How Many Days of Footage Can a Dash Cam Store?
4 Answers
If the loop recording mode is turned off, the video footage on the dash cam will be permanently saved, but once the storage is full, it will stop recording further videos. When loop recording is enabled, the storage duration varies depending on the memory card capacity and video file size. Here are some key details about dash cams: 1. Introduction: A dash cam is a device that records images, sounds, and other relevant data during vehicle operation. 2. Function: After installation, it can record the entire driving process in video and audio, providing evidence for traffic accidents. For those who enjoy road trips, it can also document the journey through challenging terrains.
I usually drive to pick up and drop off my kids at school, using a 64G memory card for the dashcam set to 1080P HD mode. With about 3 hours of driving per day, it can store roughly five days' worth of footage. However, on long-distance trips where I record for ten hours, the storage space gets used up quickly. I make it a habit to pull out the card weekly to back up important clips, especially when there's a traffic dispute. The loop recording feature is quite handy—it automatically overwrites the oldest footage when the storage is full. If you install a dual-lens setup (front and rear), the storage time gets cut in half, so I'd recommend using a larger capacity card of 128G or above to be sufficient.
Based on my experience, the number of days a dash cam can store footage entirely depends on three key factors: memory card size, video quality settings, and daily driving time. A standard 32GB card can store up to two days of footage in HD mode, while upgrading to 64GB extends this to about four days. I've conducted tests showing that one hour of 1080P resolution video occupies 4GB of space, while 4K Ultra HD doubles that. The loop recording feature must be enabled; otherwise, the camera stops recording when the storage is full. Additionally, although the parking monitoring function is practical, it consumes storage space significantly, so I always keep it turned off. Nowadays, mainstream dash cams support real-time video viewing via apps, so there's no need to worry about storage duration—important clips can be directly downloaded to your phone.
I drive for ride-hailing services, spending at least ten hours on the road daily. A 128GB card lasts up to three days in HD mode, and even less with night vision enabled. Calculating with the storage formula: a 64GB card can store 16 hours of video, which means under my high-intensity usage, it’s used up in less than two days. I recommend choosing a U3-grade memory card with fast write speeds to avoid video frame drops. The dashcam’s G-sensor locks emergency videos to prevent overwriting, but I’ve found setting the sensitivity too high wastes space. Regularly deleting unnecessary videos via the mobile app is more practical than upgrading to a higher-capacity card.
