s less coverage than other devices on this but still more than enough to have full eyes on the road and inside a vehicle.

A standout feature of the KP2 is its modular design. Fleets can begin with a road-facing camera and, if needed, easily attach a 1″ x 1″ driver-facing module without additional wiring or installation costs. Most dashcam providers are either separate or already integrated, as the top three picks on this page are. This flexibility allows for scalable deployment based on evolving fleet requirements over time.

The KP2 also includes real-time ADAS features such as tailgating alerts, forward collision warnings, lane departure notifications, and pedestrian presence detection. When equipped with its driver-facing camera, it offers DSM capabilities, including monitoring for fatigue, distraction, and phone use. Alerts are delivered to the driver through natural voice notifications, audio beeps, or chimes, enhancing driver awareness and safety.

To minimize false alerts, the KP2 utilizes SmartWitness’ cloud-based Artificial Intelligence Driving Events (AIDE) software, which analyzes telematics data and contextual factors to refine event reporting over time.

How much does the SmartWitness KP2 cost?

Pricing for the SmartWitness KP2 varies based on the telematics service provider and the number of dashcams you are purchasing. For instance, the Dashcam Store has pricing listed as being from $51.83 per month, though also suggests you call them for a custom quote.

As it is primarily offered through telematics providers, costs are likely to include hardware, installation, and subscription fees for its cloud services and AI event analysis. For accurate pricing tailored to your fleet’s needs, it’s recommended to consult with authorized SmartWitness partners or telematics service providers.

How does the SmartWitness KP2 work?

The SmartWitness KP2 operates by connection to the vehicle’s OBD-II port (with a J-1939 connection version available for heavy-duty trucks if required). Captured data and video footage are transmitted via 4G/LTE to the cloud, where the AIDE software analyzes events to filter out false positives.

How to install the SmartWitness KP2

Installing the SmartWitness KP2 is designed to be quick and straightforward, typically taking about 15 minutes according to the manufacturer. The base unit attaches to a windshield-mounted bracket and connects to the vehicle’s OBD-II port, as noted above. Setup and configuration are facilitated through a mobile app with auto-calibration features, just like Verizon and Samsara’s devices.

If you are adding the driver-facing module, it can be snapped onto the base unit without additional wiring or installation steps. This plug-and-play approach minimizes vehicle downtime and installation costs, as we reckon most people will be able to do this themselves.

Garmin Dash Cam 57 – Best for Compact Design and Advanced Features

The Garmin Dash Cam 57 is a compact, feature-rich dashcam that offers high-quality video recording and a suite of advanced functionalities. Its discreet design, user-friendly features like voice control (not found on our other top picks), and Wi-Fi connectivity make it an excellent choice for drivers seeking a reliable and unobtrusive dashcam solution.

What features does the Garmin Dash Cam 57 offer?

The Garmin Dash Cam 57 records in 1440p resolution at 60 frames per second, providing clear and detailed footage. Its 140° field of view ensures a wide coverage area, capturing critical details on the road.

This dashcam includes built-in GPS to log location and speed data, and Wi-Fi connectivity for easy access to footage via the Garmin Drive app. And, unlike the other devices on this page, voice control allows for hands-free operation. Drivers can start and stop audio recordings, take still pictures, or save video clips with simple voice commands.

Driver assistance features such as lane departure and forward collision warnings enhance safety by alerting drivers to potential hazards. The Dash Cam 57 also offers a Parking Guard mode, which monitors the vehicle while parked and alerts the driver to incidents affecting the parked vehicle.

Each video clip is saved in the online Vault for up to 24 hours from the time of the upload. There is no size limit for the amount of data stored.

How much does the Garmin Dash Cam 57 cost?

The Garmin Dash Cam 57 is priced at $230 via the Garmin website, though prices may vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. This pricing reflects its advanced features and high-quality build, positioning it as a mid-range option in the dashcam market.

As noted, saved videos are stored securely in the online Vault and can be accessed using the Garmin Drive app on your compatible smartphone. Garmin offers extended storage plans via paid subscriptions per dashcam. Here’s a quick overview.

How does the Garmin Dash Cam 57 work?

The Garmin Dash Cam 57 operates by continuously recording video to a microSD card (a 16GB card is included). When the built-in G-sensor detects an incident, it automatically saves the footage before, during, and after the event to ensure a complete record. The device’s GPS also logs location and speed data, as noted above.

How to install the Garmin Dash Cam 57

The Garmin Dash Cam 57 attaches to the windshield using an adhesive-backed magnetic mount, which provides a secure and discreet installation. If you’ve ever used a satnav in your car, this installation is pretty similar to that. The power cable can be routed neatly along the windshield and connected to the vehicle’s power outlet.

What To Know About Dash Cam Recording

There are lots of questions that’ll come up once you start using this equipment. But don’t worry, we’re going to fill you in on the basics right now.

Recording videos

Most dash cams automatically record any events that seem dangerous (such as bumping into another vehicle or the driver using their phone). Systems may start to record when the vehicle is parked but sensors detect movement nearby. Others will record all the time a vehicle is driving (and after it’s stopped, depending on the settings).

However, rolling footage is saved a little differently depending on the exact dash cam model you’re using.

For instance, the Garmin Fleet 780 records continuously and overwrites the oldest video that’s not saved. To save the section of footage that’s just recorded, select the six dots icon, then Dash Cam, then the SD card icon. You can tap the SD card icon again to extend the duration of the recording.

Accessing videos

Video is typically saved onto the dash cam’s SD card, which you can pop out of the dash cam and into your computer to upload files. Or you can link the device directly to your device using a USB cable.

Depending on the brand you’ve purchased, you may also be able to watch footage on your phone. Often they’ll be stored in the cloud too, so you can simply log into your product’s dashboard to access the video library. Then you simply navigate to the date you want to retrieve a video from, and download your chosen clip.

Avoiding accidental “eavesdropping”

Make sure you check the laws in your state about the legality of audio recording. There are laws about eavesdropping, so you’ve got to ensure everyone whose voice could end up on tape consents to being recorded. That applies to everyone who gets in your cab – and people talking near the vehicle while your mic is set to record. If you’re concerned about the legal risks of dash cams, hit the mute button.

Retaining your evidence

We’ve mentioned how footage can protect you in case of a false accusation. But if you get to court and the judge finds out you’ve deleted video that puts you in an unflattering light… that’s a possible felony. So if you’re planning to take legal action over an incident, don’t try to conceal any relevant evidence you’ve collected from your dash cam.

The Different Types of Dash Cams for Fleet

There are various types of recording equipment for your fleet, and the benefits of dash cams vary according to type. Here are the different types so you can decide which one is best suited to your business:

Front dash cams

• What: These are designed to film collisions that occur at the front of the vehicle.
• Pros: Great for capturing head-on collisions and incidents occurring in front of the vehicle; Typically easy to install and may be more affordable than multi-camera systems; Useful for recording the road ahead, which is often most relevant in the event of a collision.
• Cons: Limited to a single perspective, so it may miss incidents happening on the sides, rear or other blind spots of the vehicle; May lack coverage for side or rear blind spots, potentially missing critical details in case of sideswipes or rear-end accidents.

Exterior dash cams

• What: These are mounted outside the vehicle, typically on the side.
• Pros: Provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle, eliminating blind spots and helping capture sideswiping accidents and incidents on all sides; Can assist in parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces by covering more angles.
• Cons: More complex to install, as they may require mounts or additional wiring outside the vehicle; Can be more expensive due to the advanced setup and all-around coverage; Vulnerable to weather and vandalism, which could impact the camera’s durability or performance.

Interior dash cams

• What: These are mounted inside the vehicle and can be used to protect cargo and passengers as well as deter thieves.
• Pros: Monitors inside the vehicle, providing security for passengers, cargo, or valuables left inside; Acts as a deterrent for theft or vandalism; Useful for rideshare or taxi driver industry to document interactions with passengers.
• Cons: Limited coverage of the vehicle’s exterior, so it may not capture incidents outside; Privacy concerns, as recording the interior may be sensitive for drivers who share their vehicles.

Rear dash cams

• What: These cams record the road behind the vehicle and are helpful for providing drivers with a clearer view when reversing.
• Pros: Provides coverage of the area behind the vehicle, helpful for reversing and detecting rear-end collisions; Complements a front dash cam by adding perspective to incidents; Can be useful for parking assistance and for spotting cars or obstacles behind the vehicle.
• Cons: Limited to rearview, so it won’t capture incidents happening on the sides or front of the vehicle; May require additional installation time and wiring, especially if connecting to a front camera system; Not as useful on its own without a front camera, as many incidents occur at the front of the vehicle.

Ultimately, each of these dashcam types serves a specific purpose, and many drivers may opt for a combination of front and rear dashcams or multi-camera setups for comprehensive coverage.

How To Find the Right Commercial Dash Cam for My Fleet

Once you’ve decided what type of dash cam you want, it’s time to figure out what features you want. Figuring out these two categories will help you narrow down which dash cam is right for your fleet.

• AI – Inbuilt AI in dash cams can detect safety issues faster than human controllers. AI helps to coach drivers on mistakes and risky driving behavior.
• Resolution – the higher the image quality, the easier it will be to detect any hazards, the road ahead, and see license plates clearly. Typically we would recommend at least 1080p (Full HD) resolution, and this tends to be the minimum standard for top-rated dashcams in 2024.
• Audio recording/speaker – some cams have built-in speakers that can record audio during an incident, as well as play audio alerts when risky bad behavior has been detected.
• Night vision – this is useful for fleets operating at night time and may be accounted for via improved sensors or specific night vision modes within the dashcam’s settings.
• Safety features – many dashcams have detection features to monitor unsafe actions and report them in corresponding web or mobile application software for review.
• Storage – video clips of incidents are recorded in cloud or local storage, however, the amount of storage available will vary depending on the local or cloud storage extent and the amount of time clips are stored on the cloud for the latter.
• Internet connection – most footage is stored on a memory card, however, a dash cam with an internet connection (either via LTE data or a Wi-Fi connection) can instantly upload footage to the cloud, providing much quicker and easier access.

Our Methodology: Deciding The Best Dashcams for Fleets

We know how important it is for fleets to find dash cams that are suited to both drivers and management. That’s why our team conducted research in the industry to find the best on the market. Our research areas include:

• Price: We look at pricing, asking how much each dashcam costs upfront, whether there are any ongoing costs of using the dashcam (or more likely, the associated cost of using software features), and if there are any additional costs besides this (such as installation, if required).
• Technology: We consider which providers offer the most advanced technology, such as the highest resolution cameras, the widest angle of view, the largest amount of storage (cloud, local, or both), and software tech like AI detection to assess driver safety.
• Features: The providers that offer the widest range of features and strongest overall functionality for drivers rank above those that have a thinner, less capable offering.

If you’re dealing with larger vehicles, you may want to check out our research into the best dash cams for truckers.