Which Is Better Wired Or Wireless Caravan Camera?

Caravan cameras have become indispensable in aiding drivers to avoid mistakes when reversing and in keeping an eye on what is happening behind them when pulling a caravan. The general rule of thumb is that wired caravan cameras are the best option as they are more reliable and offer the best clarity. This does not mean wireless options do not have their merits. 

When pulling a caravan, there is often some anxiety as when compared with operating an ordinary passenger vehicle. This is because simply glancing at the rear-view mirror does not let you know what is happening behind you. This is why installing a reversing camera has become increasingly popular. 

You do not need to depend on another person to stand behind you and yell instructions as you back up. So many caravans have dents and other damage that came from the driver not knowing they got too close to an object. It gets worse when you back up into someone else’s vehicle and end up having to pay for the damage. 

Being able to reverse safely also ensures you will not hit an actual person, leave alone their property. In case of a traffic incident, it can help when you can defend yourself with actual footage. All these benefits make it clear that a caravan camera should probably be the first aftermarket accessory you invest in for your caravan. 

However, there is a choice to be made between the wired and wireless options. Wired camera caravan options mean that a cable runs between the camera and the monitor at the front of the vehicle. Wireless caravan cameras do not use cables but do require that the transmitter and receiver be pointed at each other to connect. Let us look at how these options compare. 

Wired vs Wireless Caravan Cameras

• Cost

Wired caravan cameras are more expensive than wireless options. You are paying not just for the equipment, which includes cables that will need to be installed to run the length from the camera at the back to the monitor at the front of the tow vehicle, but also for installation services. Thankfully, if you opt for a dual camera system, many suppliers will install the extra camera at no extra fee. 

Wireless caravan cameras come with kits that allow the driver to install them without professional help. So, you can easily just pay for the equipment, which does not include cables and do the installation work for free. It is a more affordable option, with many brands that offer models at different price points. 

• Reliability

Wired caravan cameras are generally more reliable than wireless cameras. This is because the video is transmitted via cables that are fixed. So, unless the cable is damaged, you are assured of always being able to see what is going on. 

Wireless cameras require that the transmitter in the camera and receiver in the monitor be aimed at each other. If in the process there is interference, this connection can be lost or become blurry. This problem will often happen when there is a large distance between the transmitter and receiver, or if there is other electrical equipment between them. You never want to lose visibility when you need it the most. 

• Picture Quality

When you have interference between the transmitter and receiver of a wireless caravan camera, you can lose visibility or it becomes blurry. With wired caravan cameras that have been properly installed, this is not a problem. The picture quality should remain clear with quality cameras. Generally, even where both types of cameras are installed, wired options tend to have better picture quality. 

• Peace of mind

The professional installation, reliability, and better picture quality of wired caravan cameras tend to give drivers more peace of mind than wireless options. Both can work just as well, but you do have more options with wired cameras. Some suppliers can set up a separate monitor or integrated dashcam. It is also easier to set up a multiple camera system when they are wired rather than wireless. 

Are Wireless Reversing camera’s any good?

Yes. Wireless reversing camera technology has improved over the years, with many of the latest versions offering good clarity. However as said, there is the risk that transmission of the video will be disrupted, which is something you never want when just in the process of reversing or during a traffic accident. Wired cameras are more dependable when properly installed, but if out of your budget, investing in a wireless reversing camera is still a good idea. 

Where possible, choose a camera system that offers audio capability so you can hear anyone guiding you at the back more clearly, and a dual camera system that shows you want is going on right behind your bumper and the traffic that is a few metres behind. If your tow vehicle does not have a reversing camera, consider investing in a third camera that will help when you need to hitch and normal reversing.