The optics boast wide viewing angles (approx. 145 °), so a maximum of events and people will fall into the frame. The Motion Detection Feature will only be activated when someone is present in the room so as not to shoot in vain.
Low-powered WiFi adapter (needs a strong signal from the WiFi router).
This hidden camera has a clock form factor with an alarm clock, so it definitely can find a place on the bedside table or on a table in the living room: Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels) will please even demanding users.
Alarm clock
Full HD (1920 x 1080)
145°
Slot for microSD card (not included)
Wi-Fi, micro-USB port
Compatible with LookCam app, Loop recording feature, Motion detection feature, Night Vision mode
Built-in rechargeable battery (charging cable included)
2 years
Built-In Surge Protection eliminates the possibility of damage to the camera or memory card due to power surges. The device works from 100 V - 240 V, so it can be operated in any country in the world (has a US plug).
Low quality night shooting.
This USB Wall Charger not only shoots video on a microSD memory card (sold separately), but also effectively charges smartphones and other mobile devices, which means it will not cause anyone to suspect anything. All you need to do is plug the device into a power outlet.
USB wall charger
Full HD (1920 x 1080)
120°
Slot for microSD card (not included)
USB Type-A port, micro-USB port
Built-In Surge Protection, Loop recording feature, Motion detection feature, Night Vision mode, microSD card reader and 2-in-1 charging cable included (microUSB and Lightning connectors)
AC, USB-port (USB male-to-male cable included)
2 years
An advanced multi-layer lens provides excellent image stabilization, so even during fast walking, running or driving in transport, the picture will still be clear and smooth. The lens is also scratch-resistant.
Non standard size USB charging cable (not Mini or Micro or Type-C).
The SIRGAWAIN 1080P Hidden Camera is equipped with 6 invisible IR LEDs, and therefore it shoots equally well in the daytime and in the evening. Leaving it in an office or living room, you can find out about everything that happened there in your absence.
Spy camera
Full HD (1920 x 1080)
140°
Slot for microSD card (not included)
Port for charging and copying files from microSD card
Loop recording feature, Motion detection feature, Night Vision mode, 360° Rotating Stand, Fastening clip and neck lanyard included
Built-in rechargeable battery (charging cable included)
1 year
The handle body is made of durable metal and is resistant to deformation, therefore, the risk of camera failure due to falling from a small height is minimized. Included is a microSD memory card with 16 GB.
Low battery capacity (up to 50 minutes of video shooting).
If you want to purchase a camera for covert video recording, but are afraid of being exposed, we recommend purchasing this model: the well-thought-out design makes it indistinguishable from an ordinary pen. Two ink pen refills provided (can be easily changed).
Pen
Full HD (1920 x 1080)
~90°
Slot for microSD card (16 GB card included)
Built-in USB plug
Loop Recording Feature, Night Vision mode, 2 ink cartridges included
Built-in rechargeable battery (charges via built-in USB plug)
1.5 years
The Wi-fi module (2.4 GHz standard) allows you to watch video from the camera in real time, as well as control shooting parameters from a smartphone or tablet. The camera works stably with the functional HD Camera Pro app (available on iOS and Android OS).
Viewing angle is poor.
This Spy Camera Module without a housing has many uses: you can correctly integrate it into a handbag, in a strict business suit, in interior items and even in the car interior - it all depends on your imagination and shooting conditions.
Spy camera module (without housing)
Full HD (1920 x 1080)
90°
Slot for microSD card (not included)
Wi-Fi, micro-USB port
Compatible with HDCamera Pro app, Loop recording feature, Motion detection feature, Night Vision mode
Built-in rechargeable battery (charging cable included)
1.5 years
More Than Just A Clock
There are certain times where people need to know what's going on inside of their homes, yet without making it obvious that they're able to check. Although there are tons of different home security cameras available, the ones that are meant to be hidden are usually either not all that well disguised, or severely lack in functionality. The WEMLB Clock 1080P Wireless Security Hidden Camera, however, combines a high degree of functionality with a well-designed and well-hidden case that actually has a practical purpose.
At first glance, this hidden security camera appears to be a simple alarm clock. The shape and appearance of the device, in fact, simply won't leave anyone to think otherwise. The time is displayed with bright blue LEDs that make it quite readable, and it even includes basic alarm clock functionality that lets you use it for its apparent purpose. However, appearances can be deceiving, and what most people simply won't notice is the integrated camera that is located to the left of the display. The camera is hidden quite well and is only apparent if someone really looks for it up close. At a glance from a distance, though, it won't be noticeable at all, keeping the true function of the device well-hidden.
WiFi Recording
Although the alarm functionality of this device is very basic, the recording capabilities are quite advanced. This camera can be set to operate with motion detection, meaning that any motion within range of the camera will automatically start recording. You can also set the camera to just record continuously, giving you an open and uninterrupted view of what is going on in the room. With the built-in WiFi functionality, you can view the video recording live or after it has been recorded through your mobile device, giving you an extra set of eyes in the room.
Speaking of its recording capabilities, this device gives you a choice on where to store the recordings. Through using the included app, you can record video directly to your mobile device, giving you instant access to the recordings. To those who don't want to use up their mobile device's storage for this purpose, however, an SD card slot is included that lets you save the recordings locally. If there is any fault to be found here, it would be that the device's internal WiFi is a bit low-powered, so you will want to make sure you are using this device in conjunction with a WiFi router that has a strong signal. All things considered, this great hidden camera is the perfect design and includes virtually everything you need in a home security camera.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $59.99 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B07L79XL33 |
Charge And Record
Almost every person who has any kind of mobile device such as a tablet or smartphone is bound to have an average-looking USB charger. In fact, many people never leave home without one, as one is always needed for charging devices. But what if we told you that you can get one that actually doubles as a hidden camera? This is exactly what the ALPHA TECH USB Charger 1080P Hidden Camera is. This device has the exact same look as virtually every other generic USB wall charger, with the primary exception being that it has a full HD video camera integrated into it. If you're looking for a hidden camera with a truly innocuous design, then you will be hard-pressed to find one more innocent than this one.
Just like we mentioned, a first look at the device makes it seem the exact same as most other USB wall chargers. The device does include a USB port that is perfect for charging any portable device, which it does just as well as most other USB wall chargers. The included camera, which records in full HD resolution at 1920x1080, gives you a high resolution image with a high viewing angle of 120 degrees that lets you see most of the room, even if it is setup in a less than ideal area. In short, most people should be well-pleased with the recording quality.
Hidden SD Card Slot
One thing that some people may not like about this device is that it doesn't include any WiFi functionality for recording to a mobile device or computer. However, that doesn't mean that you're limited in what you can record. The device includes an SD card slot that is actually hidden underneath a sticker on the back of the device, and all videos are recording directly to the card. The device includes two different video recording modes which can be selected with a switch on the back, allowing you to do either a full loop recording, or to record using motion detection, which will end up saving a lot of storage space if you need to leave the device alone for long periods of time.
One thing that some users have complained about is that this device doesn't have the best night shooting image quality, which can be a concern for a dark room. However, even with just a little light added, the recording quality improves significantly, which when coupled with the high-resolution image will let you see everything that is happening in detail. This device even includes a USB male-to-male cable that lets you connect the device to your computer to view the video recordings without having to remove the SD card. In the end, this device in the shape of a USB wall charger is a perfectly functional hidden home security camera.
| Last updated price | $35.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B083GX4TZ1 |
Highly Flexible Design
Not all hidden cameras are disguised as a particular object. Although those devices certainly have their uses, sometimes a little more flexibility is needed from the camera, much of which is lost when it is disguised as a certain device. Those who need more flexibility from a hidden camera will find the SIRGAWAIN G007 1080P Hidden Camera to be just what they need. This hidden camera doesn't come disguised as anything. In fact, at first look, it will be readily apparent what the device is. This fact, however, doesn't take away from the functionality of this device, either in its ability to be inconspicuous or in its ability to record high-quality video.
As this camera isn't disguised as an object, it is able to have an extremely flexible design that lets you put it virtually anywhere you want. The camera head is attached to a mount that can be placed almost anywhere, ranging from a desk, to a wall, or even on an uneven surface. The size of the device is quite small, making it easy to hide it behind another object, or even to just stick it somewhere in a corner where most people simply won't notice it. The base of the device even includes holes for screws if you want to mount it somewhere permanently, keeping it extremely stable.
Day And Night Recording
One of the issues that people often run into with hidden cameras is that their small size often leads to them not having the best image quality. Anyone concerned about the image quality of this device, however, can safely put their fears to rest. To put it simply, the recording quality of this camera is excellent. The HD quality picture records in a full HD resolution of 1920x1080, giving you an extremely sharp image. In addition, the device includes an advanced multi-layer lens that provides excellent image stabilization during any kind of movement, allowing you to use this in a vehicle, on a bike, or even in a boat. The scratch-resistant lens is also a nice touch, helping to make the device quite durable.
One of the better features of this device, though, is the fact that it is equally well suited for both day and night recording. Mounted around the lens are six invisible IR LEDs that give you an excellent picture when shooting at night, so recording in a dark room won't lead to losing any image detail at all. The device includes the usual options for either loop or motion detection recording, and all images recorded are saved to an SD card, which is not included. For those who need a hidden camera that has a flexible design while providing excellent image quality, this device is well-suited for the task.
| Last updated price | $29.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B07X1YLC2L |
Handy Pen Recorder
There have been plenty of hidden cameras that are disguised by a number of useful products, with many of them even including some basic functionality of the thing it is disguised as. However, we are pretty certain that few of you have seen one as ingenious as the SPOOKER Pen 1080P Hidden Camera. This hidden camera is actually a fully-functional pen, and looks like something that comes straight out of a James Bond film. The camera is hidden in the back base of the pen, making it completely hidden out in plain sight. With the whole thing put together, it would be difficult for anyone to think that this is anything other than a standard pen.
Before anyone thinks that this is merely a prop item, we can assure you that the pen is fully functional. It works just like any other standard ball point pen does, and it even comes with two refills, so you can actually use this as your main regular pen, if you so desire. Of course, most pens don't have a camera hidden in their base, but outside of the camera, this is pretty much just an ordinary pen with average writing quality that will make in indistinguishable from most other ball point pens. Just be sure not to mix it up with other regular pens, though, which is quite possible if you're not careful with where you put it.
Sturdy Build
One thing that some people might be worried about when it comes to this hidden camera is the build quality. Most pens aren't super sturdy devices, and can often be broken easily, but we can assure you that there is nothing to worry about here. The body of this camera is made of very sturdy metal, providing a great amount of protection for the camera inside. In other words, you shouldn't have to worry about the camera breaking if you accidentally drop it.
Another big concern would be the image quality of the recordings. Again, there is little to worry about here. The camera is full HD, giving you crystal clear video recordings that will give you every small detail of what is happening in the room. The camera has a good viewing range and records video to a built-in 16 GB microSD card, which is plenty of storage space for your recorded videos.
If there is a big shortcoming with this camera, it would be the battery life, which only allows for about 50 minutes of recording on a full charge. However, it is quite easy to recharge the pen, as you can just plug it into any powered USB port to do so. Overall, this fully functional pen with a camera built-in will be a great hidden camera for those who need one on their desk.
| Last updated price | $0.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B084ZQZWCR |
Perfect For Carrying
Most of the hidden cameras that we have reviewed here are ones that are cleverly disguised as other objects, meant to be used in the home or office. But what about if you need one for carrying on your body, or in a bag? While some of those may be suitable for the purpose, their design makes them extremely limited in how they can be used. If you are needing a portable hidden camera that is highly flexible in use, then you should take a good look at the GooSpy Module 1080P Wireless Hidden Camera. This hidden camera doesn't come disguised as anything. Instead, it is made to where it can be disguised as virtually anything. giving you an extreme amount of flexibility in how it is hidden.
This camera has a lens attached to a thin cable that lets you integrate it into an almost unlimited number of devices or objects. For instance, the small camera and thin cable can be easily sewn into clothes, or on a handbag, giving you the ability to disguise it pretty much any way that you want. The camera's ribbon attaches to a small box that houses the battery and SD card slot, so you can hide this part inside of your pocket, or in the interior of a handbag. Simply put, there is no limit to how you can disguise this camera, making it the perfect spy device.
Good Image Quality
As to how the camera itself works, there are few complaints to be had. This camera is HD quality, giving you high resolution images that are recorded in the full HD resolution of 1920x1080. While the camera itself doesn't have the best viewing range, that's to be expected from such a small device that is meant to be hidden in various ways. Regardless, considering the flexibility of the camera, this shouldn't prove to be an issue for most people. The camera records all video to a microSD card, which is not included, but with your choice of SD card you shouldn't have to worry about storage space becoming an issue.
One neat feature with this camera is that it does have WiFi connectivity, which lets you stream the video to another device in real time. Furthermore, with the included app you are able to record, view, download, or delete any videos recorded to the SD card but from your mobile device, negating any need to remove the SD card in order to retrieve the recorded videos. The built-in rechargeable battery gives you enough power for up to 1 hour of continuous recording, which for a mobile camera such as this, should be plenty of recording time for most uses. Overall, the high degree of flexibility that this hidden camera gives its user makes it one of the most useful hidden cameras on the market.
| Last updated price | $42.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B0821S2YVW |
What Is a Hidden Camera?
One of the greatest achievements of modern technologies is a system of a concealed surveillance. Today you can hide a spy camera in any object or on any surface of your home and office, quite literally. And with this variety of options, hidden cameras are often created not only to control the safety of your valuables but also to watch small children and their nannies, pets, etc. Here in this review, we would like to search through the best models of spy cameras and highlight their key peculiarities, those you should pay attention to when choosing the hidden camera.
If hiding a camera is not your highest priority and you need to monitor several rooms simultaneously, we recommend you to go through our review on security cameras.
What Features to Compare
Form Factor and Invisibility
Two main differences tell apart modern hidden cameras. There are cameras without a disguised case and those pre-installed in some object. Buying a bare spy camera, you can decide for yourself where you mount it, be it in a household appliance housing, furniture, any interior element. Or you can settle for the camera already built in some object that you can simply place in a room. The latter tend to vary majorly, from alarm clocks and smoke detectors to coat hooks, your kid's stuffed animals, etc. The level of technology allows designers to go wild with their imagination, so much that you can find even body worn cameras like those hidden in pens, for example. No one will suspect you have a security camera in your home, much less on your body. Fun, right?
Recording Quality and Compatibility
The optics is unquestionably the most important part in any camera, spy cameras included. Usually, the manufacturers use CMOS sensors in these cameras. The recording quality is represented by the resolution of the video—the higher the resolution is, the more detailed and clear the image you will receive. At the same time, the higher quality video takes more of the storage space so mind it when you make a decision. Also, pay attention to the viewing angle as it will affect how much space the camera will be able to "see" and, in some cases, will hint you to where you should place the hidden camera for the best results. Cutting-edge spy cameras record video and audio in a wide range of formats; go through the list to see if you are familiar with them and if your PC will recognize the files. Although in most cases the cameras use general video formats like AVI or MP4. More often than not hidden cameras save the recorded files to the removable memory card so check the maximum card capacity of the device before purchasing and think about how often you intend on changing the card or cleaning the data. If you think about monitoring your rooms remotely with your smartphone or tablet, this option is also available in some models, it only needs a Wi-Fi compatibility and the specific app (note that the app must be compatible with your smartphone/tablet). Lastly, the option to transfer the data to a PC via the USB cord is also pretty common.
Peculiarities
First of all, we would like to point out that there are spy cameras with the motion detection feature. Why would you need those? To save the storage space, for one. With a motion detection, you can set the hidden camera to start recording only when there is something or someone moving in the room. You don't really need the records of your place just being still and silent, do you? Next, the built-in microphone will enable recording not only video but also sound. The infra-red sensor will help record in darkness, and some more sophisticated models feature a display for you to watch the recorded video right on the spot without connecting to your PC. These devices can have headphones outputs, too. Sometimes the spy cameras can not only record video but also take single shots, and some can be used as web cameras. The options vary greatly. Finally, when you think about placing the hidden camera, the important thing to take into account is, of course, the power supply. The battery-powered spy cameras are truly convenient from this point of view but pay attention to the time of autonomous recording.
These are the main aspects to think about when you decide on your hidden cameras. Following is the review of 5 best models in our opinion. The models are of different classes and price ranges so we hope you can find the one that fits your needs.
Sources:
1. HOW TO CHOOSE A HIDDEN CAMERA, BRICK HOUSE SECURITY. May 9, 2013.
2. 5 Essential Tips for Choosing a Hidden Camera for Your Business, SUPER CIRCUITS. March 14, 2014.
3. Kim Zetter Tools of Tradecraft: More Spy Gear From the CIA, Others, Wired.
4. Senss BlueCarbon, Facebook.
5. Anwesha How to Choose the Best Spy Cams, Techulator. January 9, 2015.