Tesla has changed the car experience by including advanced features like a built‑in dashcam. But many owners still ask: what’s the best dash cam for Tesla Model 3 drivers should buy?
While Tesla’s built‑in dashcam is handy, aftermarket options bring extra features that can give you stronger protection. In this guide, you’ll get:
- Clear pros/cons of Tesla’s built‑in option (with sources).
- Deep, value‑packed reviews of the top aftermarket cams.
- A quick comparison table to scan specs.
- Outbound links to official resources and internal links to keep readers on your site.
- An install video section you can embed right away.
Does Tesla Model 3 Already Have a Dashcam?
Yes. Tesla Model 3 includes a dashcam and Sentry Mode using the car’s external cameras, with footage saved to a properly formatted USB/SSD in the glovebox (Tesla Owner’s Manual). You can control how Dashcam saves clips and review them in‑car when parked (Tesla How‑To). Sentry Mode is toggled from the car or app (Tesla Support).
Strengths (built‑in): Integrated UI; no extra camera to mount; pairs with Sentry Mode.
Limitations: No cabin camera recording; no in‑clip audio; storage can overwrite quickly; video clarity trails modern 4K dash cams (see 4K examples below).
Tip: Tesla lists USB requirements (capacity, format) for Dashcam/Sentry. Using a fast SSD reduces corruption and lost clips. Many owners use the Samsung T7 portable SSD for speed and reliability (Samsung T7 specs).
Why Upgrade to an Aftermarket Dash Cam?
- Sharper video: 4K systems capture plates better than the built‑in recorder (see BlackVue/Thinkware below).
- Audio capture: Aftermarket cams include microphones (Tesla’s recorder focuses on video from external cameras).
- All‑around coverage: Add cabin and rear views for incidents inside and behind the car.
- Cloud/app features: Remote alerts, live view, and easy clip sharing on premium systems.
- Dedicated hardware: Built for recording first, not driver‑assist.
Best Dash Cam for Tesla Model 3 – Full Reviews (Value Focus)
BlackVue DR900X‑2CH Plus (⭐ 4.5/5)
A favorite among Tesla owners who want set‑and‑forget protection. The DR900X‑Plus records front 4K + rear Full HD, supports BlackVue Cloud for remote alerts/live view, and includes native parking mode with the included hardwire cable (BlackVue DR900X‑Plus series).
Real‑world value: Cloud pings your phone if something hits your parked car. You can check the clip right away from anywhere. With 4K, plates are more legible in motion or low light than 1080p systems.
Who it’s for: Owners who park in public garages or street‑park and want remote alerts + 4K detail.
READ MORE : BlackVue DR900X‑2CH Plus Review.
Good Dash Cam for Tesla Model 3
Thinkware U1000 (⭐ 4.3/5)
Thinkware’s U1000 focuses on clarity and night performance. It records 4K up front and supports a 2K/1080p rear module (bundle dependent), with HDR and strong parking modes.
Real‑world value: If you often drive after dark, the U1000’s HDR tuning helps pull detail from shadows and bright streetlights. Built‑in GPS stamps speed/route for insurance or incident reports.
Who it’s for: Night‑time commuters and highway drivers who want crisp footage in mixed lighting.
Vantrue N4 Triple Dash Cam(⭐ 4.4/5)
Vantrue N4 Triple Dash Cam
The N4 gives front + rear + cabin protection in one package, with IR night vision in the cabin. Single‑channel front can record up to 4K, while the typical three‑channel setup runs 1440p + 1080p + 1080p (Vantrue N4 / OnDash N4).
Real‑world value: If you use rideshare or just want coverage inside the car, IR cabin video is gold for disputes. Supercapacitor power handles heat better than basic battery‑based cams.
Who it’s for: Families and rideshare owners who want full inside/out coverage.
Nextbase 622GW (⭐ 4.6/5)
A polished cam with 4K recording, digital stabilization, and Emergency SOS that can share your precise location with responders after a severe crash. Add optional rear/cabin modules later if you need more angles.
Real‑world value: Stabilization makes bumpy‑road footage easier to review. If you often road‑trip on rural highways, the SOS safety net is a big comfort.
Who it’s for: Drivers who value modern safety features and a refined app experience.
Storage Pick if You Keep Tesla’s Built‑in Recorder
If you’re staying with the built‑in recorder, use a fast SSD to reduce corrupt files and dropped clips. The Samsung T7 is a popular choice thanks to ~1,050/1,000 MB/s read/write performance. Follow Tesla’s USB guidelines for formatting and folder structures.
Quick Comparison Table (Specs from official pages)
| Model | Channels | Max Resolution | Parking Mode | Cloud/App | Cabin View | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla built‑in recorder | Front/side/rear (vehicle cams) | Video from vehicle cameras | Sentry Mode events | Tesla app (clip review/viewer) | No | Needs formatted USB/SSD; no in‑clip audio; overwrite behavior per storage. |
| BlackVue DR900X‑2CH Plus | 2 (front+rear) | 4K front + 1080p rear | Native (hardwire cable included) | BlackVue Cloud | No (separate interior model exists) | Remote alerts/live view; sleek install. |
| Thinkware U1000 | 1–2 (front + optional rear) | 4K front (+ 2K/1080p rear) | Strong parking modes | Thinkware app | No (separate cabin modules) | HDR tuning helps at night; GPS onboard. |
| Vantrue N4 | 3 (front+rear+cabin) | Up to 4K single / 1440p+1080p+1080p triple | Parking & time‑lapse modes | App‑free (no Cloud) | Yes (IR) | Best for full inside/out coverage; supercapacitor handles heat. |
| Nextbase 622GW | 1 (+ optional rear/cabin) | 4K front | Buffered parking (with kit) | Nextbase app | Optional | SOS feature; stabilization for smoother clips. |
Final Thoughts about dash cam for tesla model 3
If you’re searching for the best dash cam Tesla Model 3 owners should pick, think about your priority: 4K clarity and Cloud (BlackVue), night performance (Thinkware), full inside/out coverage (Vantrue), or safety extras and stabilization (Nextbase). Tesla’s built‑in recorder is fine for basics, but these aftermarket picks give you more detail, features, and control.
👉 Before buying, compare current pricing on Amazon/Best Buy/official sites linked above and choose the setup that fits your daily driving.
FAQ Section about Dash Cam for Tesla Model 3
Does Tesla Model 3 come with a dashcam?
Yes, every Tesla Model 3 includes a built-in dashcam that records using the car’s external cameras. You just need to insert a USB or SSD.
Which dash cam is best for Tesla Model 3?
The BlackVue DR900X, Thinkware U1000, Vantrue N4, and Nextbase 622GW are all excellent aftermarket choices. Each caters to different needs, from cloud storage to cabin recording.
Does Tesla’s dashcam record sound?
No, Tesla’s dashcam does not capture audio. Aftermarket dash cams like Vantrue N4 do include sound recording.
Can a Tesla dashcam drain the car battery?
Yes, but very little. Sentry Mode uses the most battery power. Expect around 1–2% daily drain.
Do I still need an aftermarket dash cam if Tesla has one?
It depends. Tesla’s dashcam is fine for basic use, but aftermarket dash cams offer sharper video, wider coverage, audio recording, and cloud features.
