Mobile DVR vs. Dash Cam: What's the Difference?

Many people wonder about the differences between Mobile DVR and Dash Cams. While they may look similar at times, their functions can vary significantly. In this article, we'll focus on Dash Cams for commercial fleets. For a deeper dive into the distinction between Dash Cams for commercial fleets and personal use, check out our previous article: Fleet Cam vs. Dash Cam: What's the Difference?

Similarities

Both Dash Cams and Mobile DVR serve the purpose of video recording to provide evidence for preventing theft, accidents, fraudulent claims, reducing losses, and protecting reputations. Modern solutions on the market support features such as 4G connectivity, GPS tracking, power loss protection, loop recording, video playback, collision detection, and mobile/computer software management.

Differences

① Appearance: Dash Cams are typically compact, small and lightweight, while MDVR are more robust and feature a key-lock chamber for added security. MDVR are generally larger and heavier compared to dash cams.

The difference becomes especially apparent when comparing the Ultravision HD Dash Cam with the AI MDVR.

Mobile DVR with key-lock chamber

② Application Scenarios: Dash Cams are commonly used in smaller vehicles with limited interior space, such as taxis, rideshare services, and limo services provider, primarily to reduce liability and enhance cooperation. In contrast, Mobile DVR are typically found in larger commercial vehicles like vans, trucks, school buses, and public transit buses, which require more durable systems due to their size and interior space.

③ Installation Location: Dash Cams are typically mounted on the front windshield for easy installation, often using double-sided tape. In contrast, Mobile DVR are usually installed in less visible areas, such as unused space inside the driving platform, making them harder for passengers to notice. For added stability, MDVR are generally secured with screws.

④ Storage Space: Dash Cams are compact and typically support smaller storage options like TF/SD cards. On the other hand, MDVR can accommodate larger storage options, including HDD/SSD drives, in addition to TF/SD cards. This makes MDVR ideal for users with higher storage needs, allowing for longer retention of vehicle video surveillance footage.

⑤ Number of Cameras: Dash Cams typically come with integrated front and rear cameras to monitor both the road ahead and the interior of the vehicle. Many Dash Cam manufacturers, like Ultravision, also offer solutions that support additional cameras. For example, the Ultravision S series and N series Dash Cams can connect up to two external cameras for monitoring the cargo area, the rear of the vehicle, or surrounding areas. Mobile DVR, on the other hand, do not have built-in cameras but offer interfaces to connect multiple external cameras, typically supporting 4 to 8 cameras. Additionally, MDVR can connect even more cameras—up to 12 or 16—through IPC interfaces for IP cameras.

⑥ AI Features: Using Ultravision as an example, Dash Cams typically offer AI features like ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), DMS (Driver Monitoring System), and FR (Face Recognition) based on the integrated front and rear cameras. However, Dash Cams generally do not support AI features reliant on external cameras, such as APC (Automatic Passenger Counting) or BSD (Blind Spot Detection). In contrast, Mobile DVR support a full range of AI features.

⑦ Scalability: Scalability primarily depends on the number of serial communication interfaces and I/O ports available. Due to its larger size, MDVR offer greater scalability compared to Dash Cams. This means MDVR can connect to more vehicle accessories, enabling the collection of additional vehicle status information. This expanded capability is crucial for enhancing the vehicle’s perception of its surroundings and meeting the data requirements of various industries for vehicle operation monitoring.

⑧ Cost-effectiveness: Dash Cams are compact and typically come with built-in front and rear cameras. Given their smaller size and integrated features, Dash Cams generally have a lower cost for similar configurations compared to MDVR. As a result, Dash Cams offer better cost-effectiveness when it comes to budget management and cost control.

User Preference

Based on customer feedback gathered during the product research phase, most users prefer products that are compact, feature-rich, easy to install, and capable of delivering clear video footage. Dash Cams are particularly popular in the car rental and carpooling industries. However, for larger vehicles such as heavy-duty trucks, school buses, and passenger buses—where vehicle length and safety requirements are greater—MDVR are more commonly used. This is because MDVR support more cameras and advanced AI-driven safety features.

For smaller trucks and minibuses, the distinction between MDVR and Dash Cam applications is less clear and often depends on specific customer needs and preferences. However, it is evident that, when specifications are similar, customers generally favor products that are smaller, easier to deploy, and require less complex installation.

Ultravision Technology

Shenzhen Ultravision Technology Co., Ltd. is a leading technology company specializing in the development and production of MDVR and Dash Cams, both powered by AI-driven active safety algorithms. In addition to our core products, we also offer tailored industry solutions designed to meet the specific needs of various sectors and applications.

Ultravision is dedicated to advancing the global Vision Zero initiative, focusing on how AI-based video telematics technology can enhance the operational efficiency and safety of commercial fleets. With over 16 years of industry experience, Ultravision is at the forefront of innovation in this field. We firmly believe that, with the ongoing evolution of AI technology, the goal of achieving zero accidents worldwide will soon become a reality.

Future Development Trends

In the future, Dash Cams will become more integrated and feature-rich while remaining compact. However, this does not mean that MDVR will be phased out. The two technologies will continue to evolve along different paths due to their distinct application scenarios, though they do overlap in some areas.

MDVR are expected to develop toward higher reliability and functionality. Much like the black box in an airplane, MDVR will increasingly serve as a supplement of event data recorder (EDR), providing essential data for accident analysis and vehicle performance optimization. For more details on MDVR, please refer to our previous article: Keep Your Fleet Safe: A Look Inside MDVR.

In summary, the difference in user needs leads to noticeable differences between Dash Cams and MDVR. Sometimes they may appear quite similar, while at other times, the gap between them can be significant. As technology continues to advance, these differences will gradually diminish. Currently, many customers face challenges in choosing between MDVR and Dash Cams due to the variety of factors involved. Please feel free to reach out to us with your specific requirements, and we will recommend the best product solution tailored to your needs.

To learn more about related products, visit our Product Center: Ultravision Product Center

Written by Henry Chia on December 3, 2024.