Spy cameras allow discreet video surveillance for home or business security. Thanks to their tiny size and clever disguises, they can record HD video without being easily noticed. From hidden smoke detectors to phone chargers with built-in cams, today‘s options blend seamlessly into their surroundings.
In this guide, we’ll compare the top spy cameras on the market and offer recommendations based on factors like intended use, features, and budget.
How Do Spy Cameras Differ from Security Cameras?
While a standard security camera is designed to visibly deter intruders, a spy cam is made for covert monitoring and surveillance. Security cameras are often large and mounted prominently, while spy cams are tiny devices disguised as everyday objects.
The main benefit of a spy cam is its hidden nature. No one but you needs to know it‘s even recording video. This makes them ideal for catching theft, vandalism, or other unwanted activities. Just be sure to follow local laws regarding consent when installing surveillance devices.
Top 6 Spy Cameras Worth Buying Today
1. Zosi 1080p Spy Camera Alarm Clock
Best Overall
- 1080p HD video + night vision
- Motion detection with push alerts
- Doubles as digital alarm clock
- 32GB memory card included
With its inconspicuous clock design and sharp 1080p recording, the Zosi alarm clock cam is our top overall choice. It even works as a functioning digital clock with dual alarms. The 130° wide-angle lens provides sweeping room coverage.
Price: $70
2. Mini 1080p USB Wall Charger Camera
Most Discrete
- Disguised as USB wall charger
- Records 1080p video
- 160° wide viewing angle
- Up to 128GB micro SD card
This clever fake charger hides a tiny 1080p spy cam that plugs into any wall outlet. It captures a wide 160° view and supports 24/7 continuous recording. The charger maintains its functionality, meaning no one will know it’s secretly filming.
Price: $40
3. DEEPING P Mini Spy Glasses Cam
Best Wearable Cam
- Hidden camera built into eyeglasses
- Shoots 720p HD video
- Stores video on SD card
- Rechargeable battery
For a wearable spy cam, these glasses come fitted with a nearly invisible camera between the lenses. It records sound and captures 720p video transmitted wirelessly to the SD card in the frames. Just tap the side button to start filming.
Price: $50
4. OOSSXX 1080P HD Smoke Detector Cam
Top for Ceilings
- 1080p HD resolution
- 360° panoramic view
- Smoke and fire alarms
- Night vision, motion detection
The OOSSXX smoke detector houses a 1080p camera offering complete 360° ceiling coverage. It also functions as a real smoke/CO2 detector. With robust motion detection alerts and night vision, no activity will escape its view.
Price: $90
5. AOBRER Mini Spy Camera Power Bank
Best Battery Backup
- 10,000 mAh portable charger
- Built-in 1080p cam
- 170° wide-angle lens
- Loop recording with 32GB SD card
This AOBRER power bank packs a 10,000 mAh portable charger and hidden 1080p camera in one device. The wide 170° lens misses nothing, while loop recording continuously saves and overwrites footage to the 32GB SD card inside.
Price: $50
6. CADeN 1080p Pen Cam Video Camera
Best Budget Spy Cam
- 1080p video in pen design
- Portable and wearable
- Built-in 16GB memory
- 130-degree FOV
Disguised as a pen, this budget CADeN spy cam shoots 1080p 30fps video with a decent 130° field of view. The 16GB of onboard storage provides ample onboard footage capacity. Easy to slip in a pocket, it‘s great for low-profile, on-the-go recording.
Price: $30
Buyer’s Guide: Key Features to Consider
Video Resolution
Spy cameras shoot video ranging from 480p to 4K Ultra HD and higher. Lower resolutions like 480p tend to look grainy but take up less storage space. Most spy cams record crisp 1080p (1920 x 1080) video. Higher-end options offer 2K (2560 x 1400) or 4K (3860 x 2160) quality.
Storage Capacity
Look for a micro SD card slot that supports anywhere from 32 to 256GB cards. High capacities allow storing more HD video. Some cameras include SD cards, while some require buying separately.
Battery Life
Battery life varies greatly depending on model. Some last less an hour on a charge while other larger units record 24/7 with swappable rechargeable batteries. Consider usage times and recharging convenience.
Disguise
The whole point of a spy cam is going incognito. Many resemble USB chargers, alarm clocks, smoke detectors, pens, glasses and other ordinary objects. The more unsuspicious, the better!
Connectivity
Options like WiFi or Bluetooth allow remotely monitoring video feeds from your smartphone. Entry-level models record to SD but don‘t offer wireless streaming. Depending on your needs, connectivity brings added convenience.
Motion and Sound Detection
For home security, motion and sound detection features can send instant mobile alerts when activity is detected in range. This allows responding promptly to unusual events captured by your spy cam.
Final Verdict: Best Spy Camera Overall
While all six of our top picks offer excellent covert surveillance, the Zosi 1080p Spy Camera Alarm Clock takes the top honors as best overall spy cam. With its dual functionality as a digital clock and motion detecting camera, it blends seamlessly into bedroom or office. Exceptional 1080p video and wide 130° viewing angle leave no activity undetected by its stare.
For unrivaled discretion at a reasonable price point, the Zosi alarm clock cam makes an ideal investment for guarding your home or workplace around the clock against unwanted visitors. Just don’t forget it‘s on duty!
