The Garmin Dash Cam 66W is a mid-range dash cam offering a balance of features and affordability. This review will dissect its strengths, weaknesses, and who it might best suit to help you decide if it’s the right dash cam for you.

Strengths:

  • Sharp Video Quality: The 66W captures clear 1080p video footage at 60 fps, providing smooth playback and capturing details like license plates even during fast-paced situations. It also boasts HDR (High Dynamic Range) for improved image clarity in scenes with contrasting light conditions.
  • Wide Viewing Angle: The 180-degree wide-angle lens captures a comprehensive view of the road ahead, including adjacent lanes and potential blind spots. This can be crucial for capturing the full picture in case of an accident.
  • Driver Assistance Features: The 66W offers some helpful driver assistance features like forward collision warnings and lane departure warnings. While not a substitute for safe driving, these alerts can provide an extra layer of awareness on the road.
  • Compact Design: The 66W maintains a discreet profile that minimizes windshield obstruction. This is a plus for drivers who prefer a less noticeable dash cam.
  • Voice Control: For hands-free operation, the 66W allows voice commands to start/stop recording, capture stills, and save videos.

Weaknesses:

  • Night Vision Performance: While HDR helps in some low-light scenarios, night time video quality can be a mixed bag. Reviews mention details like license plates becoming less legible in darker conditions.
  • Limited Storage Options: The 66W relies on microSD cards for storage (not included). While expandable, it requires users to manage storage space and potentially format cards periodically to ensure continuous recording.
  • App Dependence: Certain features like accessing saved footage and changing settings require the Garmin Drive app on your smartphone. This might be inconvenient for those who prefer a standalone solution.
  • Proprietary Power Cable: The 66W uses a Garmin-specific power cable, which can be a nuisance if it gets lost or damaged, as replacements might be less readily available compared to standard USB cables.

Overall:

The Garmin Dash Cam 66W is a decent option for drivers seeking a balance between price and features. It delivers good video quality in well-lit conditions, offers a wide viewing angle, and includes some helpful driver assistance features. The compact design and voice control are convenient additions.