The Best Spy Cameras
Hidden spy cameras are a great way to bolster your home security. Thanks to recent advances in camera technology, these covert camera systems can capture HD video, photos, and audio from the most inconspicuous of places. And even if you don't need to be sneaky, there are tons of ways to use these cameras to keep an eye on the people and things that matter. Here, we've whittled down the options to the best of the best. Read on to discover our absolute favorites in the world of spy cameras.
Puoneto Mini Spy Camera 4K with Phone App
Tiny Camera, Huge Utility
With their mini spy camera, Puoneto stays ahead of the curve. That’s because they’ve packed tons of high-tech features into this tiny little cube. For starters, it can record crisp 4k video directly onto a micro-SD card or stream it onto your phone using the free app. And talk about discrete. This thing is the size of an ice cube, so it’s basically invisible when placed on a bookshelf or on your front porch. Another nifty feature is the night vision mode. When paired with the motion detector, this mode can record crystal clear images in total darkness using infrared lights. Best of all? This powerful device is as affordable as they come, so we say grab one while you can.
Pros
- Super high value for the price.
- Sports a 6-hour battery, so it continues to work during power outages.
- High-quality video automatically adjusts the exposure for the clearest image in all sorts of environments.
- Easy to install and, thanks to the intuitive app, it’s easy to continue your surveillance through your phone.
Cons
- It’s just a tiny black box, so it’s not the hidden-in-plain-sight kind of spy cam.
SirGawain Hidden Spy Camera Pen
The High-Definition Pen
This pen really puts the “spy” in “spy camera”. Hidden in the construction of the pen is a tiny pinhole camera that can capture HD videos and photos. It’s so small, people have a hard time seeing the lens – even when you point it out to them. The ideal option for recording your business ventures, saving college lectures, and tracking down cookie thieves, this pen hosts a vast array of capabilities. Easy to use and impossible to detect, this camera evades discovery like a true spy.
Pros
- Super affordable price, so it’ll fit into most budgets.
- The pen actually writes and even comes with extra ink, adding to its discretion
- Great gift for youngsters (they love playing “spy” and hiding this pen around the house).
- Easy to operate thanks to the clear manual and simple design.
Cons
- Battery only allows for 70 minutes of recording before needing to be recharged, so you can’t just leave it recording all day.
Waymoon 4K Hidden Spy Camera Clock
The 4K Camera Clock
Home security is important, but who wants to see the glassy eyes of camera lenses all over their home? Nobody. That’s why we recommend this spy camera clock from Waymoon. The camera lens is literally invisible, hidden behind the polarized face of the clock. Another awesome overall option, this camera clock sports a sleek style and looks great just about anywhere. But appearances aren’t everything. This camera clock sports cutting-edge technology and can capture sharp 4K video, peer up to 30 feet in complete darkness, and connect to WiFi for real-time video feed. The mobile app is also top-of-the-line and makes monitoring the babysitter easy as pie.
Pros
- The app allows you to monitor the camera feed in real time from anywhere.
- The design is sleek, inconspicuous, and modern, so it’s not an eyesore.
- Wide-angle lens captures the full room.
Cons
- It can’t be used as an alarm clock.
- Price is a bit high, but worth it for those that want a premium spy cam.
MCSTREE 4K USB Spy Camera
A USB Charger With a Twist
No one would guess that this USB wall charger is actually a security camera – especially since the camera lens isn’t even visible. Sure, there are many spy cameras out there hidden in the plastic of a USB charger. They’re even fairly cheap, too. But MCSTREE has them beat since it offers real-time video streaming and 4K video. Better yet, this pick sports a super wide-angle lens, so even if your placement is low to the ground, it still captures everything in the room. There are indeed more affordable options out there, but considering the wireless connectivity and super clear video recording, we think this pick is a steal of a deal.
Pros
- Travels well since it plugs in anywhere, such as a hotel room or a new office space.
- Even though most outlets are low to the ground, the wide-angle lens captures it all.
- Motion detector is effective in the dark and can send push notifications to your phone.
- Streams 4k video straight to your phone via the app.
Cons
- A bit on the pricey end but worth it for those that want a live video feed.
- No battery, so it will turn off during a power outage.
WNAT Hidden Camera Smoke Detector
Intruders Never Look Up
Those that want a security camera that no burglar would ever notice, we recommend this smoke detector camera from WNAT. It features remote video viewing, 180-day standby time, and a sensitive motion detector. And just like our last pick, this device will send alerts to your phone in real-time should anything trip the detector. Better yet, this camera (or, rather, “this smoke detector”) can remain on standby more for 180 days before it needs to be recharged. And even if it’s triggered, it can record a whopping 20 hours of video on a full charge. A fantastic choice for those who are frequently away from home, this spy camera from WNAT keeps watch from above.
Pros
- The app allows you to save videos to your phone, so inserting a micro SD card is optional.
- Features a wide range of uses, from motion-detected surveillance to live-streamed video.
- The long battery life is a crucial feature for those leaving on vacation or on a business trip.
Cons
- This premium camera comes with a premium price tag.
- You might have to place it on a wall to get a full view of the room.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get a memory card to save the videos and photos that I take with the spy camera?
Most cameras that can stream to your phone will allow you to save videos to your phone’s storage. However, HD videos take up a lot of memory space and often get compressed in the process. For that reason, even if it’s possible to use the camera without a memory card, we strongly recommend investing in a micro SD card. That way, you’ll avoid compression and have a designated place for all the files.
What do people use spy cameras for?
Spy cameras are largely used for home security. If you use a security camera that’s left in plain sight, burglars may cover it up before they get to burglarizing all your possessions. Thus, spy cameras are a covert way to record intruders without risking obstruction. They’re also used for monitoring loved ones from a distance, as many feature live video feeds. Please respect the boundaries and privacy of others, just as you’d want yours respected.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.