Loop recording on a dash cam is a feature that allows the camera to record continuously without running out of storage space.
What Is Loop Recording on a Dash Cam?
Loop recording is a key feature in dash cams that allows continuous video recording without the need to manually delete old files. When the memory card becomes full, the dash cam automatically overwrites the oldest footage with new recordings. This ensures that the camera is always recording, even if storage space is limited.
Here’s how it works:
- The dash cam saves videos in small segments (e.g., 1, 3, or 5 minutes).
- When the memory card gets full, the camera automatically overwrites the oldest files with new recordings.
- This ensures you always have the most recent footage without needing to manually delete old files.
Key Points About Loop Recording
- Never stops recording – it ensures uninterrupted video capture.
- Protects important files – most dash cams lock event footage (like collisions triggered by G-sensor) so it won’t get overwritten.
- Segmented clips – make it easier to find specific incidents rather than scrolling through one long video.
Advantages of Loop Recording
- Uninterrupted Video Capture: Loop recording keeps your dash cam rolling nonstop, so every moment on the road is documented without gaps.
- Smart Use of Memory: Forget about constantly clearing storage—old clips are replaced automatically, making room for new footage.
- Secure Key Moments: If something important happens, you can lock the file so it won’t be erased, guaranteeing vital evidence stays protected.
Example
If your dash cam is set to 3-minute loops and has a 32GB card:
- It records multiple 3-minute videos until the card is full.
- Once full, the dash cam starts recording over the oldest 3-minute clip, keeping storage fresh.
In short: Loop recording = continuous recording with automatic overwriting of old footage.
Dash Cam with Continuous Recording – Loop Recording Dash Cam
How to Set Up Loop Recording
Here’s a clear and practical guide on how to properly set up loop recording on a dash cam:
1. Insert and Format the SD Card
- Use a high-quality, high-endurance SD card (recommended by your dash cam manufacturer).
- Format the card inside the dash cam before first use to ensure compatibility.
- Some dash cams require regular formatting (every 2–4 weeks) to prevent file corruption.
2. Enable Loop Recording in the Settings
- Go to your dash cam’s menu or settings.
- Look for “Loop Recording” or “Recording Length.”
- Choose a video segment length (commonly 1, 3, or 5 minutes).
- Shorter segments (1–3 min): Easier to find specific clips.
- Longer segments (5–10 min): Fewer files, slightly smoother review.
3. Adjust File Protection Options
- Make sure G-sensor (impact detection) is turned on. This will automatically lock files during collisions so they aren’t overwritten.
- Learn how to manually lock a video (usually by pressing a button on the dash cam) in case you want to save something important.
4. Test the Overwriting Feature
- Let your dash cam record until the card is full.
- Check that the camera correctly overwrites the oldest clips with new ones while keeping locked files safe.
5. Fine-Tune for Your Needs
- Daily drivers: A 3-minute loop is usually best.
- Long trips: A 5-minute loop gives fewer but longer clips.
- Fleet or business use: Adjust based on storage size and monitoring needs.
Pro Tips
- Always use Class 10 / UHS-I or higher microSD cards for smooth recording.
- If your dash cam has an app, check whether loop settings can be customized there.
- Replace SD cards every 12–18 months if used heavily—they wear out over time.
Dash Cam Loop Recording 5 Minutes
When your dash cam loop recording is set to 5 minutes, it means that the camera continuously records video in segments of 5 minutes each instead of one long, endless file. Here’s what that means — and why it’s useful
What “5-Minute Loop Recording” Means
Loop recording divides your video footage into smaller files (for example, 1, 3, or 5 minutes long).
If your dash cam is set to 5-minute loops, each clip will be a separate 5-minute video file saved on your SD card.
Once the memory card becomes full, the oldest video files are automatically overwritten by new recordings — unless those clips have been locked by the G-sensor or manual save (such as when an impact occurs).
Benefits of 5-Minute Loop Recording
- Easier File Management:
Shorter clips are faster to review, copy, or upload — you don’t have to scrub through a long, hour-long video. - Automatic Storage Control:
The camera never stops recording, even when the memory card fills up. It just replaces the oldest clips automatically. - Crash Protection:
Important clips (like accidents) are automatically locked and saved, while normal footage is safely overwritten later. - Better Performance:
5-minute loops reduce file corruption risk compared to recording in one continuous file.
Recommended Setting
For most drivers, 3 or 5 minutes is the ideal loop recording length.
- 1 minute = more files, easier review, but uses more SD card management.
- 5 minutes = fewer files, better for daily driving or longer trips.
FAQs About Loop Recording on Dash Cams
1. What does loop recording mean on a dash cam?
It means the dash cam continuously records by overwriting old footage once the memory card is full.
2. Does loop recording delete accident videos?
No. Most dash cams use a G-sensor to lock and protect accident footage from being overwritten.
3. What loop recording interval should I choose?
Common options are 1, 3, or 5 minutes. Shorter intervals make it easier to locate specific clips, while longer ones save fewer but larger files.
4. Can I turn off loop recording?
Yes, but it’s not recommended because the camera will stop recording once the SD card is full.
5. Do I still need a large SD card with loop recording?
Yes. A larger card stores more footage before looping begins, which gives you more historical coverage.
6. What does loop recording mean?
Loop recording is a feature found in devices like dash cams and security cameras that allows them to record continuously by replacing the oldest footage once the memory card is full. This way, the camera never runs out of storage and continues to save the latest activity without requiring you to manually delete older files.
7. What is loop recording dash cam?
Loop recording in a dash cam is a feature that allows the camera to continuously record video by automatically overwriting the oldest footage when the memory card becomes full.