Top Five Backup Cameras in 2023 for Cars, Trucks, SUVs, and More

In 2018, the U.S. Department of Transportation required all new vehicles sold in the U.S. to have factory installed backup camera systems. Utilizing a backup camera in your vehicle gives you a better understanding of your surroundings and makes it safer. Whether your car already has a backup camera or you’re looking to add one to an older vehicle, there are solutions. 

Installing a backup camera does not reduce your insurance rate, but it will make you safe. It also reduces your chances of a at-fault accident — potentially saving you thousands. Like air bags, backup cameras in new vehicles have now become standard. Insurance companies will not give you an insurance discount for standard features. 

It’s important to remember, a backup camera will not replace physically reviewing current conditions outside your window. The NHTSA reported backover crashes kill over 200 people annually and injure more than 12,000. 

Best Backup Camera Overall

The HCE-1100 has one of the best images for backup cameras on the market. Developed by car audio leader, Alpine Electronics, this one inch cube camera provides an HDR image to any aftermarket car touch screen radio or dash mounted video screen using a composite video cable. The camera is water and dust proof and includes mounting screws and video cables. It can also be installed with Alpine’s optional backup camera license plate mount. If you’re wanting multiple cameras on your vehicle, you can also use Alpine’s multi-camera video accessory to toggle between video feeds, or do all of them at once. 

If you’re not familiar with your car’s wiring, you may want a professional to perform the install. The backup camera can be configured to be wired with your backup taillights and automatically turn on when in reverse. 

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Best Backup Camera for Trucks and RVs

The other cameras listed on this list are all excellent options for pickup trucks or larger SUVs. But if you want a camera for your fifth wheel or additional trailer the eRapta ER0202 is the perfect match. This hard-wired package includes two backup cameras, two side/blind spot cameras, and one seven inch monitor. 

All four cameras are IP69 waterproof with infrared sensors for night driving and provide an HD image. Instead of plastic, the heavy-duty cameras use durable glass lenses. This will protect the high resolution cameras in any driving condition. All cabling with the kit are designed to be shielded from any electrical interference found in your vehicle. 

Display Monitor Install  

The monitor lets you view all four cameras simultaneously and allows you to flip flop the cameras on the screen. For cameras on the rear of the vehicle or trailer, the monitor can automatically switch to these cameras when triggered by the reverse taillights. The seven inch monitor can mount to your dash without permanent installation using adhesive tape. The mount can be adjusted for the best viewing angle while driving. 

Use the ER0202 Package in Multiple Applications: 

• Use one of the cameras to view the pickup bed when connecting a fifth wheel trailer and use the other three on the truck and trailer 
• With RVs, mount the side cameras for blind spot monitoring and rear of the vehicle for backing up 
• Trucks and SUVs wanting to go off-road can use the four cameras to view wheel clearances on each tire 
• Large trucks, SUVs, and Passenger vans can place the cameras on the front, sides, and rear to get 360° view

This package will require a great understanding of your vehicle and trailer wiring and may require additional wiring depending on the application. A professional can install this system in a day, depending on the vehicle. The installer will also know which existing cables to cut and how to run them through your vehicle. 

Best Integrated Backup Camera 

Before 2018, many car manufacturers only offered backup cameras only as options not standard equipment.  If you want to add a backup camera to your factory radio touchscreen, consider an integrated backup camera. Many car manufacturers’ factory radios have inputs to add an integrated backup camera — with the proper wiring harness or integration kit. This application makes the install look clean and like it came standard from the factory. 

Crux Interfacing Solutions have several options depending on your vehicle. Crux specializes in factory integration systems for adding handsfree calling, Apple Carplay, Android Auto, navigation, and many other options to your factory car radio.

Backup Camera for Ford F-150

An excellent example of Crux’s integration options is with the top selling truck in the U.S., the Ford F-150. The Crux CFD-15KL backup camera replaces your factory tailgate handle with an integrated HD backup camera. It includes all the accessories and wiring required for installation. When you combined with the Crux RVCFD-79A rear view interface, it will work with the factory four inch monitor in any Ford F-150 made between 2012 and 2018. 

If you want to make a 100% factory look, Crux’s systems are the best solution. Consult a local dealer for proper installation. Making changes to your factory wiring should only be performed by certified and trained professionals. 

Best Wireless Backup Camera  

The AUTO-VOX TWI Truly Wireless Backup Camera is a fully wireless HD backup camera which includes battery powered camera and a five inch video monitor powered, by a 12 volt power outlet.  With one screwdriver you can install this system in five minutes with no drilling, screws, or extensive cables. Because of the ease of install, it also allows you to move this system to other vehicles. 

The wireless camera can run on one battery charge for 75 days. The internal battery can be charged by using the micro USB cable included in the kit and requires removing the camera from the installation location. If you don’t want to remove camera you can purchase AUTO-VOX’s optional solar panel which can be installed next to the camera.

Wireless Signal Interference Measures  

When your vehicle is operating, it is constantly producing various electric signals which can cause interference for wireless cameras. The AUTO-VOX TWI was designed with this in mind and will work without any problems. The camera can wirelessly transmit to the monitor on-demand without any flickering or signal dropout. 

The TWI system also allows you to install a second camera on the front of your vehicle so you can view what is in front of your vehicle when you pull into a parking spot. The TWI camera has a range of 33 feet, so it can be used with pickup trucks and SUVs. If you want to place it on a trailer, you might need to purchase AUTO-VOX’s optional range extender. 

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Backup Camera Features 

What type of application works best for you? Whether your car already has a backup camera or you’re wanting to install your first one, there are a wide variety of features you need. 

As you start your search consider these items: 

• Backup cameras with distance markers make it easier to judge spacing and many allow for easy adjustment of the lines based off the size of your vehicle. 
• High resolution 1080p and 720p cameras give better definition for display
• Hard-wired solutions provide a stable signal but require more installation work with the potential of drilling in the panels of your vehicle 
• Wireless backup camera systems are easier to install but can have limited range and may require signal extenders or antennas 
• LED and infrared lights make seeing at night easier but may only work up to 16 feet away
• Horizontal viewing angles range from 109° to 135° — the higher the number, the wider field of vision you’ll get 
• Different backup camera mounting options include flush mounted, license plate frame, surface mount, or OEM integrated mounting 
• Most permanent installed cameras work with the 12 volt system in your vehicle and typically include signal, positive, and negative ground wires

The Price of a Backup Camera 

If you’re looking for a quality backup camera system, plan on spending between $200 to $800. In this price range you’ll find a variety of packages with multiple cameras and video monitors. In many cases these backup camera packages will also include a one-year-warranty. 

Installation of a hard-wired backup camera can cost between $150-$1000 dollars. Ask your installer on how they plan on running the new cables. Make sure they plan on using wire looming. This will make sure the new cables are protected from harsh elements. Many backup camera manufactures will provide cabling, but it may not be in a waterproof cable jacket. 

Always check with the backup camera manufacturer to make sure it will work with your vehicle’s year and model.

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