Best Backup Cameras: Your Rear Bumper Thanks You
These top backup cameras let you reverse virtually any vehicle with ease and confidence.

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When purchasing a new vehicle, you’re faced with deciding what extras you want and what ones you can do without. If you thought a backup camera wasn’t necessary when purchasing your vehicle but now think differently, don’t worry. It’s not too late to fit a backup camera to your vehicle. The best part is that you can get an even better camera than if you got the factory standard system.
There are tons of cameras to choose from with plenty of different features. The main thing you want to keep in mind when choosing a camera system is what type of vehicle you’ll use it with. Some wireless camera systems have a limited range, which makes them unsuitable for use with large vehicles and trailers. We’ve created a list of the best backup cameras on the market, so you can choose the one that’s best for you. If you’re still undecided on what camera to choose, check out the guide below.

DoHonest V25 Wireless Backup Camera
- Crystal clear imaging
- Wireless system is easy to set up and extremely stable
- Backed by a two-year warranty
- Not suitable for large vehicles or trailers
- Occasional reliability issues while underway
eRapta ERT01 Backup Camera
- Super affordable
- Wide viewing angle
- Inconspicuous, streamlined camera
- Lacks the customer service you get with some higher-end models
- Installation can be a major pain
Leekooluu LK3 HD 1080P Backup Camera
- HD 1080P produces a clear image every time
- Image processor has night vision mode, enabling you to see up to 30 feet in complete darkness
- Incredible value for the money
- Not a wireless system, so it involves some extra work to set up
- May require longer wires for use on trucks with 8-foot long beds
When purchasing a new vehicle, you’re faced with deciding what extras you want and what ones you can do without. If you thought a backup camera wasn’t necessary when purchasing your vehicle, but now think differently, don’t worry, it’s not too late. The best part is that you can get an even better camera than if you got the factory standard system.
There are tons of cameras to choose from with plenty of different features separating them. The main thing you’ll want to keep in mind when choosing a camera system is what type of vehicle you’ll use it with. Some of the wireless camera systems have a limited range, which makes them unsuitable for use with large vehicles and trailers. We’ve created a list of the very best backup cameras on the market, so you can choose the one that’s best for you. If you’re still undecided on what camera to choose, check out the accompanying guide below.
Our Methodology
When it comes to choosing the best backup cameras, I wanted to provide you with a well-rounded list that features a good variety of reputable manufacturers with solid track records of providing high-quality, reliable products. I included a wide range of price points to suit any budget. I focused on backup cameras that use the latest technology and that feature innovative, compact designs suitable for a wide variety of motorcycle makes and models. For more information on the selection criteria, click this link to The Drive’s Gear About page, which explains our methodology further.

Why Trust Us
Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
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When it comes to the ideal combination of image clarity, reliability, wireless connectivity, and price tag, the top pick overall has to be the DoHonest V25 Wireless Backup Camera. This camera has all the high-quality features you could ask for in a backup camera, and it’s backed by a solid 2-year warranty.
For an excellent budget-friendly model that won’t sacrifice functionality and reliability for cost, check out the eRapta ERT01 Backup Camera. This affordable camera features a lot of the same qualities you’ll find in higher-priced models for a fraction of the cost.
What to Consider When Buying Backup Cameras
From reviewing the top options for backup cameras, it’s clear that there’s not a one-size-fits-all strategy for purchasing the ideal camera to suit your needs. Taking certain factors into consideration will help you quickly and confidently weed through the various options and get the one that best suits your needs and personal taste.
Types of Backup Cameras
License Plate
License plate backup cameras come in two distinct types, both of which mount in the license plate spot behind the car. Some cameras come built into a replacement plate frame that installs over the plate itself. Others are just a strap with holes that fit the existing mounting screws to sit on top of the existing frame and plate. In both cases, the camera is in a good position for getting a low viewing angle.
Mirror/Dash Cam
Mirror and dash cam backup cameras feature a built-in display that offers a good view of the rear action without requiring an additional LCD or infotainment panel. The camera itself is either a separate unit that mounts on the rear bumper, or is one built into the unit where the camera can see the interior of the car and out of the rear window.
Individual Camera
Often the most basic option available, individual backup cameras are small units that lack a display or any means of mounting. Some require permanent, often professional, installation but can be easier to integrate into existing camera systems. This type makes it easy to find the exact image quality and connection options (wired or wireless) you want to install on your vehicle.
Backup Camera Key Features
Camera Image Quality
The main event of a backup camera takes place in the camera itself. Smaller than most action cams and digital camcorders, these cameras typically lack the HD quality of higher-end consumer products. Still, the quality of the camera will determine how clear the image appears on the monitor. Cameras with 1080p recording resolutions are the most common, but you can still find lesser resolutions, like 720p on the market.
LED Lights
To use a camera at night, extra light is required to illuminate the surroundings. Backup and rear car lights lack the capabilities to offer this illumination, so most cameras come with a few LED lights for assistance. The number and intensity of the lights will influence how bright the night vision image appears. Look for cameras that offer between 6-8 LED lights for optimal night vision capabilities.
Enhanced Safety Features
Some backup camera systems offer more than just a good view of the rear area. Enhanced safety features include a backup line or grid to gauge distance, recording functionality, and collision detection. Higher-end cameras can also work with other front and side cameras to offer nearly 360-degree monitoring coverage around the vehicle.
Backup Camera Pricing
A good quality backup camera can often be found for as low as $50. These may or may not come backed by a warranty. They’re usually not wirelessly functioning and require hard wiring into your vehicle to work. If you’re looking for wireless backup cameras with ultra clarity and a good warranty, expect to spend between $100 to $175. For larger trucks, trailers, and RVs, a good backup camera will run you $140 to $250.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
What are the colored lines for in the backup camera image?
Those lines give you a visual reference for how close rear objects are to your vehicle. For example, something that intercepts the red line is close to hitting the vehicle.
Can I add more cameras to a backup camera system?
This depends on the monitor and the number of inputs it has. Some displays only have one input just for a backup camera. Others can handle more cameras for the front or sides.
Is a wired or wireless backup camera better?
Wired backup cameras can handle more data and are known to produce better picture quality and have better reliability than wireless backup cameras. Wireless backup cameras are easier to install, lower in price, and offer more advanced technology than wired backup cameras, so it’s really all about your personal preferences.

