If your car doesn’t have a built-in backup camera but you want to enjoy the benefits of having one, there are lots of reasonably priced reversing cameras available.
The rear view mirror can only show you so much whereas a reversing camera lets you clearly see what’s behind you, providing a complete view without the stress of blind spots.
These compact cameras offer an ideal solution suitable for all cars, caravans and trucks and help to increase safety when driving.
The best backup camera will help you avoid obstacles and manoeuvre more safely when backing up or parking.
Here are the best reversing cameras in Australia:
1. Garmin BC 40 Wireless Reversing Camera (Top Pick)
The Garmin BC 40 is a great reversing camera that offers easy installation and doesn’t need to be hard-wired to your car. You simply attach the included mount to your license plate and the camera snaps into place.
This compact, wireless and weatherproof device is powered by AA batteries and has a battery life of up to 3 months (with average use). It can be used with any car make or model but needs to be used with a compatible Garmin navigator.
The camera produces a wide, clear video of what’s behind your vehicle and you can use voice commands to initiate the camera use.
What We Like:
- Wireless
- Easy to install on any vehicle
- Battery-powered with good battery life
What We Don’t Like:
- Requires a compatible Garmin Navigator to work
2. Garmin BC 30 Wireless Backup Camera
The Garmin BC 30 is a compact reversing camera that provides a 140 degree horizontal and 115 degree vertical view. It is an easy way to spot obstructions and hazards behind you no matter what car you own.
It is recommended you get the system installed professionally and while it is possible to do-it-yourself too this will likely take a few hours. The camera needs to be mounted on the rear of the vehicle and connected to a power source (such as the rear lights).
The BC 30 needs to be used with a compatible GPS Navigator and up to 4 cameras can be used together to provide different viewing angles. The video can be sent wirelessly up to 45 ft. The camera is rugged so can withstand harsh weather conditions.
What We Like:
- Sleek and compact
- More than 1 camera can be used together
- Long-range wireless connection
What We Don’t Like:
- Video quality of the BC 30 is not as good as the BC 40
3. Yada Digital Wireless Backup Camera with 4.3″ Dash Monitor
This monitor and reverse camera kit is one of the best options for all cars and all driving conditions, including low light thanks to its night vision capabilities. The Yada wireless backup camera and dash monitor is simple, practical and effective.
The backup camera is easy to install over the license plate and the image is wirelessly transmitted to the monitor. The set comes with an installation guide to make it as straightforward as possible.
There are no wires needed between the camera and the monitor and there is no interference ensuring the image quality is sharp so you can see what’s going on behind your car.
The screen also displays parking assist lines to help you gauge distance when parking and manoeuvring.
What We Like:
- Reversing camera and monitor kit
- Reasonable price
- Parking assist
What We Don’t Like:
- Some users have found the video signal can sometimes be inconsistent (particularly in larger vehicles)
4. Obast Backup Reversing Camera and Monitor Kit
The Obast Backup Reversing Camera Kit includes a 4.3 inch LCD monitor that can be mounted to the dash or windshield with the suction cup mount.
Setting this camera up is simple, there are two installation methods for the camera and once installed you simply attach the camera and monitor to the cigarette lighter power adapter and that’s it.
The camera provides a 165 degree viewing angle, has night vision and is waterproof so it will be a useful parking aid whatever the weather and time of day.
The camera is of high quality and sends clear video to the full-colour display.
What We Like:
- Camera is waterproof and has night vision
- Clear video quality
- Simple set up
What We Don’t Like:
- Wired connection is required
5. Elinz 5″ Car Wireless Reversing Camera
This reversing camera kit from Elinz offers a wide-angled view to reduce blind spots and make backing up easier.
The built-in wireless transmitter and receiver have a range of 30 meters making it great for use in all cars, trucks and trailers. The strong wireless signal means clear pictures are sent to the monitor with no interference.
The camera has night vision too and the 5″ LCD colour display makes it easy to see what’s going on.
The set comes with a car charger for power and convenient installation. It will take just a couple of minutes to install the monitor and the monitor will automatically turn on and switch the rearview camera when reversing.
The system includes parking assist lines to help with distances when reversing.
What We Like:
- Large wireless range
- Clear images
- Colour monitor
What We Don’t Like:
- Users in larger vehicles may experience signal issues with the Elinz wireless reverse cameras
6. AUTO-VOX M1 Reversing Camera
The Auto-Vox M1 camera system is one of the best low cost options, particularly if you are looking for one that offers simple installation. This system is sleek, uses just one wire and the wired connection ensures there will be no lost connection or interference.
The rear camera and monitor are both powered by the same wire taking away any installation confusion, making it easy and convenient.
The camera is waterproof and will deliver great images even on rainy days. It also has night vision so will work well even in low light conditions.
The set comes with a strong adhesive silicone bracket mount to attach the monitor to the dashboard or windshield. It is removable and holds the monitor in place safely and securely.
The camera system also uses parking reverse assist system so you can easily park in tight spots without experiencing stress.
What We Like:
- Simple to install
- Quality parking assist system
- Durable design
What We Don’t Like:
- The camera mount is not easy to adjust
7. Esky Backup Reversing Camera
This backup reversing camera monitor from Esky is high quality and easy to use. The monitor can be used for a range of devices and can be connected to up to 2 cameras at once.
It is easy to change between the AV1 and AV2 inputs by using the included remote control or the video selection button.
The screen offers high-resolution picture quality and allows brightness, contrast and colour adjustments.
This monitor is easy to install and it can be fitted standing or mounted depending on your use and requirements. The Esky monitor is ideal for use with parking systems.
What We Like:
- High resolution monitor
- Can connect 2 cameras at once
- Good value
What We Don’t Like:
- Camera(s) need to be purchased separately
Reversing Camera Buyer’s Guide
Backup cameras are available in a variety of options including wireless and battery-powered models. The best option for you depends on your requirements but the camera you select should give you a clear live feed so you don’t have to solely rely on the rear view mirror when reversing.
Newer cars have a reversing camera already installed but fortunately, you don’t have to splash out on a brand new car to enjoy this feature. This buyers guide will help you figure out which features are most important to you when comparing reversing cameras.
Camera Viewing Angle
The viewing angle is important as this tells you how much you will be able to see, a wider angle is best as this gives you a better overview. A wide angle will show what is directly behind the car but will also give you a view of the sides of the vehicle too so you can avoid anything approaching from the sides.
Wired vs Wireless
One of the first things that is mentioned in reversing cameras product description is whether it is wireless or not.
Wired and wireless options both have their pros and cons:
Wireless – a wireless backup camera is great for having minimal wiring in and around the car. It eliminates the need for wiring between the camera and monitor but you will still have to power both independently.
The monitor is often plugged into the car lighter while the camera can either be wired to the cars lights or battery powered depending on the product chosen.
The downside to wireless is that the video quality is often not as good and it is not uncommon to experience signal interference, particularly in large trucks/ when towing caravans etc.
Wired – this is when the camera and monitor are connected with a wire. The wire isn’t really a problem if you set it up well. The image quality is very good with a wired rear view camera.
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Location
The location of the camera is another factor to consider. You can find small backup cameras that can fit behind the license plate, cameras that replace the boot handle or reversing light or cameras that sit on a mount above or below the license plate.
The cameras that replace the boot handle or reversing light blend in so you can hardly see them whereas the other options will be more visible.
The location of the monitor is also important. Sometimes the camera can connect to your cars existing screen but you will often need a separate monitor that works with the backup camera.
The screen can usually be mounted to the dashboard or windscreen, some products can be fitted to be flush with your dashboard and others offer a mini screen that can be added to your rear view mirror.
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Parking Assist
The best backup cameras have some form of parking assist lines that help with safety when manoeuvering. The lines can be static or dynamic:
Static – these don’t move but provide a rough idea that will help you park the car straight and gauge the distance of obstacles.
Dynamic – these parking assist lines will move depending on the angle of the steering wheel meaning the lines indicate the path of the rear wheels. They are helpful for parking in tight spots and are often the first choice for people who struggle with reverse parking.