How long can a 32GB dash cam card record?
3 Answers
A 32GB memory card for a dash cam can record for approximately nine hours. The actual recording time of a 32GB memory card depends on the bitrate of the recorded video. For example, most videos use 720P resolution with a default bitrate of 8M, which translates to 533 minutes, or just under 9 hours. If a lower bitrate is used, the recording time will be longer. Features of a 32GB dash cam memory card: 1. Highly reliable and economical hard drive, specifically designed for 24x7 video surveillance operation. 2. Multi-tiered large capacity, capable of storing massive amounts of data generated in video surveillance applications. 3. Up to 100 days per camera (JPEG compression, 640x480, 1 frame per second). 4. Up to 23 days per camera (MPEG4 compression, 720x480, 30 frames per second).
I've been using dash cams for a while and found that how long a 32GB card can record depends on video settings. At 1080p HD, it takes about 3 to 4GB per hour, so roughly 6 to 10 hours. But higher resolutions like 1080p create larger files than 720p, and lowering it can extend recording to around 12 hours. The higher the bitrate, the more space it occupies; some dash cams have motion detection that only records dynamic events, saving space. I recommend setting up loop recording, which automatically overwrites old content to avoid manual deletion, and regularly formatting the card to prevent lag. Using a high-speed UHS-I card improves stability. Avoid overheating the card in high-temperature environments, as it can cause blurry recordings. A 32GB card is suitable for daily short trips, but for long journeys, it's better to switch to a larger card or carry a power bank with extra memory.
I've been using a 32GB card for several years, which can record about 8 hours of driving content in 1080p mode during actual driving. With a daily commute of two hours, the card fills up quickly, so I have to check the remaining space in the app every other day. Reducing the resolution to 720p might extend the recording time to 10 hours, but the image quality is slightly worse. File sizes vary depending on the device, and space is consumed faster when motion detection or parking mode is enabled. High-speed cards write faster, reducing video frame drops. Setting up loop recording is more convenient, and formatting the card once a week keeps it running smoothly. For long trips, 32GB might not be enough to cover the entire journey, so I upgraded to 64GB to reduce worries.
