MDVR vs Dashcam: Which Is Better for Your Operation?

Introduction

Mobile Digital Video Recorders (MDVRs) and dashcams serve as essential tools for monitoring and recording vehicle activity, but they cater to different needs and use cases. Understanding the distinctions between these two systems can help determine which is better suited for specific operations.

What is an MDVR?

Mobile Digital Video Recorders, or MDVRs, are mounted camera systems that enable fleet operations centers to monitor drivers and vehicles in real-time. These systems, often referred to as truck CCTV, provide a comprehensive view of vehicle activity, making them ideal for commercial and fleet operations.

What is a Dashcam?

A dashcam, or dashboard camera, is a small camera installed on the windscreen or dashboard of a vehicle. It records the vehicle’s road-facing vision and saves the video to an SD card for later viewing. Dashcams are typically used in personal vehicles and turn on automatically with the car’s ignition.

Major Benefits of Gussmann MDVR Compared to Dashcam

1. Display Options

MDVRs typically include high-quality display options, such as LCD panels, which can be installed according to operational requirements. The Gussmann MDVR system supports up to eight-channel cameras at 1080P resolution, allowing for extensive recording capabilities. In contrast, dashcams come with small screens or no screens at all, with most models supporting only one or two cameras.

Gussmann MDVR System 

Dashcam Capacity 

Dashcams come with a small screen or even no screen. There is little to no scope for changing the display option where common dashcam come with 1 cam or maximum of 2 cam.

2. Recording Capacity

The Gussmann MDVR system is ideal for fleet operations or long-distance goods distribution due to its higher recording capacity. It can store up to 2TB with a secondary storage option of 64GB SSD. Dashcams, intended for short-term recordings, allow users to use any SD card, but there is always the risk of SD card damage, which can result in the loss of footage.

3. Safety

MDVR devices are usually produced with industry-grade materials for longer usage, making them safer and more difficult to tamper with. The Gussmann MDVR allows users to live-stream incidents as they happen. Dashcams, made with consumer-grade materials, are more susceptible to environmental conditions and tampering, making live viewing of incidents more challenging.

4. GPS Tracking

The Gussmann MDVR includes GPS tracking functionality, allowing users to view historical tracks in map mode whenever the vehicle’s ignition is on. Dashcams, however, do not typically come with GPS tracking features.

5. Anti-vibration Ability

For the Gussmann MDVR, an anti-vibration design is crucial as it helps reduce the risk of data loss caused by uneven road conditions and accidents. Normal dashcams, fixed directly to the windscreen, do not require anti-vibration features.

6. Footage Visibility

MDVR systems, like the Gussmann MDVR, are beneficial for those handling larger fleets or distributing goods over long distances. They make it easier to identify methods to cut operating expenses, establish better driving behaviors, and assess risks after collisions. Dashcams, with their limited camera support, offer less comprehensive visibility.

7. Number of Recording Cameras

A standard dashcam supports up to two cameras (front and rear), while the Gussmann MDVR supports at least 3-4 cameras simultaneously, with the capability to connect up to 8 cameras. This allows for more comprehensive coverage, recording blind spots, and various positions within the vehicle, such as cargo areas and trailer doors.

Conclusion

MDVR: Suitable for commercial and fleet vehicles, supports multiple cameras, offers extensive storage and advanced features, and requires professional installation.

Dashcam: Suitable for personal vehicles, usually supports one or two cameras, uses smaller storage, and is easier to install and operate.

Choosing between an MDVR and a dashcam depends on the specific needs of your operation. For extensive monitoring and advanced features, the Gussmann MDVR is the superior choice. For simpler, more personal use, a dashcam may be sufficient.