Rating of budget (inexpensive) DVRs: 2021, reviews, five best models

The best inexpensive DVRs from 3000 to 4000 rubles

Expensive equipment has more functionality. In our case, instead of one winner, we selected the two best models in each category, since the choice is too large. Let's study them!

Regular design

Devices of a conventional design, included in the TOP of the best, have wide-angle cameras, an HDMI output for connecting to a TV, and the ability to connect additional shooting equipment.

Intego VX-315DUAL

pros

3 cameras
Screen 4″
G-sensor
Viewing angle 140º
IR illumination

Minuses

No battery

From 3550 ₽

This model films everything that happens in front of the car, the interior, with a camera built into the body, and also what is happening behind the car. There is a parking mode. But autonomous operation is not possible.

CarCam D5

pros

with remote camera
G-sensor
HD video 1080
150 mAh battery
Operating temperature from -40 to +60 °C

Minuses

Doesn't work with all memory cards
poor quality night photography

From 3490 ₽

The device works even in severe frosts. 2-channel video is presented in clips of 3, 5 and 10 minutes. When the G-sensor is triggered, the recording is protected from erasure. At night, the picture turns out to be noisy and of poor quality, and the device does not work with all memory cards.

With rearview mirror

The best video recorder overlays for the rear view mirror, which were chosen by experts, besides their two, have connectors for connecting external cameras. A prerequisite is the presence of 2 channels of HD video recording.

Intego VX-435MR

pros

PTZ camera
Touch 5″ display
Record without interruptions
Battery

Minuses

No image stabilizer
Operates at temperatures above -10ºС

From 3568 ₽

The “disease” of mirror covers is video shaking. A stabilizer would solve this problem, but it is not here. The device, priced well below 4,000 rubles, has a rotating front camera with a viewing angle of 140º and non-stop recording to a card of up to 32 GB.

Digma FreeDrive 303 MIRROR DUAL

pros

Battery
Slot for SD card up to 32 GB.
Recording in a separate folder
G-sensor, motion sensor

Minuses

Recording is interrupted
No back camera light

From 3163 ₽

This device records videos of 1, 3 and 5 minutes in length, but there is no continuous shooting mode. When hit, the video is immediately protected from being overwritten. Users are satisfied with the image quality and the availability of settings.

With good shooting quality (high resolution)

A video recorder with a high-definition camera helps to capture the license plate numbers of cars caught in the frame. You just need a sensitive matrix, and also a large viewing angle to record events not only in front of the car, but also to the sides.

Rekam F250

pros

Shooting at 170º
Battery
Slot for micro SD up to 32 GB.
Camera resolution 2,304×1,296
G-sensor

Minuses

1 camera
No motion detector

From 3440 ₽

The presented gadget, with its wide-angle optics, shoots videos with high detail. But there is only one camera. The device starts working immediately after connecting to the cigarette lighter or when the G-sensor is triggered.

Prestigio RoadRunner 535W

pros

video 2560x1440p.
motion and shock detectors
battery 240 mAh.
WiFi

Minuses

Small screen
Turns off in cold weather

From 3039 ₽

This model records high-definition video due to the presence of the latest 4 million pixel CMOS matrix. A special feature of the device is the setting of turning off timer shooting, as well as data transfer via Wi-Fi.

TOP 10 best DVRs under 3000 rubles

To decide which recorder is best to choose for your tasks, it is worth studying its characteristics. A modern device must be equipped with a powerful processor capable of quickly processing information, as well as a high-quality matrix. It is optimal that the physical resolution of the latter exceeds the actual one of the recorded files.

An important criterion is also the reliability of the DVR mount. If the fixation is not good enough, the recorder will fall while moving and will not be able to perform its direct task.

Last but equally important selection criteria are design and build. The latter must be performed at an excellent level so that the DVR does not let you down at a crucial moment. The appearance of the device should decorate and not spoil the interior.

Roadgid Mini 2 WiFi

The leader among budget DVRs is Roadgid Mini 2 WiFi, which has the functions of a top-end device at a low price (can be found on sale for 3,000 rubles on Wildberries or Yandex. Market). An undoubted advantage and - for many - the most important quality is the miniature size of the recorder, which will not interfere with the driver’s view, but will become an unnoticeable, secret assistant on the roads.

Video recording in Full HD resolution provides excellent shooting quality, license plates of oncoming cars are clearly visible. Especially worth noting is the improved image at night thanks to the excellent Galaxy Core 2053 sensor. A viewing angle of 170 degrees will allow you to record all the details on the road. The recorder is equipped with a powerful Novatek 96672 processor, so it functions quickly and without delay, and also supports video compression without loss of quality for easy storage.

The updated Mini 2 has a built-in WiFi module that will facilitate interaction with the device and successfully integrate it into a smartphone using a mobile application.

Advantages:

improved video recording at night;
small dimensions – 7x4.5x1.5 cm;
special protection against glare, for example, from headlights and glare from sunlight, allowing you to make the image sharper;
G-sensor, which activates recording when the car hits, while the driver is absent
Supports memory cards up to 64 GB.

Artway AV-397 GPS Compact, GPS

The strengths of this popular DVR model are the quality of recording, the convenience and reliability of mounting, as well as an ultra-wide viewing angle (170°). According to buyers, this is a good, inexpensive device that fully copes with the task. Recording is carried out in Full HD format, high image quality is ensured by advanced optics with 6 glass lenses and the WRD function, which gives a clear frame without distortion at the edges. The recorder is easy to start in any weather, thanks to its wide temperature range. The kit includes a GPS module that provides information about the trip: current, average and maximum speed, distance traveled, route and GPS coordinates on the map. No serious disadvantages were found in the model.

Advantages:

High video quality
Ultra wide viewing angle of 170 degrees
GPS module with detailed information about the trip;
small dimensions;
simplicity and ease of use

Flaws:

Supports memory cards up to 32 GB only.

Artway AV-510

One of the few inexpensive DVRs that, despite its extremely affordable price, fully performs its functions. Shoots in good Full HD format. It is capable of recording sound and recording date and time. Like more advanced models, the AV-510, in order to save space on the memory card, starts recording only after the parked car starts moving, or when moving objects appear within its range. In the event of an accident, the built-in G-sensor instantly activates the protection, blocking the overwrite function and thereby saving the data that will be required to analyze the current situation. Another important advantage of this gadget is the quality of the captured video. Support for Full HD format makes it possible to examine in detail the color, make, number of the car and other details.

Advantages:

decent video quality
there is a shock sensor;
excellent price offer;
sound recording;
no failures at high temperatures;
autostart mode.

Flaws:

lack of a second camera

Digma FreeDrive 104

The review continues with a good affordable car DVR from Digma. The FreeDrive 104 model features a thin body (37 mm) with a protruding lens in the center. It contains a camera with glass lenses, a viewing angle of 140 degrees and a night mode implemented using IR illumination. There is also the possibility of taking photos here. As for video recording, it is carried out with a resolution of 1080p and a frame rate of 30 fps. In this case, the user has 5 options for the duration of the videos: 1, 2, 3, 5 and 10 minutes. It can be carried out cyclically or continuously. One of the best recorders, according to customer reviews, records all data on microSD cards, the maximum supported capacity of which is 32 GB.

Advantages:

writes well both day and night;
high-quality 2.7-inch screen;
basic setup;
simplicity of the interface;
you can turn off the screen and microphone;
convenient swivel mount;
neat design and excellent build.

Flaws:

The battery lasts only a few minutes.

SilverStone F1 NTK-330F

F1 NTK-330F is a lightweight and compact DVR that can be found for less than 2 thousand rubles. The device is made in a classic form factor and is equipped with a 2.7-inch display. The device is equipped with an average quality camera with a resolution of 1.3 MP and can record Full HD videos. In daylight, the picture turns out to be quite clear, but at night, the readability of numbers from a distance decreases.

Despite the built-in battery with a capacity of 300 mAh, many users note that the F1 NTK-330F DVR turns off almost immediately after disconnecting the on-board power. This model is indeed susceptible to this problem, but it usually appears after a year of use.

The viewing angle in the popular DVR from SilverStone is 140 degrees (diagonally), which is quite typical for a budget solution. The DVR is mounted on a regular suction cup, making installation simple and reliable, and if necessary, the F1 NTK-330F can be easily moved to another place or vehicle.

Advantages:

attractive design;
Ease of Management;
one of the cheapest models on the market;
simplicity and quality of fastening.

Flaws:

the battery wears out quickly;
Night mode doesn't help much.

NAVITEL R200

When it comes to which company is better to buy a recorder, the domestic company NAVITEL immediately comes to mind. This brand has been on the market not as long ago as its famous competitors, but this does not prevent the manufacturer from occupying a large share of the Russian market. In particular, the NAVITEL R200 DVR is in great demand, the weight and dimensions of which are even more modest than those of the solution above: 48 g and 63 × 56 × 33 mm, respectively. True, the screen in such a case only fits a 2-inch one, and its aspect ratio is not the more common today 16:9, but 4:3 (resolution 320x240 pixels).

Unfortunately, NAVITEL R200 is not suitable for the most severe frosts. The manufacturer claims that the device can operate at temperatures not lower than 0 degrees. The maximum mark is plus 40.

Below the display there are 5 buttons used for control. At the top end there is a mount for a bracket with a suction cup and a cable for charging from the cigarette lighter. For autonomous operation, a good budget DVR has a 180 mAh battery, which is enough for such a small DVR to operate for about 10 minutes outside the car.

Advantages:

very compact dimensions;
holds securely on the suction cup;
automatic start of recording;
simple and clear menu;
low price for its capabilities;
Full HD video quality.

Flaws:

The location of the power connector is not entirely convenient.

Xiaomi 70mai Dash Cam Midrive D01

At first we thought of including the best model with a radar detector in the rating. However, almost all interesting devices are located outside the selected price category. But it includes an interesting recorder from Xiaomi. The device with the long name 70mai Dash Cam Midrive D01 pleases with its attractive price from 2300 rubles and is characterized by good assembly for the manufacturer. The design of the DVR is also head and shoulders above what Xiaomi's competitors offer.

But how could a device without a screen be included in the list of the best DVRs for 3,000 rubles, you ask? The fact is that a display is not required here, because to view videos the user can download applications for iOS or Android. Synchronization between 70mai Dash Cam Midrive D01 is carried out via Wi-Fi. After this, the owner of the recorder has access to all the videos and device settings.

Advantages:

built-in Wi-Fi module;
perfectly performs its basic functions right out of the box, without requiring any configuration;
original design and compactness;
fast processor from MStar;
voice control capability;
battery capacity 240 mAh.

Flaws:

The device cannot be quickly removed; voice control is only in Chinese.

Dunobil Magna

Next up is the best DVR according to reviews from car owners. The Magna model is made in the typical Dunobil style. The manufacturer tried to reduce development costs as much as possible, which was achieved thanks to the unification of the design. At the same time, no one skimped on the assembly, and all the elements of the case fit perfectly together. The front panel of the device contains only a few inscriptions, a protruding lens, as well as a speaker and LED backlight next to it.

The Magna DVR is securely mounted on a bracket with suction cups, from which the DVR can be quickly removed for filming outside the car. For this case, the device has a battery with a capacity of 180 mAh.

On the right side of the DVR there is an entrance for a memory card and several buttons. All other controls are located under a small 2.2-inch display with a resolution of 320 by 240 pixels. As a result, it can be noted that an excellent build, a high-quality 2-megapixel matrix with an f/2.0 aperture and a viewing angle of 130 degrees, a night mode and compactness make the model from Dunobil one of the best recorders in terms of price and quality in the review.

Advantages:

decent picture at any time of the day;
supports memory cards up to 64 GB;
can be connected to a TV via HDMI;
it runs on battery power for a long time, as for its class;
thoughtful device management;
possibility of hidden installation.

SHO-ME FHD-450

The weight and size characteristics and functionality of the FHD-450 are similar to competitors' solutions. And in terms of image quality, the best device priced at 3,000 rubles in the SHO-ME product range is reminiscent of its key analogues. There is a 3 MP matrix installed here, providing high clarity when recording video during the day. At night the quality deteriorates, but not too much, so the numbers remain legible at an average distance from the car.

One of the most reliable DVRs in the price category of 3,000 rubles can operate at temperatures from minus 20 to plus 60 degrees. The performance of the device is ensured by the modern NTK96223 processor, which instantly processes images and responds with lightning speed to any user commands. For ease of setup, the SHO-ME recorder has several buttons and a 1.5-inch screen. To get a closer look at your captured videos, which can be 1, 3, 5, or 10 minutes long, you can sync the FHD-450's data to your computer.

Advantages:

compact dimensions;
securely attached to glass;
quality of workmanship and materials;
recording quality on a 3 MP camera;
ability to block overwriting;
reasoned cost.

Dunobil Spiegel Solo

We decided to end the review with a rear-view mirror-style video recorder. This form factor allows you to hide the fact of recording what is happening on the road from strangers, without violating the design of the car interior intended by the manufacturer. The Spiegel Solo easily attaches to a standard mirror using a pair of included rubber fasteners. As a result, the fact of recording is only hinted at by the peeking lens, which remains completely invisible unless you look closely.

Dunobil has taken care of the ease of use of its DVR. More than half of its area is occupied by a high-quality mirror coating, which allows you to comfortably monitor the road. And only on the right side (farthest from the driver) is a high-quality 4.3-inch display.

The reviewed recorder can be purchased for 3 thousand rubles. This is an excellent offer for such a high-quality device. On its screen you can view information from the main camera with a resolution of 1.3 MP and make settings (the buttons are located under the anti-glare mirror surface). While driving, the display is not distracting, but for convenience it can be turned off completely.

Advantages:

hidden installation;
high-quality screen and its location;
good mirror surface with anti-reflective layer;
high-quality assembly and reasonable cost;
high quality daytime photography.

Flaws:

diagonal viewing angle of only 120 degrees;
At night, the recording quality drops noticeably.

Which budget DVR is better to buy?

People who leave their cars near their home should take a closer look at mirror video recorders. They are practically invisible, which reduces the risk of hacking and theft of the accessory. They are also appropriate to use for those who find additional devices disturbing the glass. For frequent trips at night, it is better to use devices in the form of monoblocks, which have more advanced camera modules that provide a wide viewing angle and high light sensitivity.

Here's the best budget DVR to choose based on different situations:

When looking for a DVR with FullHD resolution at a minimal price, you should buy SilverStone F1 NTK-351 Duo. The device shoots video well, at least for 2300 rubles. There's nothing to complain about.
If you need a rear view camera, a video recorder and a radar scanner in one bottle, then an excellent option would be the Artway MD-165 Combo 5 in 1. This model can create videos with a wide capture angle (170°) and records from two cameras simultaneously, allowing you to fully assess the road situation while viewing.
For those who value ease of use and want to get only a DVR with a good camera module for affordable money, it is appropriate to recommend the Dunobil Spiegel Solo.
As a basic DVR with high-quality footage that allows you to see license plates from a distance of up to 70 m, it would be appropriate to take the Xiaomi 70mai Dash Cam Midrive D01. Its only drawback is the lack of a screen, but the disadvantage is compensated by an advanced smartphone application.
For people who like compact devices that do not block their view, the Navitel R1000 compact video recorder is suitable, which also films in decent quality with high detail.
For high-quality day and night photography, it is better to use YI Smart Dash Camera. With a price of about 3 thousand rubles, this is the only model in the rating that can shoot videos in FullHD at 60 fps.
Car enthusiasts living in regions with a temperate continental climate and often traveling at different times of the day should purchase the SHO-ME A7-GPS/GLONASS. The abundance of functionality and high-quality shooting at different lighting levels allow you to comfortably use the DVR at any time of the day.

Our rating of budget DVRs includes models for any purpose and purpose, proving that a car owner does not necessarily have to overpay for expensive devices. Among the best options are discreet, original and fairly high-quality devices. All of them adequately capture the environment on the road, but the final choice will be appropriate to make only on the basis of your goals.

The best compact DVRs

5 Prestigio RoadRunner CUBE

A budget product with a matrix from Sony. The kit includes a device, a mounting leg, a cable, a pair of plates for removing dust and dirt, a shovel, a set of documents and a cigarette lighter. The appearance is made in a minimalist style in the shape of a cube. Due to this, it takes up minimal space on the windshield. The manufacturer offers a wide selection of body colors, including gold. In addition, you can choose a combination of colors at once. You can directly connect to your smartphone using a Wi-Fi network. Night videos will please you with the quality of recording; car license plates are visible clearly and without blur.

The image is displayed on a small 1.5-inch display. The controls consist of 4 mechanical buttons. The lens consists of 6-layer optics with a viewing angle of 140 degrees. The presence of an additional USB port makes it possible to charge your phone while traveling. The fastener is functional and convenient. The list of options is presented in one window.

4 NAVITEL R200

When unpacking this budget DVR, you are immediately pleased with the information content, since all the main parameters of the device are described on the box in an accessible form. The 1920x1080 resolution with a viewing angle of 140 degrees maintains a balance between technical characteristics and price. A nice feature is the shock sensor, which protects files from being overwritten in the event of an accident at the moment of impact. Ideal for rural areas and small towns.

The role of the fastener is performed by a classic suction cup with the ability to rotate 360 degrees. There is also a regular power cable, as well as a cord for connecting to a computer and transferring data. Pleasant appearance makes it possible to buy as a gift. Power comes from 5 Volts. At the bottom there is a port for reading Micro SD cards up to 64 GB. Recording starts automatically after turning on the ignition, the low weight has a positive effect on the stability of the mount - the chance that the DVR will fall off while driving is minimal, even when driving over rough terrain.

3 Dunobil Spiegel Solo

The product is supplied in an oblong package made of thick cardboard with a hinged lid and magnetic fastening. In addition to the DVR itself, the package includes a cigarette lighter charger, a USB cable, a pair of rubber fasteners and scrap paper from the instructions. The device has the form factor of a salon mirror and duplicates its shape. For most cars, its area will exceed the dimensions of a standard mirror. The dimensions allow you to significantly expand the viewing angle and fix it in the cabin.

The main part of the body is characterized by a small thickness of 1 centimeter. The discreet appearance eliminates the need to dismantle the recorder every time the car is parked and does not provoke theft. The design is two-part and there is a moving part at the base. A mirror sheet with anti-reflective coating hides a 4.3-inch diagonal screen. Among the navigation tools, there are 6 buttons, which are not difficult to understand. Drives up to 32 GB are supported.

2 Mio MiVue C305

The Asian brand, thanks to the introduction of breakthrough technologies and 100% in-house assembly, has firmly taken a position in the TOP 5 ratings of various formats in terms of popularity since its appearance on the world market. Russian users also highlight this 1-chamber device with two mounting options in the category of goods under 3,000 rubles. It cannot be said that last year’s new product was particularly impressive, but the presence in the kit, in addition to the classic suction cup, of a platform with double-sided tape increased the reliability of the system while maintaining the functions of rotating 360 degrees and changing the angle of inclination. The corporate design has remained unchanged, which helps to increase the recognition of the model. A camera with a ¼-inch matrix at a viewing angle of 100 degrees records in 30 frames/s mode. The speaker is located on the front side. The simple interface is easy to use for beginners. If necessary, the factory settings are adjusted manually.

Users highlight the Full HD mode, automatic time and date stamping, a convenient 4-button control panel, and the ability to connect to a PC via USB. The downside is the small size of the display (2.4 inches).

1 Artway AV-394

The auto gadget is rightly included in the “Customers’ Choice 2018” nomination due to its demand due to its improved configuration, impeccable operation and ease of operation. The ergonomic body made of metal and plastic has a classic design. The 3-inch diagonal screen does not glare in the sun and allows you to clearly view video recordings and take high-quality photos. A big advantage is the presence of a second camera, which is installed both inside and outside, above the rear license plates. It is waterproof, allows shooting in minus 25 degrees and extreme heat, making parking easier and safer. The mode starts when reverse gear is engaged, further helping to determine the distance to an obstacle. The viewing angle of the front camera is 120 degrees without distortion over the entire viewing area. The 6-lens optical system is made of glass, which improves its throughput, especially in low-light conditions.

Among the advantages of the device are Full HD 1920x1080 video recording at 30 frames/s, an audio channel, G-sensor shock sensors, and a parking option that will leave no chance for the potential culprit of the collision in your absence. In their reviews, car owners also praise the ability to charge the device both from the on-board network and the battery.