For this roundup, she spoke with a home security and surveillance expert who offered insight into camera designs and legal/privacy considerations. Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer specializing in home improvement and consumer tech. However, if you want crystal-clear video and more features, like two-way talk, continuous viewing, and night vision, you may want to get something slightly larger. If you're less concerned with getting high-def footage and prioritize a hidden design, go with a smaller device no more than 2 inches in size. "However, this type of covert surveillance is fraught with legal liabilities and should only be done by a licensed investigator and/or under the advice of an attorney."Īs Silva explains, the most covert devices have either tiny lenses or lenses that view through very small holes, which can affect the image quality. ![]() "The only exception would be when there was a need to investigate a person who was misbehaving (such as an abusive babysitter or caregiver) and you wanted to gather evidence without the person being aware that they were being watched," he explains. Silva doesn't typically recommend the use of covert (hidden) cameras in homes except under very special circumstances. If it goes to a memory card, most cameras rewrite over existing files once full, so make sure you check the footage regularly and store it elsewhere if needed. Look into which method your camera uses and whether the video footage is stored on a memory card or uploaded to the cloud. Some hidden cameras only capture motion-activated clips, while others record continuously with live viewing. "This is because most covert cameras view through a very small hole that restricts the camera's field of view and limits its light-gathering abilities." You'll want to look for a product with at least 720p (pixels) resolution, even better if it's 1080p. Otherwise, you may not be able to make out the details in the footage. "Covert cameras often don't provide the same quality of image that regular cameras do," says security expert Michael A. For plug-in models, make sure there's an outlet nearby.Īnother important consideration is the quality of the video. You can position some options on a shelf, cabinet, or another surface. When considering where you put a camera and what you want it to capture, think about whether you'll place it on your wall, ceiling, or home exterior. Will you install it in your entryway, hallway, indoor staircase, or outside on your porch, patio, or walkway? Is wide-angle viewing necessary, or will a narrower image suffice? The location where you plan to use your hidden camera will determine the best product for your needs. The Spruce / Sage McHugh What to Look for in a Hidden Camera Location Although it would be nice to receive all these items in one kit, we still recommend this camera as the best smart hidden camera because of its motion-tracking and color night recording capabilities. A separate wall-mounting system is also available to purchase, and you have to buy a separate micro SD card to save and store footage. The real-time movement sensor also automatically begins tracking objects and following their movement after detection. The Starlight Sensor offers a full-color view of night footage, so there’s no confusion about what’s on the video footage. This camera also allows you to set up to four waypoints throughout a room to check on high-traffic areas around your home easily. It’s also compatible with Alexa and Google smart home devices and the Wyze app that sends motion detection notifications and has two-way audio capabilities. ![]() The Wyze Cam Pan v2 has a 360-degree horizontal view of its surroundings plus a 92-degree vertical view, making it a great indoor security camera option. But, on the plus side, you won't have to worry about replacing the batteries. ![]() This device also needs to be plugged in, so you'll have to place it near an outlet. The audio clarity is less impressive than the video footage because it becomes muffled by the purifier's fan noises. Thanks to high-quality night vision, you'll have no trouble seeing what's happening around the camera day or night. Video footage displays at an impressive 1080-pixel resolution, similar to what you'll see on a high-definition (HD) TV. Motion sensors can alert your phone if the camera detects any movement, and you can also use your mobile device to speak through the camera's two-way talk feature. This camera is Wi-Fi-enabled and offers real-time, 24-hour audio and video surveillance you can easily monitor from the companion app on your phone. The Quniao Wireless Hidden Spy Camera Air Purifier acts as a surveillance camera and an air purifier, providing a unique and discreet way to blend this device into your decor. The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.
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