A dashcam typically consumes between 300MB and 600MB of data per month for standard connected features like GPS tracking and occasional remote live viewing. Because it generally records in 1080P Full HD (front) and 720P (cabin), the data usage is heavily influenced by how often you stream video
Estimated Monthly Data Consumption
- Minimal/Standby (under 500MB): If you primarily use the camera for GPS tracking and only check live feeds during emergencies.
- Standard Connected Use (1GB): Recommended for light cloud users who occasionally use remote live view or backup storage.
- Heavy Use (4+ GB): Necessary if the dashcam is you utilize all cloud features to their maximum capacity.
Data Usage by Activity
- GPS Tracking will typically consume 50-80MB
- 1080P Live Streaming will typically consume 8MB per minute
- 720P Live Streaming will typically consume 4MB per minute
What about a 4 channel MDVR unit?
An MDVR unit will generally have upto 4 cameras connected so thats 4 data streams all working at the same time which will greatly increase the data consumption. Some MDVR units support 12 cameras so will use even more data. To estimate the usage, just multiply a single channel by the number of cameras connected to the live stream.
MDVR units normally allow for connection through wifi so when a vehicle returns to the depot, it connects to the local network allowing for footage download without the need for mobile data.
What if I am a heavy data user?
For customers with a need for higher data usage it may be more economical to purchase a retail PAYG SIM card such as Smarty, Giff Gaff or Lebara which normally provide at least a 40GB data allowance