(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample (about 1,250 ratings).
Tom's Guide's best compact dash cam: tiny, simple and well made, with solid 1080p video and HDR that keeps plates readable. But it's still 1080p with no GPS, and on Amazon nearly 1 in 5 ratings are 1 or 2 stars, citing Wi-Fi and app trouble and missed recordings.
Subscription: Optional: Garmin Vault cloud storage over Wi-Fi, $9.99/mo (Tom's Guide)
Top complaints
- Wi-Fi and app connection problems
Amazon's review summary calls connectivity issues significant, with multiple owners having trouble connecting to Wi-Fi and finding the app difficult to use.
- Missed recordings
Amazon's summary says recording performance is concerning, with owners reporting the camera only records about half the time.
- Dated 1080p, no GPS
Tom's Guide lists no GPS and 1080p as cons and says it's barely an upgrade over the Mini 2. Amazon owners are mixed on picture quality.
What owners love
- Tiny and discreet
Smaller than a piece of sushi and about 1 oz (Tom's Guide); Amazon owners say it's barely noticeable behind the rearview mirror.
- Effortless setup
Tom's Guide found setup effortless, with a small, sturdy ball-and-socket mount that fits almost anywhere.
Source: Tom's Guide review - Good contrast and clear audio
Its HDR kept plates directly ahead readable even at night, a new built-in polarizer cuts glare, and audio is excellent (Tom's Guide).
Source: Tom's Guide review
- You want 4K or GPS speed and location
- You want a rear camera
- You need a dependable app connection
- A nearly invisible camera behind the mirror
- People who want no screen and few settings
- Small cars
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Tom's Guide: Best compact dash cam (updated 2026-09-29). Cons: no GPS and 1080p getting a little dated.
- Tom's Guide review: Middle of the pack among compact cameras: better image than the Nextbase Piqo, but beaten by the Vantrue E1 Pro's 4K at about the same price.