H.265, commonly known as High-Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC), is the most advanced video compression technology used to encode and compress video content in dash cams.

H.265 (HEVC) is the successor to H.264 (AVC). It can maintain strong image quality at lower bitrates, producing smaller files and extending recording capacity. That efficiency is useful for 4K UHD dash cams and detailed footage such as license plates, although smooth playback may require a more capable computer or phone. As a newer standard, H.265 is expected to receive broader support over time. Current H.265-capable dash cams include the Thinkware U3000 Pro, VIOFO A229 Ultra, and BlackVue Elite 10.

While H.265 is the most advanced option, it can leave some older hardware behind, with older computer models struggling to process it.

H.264, also known as Advanced Video Coding (AVC), is known for compressing video data while maintaining relatively good video quality, recommended for full HD dash cams.

While it may not provide the same compression efficiency as newer codecs like H.265, it offers a good balance between video quality and file size with less processing power for encoding and decoding. This means that it can work well with a broader range of dash cam and computer hardware, including those with lower processing capabilities. H.264 is a mature and well-established codec, known for its stable performance and reliability. This makes it a cost-effective choice, as H.264 dash cams are often more affordable than their H.265 counterparts. While not as efficient as H.265, H.264 still delivers dependable video quality for everyday use. A current example is the BlackVue DR590X-2CH Plus, which records H.264 video in MP4 files.

MP4 is a versatile file format that can store video and audio data encoded with a variety of codecs, including H.264 and H.265. Because of this versatility, dash cam manufacturers can utilize a variety of video compression schemes while remaining compatible with a wide range of media players and editing applications with the MP4 format.

The .MP4 format, while commonly used, will not offer the same level of efficiency and optimization for dash cam recordings. H.265 and H.264 are tailored to the specific needs of dash cam users, offering better compression, video quality, and compatibility, making them preferable choices for this purpose. This option, and options from here on, will frequently take a tangible effect on the video quality, as well as on how much space is taken up on the SD card, resulting in much less footage stored on the memory card.

Beyond that, MP4 files are supported by a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, desktops, and smart TVs which allows you to see dash cam footage on multiple platforms without the need for additional software or conversion.

AVI stands for Audio Video Interleave. AVI is an older video file type that is used less frequently in modern dash cams. It compresses less efficiently than H.265 and H.264, resulting in greater file sizes. Moreover, footage saved in AVI format generates bigger file sizes than more current formats and is not suitable for high-video-resolution dash cams.