The Best Dash Cams with Cloud Storage for 2026 and How to Choose One
Dash cams have evolved significantly over the years, and one of the most significant advancements has been the inclusion of cloud storage. Sure, many people think about video quality when selecting a dash cam, but many consumers also consider storage. After all, recording your drives and your parked car takes up a lot of space.
Cloud storage is a dash cam feature that offers a new level of convenience and security, as it allows you to store, access, and share your dash cam footage anytime and from any place with an internet connection.
The best dash cam with cloud storage is one that uploads on its own over built-in LTE rather than waiting for Wi-Fi. A connected Nexar on the LTE Protection Plan backs up incidents automatically and lets you view footage from anywhere.
What is a Cloud Dash Cam?
When you hear car dash cam makers say “cloud dash cam,” what they are typically referring to is a dashboard camera that has the ability to upload and store recorded footage directly to a remote server (also called the cloud). But not every dash cam with cloud storage is created equal.
Looking for the best dash cam with cloud storage? Read on for information that will help you make the right decision.
The Best Dash Cam with Cloud Storage
In this guide, we’ll explore the best dash cams with cloud storage in 2026 and provide valuable insights to help you choose the right one based on your specific storage needs.
Nexar beam2 Dash Cam
Nexar Beam2 (2K QHD) is our most popular dash cam with cloud storage. The Nexar LTE Connection Plan enables advanced features such as 24/7 Parking Mode, Live Streaming, and Unlimited Cloud Backup via the Nexar Connect App.
Shop Nexar Beam2
Why Nexar Dash Cams Stand Out
Crystal-Clear Footage Anytime: With cameras ranging from Full HD to 4K, Nexar captures sharp, detailed events, including license plates, in any lighting condition.
AI-Powered Efficiency: Nexar’s smart technology identifies critical events and automatically saves them to the cloud, so you can skip the hassle of searching through hours of recordings.
Seamless Connectivity and Control: Nexar LTE Protection Plan lets you stay connected with real-time alerts, live streaming, and easy sharing, all backed by unlimited cloud storage for your peace of mind.
Other Nexar-connected dash cams include Nexar One and our compact dash cam, Beam2 mini.
Cloud Storage Benefits for Dash Cams
Wondering what the benefits are when it comes to cloud storage for dash cams? Here’s a quick list that we’ll expand upon below:
- Enhanced security through real-time alerts.
- Safeguarding video evidence in the cloud.
- Remote monitoring of vehicle surroundings.
- Simplified access and sharing of footage via smartphone apps.
Enhanced security through real-time alerts
With cloud storage, you can access your dash cam footage from anywhere at any time, as long as you have an internet connection. This feature is particularly useful if you need to retrieve footage quickly or share it with law enforcement or your insurance company.
Safeguarding video evidence in the cloud
Cloud storage can provide significantly more space for your footage compared to standard memory cards. This is especially beneficial for high-resolution or 24/7 dash cams that generate large amounts of data. Your video evidence is always safe and accessible in the cloud.
A dash cam with cloud storage can automatically back up your critical moments (like hard brakes and collisions) to the cloud, so you don’t have to worry about losing important data if your memory card fails or your dash cam gets damaged or stolen.
Remote monitoring of vehicle surroundings
A connected dash cam with cloud storage typically has additional features like remote monitoring and GPS tracking. Nexar Connect subscribers have 24/7 Parking Mode, for instance, which provides a crucial layer of security for those occurrences when you’re away from your vehicle for an extended period of time.
Simplified access and sharing of footage via smartphone apps
Most dash cam providers have developed smartphone apps that put a variety of intelligent features at the tips of their fingertips. You can store and share footage quickly and easily via the Nexar Connect app.
Dashcam Installation and Cloud Setup Guide
Clean Windshield
Clean the windshield with glass cleaner before mounting your camera, paying special attention to the area where the camera will be.
Turn on the Car/Camera
Turn on your car so you can provide power to your dash cam with cloud storage. There should be LED indicators on your Nexar camera that will show its operational status. You can then pair your device with the Nexar Connect app to start using all of the features.
Mount the Camera
Place the sun protector sticker provided with your dash cam on the windshield. Remove the adhesive sticker from the back of your Nexar camera. Apply the camera securely to your front windshield. Make sure that the camera sits firmly.
Hide the Cables
Organize the dash cam with cloud storage cables by using the installation tool and mounting clips for an unobtrusive setup. Most often, drivers run cables along the periphery of the windshield so they aren’t noticeable.
Once the camera is placed, continue the setup process through the Nexar Connect app.
Linking Dash Cam to Nexar Connect
First, set up your phone to work with Nexar Connect. Location, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth will need to be enabled.
Assuming you’ve already downloaded the Nexar app, open the app and follow the on-screen instructions, which include pairing the device. Next, tap the More button, then Settings, then External Camera. You can follow the pairing instructions from there.
Cost and Subscription Plans for Cloud Dash Cams
Knowing how much a dash cam and any associated subscription services cost is beneficial for staying under budget and avoiding unforeseen expenses. Nexar Beam2 mini is currently priced at $129.95 for our budget-conscious consumers while supplies last. Our professional-level dash cam, Nexar One, is currently priced at $399.95 while supplies last.
Additionally, just about every dash cam provider under the sun provides an app for full functionality. Most dash cam providers and dash cam models require a subscription for cloud storage as well as features like 24/7 parking mode and live streaming.
Cost of the subscription plan: the Nexar LTE Protection Plan includes a 1-month free trial. After the trial, you can keep LTE connected features (24/7 parking mode, live streaming and alerts, unlimited cloud storage) for $9.99/month.
FAQs
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Is dash cam cloud storage free?
Usually not; most cameras put cloud backup, alerts, and remote access behind a subscription. On a Nexar, the free Basic plan covers incident detection and Wi-Fi access; the paid LTE Protection Plan adds automatic cloud backup. -
Do you need a data plan for a cloud dash cam?
For a built-in-LTE camera the cellular connection is part of the subscription, so there’s no separate SIM. Wi-Fi-only cameras use your home internet. -
What happens to my footage if the camera is stolen?
SD-only footage goes with it. Cloud-backed footage already uploaded is safe; built-in LTE uploads incidents immediately.