Does the dash cam playback have sound?
3 Answers
Dash cam playback does have sound. Dash cams typically feature external cameras primarily designed to record driving conditions outside the vehicle, but they can also capture audio inside the car, though they cannot record interior images. After installing a dash cam, it can record both video footage and audio of the entire driving process, providing evidence in case of traffic accidents. Dash cams are mainly divided into two categories: portable dash cams and aftermarket in-dash DVD integrated dash cams. Portable dash cams can be further classified into rearview mirror dash cams and data dash cams, which offer advantages such as good concealment, easy installation, removable and replaceable features, low cost, and simple operation. Aftermarket in-dash DVD integrated dash cams are usually vehicle-specific and come in two types: pre-installed and post-installed. Installing this type of dash cam helps maintain the aesthetic appeal of the car's interior. Additionally, some luxury car models come with factory-installed dash cams.
Whether the dashcam playback has sound depends on the functional design of the model. Some dashcams have built-in microphones, like the high-end one in my car, which captures road noise, in-car conversations, and even turn signal sounds while recording, allowing you to hear the complete audio during playback. The advantage is that in case of a minor collision, these sounds can serve as crucial evidence, helping insurance companies determine liability more accurately. However, note that storing audio consumes more memory card space, so ensure the card has sufficient capacity to avoid playback lag or file corruption. Simply enable the sound recording option in the settings menu during installation, as it might be turned off by default. Overall, safety-conscious car owners should prioritize models with audio recording.
My home dash cam automatically records audio during playback because that model was designed with an integrated microphone system. Every time I review the captured driving footage, besides the road images, I can clearly hear traffic sounds like honking, pedestrians shouting, and even my own music playing. Once when a neighbor scratched my car, this audio evidence directly helped the insurance company determine the compensation. But don't worry about privacy—I installed it on the inner windshield at an angle that mainly covers the road while minimizing interior recording. When purchasing, I chose a reputable brand, and as long as the manual states it supports audio function, you can't go wrong. Over time, I've found the extra storage space completely worthwhile for that additional layer of protection during incidents.
