Best Nextbase Dash Cams UK: Which Model Should You Choose?
The best Nextbase dash cams UK drivers can buy suit different needs, from simple road recording to interior coverage and connected features. This guide explains the differences between the models, which camera modules fit and when the extra features are worth paying for.
I’ve recommended the 622GW since 2024, and it remains my overall Nextbase pick. Its 4K front recording, touchscreen and choice of add-on cameras still make a useful combination. The 222X takes a simpler approach, while the iQ 2K is the one I’d choose when remote monitoring and recording inside the car matter.
The 322GW, 422GW and 522GW also deserve a look, particularly when their bundles cost noticeably less. Here’s how I’d choose between them.
Who is this guide for?
This guide is for UK drivers choosing a dash cam for everyday use, as well as Uber, taxi and private-hire drivers who need to think about passengers and interior recording.
My years of private-hire driving shape how I judge these setups. Recording the road is one need; recording what happens inside the car is another. Before choosing a model, I’d decide whether you want a front view, front and rear views, or all three views together.
That distinction matters with Nextbase. The GW models take one add-on camera at a time. You can add a rear view or an interior view, but you cannot combine both modules to make a 3-channel system. The iQ records the front and interior as standard and becomes a 3-channel setup when you add its dedicated rear camera.
Affiliate disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Best Nextbase Dash Cams UK: My Shortlist
| Model | My recommendation | The step I’d choose |
|---|---|---|
| 622GWS | Best overall Nextbase in this guide | 622GW with the Rear Window Camera for front and rear coverage |
| 222X | Best simple option | 222X with its supplied plug-in rear camera |
| iQ 2K | Best smart option | iQ 2K with its dedicated rear camera for road, interior and rear coverage |
| 522GW | Alternative when the bundle is substantially cheaper | 522GW with the Rear Window Camera |
| 422GW | Middle option if the price is right | 422GW with the Rear Window Camera |
| 322GW | Entry point to the GW range | Front-only, or with one compatible module |
MY tAKE
I’d start with the 622GW for the best overall balance of features and everyday usability, the 222X for simple front-and-rear recording, or the iQ 2K for interior recording and smart connected features.
Prices below are approximate. Check the current price and the exact bundle before buying.
The Nextbase models I’d start with:
1. The Nextbase GW range: 322GW, 422GW, 522GW and 622GW
The GW name identifies Nextbase models with GPS and Wi-Fi. These cameras share a familiar approach: a screen for checking the view and changing settings, a magnetic powered mount and phone connectivity. They can all use the same three Nextbase add-on camera types, although the recording resolution changes between models.
The main buying decision is how much you want to spend on image detail and convenience. The 322GW starts at Full HD, the 422GW and 522GW move to 1440p, and the 622GW reaches 4K. Moving up the range also changes the screen, included filter and available recording modes.
Nextbase 622GW — my best overall Nextbase pick
Nextbase 622GW:
Best fit: Drivers who want a front-only dash cam with 4K recording and straightforward touchscreen controls.
Nextbase 522GW — the alternative when the bundle price is right
Nextbase 522GW:
Best fit: Drivers who want front-and-rear recording, a large touchscreen and an included polarising filter without paying for 4K. F
Nextbase 522GW Review
Nextbase 422GW — a middle option worth comparing on price
Nextbase 422GW:
Best fit: Drivers who want 1440p front recording and the option to add a compatible Nextbase camera module.
Nextbase 422GW Review
Nextbase 322GW — the entry point to the GW range
Nextbase 322GW:
Best fit: Drivers who want front-and-rear recording with a touchscreen, GPS and Wi-Fi without paying for the higher-resolution GW models.
Nextbase 322GW Review
What does Nextbase Gen2 mean for the GW range?
Gen2 is an app and firmware update for the 322GW, 422GW, 522GW and 622GW. It moves these cameras towards the Nextbase App, replacing the older MyNextbase Connect experience. It does not turn them into new camera hardware or add the iQ’s built-in 4G connection.
Nextbase promotes improved connectivity, faster downloads and features including Guardian Mode Lite, Witness Mode Lite and QuickSend. Some official pages describe features as available while others still discuss updates, so I’d check the current support information for your model before buying for one particular app feature.
There is also a change worth knowing if you are reading older reviews: Alexa support is being removed as part of the migration. I would not use old Alexa claims as a reason to buy a GW model now.
Basic recording does not require a subscription. Optional connected services have their own requirements, and phone-based features still depend on the app, permissions and connection. I’d treat Nextbase’s stability claims as manufacturer claims until longer-term feedback shows how the update performs.
2. The Nextbase 222 range: simple recording with the 222X and 222XR
Nextbase 222X — my best simple Nextbase choice
Nextbase 222X:
Best fit: Drivers who want front and rear recording with physical controls and no cable to fit at the rear window.
Where does the 222XR fit?
The 222XR uses a separate rear-window camera, rather than the 222X’s camera attached to the front unit. I’d consider it if you like the simpler 222 approach but your car does not give the plug-in camera a clear view backwards.
It needs a cable routed to the rear, so it gives up the 222X’s main installation advantage. In return, the rear camera can look directly through the rear glass.
Check the exact package before ordering. The 222X and 222XR names describe different setups; neither should be treated as a cheaper front unit that accepts the GW modules.
3. The Nextbase iQ range: connected features and interior recording
Nextbase iQ 2K — My Best Smart Nextbase Choice
Nextbase iQ 2K:
Best fit: Drivers who want front and interior recording, infrared for passengers after dark, and paid remote monitoring.
Nextbase iQ 2K Review
iQ 1K, 2K or 4K: what changes?
| Model | Front recording | Interior recording | Optional iQ rear camera |
|---|---|---|---|
| iQ 1K | 1080p | 1080p | 1440p |
| iQ 2K | 1440p | 1440p | 1440p |
| iQ 4K | 4K | 1440p | 1440p |
For passenger recording, that makes the 2K a sensible starting point. For drivers concentrating on the greatest available front resolution in this range, I’d consider the 4K.
What does an iQ subscription cost?
| Plan | UK monthly price | UK annual price | Main reason to choose it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solo | Free | Free | Basic recording without paying for the main connected services |
| Protect | £6.99 | £69.99 | 4G data, Live View, SmartSense parking, Witness Mode and 30-day cloud storage |
| Protect Plus | £9.99 | £99.99 | Adds features including Emergency SOS, automated incident backup and 180-day cloud storage |
Parking monitoring also needs continued power. The iQ uses a vehicle-battery voltage cut-off, so it cannot monitor indefinitely while the car is left unused. Remote viewing needs suitable mobile coverage as well.
4. Nextbase rear and interior cameras: which setup should you buy?
With the GW range, the camera you add can matter as much as the front model. Bundles are convenient, but read the actual module name: “rear camera” can describe two quite different products.
Rear Window Camera — my first choice for rear road coverage
I’d choose it for most drivers buying a 622GW front-and-rear package. It also makes sense with the 322GW, 422GW and 522GW when rear coverage is important and you are happy to fit the cable.
Rear View Camera — simpler fitting, with a narrower view
I’d choose it when easy fitting matters and the view through your car is clear. Check that view with passengers in place if you regularly carry them: a camera that works well in an empty car can have its sightline blocked later.
Cabin View Camera — an interior option for the GW range
It has no infrared illumination, so I would not make it my first choice for regular passenger recording after dark. Its broad view may include some rear glass, but that is not equivalent to a camera positioned at the rear window.
You also use up the GW camera’s single module connection. For front, interior and rear recording together, I’d choose the iQ setup.
iQ Rear Camera — the third view for the smart range
I’d include it when buying an iQ 2K for Uber work and wanting all three views. Front and interior cameras are already in the main unit; this adds the missing rear road view.
Bundle or separate purchase?
I’d buy a bundle when it includes the exact camera I want and costs less than the same parts bought separately. Buying the module later is useful if you already own a compatible GW camera or want to spread the cost.
Compare like for like: front unit, named second camera, suitable memory card and any fitting or hardwire kit. A cheaper bundle with a plug-in camera is not the same setup as one with a dedicated rear-window camera.
For these six models, my starting points are straightforward:
- Everyday front-and-rear recording: 622GW with the Rear Window Camera.
- Simple fitting and controls: 222X, after checking the rear sightline.
- Passenger recording and connected monitoring: iQ 2K with the iQ Rear Camera and a suitable subscription.
Which Nextbase dash cam would I choose?
I’d choose the 222X for simplicity, provided its plug-in rear camera has a clear view through your car. It is the easiest of these recommended front-and-rear setups to fit without routing a rear-window cable.
For Uber drivers wanting road, interior and rear coverage, and general drivers who will use remote monitoring, I’d choose the iQ 2K with its dedicated rear camera. Include the subscription in your budget so you are buying the complete setup you actually want.