Head-to-head · Best Dash Cams Under $200

Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 vs Nextbase 522GW

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.4 vs 4.0). The gap is mostly about budget-conscious GPS users — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Dash Cams Under $200

Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2

4.4

$138.95as of May 29

The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 offers solid basic functionality for drivers seeking an affordable dash cam solution. TechRadar praised its ease of installation and loop recording features, while Tom's Guide noted its straightforward setup and reliable GPS tracking. However, reviewers pointed out the limited 1080p resolution and lack of a built-in display as drawbacks. This product is best suited for budget-conscious drivers who want reliable accident documentation without advanced features. Those seeking higher resolution or additional functionality should consider more premium options.

Strengths

— Records 1080p video at 30fps with good clarity in daylight
— Easy to install with adhesive mount and USB cable
— Includes loop recording and motion detection features

Watch-outs

— Limited 1080p resolution compared to higher-end dash cams
— No built-in screen for previewing footage

$138.95 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #4 in Best Dash Cams Under $200

Nextbase 522GW

4.0

$199.99as of Jun 7

The Nextbase 522GW is a solid mid-tier dash cam that delivers reliable 1080p video recording with a wide 170-degree lens. PCMag praised its ease of use and built-in GPS tracking, while Tom's Guide noted its straightforward mobile app integration. However, reviewers pointed out the lack of 4K recording as a limitation in an increasingly high-resolution market. This cam is ideal for drivers seeking basic but dependable dash cam functionality without premium features, though those wanting 4K or advanced AI capabilities should consider competitors.

Strengths

— Records 1080p video at 30fps with wide 170-degree field of view
— Built-in GPS tracks speed and location data
— Easy-to-use mobile app for viewing and managing footage

Watch-outs

— No 4K recording capability, which is becoming standard in competitors
— App can be slow and occasionally crashes during file transfers

$199.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2

The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is the most discreet option here, far smaller than the screen-equipped Nextbase 522GW or the dual-channel Viofo A129 Plus Duo and Redtiger F7N. It keeps the reliable Garmin app and easy install, but at 1080p front-only it trails the 1440p Viofo A129 Plus Duo and the Redtiger F7N on resolution, and it lacks the front-and-rear coverage that the Viofo, Redtiger and Apeman C550 provide.

Nextbase 522GW

The Nextbase 522GW pairs a large 3-inch touchscreen and built-in CPL filter with Alexa and Emergency SOS that none of the others here offer. Its single-channel 1080p/1440p capture is sharper than the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 and the budget Apeman C550, but unlike the dual-channel Viofo A129 Plus Duo and Redtiger F7N it needs an add-on module for rear coverage.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2	Nextbase 522GW
Resolution	1080p	1080p
Field Of View	139°	170 degrees
Display	None	3 inch IPS LCD
Storage	microSD up to 128GB	microSD (up to 128GB)
GPS	No	Yes
Parking Mode	Yes	Yes
Night Vision	Yes	Yes

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