How Long Can a Dash Cam Record?
3 Answers
The recording duration of a dash cam depends on the size of the memory card and the file storage format. Larger capacity allows for longer recording time. Here are the details: A 6G card can record for 100 minutes, a 32G card for 200 minutes, and a 64G card for 400 minutes. Generally, newer recordings will overwrite the older ones. It depends on the size of the memory card and the file storage format. Larger capacity means longer recording time. Dash cams record in a loop. For example, a C600 with an 8G card can record approximately 2 hours of video. Once the storage is full, it will automatically delete the oldest recordings and continue recording. Dash cam recording modes: Normal Recording Mode: In this mode, a red dot flashes on the screen during normal driving, indicating that recording is in progress. Emergency Recording Mode: This mode is activated under special circumstances, such as collisions or emergency braking (setting the vibration sensitivity too high can also trigger this mode). It generally operates in two ways: automatic and manual.
I've been driving for five years, and the recording duration of a dash cam mainly depends on two things: the memory card capacity and the video resolution. My 128GB card paired with a 1080P dash cam can record for about 12 hours, while switching to a 64GB card reduces it to around 6 hours. These devices use loop recording, automatically overwriting old files when the storage is full, which is very convenient. However, in emergencies like sudden braking, it locks and protects that specific video segment. These locked videos can also take up space over time. I currently prefer setting the resolution to 1440P—it captures license plates clearly while saving more space than 4K, making it ideal for long trips. Battery life also affects recording time; capacitor-based models handle heat better but have shorter power durations compared to lithium batteries, so choose based on your needs. In short, the bigger the card, the better—128GB is a safe starting point.
When discussing the recording duration of dash cams, the key factor lies in the relationship between memory card capacity and video bitrate. I use a 128GB high-speed card, which can record just over 10 hours in 1080P at 30fps. If switching to 4K resolution, storage consumption doubles, reducing the same card's capacity to only 5 hours. Video compression technology also plays a role - H.265 encoding saves 40% more space than H.264. My new dash cam supports H.265, allowing the same card to record 4 extra hours. Important note: While loop recording is convenient, locked emergency videos occupy fixed space that isn't included in the loop overwrite cycle. I transfer important footage to my phone weekly to free up storage. Also consider memory card ratings - U3 class cards have faster write speeds and are less prone to frame drops. My recommendation is pairing large-capacity high-speed cards with medium resolution for optimal cost-performance.
