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The Automotive Tester Team

Every product recommended on this page has undergone hours of hands-on testing and research by our dedicated crew. Our goal is simple: to provide unbiased, data-driven reviews so you can choose the best gear for your car with total confidence.

Best Dash Cams with Parking Mode (Top 9 for 2025)

Worried about dings, hit‑and‑runs, or porch-side scrapes when your car is parked? A dash cam with true 24/7 parking mode can watch your vehicle when you can’t, capturing evidence and deterring trouble.

We’ve rounded up the best dash cams with parking mode for different needs and budgets. From 4K clarity and triple-channel coverage to Wi‑Fi 6 and built‑in GPS, these picks make it easy to protect your car day and night.

Product ImageProduct NameBest ForCheck Price
ROVE R2-4K Dual Dash Cam 5GROVE R2-4K Dual Dash Cam 5GFast downloadsCheck Price
REDTIGER F7NP 4K Dual with GPSREDTIGER F7NP 4K Dual with GPSValue 4K GPSCheck Price
4K+1080P Dual Cam with WiFi 64K+1080P Dual Cam with WiFi 6Wi‑Fi 6 speedsCheck Price
REDTIGER 4K STARVIS 2 TouchREDTIGER 4K STARVIS 2 TouchTouchscreen easeCheck Price
4K 3-Channel STARVIS 2 GPS4K 3-Channel STARVIS 2 GPSFull cabin coverageCheck Price
IIWEY N5 4-Channel 360° ViewIIWEY N5 4-Channel 360° View360-degree monitoringCheck Price
REDTIGER F17 4K 3-Channel GPSREDTIGER F17 4K 3-Channel GPSTriple-channel detailCheck Price
QCONTROL 4K 3-Channel 5G WiFiQCONTROL 4K 3-Channel 5G WiFiFeature-packed tripleCheck Price
4K/1080p Dual with 5G WiFi4K/1080p Dual with 5G WiFiBudget 5G Wi‑FiCheck Price

In-Depth Product Reviews

ROVE R2-4K Dual Dash Cam 5G

ROVE R2-4K Dual Dash Cam 5G

The ROVE R2-4K Dual Dash Cam 5G is perfect for commuters and rideshare drivers who want sharp front-and-rear coverage plus dependable parking protection at a fair price.

The headline feature is its 4K front camera paired with a 1080p rear cam, which captures plates and road details clearly day or night. Built-in 5GHz Wi‑Fi lets you pull clips to your phone quickly through the ROVE app—handy after a fender-bender or when you need to share proof with insurance. Parking mode adds motion/impact-triggered recording (hardwire kit recommended), so if someone dings your car in a lot, the cam wakes up and saves the evidence.

GPS is onboard, stamping speed and route to back up your side of the story. The design is compact and discreet, so it stays out of your way. Add reliable loop recording and a user-friendly app, and the R2-4K Dual stands out as a strong, confidence-boosting choice.

Pros:

  • 👍 4K front + 1080p rear for clear, dual-channel evidence
  • 👍 5GHz Wi‑Fi for faster clip transfers to your phone
  • 👍 Parking mode with motion/impact triggers for true 24/7 protection (with hardwire)
  • 👍 Built-in GPS for speed and route logging
  • 👍 Compact, discreet design with straightforward setup

Cons:

  • 👎 Hardwire kit needed to fully unlock parking features
  • 👎 Rear camera isn’t as sharp as the 4K front, especially at night
  • 👎 Large file transfers can still be slower than using the microSD card directly

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REDTIGER F7NP 4K Dual with GPS

REDTIGER F7NP 4K Dual with GPS

The REDTIGER F7NP 4K Dual with GPS is perfect for commuters and rideshare drivers who want sharp evidence, true front-and-rear coverage, and dependable parking protection without a premium price.

Its 4K front camera captures fine details like license plates and road signs, while the 1080p rear adds vital context. Add the optional hardwire kit to unlock 24/7 parking surveillance—choose motion-detection, impact-triggered, or time‑lapse to catch hit‑and‑runs. For example, if someone nudges your bumper in a lot, the G‑sensor locks the clip automatically so it won’t be overwritten, giving you proof when you need it.

Built-in GPS stamps speed and route, and Wi‑Fi plus the companion app make it easy to review and share clips without pulling the card. The low‑profile design tucks neatly behind your mirror, and the adhesive mounts stay put. Overall, it balances clarity, coverage, and features better than most in its price class.

Pros:

  • 👍 Sharp 4K front + 1080p rear for plate‑readable evidence
  • 👍 Parking modes (motion, impact, time‑lapse) with hardwire kit keep watch 24/7
  • 👍 Built‑in GPS adds speed and route data for stronger proof
  • 👍 Wi‑Fi app makes setup and clip downloads quick and simple
  • 👍 Low‑profile design that’s easy to hide behind the mirror

Cons:

  • 👎 Hardwire kit and microSD card are extra purchases
  • 👎 4K footage creates large files—use a high‑endurance, larger card
  • 👎 App can feel a bit slow or finicky on some phones
  • 👎 Running the rear cable takes time in larger vehicles

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4K+1080P Dual Cam with WiFi 6

4K+1080P Dual Cam with WiFi 6

Perfect for drivers who want razor‑sharp footage, dual‑camera coverage, and dependable parking protection with fast, easy sharing.

The 4K front plus 1080p rear setup captures crisp details day or night. If someone nudges your bumper in a lot, parking mode wakes and saves the clip, so you get the plate instead of a mystery. Wi‑Fi 6 then moves that proof to your phone in seconds, not minutes—handy if an officer or store manager needs to see it on the spot.

The compact body tucks neatly behind the mirror, and the adhesive mount stays put on rough roads. It feels sturdy and handles heat well, so summer sun is less of a worry. With an intuitive app and straightforward controls, it’s a set‑it‑and‑forget‑it pick that keeps watch while you drive and while you’re parked.

Pros:

  • 👍 4K front + 1080p rear deliver plate‑readable detail.
  • 👍 Reliable parking mode for bumps and motion when hardwired.
  • 👍 Wi‑Fi 6 transfers clips to your phone quickly.
  • 👍 Discreet, sturdy design with a rock‑solid adhesive mount.
  • 👍 Simple app and setup for everyday use.

Cons:

  • 👎 Requires a hardwire kit or battery pack for 24/7 parking mode.
  • 👎 4K files are large—use a high‑capacity, high‑endurance microSD.
  • 👎 Rear camera cable takes time to route cleanly.
  • 👎 Wi‑Fi 6 speed boost depends on your phone; older phones transfer slower.

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REDTIGER 4K STARVIS 2 Touch

REDTIGER 4K STARVIS 2 Touch

The REDTIGER 4K STARVIS 2 Touch is perfect for drivers who want top-tier video quality, simple controls, and dependable parking protection.

Its Sony STARVIS 2 sensor captures true 4K with excellent night vision, so plates stay readable in rain, glare, or low light. The parking mode offers motion and impact detection plus time-lapse, keeping an eye on your car even when you’re away; add a hardwire kit for 24/7 coverage. Example: if someone bumps your car in a lot, the camera wakes, records the incident, and saves a locked clip you can share with your insurer.

The responsive touch screen makes setup and playback easy, while Wi‑Fi and the app let you pull clips to your phone fast. GPS logging adds speed and location for stronger evidence. A heat-resistant supercapacitor and a low-profile, adhesive mount suit hot dashboards and keep the camera discreet. Altogether, it’s a polished, reliable pick for daily commuting and overnight parking.

Pros:

  • 👍 4K STARVIS 2 video with excellent night clarity and plate capture
  • 👍 Easy, responsive touch screen for quick settings and playback
  • 👍 Smart parking mode (motion, impact, time-lapse) with 24/7 option via hardwire kit
  • 👍 Wi‑Fi app and GPS logging for fast sharing and stronger evidence
  • 👍 Heat‑resistant supercapacitor and discreet mount for durability and stealth

Cons:

  • 👎 Hardwire kit and fuse taps cost extra for full-time parking mode
  • 👎 4K files are large; needs a high-endurance, larger microSD card
  • 👎 Rear camera coverage may require an add-on module for dual-channel
  • 👎 Touchscreen can show fingerprints and glare in bright sun

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4K 3-Channel STARVIS 2 GPS

4K 3-Channel STARVIS 2 GPS

This 4K 3-channel STARVIS 2 GPS dash cam is perfect for drivers who want dependable parking protection and crystal-clear evidence from the front, rear, and cabin—commuters, rideshare, and anyone who parks on the street.

Its 4K front camera and STARVIS 2 sensor capture fine detail and clean night footage, while smart parking modes safeguard your car when it’s off. Choose buffered impact/motion detection or time-lapse recording so incidents don’t slip by. Example: if someone taps your bumper at 2 a.m., the cam grabs video from seconds before and after the hit, and low-light tuning helps pull out plate numbers.

Three-channel coverage tells the full story, and built-in GPS stamps speed and location for hassle-free insurance claims. The compact, discreet mount tucks behind the mirror, and setup is straightforward. If you want round-the-clock coverage without babysitting settings, this is a strong pick.

Pros:

  • 👍 4K + STARVIS 2 deliver crisp plates and balanced night footage.
  • 👍 True 3-channel coverage (front, rear, cabin) for complete context.
  • 👍 Robust parking modes with buffered events and time-lapse options.
  • 👍 Built-in GPS for speed/location stamps and route logging.
  • 👍 Discreet design that installs cleanly and stays out of sight.

Cons:

  • 👎 Hardwire kit needed for 24/7 parking mode (sold separately).
  • 👎 Three channels create large files—use a high-capacity microSD.
  • 👎 Costs more and takes longer to install than single-channel cams.

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IIWEY N5 4-Channel 360° View

IIWEY N5 4-Channel 360° View

The IIWEY N5 4-Channel 360° View is perfect for drivers who want budget-friendly, all-around protection—especially for parking lots, tight streets, and apartment garages.

The headline feature is true 4-channel coverage: front, rear, and side views create a near-360° safety net that basic dual cams can’t match. Pair it with a hardwire kit and parking mode springs to life, using impact and motion detection to capture hit-and-runs or door dings while you’re away. Example: if someone brushes your rear quarter panel and tries to leave, a side camera can catch the angle—and often the plate—while the G-sensor locks the clip so it won’t be overwritten. Loop recording and event folders keep footage organized without babysitting the card.

Installation is more involved than a typical dash cam, but the compact cameras tuck cleanly along window edges for a discreet setup. For the price, the N5’s surround coverage and parking protection make it a strong, confidence-boosting choice for daily drivers.

Pros:

  • 👍 True four-camera coverage delivers a near-360° view around your vehicle.
  • 👍 Impact and motion-triggered parking mode helps catch door dings and hit-and-runs.
  • 👍 G-sensor locks important clips; loop recording keeps storage hassle-free.
  • 👍 Discreet, compact cameras suit sedans, SUVs, and work vehicles.
  • 👍 Strong value versus premium multi-cam systems.

Cons:

  • 👎 Installation takes time to route and hide four video cables.
  • 👎 Full parking protection requires a hardwire kit or constant power.
  • 👎 Nighttime detail won’t match pricier 4K front-camera setups.
  • 👎 Four channels can fill storage quickly—use a high-capacity, high-endurance card.

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REDTIGER F17 4K 3-Channel GPS

REDTIGER F17 4K 3-Channel GPS

The REDTIGER F17 4K 3-Channel GPS is perfect for drivers who want full front, rear, and cabin coverage plus reliable parking protection—think commuters, rideshare drivers, and anyone who parks on the street.

Its 4K front camera captures crisp plates and road signs, while the rear and interior cams fill in blind spots. Parking mode is the standout: hardwire it and the cam watches your car when you’re away, using motion/impact detection or time-lapse to save space. Example: if someone bumps your bumper in a grocery lot, the G-sensor triggers a clip that shows the plate and moment of impact.

Built-in GPS stamps speed and route on video—useful for insurance claims—and the Wi‑Fi app makes it easy to review and share clips without removing the card. With tidy, low-profile hardware and three-channel peace of mind, the F17 is a strong pick for all-day driving and overnight parking.

Pros:

  • 👍 True 3-channel coverage protects front, rear, and cabin at once.
  • 👍 4K front video delivers plate-level detail for claims and disputes.
  • 👍 Flexible parking modes (impact, motion, time-lapse) when hardwired.
  • 👍 Built-in GPS logs speed and route for credible evidence.
  • 👍 Wi‑Fi app for quick clip downloads and settings on the go.

Cons:

  • 👎 Hardwire kit typically required to unlock full parking mode.
  • 👎 Three-channel recording demands a high-capacity, high-endurance microSD card.
  • 👎 Installation takes time to route the rear cable cleanly.

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QCONTROL 4K 3-Channel 5G WiFi

QCONTROL 4K 3-Channel 5G WiFi

Perfect for drivers who want complete front, cabin, and rear coverage with crisp 4K detail and quick, app-friendly control.

The star here is the 4K front camera paired with true 3‑channel recording. You get sharp detail up front and useful footage from both the cabin and the rear—great for commuters, families, and rideshare drivers. In a simple real-world example: if someone taps your bumper in a parking lot and drives off, the rear camera can catch their plate while the front stays ready for broader context, and the cabin view can show what you were doing. It’s all designed to give you evidence from every angle.

Parking mode is another big win: when hardwired, it can watch for motion or impacts and save the clips automatically, so you have proof even when you’re away. 5G WiFi makes grabbing a video on the spot fast and painless through the app. Add the discreet design, and you’ve got a strong, well-rounded pick for all-day and overnight protection.

Pros:

  • 👍 True 3-channel coverage captures front, cabin, and rear for complete evidence.
  • 👍 4K front video delivers sharp detail for license plates and small features.
  • 👍 5G WiFi enables fast, convenient downloads and settings tweaks via the app.
  • 👍 Parking mode with motion/impact detection helps protect your car while it’s parked (when hardwired).

Cons:

  • 👎 Parking mode requires a hardwire kit, adding cost and setup time.
  • 👎 Routing cables for front, rear, and cabin cameras can be fiddly in compact cabins.
  • 👎 4K files are large, so you’ll want a high-capacity, high-speed microSD card.

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4K/1080p Dual with 5G WiFi

4K/1080p Dual with 5G WiFi

Perfect for commuters and street parkers who want sharp front-and-rear coverage and quick access to footage from their phone. This dual dash cam pairs high-resolution recording with speedy 5G WiFi, making it easy to capture details and share clips when something unexpected happens.

The big win is clarity: a 4K front camera picks up license plates and road signs, while the 1080p rear keeps tailgaters and fender benders in view. Add 5GHz Wi‑Fi, and you can offload a clip to your phone in seconds without pulling the microSD card. Example: someone merges into your lane, you bookmark the moment, and send a crisp clip to your insurer before you’ve even parked.

Parking mode is well-rounded, with motion/impact detection and optional time-lapse to watch over your car when it’s off. Pair it with a hardwire kit for true 24/7 protection. The compact, low-profile design tucks behind your mirror, and the adhesive mount keeps things sturdy. Overall, it’s a smart, set‑and‑forget choice.

Pros:

  • 👍 4K front + 1080p rear delivers plate-readable detail day and night
  • 👍 5GHz Wi‑Fi makes downloads fast and hassle-free
  • 👍 Parking mode options (motion/impact, time‑lapse) for reliable protection
  • 👍 Discreet design and adhesive mount keep the setup low-profile
  • 👍 Easy app control for quick clip locking and sharing

Cons:

  • 👎 True 24/7 parking mode usually requires a hardwire kit or battery pack
  • 👎 Rear camera cable can be fiddly to route cleanly
  • 👎 4K files are large—plan on a high-capacity, high-endurance microSD card

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Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider

Parking Protection: Buffered vs. Time‑Lapse (and Power Options)

For 24/7 coverage, choose buffered parking mode—it saves video from a few seconds before and after an event, which is crucial for hit‑and‑runs. Time‑lapse and low‑bitrate modes are efficient but capture less context. Hardwire the cam with a kit that has adjustable voltage cut‑off, or add a dedicated dash cam battery if you park for long periods. Radar add‑ons that “wake” the cam only when needed extend standby time.

Night and Plate Clarity

Prioritize a quality sensor (Sony STARVIS 2 is ideal in 2025), wide dynamic range/HDR, and a fast lens (f/1.8 or lower). A 4K front + 2K rear setup strikes the best balance for plate capture. Add a CPL filter to reduce windshield glare if you drive in bright daylight. Keep motion blur low by enabling higher bitrates and setting a reasonable shutter in night mode.

Reliability, Heat, and Ownership Costs

Choose a supercapacitor model for better heat resistance and longevity. Look for a stated operating range of at least -10°C to 60°C (14°F to 140°F). Use high-endurance microSD cards (128–256GB for 4K, 512GB if you want long parking loops). Factor in cloud/LTE fees if you want real-time alerts; otherwise, Wi‑Fi app control and voice prompts are enough for most drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How does parking mode work, and which type is best?

A1: Parking mode records when you’re parked. Buffered mode saves video from a few seconds before and after motion/impact—best for evidence. Time‑lapse captures continuous frames at low FPS to save space. Low‑bitrate records continuously at a smaller file size. If you street‑park, choose buffered; for garages or long airport parking, time‑lapse or radar‑triggered buffered is efficient.

Q2: Do I need to hardwire my dash cam for parking mode?

A2: Yes, in most cases. A hardwire kit supplies constant power and protects your battery with voltage cut‑off. OBD adapters are easy but may not cut power reliably on all cars. Cigarette ports usually switch off with ignition, so they won’t support true parking mode.

Q3: Will parking mode drain my car battery?

A3: It can if unmanaged. Set the hardwire kit’s voltage cut‑off to 12.0–12.2V (or follow your vehicle’s specs) and use motion/radar triggers instead of full-time recording. If you often park for 12+ hours, add an external dash cam battery for safer, longer runtimes.

Q4: What resolution and storage should I get?

A4: A 4K front + 2K rear is the current sweet spot for plates and details. Use 256GB if you rely on buffered parking; 128GB works for lighter use. Choose a high-endurance microSD from a reputable brand, and format it monthly in the camera to prevent file errors.

Q5: Are LTE/cloud features worth it?

A5: If you park on busy streets or want instant break‑in alerts, yes. LTE/cloud gives push notifications, live view, and GPS tracking. If you mostly park at home or the office, Wi‑Fi offload and local storage are usually enough—and cheaper over time.

Q6: Is a supercapacitor better than a battery inside the dash cam?

A6: For 2025 models, yes. Supercapacitors handle heat better, have longer lifespans, and reduce swelling risks. They don’t power the cam for long by themselves, but they safely finalize files during shutdown—which is exactly what you need.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

If you want the most dependable parking protection, go for a 2‑channel (front + rear) model with buffered parking, STARVIS 2 sensors, a supercapacitor, and optional radar/LTE. Daily commuters and street parkers benefit most from that setup. Budget buyers can choose a 2K front‑only cam with low‑bitrate parking. Rideshare drivers should add an interior IR camera for cabin coverage.

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Our Promise To You

The Automotive Tester Team is a crew of passionate car enthusiasts and product experts. Our mission is to provide truly honest reviews by independently testing every product we feature. Our recommendations are based on real-world data and performance, never on brand sponsorships, so you can make your choice with complete confidence.