Which power source should a dash cam be connected to?

[Stevie]

A dash cam should be connected to either the cigarette lighter socket or the ACC power source in the fuse box. Here is more information about dash cam power sources: 1. Dash cams generally have built-in power sources and external power interfaces. The built-in power source is usually a lithium battery, while the external power source is typically supplied through the cigarette lighter. The capacity of the built-in battery is usually very small, providing power for about an hour, whereas the external power supply is more convenient and can last for a longer duration. 2. The built-in lithium battery must be avoided from strong light exposure. Installing the dash cam on the rearview mirror can help avoid strong light exposure. 3. ACC power supply is more complicated, with a more complex installation process that may affect the car's aesthetics, but this method provides power for a longer time.

[AmeliaAnn]

When I first installed the dash cam, I simply connected it to the cigarette lighter for power—it's the easiest and most hassle-free method, plug-and-play with easy cable management, perfect for those who don't want to fuss. However, I later realized the dash cam would turn off when the car was shut down, leaving no surveillance for incidents like scratches or theft while parked. So, I switched to connecting it to the ACC power source in the fuse box, ensuring the dash cam only operates when the ignition is on, protecting the battery from draining. I bought a fuse tap tool, which took a bit more effort to install, but ensured the original car circuit remained unaffected. Now, it's both convenient and safe—just remember to test for stable voltage during installation to avoid a dead battery that could leave you stranded. In short, beginners can stick with the cigarette lighter, while more advanced users can consider the fuse box solution for flexible adaptation to their needs.

[Judy]

In my experience, the best place to install a dashcam power source is in the fuse box, connecting to either the ACC or constant power port. The ACC controls the dashcam to only turn on while driving, saving power and protecting the battery; constant power is suitable for 24/7 monitoring, but a low-voltage protection module should be added to avoid draining the battery. You can buy fuse taps online for this purpose—avoid hardwiring to prevent blowing fuses. The cigarette lighter is also an option, with exposed wires making it hassle-free, but it cuts power when the engine is off, leaving no monitoring during parking, which poses higher risks. When installing, ensure the wires don’t obstruct your view and are securely fixed. From a safety perspective, the fuse box solution is superior, especially in urban areas with frequent parking, as it helps minimize unexpected losses.

[DelAngela]

Hey, I used to connect my dash cam directly to the cigarette lighter socket—simple and quick, just plug it in and power on without wasting time. Just loosely wrap the wire around, perfect for daily driving without modifications. But recently, I upgraded by wiring it to the fuse box using ACC power, which automatically cuts off when parked to save the battery and adds monitoring features. The process isn’t complicated, and the tools cost just a few bucks. The cigarette lighter method is effortless and fast, while the modified setup is cleaner with more functions—just choose based on preference. Just be careful not to pinch the wires in the door gaps for safety.