How long can the in-car recording of a dash cam be saved?
3 Answers
The duration for which the in-car recording of a dash cam can be saved is not fixed. As long as the video footage is not deleted or overwritten, the recording can be retained indefinitely. The length of time the recorded footage remains in the dash cam depends on several factors: the size of the memory card supported by the dash cam, the actual size of the memory card in use, and the resolution of the recorded footage. A dash cam is an instrument that records images, sounds, and other relevant information during vehicle operation. After installation, it can capture the entire driving process in video and audio, providing evidence in case of traffic accidents. It can also be used at home as a DV to record life's joyful moments or serve as a home surveillance device.
The audio recording retention time of a dash cam is actually quite flexible, depending entirely on your memory card capacity and settings. Take my commonly used 64GB card as an example—with 1080p resolution video and audio recording enabled, it can store approximately 50 to 60 hours of footage. Assuming a daily commute of about two hours, the recordings can last around 15 days, as most dash cams have a loop recording feature that automatically overwrites old footage when space runs out. However, if you switch to 4K resolution, the storage consumption doubles, reducing retention time to within a week. I’ve also noticed that the audio recording setting makes a significant difference—disabling it extends video-only storage by a few days, but audio evidence is crucial, as missing sound during an accident could impact judgment. I recommend investing in a high-capacity, high-speed card, like a 128GB one, and choosing a reliable brand to avoid lag. Regularly formatting the card is also a good practice to prevent data clutter issues.
After years of using a dashcam, I've found that the duration of audio recording storage primarily depends on the driver's habits and the memory card capacity. I've tried various cards—a 32GB card in HD mode can only last three to four days, and if both audio and video are enabled, the space fills up quickly and gets overwritten. Driving frequency is also crucial. For long-distance drivers recording over ten hours a day, audio files may be replaced by new ones in just two to three days. I recommend prioritizing loop recording settings and setting a high overwrite frequency to ensure critical evidence isn't lost too quickly. Opt for durable memory card brands like Samsung or SanDisk to avoid heat-related lifespan issues. For data management, monthly backups to a computer are safest, especially after an accident—don't delay, or important recordings may be lost. When choosing a card, go for Class 10 or higher for smoother read/write performance.
