What type of memory card is used in a dash cam?
3 Answers
Dash cams use TF or SD memory cards. TF cards are small cards primarily used in mobile phones, while SD cards are larger cards commonly used in portable devices like digital cameras. The memory card slot in most dash cams is located on the top of the device body. For hidden or compact dash cams, the card slot is usually positioned on either side of the device body. A dash cam is an instrument that records images, sounds, and related information during vehicle operation. It can capture high-definition footage, completely recording the vehicle's driving images, sounds, and operational data. It mainly consists of a main unit, speed sensor, data analysis software, and infrared camera.
When I installed my dash cam before, I chose a SanDisk MicroSD card because it's compact and versatile. Dash cams typically use MicroSD cards with a minimum capacity of 32GB – anything smaller (like 16GB, which I tried) gets filled up in just a few days and often overwrites important footage. Upgrading to 128GB now lets me store a full month of recordings reliably. Speed matters too: aim for Class 10 or UHS-I to avoid lag, especially for smooth high-resolution video without dropped frames. Installation is simple – just align the card with the slot and push it in. Don’t forget to format it once in the settings for system compatibility. For brands, SanDisk or Samsung are reliable and durable; avoid cheap low-speed cards that might fail when you need them most. A friend had good results with a 64GB Kingston too. Always check your manual for maximum supported capacity to avoid exceeding limits.
MicroSD cards are the preferred type for dash cams, primarily considering read/write speeds—UHS-I standard is sufficient to ensure smooth video recording. In terms of capacity, I prefer 128GB for ample space, allowing continuous recording for weeks without frequent cleanup. A 32GB card is too small, lasting only a few days. Installation is straightforward—just insert it into the card slot, but ensure the contacts aren’t loose to avoid signal issues. Compatibility-wise, the card must be formatted in FAT32; otherwise, it won’t be recognized. Recommended brands like Samsung and Lexar offer shockproof and temperature-resistant features, preventing stuttering or dropped frames on highways. Personally tested, a 64GB Class 10 card performs stably at 1080P.
