Garmin Dash Cam 47 Review

Updated on July 29, 2023

Dash cams have become an essential accessory for drivers worldwide, providing an extra layer of security and peace of mind on the road. Among the numerous options available, the Garmin Dash Cam 47 stands out as a reliable and feature-packed device. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the various aspects of the Garmin Dash Cam 47, from its design and installation to its performance, advanced features, and user experience.

Overview of Garmin Dash Cam 47

The Garmin Dash Cam 47 is a compact and discreet device that finds its place on your vehicle’s windshield effortlessly. With its unobtrusive design, it blends seamlessly into your car’s interior, ensuring that your focus remains on the road ahead. Garmin, a renowned brand in the navigation and GPS industry, has integrated its expertise into this dash cam, making it a compelling choice for drivers seeking a dependable eyewitness for their journeys.

Key Features and Specifications

High-Quality Video Recording

The Garmin Dash Cam 47 boasts exceptional video quality, recording every detail on the road in 1080p Full HD resolution. Its wide-angle lens ensures that the entire road is captured, providing clear images of license plates, road signs, and other essential elements. Whether you are driving during the day or night, the dash cam delivers sharp and vivid recordings, making it an invaluable asset in case of any incidents or accidents.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Safety is paramount while driving, and the Dash Cam 47 addresses this with its integrated ADAS features. The device includes forward collision warnings and lane departure alerts, acting as your co-pilot to prevent potential accidents. With these intelligent systems in place, you can drive with confidence, knowing that you will be promptly alerted if you stray from your lane or when a front collision is imminent.

GPS Functionality

Garmin has equipped the Dash Cam 47 with a built-in GPS module, allowing the camera to record your precise location and speed data during your journeys. This information becomes crucial evidence in the event of an accident or other road incidents, assisting you in insurance claims or legal matters. The GPS functionality also enables location-based data overlays on your videos, adding an extra layer of context to your footage.

Voice Control

Interacting with the Dash Cam 47 has never been easier, thanks to its intuitive voice control feature. You can perform various tasks, such as starting or stopping recordings, taking snapshots, or saving videos, using simple voice commands. This hands-free operation enhances safety while driving, as you can keep your hands on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road while managing the dash cam.

Installation and Setup

Installing the Garmin Dash Cam 47 is a breeze with the included suction mount. You can firmly attach the camera to your windshield without any hassle. The power cable can be discreetly routed along your car’s interior, ensuring a clean and tidy setup. Once the dash cam is connected, it automatically powers on with your vehicle, eliminating the need for manual activation each time you start your car.

User Interface and User Experience

Navigating the Dash Cam 47’s user interface is a seamless experience. The device features an intuitive menu system and user-friendly controls, making it easy to adjust settings and access various features. Additionally, Garmin offers a dedicated mobile app that complements the dash cam. With the app, you can conveniently review recordings, share videos, and access additional settings, all from the convenience of your smartphone.

Performance and Video Quality

Daytime Performance

During daytime drives, the Dash Cam 47 delivers impressive performance. The high-quality sensor and lens combination ensure that every detail is captured with accuracy and clarity. The wide-angle view provides a comprehensive picture of the road ahead, minimizing blind spots and offering an excellent field of view.

Nighttime Performance

Nighttime performance is a critical aspect of any dash cam, and the Garmin Dash Cam 47 excels in this area. Its advanced low-light capabilities enable it to adapt well to nighttime conditions, ensuring that you receive clear and visible recordings even in poorly lit environments. The device’s ability to handle various lighting situations makes it a reliable companion regardless of the time of day.

Recording Coverage

The Dash Cam 47 offers ample recording coverage, capturing both the road ahead and potential incidents on the sides of the vehicle. This comprehensive field of view ensures that you have a complete picture of any situation that unfolds during your journey, providing you with essential evidence and details for any necessary follow-ups.

Storage Options and Cloud Connectivity

The Garmin Dash Cam 47 supports microSD cards for storage, allowing you to choose the capacity that suits your needs. To ensure smooth and reliable recording, it is recommended to use high-endurance microSD cards. Additionally, Garmin offers cloud connectivity options that allow you to back up your footage and access it remotely through the Garmin Drive app. This feature provides an added layer of security, as your important recordings are safeguarded in the cloud.

Additional Features and Accessories

In addition to its core functionalities, the Dash Cam 47 comes with several additional features that enhance its capabilities. One such feature is incident detection, where the dash cam automatically saves recordings when a collision or impact is detected. This ensures that crucial footage is protected, even if you are unable to manually save it during an emergency. Furthermore, Garmin offers a range of accessories such as polarizing filters and parking mode cables, allowing you to tailor the dash cam to your specific needs.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional video quality, capturing every detail in 1080p Full HD resolution.
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for added safety on the road.
• Built-in GPS functionality, providing precise location and speed data.
• Convenient voice control for hands-free operation.
• Intuitive user interface for easy navigation and control.
• Reliable nighttime performance with advanced low-light capabilities.
• Ample recording coverage, capturing crucial moments on the road.
• Cloud connectivity options for secure storage and remote access.

Cons:

• Lack of a built-in screen, necessitating the use of a smartphone for playback.
• MicroSD card not included in the package.

Comparison with Competing Dash Cams

To make an informed decision, it is essential to compare the Garmin Dash Cam 47 with some of its competitors in the market, such as the Nextbase 522GW and the Thinkware F800 Pro. While the Dash Cam 47 shines with its exceptional video quality and GPS functionality, other models may offer built-in screens or unique additional features. Ultimately, your choice depends on your preferences and priorities when selecting the perfect dash cam for your needs.