How do dash cams store recordings? What kind of storage media do they use?Updated 3 days ago

Most dash cams store recordings on microSD memory cards, which typically range between 32GB and 1TB in capacity, or size. The maximum capacity supported by each dash cam will vary, and many dash cams will also have speed and class requirements (with some going as far as requiring certain brands and models of SD cards). SD cards are generally inexpensive and are inserted directly into the dash cam system itself. However, they do have a relatively short lifespan of 2-3 years on average when used in a dash cam, as it is a high-stress application.

Some dash cams also support storage via solid-state drives (SSDs). Currently (as of January 2026), these are limited to the VIOFO A329 series, which supports select SSDs between 1TB and 4TB in capacity. They can handle significantly more stress than SD cards, resulting in significantly longer lifespans. While SSDs are typically on the pricier side and require additional installation work, they are ideal for commercial drivers who need a more resilient and reliable storage solution with more capacity than an SD card can provide.

Some dash cams also have built-in flash storage, which means an SD card or SSD is not required for operation. However, as this storage is not replaceable, these dash cams' overall lifespan will heavily depend on that of the built-in storage. If the built-in storage fails, then so does the dash cam, even if the rest of it is perfectly fine. Some of these dash cams may also support SD cards and SSDs, so you can continue using them, but not all of them do. For this reason, BlackboxMyCar does not carry any dash cams with built-in storage.

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