In the world of dash cameras, you either get a dash camera that is battery powered or one that uses a capacitor. Capacitor powered dash cams are becoming more popular day in day thanks to their superior features that are not available in battery-powered dash cams.
For instance, supercapacitors in dash cameras are able to withstand extreme temperatures and store energy for much longer as compared to dash cams that depend on Lithium-ion batteries.
Before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s look at what capacitors and supercapacitors are, as well as how they work.
What are supercapacitors in dash cameras?
As you may already know, your dash cam relies on your car battery to record. But what happens when you park your vehicle and still want to keep recording for a while? Dash cameras come with an inbuilt source of power. This way, they are able to record and save your footage once you turn off the car.
For a long time, Lithium-Ion batteries have been used in dash cameras. However, some cameras need higher energy levels for them to work. Also, sometimes the weather is extremely hot and this affects battery-powered dash cams. This is where supercapacitors come in.
But wait, what’s a supercapacitor? Also known as ultracapacitors, supercapacitors are energy storage devices. Unlike an ordinary capacitor, a supercapacitor is able to store very high amounts of electric charge.
Although both supercapacitors and batteries perform the same role in dash cameras, the two are quite different.
Difference Between Supercapacitor and Lithium-Ion Battery
- Energy density – Unlike a Lithium-ion battery, a supercapacitor can hold more charge. While ordinary Lithium-ion batteries have an energy density of between 10000 Wh per kg, a supercapacitor has a density of between 25000 to 45000 Wh per kg. As you can see, that’s a huge variation.
- Durability – One of the benefits of a supercapacitor is its prolonged lifespan. While Lithium batteries start depreciating after around 1000 charging cycles, a supercapacitor can go through a million charging cycles without getting damaged.
- Charging and discharging time – When it comes to charging, supercapacitors charge very fast compared to Lithium-ion batteries. This also applies to discharging. Supercapacitors discharge faster than batteries and can thus not hold charge for long hence requiring frequent charging.
- Cost – Supercapacitors are pricier than Lithium-ion batteries. Hence, dash cameras that have supercapacitors are also more expensive.
- Functionality – While Lithium-ion batteries rely on chemical energy to charge, supercapcitors function by capturing static electricity and storing it for future charging.
Why go for a dashcam with a supercapacitor?
We have mentioned that dashcams with supercapacitors are more expensive and now you are wondering why you shouldn’t stick to your old battery-powered dash camera. We understand your concern. But before you make your choice, look at these benefits of supercapacitor dash cameras:
- They last longer – A supercapacitor does not lose its ability to store energy over time. This makes it durable as you can recharge it over and over again without it depreciating.
- They withstand extreme weather conditions – If you reside in a warm area or need a dashcam during the hot weather, you are better off with a supercapacitor dashcam. They are better at resisting heat as compared to battery dashcams.
- Quick charging – You may not have hours to charge your dashcam. But with a supercapacitor dashcam, it only takes a while to charge your dashcam and it’s ready for use.
Which dash cams have a capacitor?
There are several dashcams out there that have a capacitor and others a supercapacitor. Today, we are going to share a few of supercapacitor dash cameras so that you at least have a starting point. Cool?
- Rexing V1 4K Ultra HD Dash Cam 2.4″ LCD Screen – This supercapacitor powered dashcam has a storage memory of 256 gb and is able to capture beautiful images even when you are driving fast. It’s a reliable device with a supercapacitor that can withstand temperatures between -20 to 176°F. It also comes with a parking monitor feature that allows the camera to turn on automatically and record a 20 seconds video once it detects vibration. Other features include; WiFi connectivity, loop recording, G-sensor, wide dynamic range (WDR), and, 2160p video.
- Zenfox 4K Dual Channel Dash Cam – Immediately you turn off the engine, this dashcam automatically switches to parking mode to ensure you don’t miss out on any events. It has a large LCD screen (3.6”) to allow easier monitoring. It also features a GPS logger, mobile apps support, built in WiFi, 1080p front and rear camera, as well as a G sensor for emergency recording.
- Vantrue N4 3 Channel 4K Dash Cam – This great dashcam is the real deal if you want to protect yourself in case of an accident. It comes with a triple camera feature that is records the inside of your car in addition to the front and rear sides. On top of that, it’s able to adjust to record in the dark so there’s worrying about night time. Other features of this supercapacitor dashcam include; 24 hours parking mode, supercapacitor that can stand temperatures between 14°F to 158°F, loop recording, GPS, G sensor, and, 18 months’ warranty.
- COXPAL A9D Dual Dash Cam – A9D boasts of being able to function within a wide range of temperatures (-4°F to 158°F) thanks to its reliable supercapacitor. If in the past you had trouble having your camera stay put especially when driving on a bumpy road, this dash cam solves that problem. It uses an adhesive mount instead of a suction cup. The camera mount is also universal. Additional features include; loop recording, 1080p dual camera, 12 months’ warranty, wide dynamic range (WDR), Real time clock battery, infrared night vision and a G sensor.
Conclusion
Generally, dash cameras with supercapacitors are more reliable as compared to those that use batteries. Even though they are a little bit more expensive, they are more durable and have other benefits that make them worth the $. With this information, we believe you have a starting point if you are looking into buying a supercapacitor powered dash camera.
