Technology has made it increasingly more difficult to secure one’s privacy. However, several spy gadgets are available to help you keep your eyes on virtually anything. If you’re a busy parent wanting to keep a constant eye on their nanny or just someone who wants to secure their home from intruders, getting the best spy camera may be crucial to maintaining your sanity. However, with so many cameras available, it can be not easy to pick which would work best for your home.
Our analysis recommends the AHD 1080P Mini Camera because of its full range of features and flexibility.
You may want to check the spy camera instructions.
Quick Summary: Top 9 Best Spy Camera
Our professional editors pick and rate these products specifically for each category and recommend the best product we can. We may receive a commission from affiliated links
Best Overall: AHD 1080P WIFI FHD Mini Button Camera
“Memory card slot (up to 128 GB), motion detection, audio recording, and Wi-Fi enabled.”
Best Clock: STS HD Wifi Mini Camera Clock
“Full HD fully functional clock that tells time and works as a video recorder.”
Best Watch: STS Video Camera Watch
“16 GB built-in memory, waterproof, audio recording, and night vision.”
Best Hidden: Fuvsision Wireless Camera Photo Frame
“6-7 Hours battery life, motion detection, audio recording, night vision, and Wi-Fi.”
Best Home: Oltec Spy Bulb Security Camera
“Built-in 64 GB memory, 2-way audio, motion detection, and WiFi enabled.”
Best Pen: Sirgawain Spy Pen Camera
“Built-in 16 GB memory card, motion detection, audio recording, and has night vision.”
Best Features: Fuvision Mini Spy Camera
“Waterproof, motion detection, night vision, and Wi-Fi enabled.”
Best Smoke Detector: FUVISION Smoke Detector Camera
“Motion detection, night vision, and Wi-Fi enabled.”
Best Unsuspecting: SCS Hidden Camera Speakers
“Memory Card (up to 128 GB), motion detection, audio recording, night vision, and Wi-Fi enabled.”
Top 3 Quick Comparison
1. AHD 1080P WIFI FHD Mini Button Camera
2. STS HD Wifi Mini Camera Clock
Our Reviews
1. AHD 1080P WIFI FHD Mini Button Camera
Best Overall
HD Video recording. Small and flexible design.
As cute as a button and just as small, this mini camera can be hidden in even the most difficult areas. Initially designed to be placed as a jacket button, but its flexible form enables it to be used in various other places.
The camera can record several video files because of its 3 main features: long battery life, large storage capacity, and motion detection capability. It can record up to 3 hours of continuous videos on a full charge. The memory card slot can also support memory cards that hold up to 128 GB; that’s a lot of videos. Lastly, the motion detection on the device dictates when it starts recording, so you won’t find any video recordings where nothing is happening.
The videos on this device are recorded in 1080p. The lens captures a sufficient amount of detail for the size and cost of this camera. Unfortunately, videos taken in low light or night settings are unclear. One surprise from this camera is the audio recording capability. However, you should avoid blocking the mic when setting it up.
Product Reviews:
“What’s amazing about this camera is that it gives you the flexible head and the ability to put it anywhere you want can fit in several places. The video quality was good enough for recording and decent enough for evidence purposes. I love this thing; the installation was much easier than I thought, and the camera is great and easy to turn on and use.”
2. STS HD Wifi Mini Camera Clock
Best Clock
The multiple functions you can get from this digital clock include telling the time, setting alarms, and a full HD video recording.
The multiple functions you can get from this digital clock include telling the time, setting alarms, and a full HD video recording. When plugged in, the clock can function 24/7, but in the case of a power outage, it has a built-in battery that can last up to 5 days when you set it on motion detection mode.
The advantage of the motion detection mode on this device is that you no longer have to sift through multiple large video files when looking for a specific piece of footage. Instead, the camera is smart enough to turn itself on when motion is detected in the area, and it only records those times when someone is moving around your home.
You don’t always have to rely on the motion sensors to record since the device is also Wi-Fi-capable. With an app on your smartphone or tablet, you can sync the device and view real-time videos by turning the spy camera on through the app features. It’s a great feature that allows you to check your home occasionally.
This spy camera is cleverly designed as a digital clock, which is sure to give it a good vantage point – clocks have to be put in a position where the people around can get a good view of the time and, in turn, the clock also has a good view of the people in the room.
Product Reviews:
“Great Quality, image, storage, and portability. Very good product.”
3. STS Video Camera Watch
Best Watch
It serves 3 main purposes: first, as a wristwatch; second, as a stylish accessory; and lastly, as a hidden spy camera capable of recording high-quality videos.
This stylish and multi-functional wrist accessory serves 3 main purposes: first, as a wristwatch; second, as a stylish accessory; and lastly, as a hidden spy camera capable of recording high-quality videos. The watch strap is a soft, rubberized, rather comfortable material. The watch dial is made mostly of stainless steel and plated with a matted white silver. The face of the watch carries a simple and classic design that suits both casual and formal wear. Overall, the watch looks great.
The video recording capabilities of the watch are also as good as the design. The details of the videos are clear and crisp. However, audio can sometimes be quite muted when the watch slips too low on your wrist. You can also easily control videos with this hidden watch camera with the phone app, Which is quite easy to set up.
The videos are stored directly in the watch with a 16 GB built-in memory. Suffice it to say the storage capacity is decent and can carry multiple video files. With the built-in battery, the camera can last up to an hour and a half of continuous recording. When using it repeatedly, transfer your files to avoid deleting previous video files automatically.
Product Reviews
“Minimalism, control via app, it works.”
4. Fuvision Wireless Camera Photo Frame
Best Hidden
Hidden camera disguises itself as a lovely picture frame that you can easily place on top of a table, shelf, or mounted on the wall.
This hidden camera disguises itself as a lovely picture frame that you can easily place on top of a table, shelf, or mounted on the wall. It is very easy to find a strategic place to set this device without making it seem obvious that you are recording the area. At the bottom of the frame, a digital clock also shows the time. It can be a nice addition to your household even without the video recording feature.
The spy camera on this device captures HD video but, unfortunately, has a limited 110-degree view. The battery life is also rather limited – only lasting up to 7 hours on a full charge. You can, however, set it on motion detection mode to conserve the battery and make it last longer. With motion detection mode, the camera only records following any movement in the area.
Since the device can also connect to your home’s WiFi, you can access the live video feedback through an app. It is a bit difficult to sync it up with the device at the onset, but after a successful connection, you’ll be able to access the videos from the screen of your smartphone or tablet. The videos are also stored on a memory card that you put into the device.
Product Reviews:
“The Frame seemed easier and less detectable. Once I figured out how to hook it up (it’s not as hard as some have described; I did it with an iPhone), I put it on my bedroom door with some art created by myself in the frame that was once on the door, prior.”
5. Oltec Spy Bulb Security Camera
Best Home
It gives both light and surveillance to your home. Its placement gives it a great bird’s eye view of an entire room, an entire 360 view.
This light bulb gives both light and surveillance to your home. Its placement gives it a great bird’s eye view of an entire room, an entire 360 view. The hidden camera on the device also captures good-quality videos. With the WiFi connectivity feature on this device, you can view the current camera recordings live on the ICSee App, which is available on both the Play Store and the App Store on iOS. Setting up the light bulb is almost as easy as installing the app on your phone. The app software, unfortunately, takes a while to get used to and is a bit difficult to navigate.
When you get it connected, the live stream feature works seamlessly, and you have 24/7 surveillance on your property. The motion sensors on the device also allow you to set a motion detection alarm to keep you updated whenever anybody is in the room. The only downside to this item is that it doesn’t have a night vision mode function. But, since it emits light directly from the bulb, all recordings when the light is on are great.
It also has a built-in speaker, which allows for 2-way audio recording. You can communicate with the people in the room even when you are away. The audio quality is decent. Lastly, the video quality is clear; you can zoom in and still find sufficient detail. The videos are stored directly on the built-in memory card when not connected to the Wi-Fi.
Product Reviews:
“I have several “smart” devices and multiple cameras throughout my house. This item was very easy to set up, and the app is easy to use. The video quality is great, and the sound from the speaker on the camera and the microphone to the app works well.”
6. Sirgawain Spy Pen Camera
Best Pen
It gives both light and surveillance to your home. Its placement gives it a great bird’s eye view of an entire room, an entire 360 view.
This classy metallic pen is a 3-in-1 device. It’s a hidden spy camera that takes high-quality 1080p videos and HD images; it’s a USB flash drive device that stores the recorded videos and images, along with other important files; and lastly, it’s a nice pen.
You can easily use it to record class lectures, business meetings, and conferences. Despite its small size, it also has a built-in mic to record audio. However, while the audio quality is decent, it is not great. The device does make up for it with the great images and videos it takes. But you should probably avoid using the pen to write if you decide to record. This might have seemed obvious to you, but I got shaky videos on my first try.
For best quality recordings, you can place it on your shirt pocket or a pen holder on your desk where you can leave it to record all the important things while you lean back. A full charge can support up to an hour of full video recording. Unfortunately, it does take a while to charge, and unlike the other mini cameras, it doesn’t work while charging.
In terms of build, the pen feels great in hand, but it feels a bit bulky and heavier than regular pens. It does feel very durable because of the metallic finish. Not to mention, it looks great too.
Product Reviews:
“It takes both pictures and video using a switch inside the pen. The quality of the photos and videos is very clear. This spy pen recorder works well. It is like an ordinary pen. It is easy to use.”
7. Fuvision Mini Spy Camera
Best Features
This miniature camera can fit snugly in your pocket. It’s a great outdoor and sports spy camera because it is made of a durable and waterproof material.
This miniature camera can fit snugly in your pocket. It’s a great outdoor and sports spy camera because it is made of a durable and waterproof material. You can even take it out swimming. Although, it probably won’t give as good quality video recordings underwater. The downside to using this on the go is the short battery life; the camera can only last up to an hour of video recording. However, when used at home or somewhere you can connect it to a power source, the camera can stay on 24/7 – or until you plug it out.
This Fuvision mini spy camera can integrate with a mobile app that you can download for free on both the Play Store and the Apple Store. You only need to download the app and connect the spy camera to your router or hotspot. This allows you to see live video streaming from your home, wherever. This small camera even has motion sensors that set off a motion detection alarm on the app. This is great for home surveillance purposes. The night vision on this camera is decent and gives detailed images, but the 1080p video resolution is much better appreciated in the daylight.
Lastly, the device has a rotatable magnetic bracket and a lifetime warranty from Fuvision. (1)
Product Reviews:
“This tiny camera works great so far. The actual camera is small and comes in a sealed, waterproof case. Nice Portable mini Spy/Activity camera. I like how small it is, and when it is recording, it does not flash at all, so no one will ever know if found/noticed that it is recording (for spying).”
8. FUVISION Smoke Detector Camera
Best Smoke Detector
Cleverly hidden as a smoke detector, you can get a top view 140-degree angle coverage of a full room.
Cleverly hidden as a smoke detector, you can get a top view 140-degree angle coverage of a full room. The videos recorded on this hidden camera are recorded in 1080p HD and are easily accessible through an app that you can install on your smartphone. This smoke detector alarm also has built-in motion sensors. You will be notified when movement in the monitored area is detected.
However, you’ll be able to receive these alerts only after you sync up the app to the smoke detector camera. Added features that you get after syncing your devices through a WiFi connection include live video streaming.
Unfortunately, this hidden camera is unable to record audio. But it does have one of the longest battery lives, lasting up to 180 days on standby mode. You must set the camera to motion detection mode to maximize battery life. It’s important to note that this is a dummy smoke detector that can’t detect any smoke, so you’ll have to get an actual smoke detector alarm for your home.
Product Reviews:
“This dummy smoke detector camera is good to install in places where you want to avoid especially theft or others to be known that camera was present so recording will not incur suspicion or awareness of the subjects on the camera.”
9. SCS Enterprise Hidden Camera Speakers
Best Unsuspecting
It is best for home surveillance because of its design, mobile app, and high-quality night vision mode.
This device functions great as a set of wireless Bluetooth speakers and a great home surveillance camera. It records great quality video in 1080p HD while allowing you to set the hidden camera to record in different modes. Motion detection mode relies on the motion sensors and starts recording when movement is sensed. A time-lapse and continuous recording mode are the other options available. The speakers also offer good audio quality.
Recorded videos also include audio, but if recording while playing music from the speakers, you’ll only end up hearing the music being played. Luckily, you can use the hidden camera without using the speakers.
Since the device can connect to your home Wi-Fi, you can install the camera app on your phone and sync it with the hidden camera. This will allow you to check video recordings through the app and even check out live video feeds.
Product Reviews:
“The angle of view covers the entire room, much better than some of the other products I tried. It can also play music. I like getting an alarm notice (motion activated) on my phone and then “seeing” what is happening before deciding whether to record it. Or, the recording can be automatic, my choice.”
Things to Consider Before Buying A Spy Camera
Why not just buy a regular video or home security camera?
Everyone tends to be a little camera-shy. Many won’t be comfortable around your home when a security camera has all eyes on them. While this is one way to secure your home, some people will find ways around your camera. Just as if you were there, they could easily act great when in view but behave differently when out of your camera’s periphery.
With a spy camera, you’ll easily catch them in the act; whether it’s the bad nanny, a snooping friend, or a cheating spouse, the truth will set them free. Here are some of the best spy cameras on the market. If you’re still undecided after this list, keep reading to find our buyer’s guide on what to look for in a spy camera.
The best spy cameras may not always be the same for everyone. Depending on your needs and the main reason why you are looking to get a spy camera in the first place, what you’re looking for might not be on our list of top spy cameras. However, no matter the purpose, we can give you a few key things to look for in a spy camera.
Video and Image Storage Capacity
Before purchasing a spy camera, knowing just how many videos and images it can store is a necessary bit of information. A reliable spy camera should be able to store a few hour’s worth of videos. Most gadgets have a built-in ability to delete the oldest files to make room for newer videos. While this might be a good function since you no longer need to delete old files manually, it can be frustrating when you need a specific video recording from a few days back and then find it deleted. If you’re looking for something that you need to only use from time to time and have no problems with manually uploading files to your computer or phone, storage capacity may not be a large factor to look at.
However, if you need a spy camera to monitor your home throughout the day and night, this feature is one to look into. Luckily, most spy cameras have expandable storage. Better yet, newer gadgets have Wi-Fi or Phone connectivity features that allow the device to store the video records on your phone or computer automatically. You have a near-unlimited storage capacity in this case. Plus, the ease of viewing the videos without taking out the spy camera.
Video and Image File Types
Aside from how many videos and images the spy camera can take, the specific file type in which the camera stores the files can affect video quality, storage, and how you view the files. Most videos are stored with either .mp4 or .avi file extensions. Other spy cameras save files in DVP file formats to maximize storage. How the files are saved can affect the quality of the videos. Aside from that, certain file formats, such as AVI, take up more space on your memory card. The same storage capacity for a camera that saves files as .dvp could end up storing up to 3 times more than one that saves files in AVI format.
There are other formats manufacturers utilize to optimize storage space and video quality. However, these formats may require certain video software or apps to play on your device. This can be quite a hassle when you need to view files easily. However, most spy cameras that do this usually have integrated software you can download or install when the device is set up.
Video Resolution and Image Quality
A spy camera that cannot give you clear videos would be unable to fulfill its main purpose of surveillance. But, again, depending on your purpose, the level of video quality can vary. You might only be looking to see how many people come and go in your business and don’t need clear and crisp video resolution. Or you might want something that could give you HD – the kind of videos you could zoom in 10 times to spot the car’s plate number. While crime shows have been setting quite unrealistic standards in terms of camera resolution, many options give you great video quality.
Video Recording Time
There are different ways spy cameras record videos. The first is through continuous video recording. A continuous stream of short clips that are time-stamped and organized on file is recorded the moment you turn the device on, and it stops only when you turn it off. If you’re looking for something to give you 24/7 surveillance, your spy camera should be able to record continuously. The second type of recording is when the camera has motion sensors that activate video recording only when motion is detected. This can be great for your storage, saving you time from browsing multiple files where nothing is happening.
Audio Recording
It’s important to note that not all mini spy cameras come with audio recording capability. Most newer gadgets have this feature, but you should always check and never assume that the spy tech you are looking at has it. After confirming that the spy camera does record audio, the next thing to look at – or, in this case, listen to – is the audio quality. Most spy cameras have a decent level of audio quality. However, this is usually nowhere close to the type of audio that you would get with regular video cameras.
Most mini spy cameras also have limited space to put in a mic, so it’s common for these devices only to have a single mic for recording. This makes it easy for the mic to be muted when items accidentally block it. An easy way to circumvent problems with audio recording if it is an absolute necessity for your surveillance is to install additional hidden mics to capture audio.
Battery Life
A large storage capacity will be fruitless if the camera can’t stay on long enough to capture videos. The tricky thing with spy cameras is hiding it in the background. Some cameras have a power cable you can plug in, but this would make it easy to find. People would find it suspicious when they see a random wire plugged in. Most cameras, however, depend on a built-in battery.
Ease Of Use
When you get a spy camera, you’ll have to set it up and get it in place. There can be a few devices that are difficult to use, even with the instructions. On the other hand, some are extremely easy to get ready. If you’re not that good with handling complicated tech, you’ll probably have difficulty setting up and getting your spy camera working if you opt for one that isn’t user-friendly. You can always get a professional or a friend to help set it up for you, but you’ll have to share the secret with them. However, most cameras come with detailed instructions and a user’s manual that, although most people don’t bother reading, should have all the details you need to get your device working.
Placement
Mini spy cameras are relatively easy to set up. Their small size and design usually allow you to stick them in a corner. Other spy cameras have a specific “camouflage” that makes it appear as another object. The most common spy “items” are sunglasses, pens, and clocks. But you can even find other spy cameras disguised as water bottles, light bulbs, and many other objects you’d usually find around the house. The important takeaway is that you’ll have to consider where to put your spy camera before deciding on a final purchase. (2)
Water Resistance
Most of the recent spy cameras offer a waterproof feature or some level of water resistance. While you may not plan to bring the device out for a swim anytime soon, many things can happen in your home. A few drops from a spilled glass of water could easily cause your spy gadget to short-circuit if it lacks this feature. However, knowing where you’ll be placing the spy camera and what the main purpose is should also help to determine whether water resistance is a key feature you need.
Durability
The last main characteristic you must evaluate is the product’s durability. While most users have no direct way of testing this until they use the spy camera, browsing reviews and past customer experiences can show how well the camera lasts. The materials that make up the device also factor in its longevity. Flimsy plastic materials are unlikely to hold up with more durable polymers or metal components. Also, while there are still several spy cameras from less-known brands that offer great quality and durability, popular brands often let out higher-quality products that are trusted to last.
Other Features To Look For
Aside from the main things to consider, a few other specialized features can bring a spy camera to the next level. These features may not always be necessary, but these are a few great things to have on a spy camera.
Connectivity
Spy device developers have started creating apps and software that connect easily to the device. This means you can connect your spy camera directly to your phone, laptop, or desktop PC, enabling you to view the recorded videos directly or even LIVE. Added functionalities include changing views or moving the camera’s lenses to get a different perspective of the scene and using your phone as a remote control for the spy camera. This makes it extremely convenient. Great if you want to have more control over your surveillance.
Wi-Fi Capability
To connect, most cameras rely on a Wi-Fi connection. Others, however, use Bluetooth or other connectivity methods. The most convenient connectivity mode is when the device can connect to the internet. For one, it saves storage since the camera can directly upload new videos into a virtual storage space, which you can easily access with other devices. Plus, with a Wi-Fi connection, you are also likely to have the option to view the camera recording live.
To connect, most cameras rely on a Wi-Fi connection. Others, however, use Bluetooth or other connectivity methods. The most convenient connectivity mode is when the device can connect to the internet. (3)
Motion Activation
This feature is especially useful for a spy camera you plan to use for home surveillance. With motion sensors embedded in the device, you’ll only limit recording to when there is movement or activity in an area. In this case, you can avoid recording several hours of footage where nothing is noteworthy. It lessens the hassle of reviewing recordings when looking for a specific event.
Night Vision Mode
Also, another feature that you should look for if you need a mini spy camera for home surveillance is the night vision mode. A handy spy gadget can record videos even in the dark. Night vision capability is cool whether you want a gadget to use indoors or outdoors. I would consider this a must-have feature for any spy gadget.
You’ll often find spy cameras disguised as random gadgets that you can normally find around the house. Many different styles are available, each fitting a variety of situations and purposes. Overall, spy cameras are a great device to have. They provide protection surveillance and give you a sense of safety in your home as long as you use the spy camera for your own safety and not as a gadget to harm or infiltrate the safety and privacy of others.
AHD 1080P WIFI FHD Mini Button Camera
This mini camera can be hidden in even the most difficult areas. Initially designed to be placed as a jacket button, but its flexible form enables it to be used in various other places.
References
(1) Apple store – https://www.apple.com/ios/app-store/
(2) camouflage – https://www.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/camouflage/
(3) Bluetooth – https://www.bluetooth.com/
Thank you for this one. The AHD 1080P WIFI FHD Mini Button Camera might be the best one I can have, not for me, but a gift to a geeky friend. Hehehe