Comparisons

Pick the right hardware for the job.

Side-by-side comparisons of cameras, gateways, asset trackers, and integrations — based on real fleet conditions.

Topics
CamerasGatewaysAsset Trackers

Vehicle gateways

VG55 — Current-generation vehicle gateway

Best for: all new deployments, from pickup trucks and cargo vans to Class 8 trucks and vocational equipment. The current-generation VG55 uses a vehicle-specific cable, such as an OBD-II option for compatible light-duty vehicles or a J1939 option for compatible heavy-duty vehicles. It provides live GPS, remote diagnostics, ELD capabilities, Wi-Fi hotspot connectivity, and compatible camera and accessory connections.

VG54 — Previous-generation gateway in installed fleets

Relevant to fleets that already have VG54 units from earlier rollouts. Samsara continues to publish VG54 installation, cable, and auxiliary-input documentation alongside VG55 resources. For expansions or replacements, Vidmatics verifies the installed gateway, vehicle connection, and accessory requirements before recommending hardware.

Recommendation for mixed fleets

Standardize new orders on the VG55 and match the harness to each vehicle class — OBD-II for light-duty, J1939 for heavy-duty and vocational. Classify vehicles by connection type first, then by peripheral integration requirements. Vidmatics conducts a vehicle-class audit before every hardware order to prevent mismatches.

AI cameras

CM34 — Dual-facing AI dash cam

Best for: safety programs that need both road-facing and driver-facing context. The CM34 captures high-definition video, provides real-time safety alerts, and supports driver coaching and cloud-connected review workflows.

CM33 — Front-facing AI dash cam

Best for: fleets that want an AI-powered, road-facing camera without a driver-facing lens. The CM33 provides road-facing video for safety-event review, insurance workflows, and driver exoneration.

Choosing between them

Start with your safety program goals: coaching programs built on driver-facing evidence need the CM34; road-only programs run on the CM33. Both support Samsara's universal mounting bracket for headliner, dashboard, and compatible third-party mounting solutions. Vidmatics recommends per-vehicle configurations during scoping.

Asset trackers

AG51 — Unpowered Asset Gateway

Best for: intermodal containers, construction equipment, dumpsters, light towers, and other mobile assets without a reliable power source. Its ruggedized enclosure uses three user-replaceable AA lithium batteries, with a typical life of 3–5 years at two check-ins per day. Actual battery life varies with reporting frequency, temperature, and cellular signal strength.

AG53 — Powered Asset Gateway

Best for: powered equipment and trailers that need frequent location updates, theft recovery, or operational visibility. The ruggedized AG53 supports multiple power and cable options, with capabilities selected for the asset and installation type. Vidmatics verifies the power source, cable, and accessory requirements before ordering.

AT12 — Asset Tag

Best for: tools, attachments, and other small, mission-critical assets. The compact, ruggedized AT12 reports location through the Samsara Network and is designed for high-volume tracking across yards, warehouses, and jobsites.

Next step

Ready to move forward?

Vidmatics™ deploys and supports Samsara across fleets of every size. Our team can answer questions, build a quote, or schedule an install.