The Best Rated Hidden Home Security Cameras

Last updated: May 10, 2022

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Hidden home security spy cameras play a vital role in the security industry in terms of safety. Due to this, it’s recommended to use them in houses and residential areas, not just in corporate offices. They can help you keep an eye on your loved ones, including pets, children, and the elderly when you’re out of the house for greater peace of mind. 

Protect your home and loved ones with the best-hidden security cameras. You deserve to feel safe in your own home, but you don’t have to spend a fortune on expensive security systems or live in fear of intruders. 

8 Best Hidden Cameras To Check Out

The popularity of hidden residential surveillance cameras is on the rise. A report from IHS Markit found that the number of cameras used for surveillance around the world is above 1 billion. 

Therefore, you may benefit from installing a hidden spy camera for your home in order to keep your family safe. Let this article help your figure out which hidden security camera is best for your needs. Here are some of the 8 smallest spy cameras worth looking into

Product NameBlink Indoor Wireless Home Security Zohulu Spy Camera Wireless Hidden CameraSharper Image Day/Night Vision Discreet CameraSirgawain Mini Spy Camera With Night Vision
Cost$79.99Currently unavailable $79.99$29.99
DesignWirelessWireless/WiredWireless/Wired Wired
Microphone QualityGoodAverageGreatGood
Battery LifeTwo years60 minutes 90 minutes 60 minutes
Voice ActivationYesNoNoNo
Storage SizeVariable 32GB64GB32GB
Ease of UseGreatGoodGoodAverage
Size71 x 71 x 31 mm3.86 x 3.86 x 1.5 inches 1.5” x 1.5” x 0.5” 3.78 x 1.46 x 3.7 inches
DisguiseNoneMini Rubik’s Cube NoneNone
Product NameMHDYT Mini Wireless Hidden Spy CameraDivine Eagle Spy Camera Charger WIMO Mini Spy CameraArlo Essential Wireless Spy Camera
Cost$29.98 $37.99 $29.99 $179.99 
DesignWirelessWiredWired/Wireless Wireless
Microphone QualityN/AN/AN/AGreat
Battery Life50 minutesN/ARechargable 6 months
Voice ActivationNoNoNoYes
Storage Size32GB32GB32GBUp to 2TB
Ease of UseGood GoodPoorGood
Size0.87 x 0.71 x 0.87 inches1.18 x 1.18 x 2.17 inches5.94 x 3.19 x 1.65 inches3 x 2 x 3.5 inches
DisguiseNoneChargerNoneNone

1. Blink Indoor Wireless Home Security  – Best Overall Wi-Fi Hidden Camera 

Blink Indoor Wireless Home Security  - Best Overall Wi-Fi Hidden Camera 
  • Cost: $79.99 
  • Design: Wireless 
  • Microphone Quality: Good
  • Battery Life: Two years 
  • Voice Activation: Yes 
  • Storage Size: Variable 
  • Ease of Use: Great 
  • Size: 71 x 71 x 31 mm
  • Disguise: None 

The Blink Wi-Fi hidden camera comes with two-way audio features that let you speak to people and pets in your home. Setting up the camera without any assistance is easy, since it doesn’t come with any complicated wires. This wireless flexibility also means that you can mount it with ease on a shelf, wall, or anywhere in your home 

Unlike most hidden cameras, it works with smart home gadgets like Alexa and can understand smart voice commands. This camera has a much longer battery life than other models, with the indoor model running for up to two years on two AA lithium batteries. It also has Motion Alerts to alert users to intruders or other movements. 

Other useful features come with the Blink Subscription Plan. It allows users to store video clips and photos in the cloud in addition to local USB storage on the Blink Sync Module 2. All users get a free 30-day trial to test out the plan, then each subscription plan will cost $3 per month per camera or $10 for an unlimited number of surveillance cameras in one home. 

ProsCons
Up to 1080p of HD resolution Lacks continuous live feed 
Works with Alexa smart home features Some connectivity issues 
Good motion detection via zones No free plan for local storage 

2. Zohulu Spy Camera Wireless Hidden Camera  – Best Hidden Spy Camera 

Zohulu Spy Camera Wireless Hidden Camera  - Best Hidden Spy Camera
  • Cost: Currently unavailable 
  • Design: Wireless/Wired 
  • Microphone Quality: Average 
  • Battery Life: 60 minutes 
  • Voice Activation: None 
  • Storage Size: 32GB 
  • Ease of Use: Good 
  • Size: 3.86 x 3.86 x 1.5 inches 
  • Disguise: Mini Rubik’s Cube 

This is one of the best hidden security cameras due to its tiny size. It resembles a mini Rubik’s cube, sized at only 0.85 inches. This means it can be placed anywhere in your home or car without drawing attention, ideal for users looking for a camera to watch caregivers or catch thieves on camera.  

Despite its lack of a microSD card, it can record up to three times longer videos than other hidden security cameras thanks to its 32GB of storage. Despite its small size, it can record videos in full HD 1080p resolution with a 135 degree wide angle view. It can also take videos and photos depending on which you prefer. 

Another useful feature is the night vision. With 6 LED built-in lights and an infrared distance of up to 16 feet, it can capture features in low lit or very dark rooms so you never miss any action. 

Other useful features include motion detection and loop recording. It automatically detects movement and saves snapshots on the memory card. The camera automatically overwrites the oldest to the newest files when the memory card is full.

ProsCons
Can easily be concealed in homes Instructions are unclear
Sound quality is clear and crisp Night vision quality can be improved 
Comes with a mounting bracket with a clip on attachment May be difficult to switch between modes

3. Sharper Image Day/Night Vision Discreet Camera – Best Versatile Hidden Camera 

Sharper Image DayNight Vision Discreet Camera - Best Versatile Hidden Camera 
  • Cost: $79.99
  • Design: Wireless/Wired 
  • Microphone Quality: Great
  • Battery Life: 90 minutes 
  • Voice Activation: None 
  • Storage Size: 64GB 
  • Ease of Use: Good 
  • Size: 1.5” x 1.5” x 0.5” 
  • Disguise: None 

This compact home security camera can be easily concealed in any room. It can also be used as a dashcam for your vehicle or a wearable body camera due to its small and discreet size. The built in magnet allows you to attach it to any metal surface securely instead of using an inconvenient mounted holder. The package includes a magnetic pad, magnetic rotation mount and USB cable.

The built in microphone provides high quality sound to match the 1280x720p resolution, enabling you to capture crystal clear footage and recordings. Like most cameras, it does not come with a microSD memory card so you’ll need to buy one and install it on your own. 

This model is compatible with all iPhones running iOS 8.1 or later, and all Android phones running 4.4 and higher. In the app, you can also change the resolution to 1080p depending on your needs. The night vision is good and the video quality is great, though the battery life can be improved. 

Something to keep in mind is that it only lasts for 90 minutes on a full charge, but can easily be recharged with the USB attachment. According to many reviews, it is a good fit for anyone who wants an easy set up process and LED indicators that indicate which mode you are in.

ProsCons
Comes with a free iOS and Android App for wireless controlWeak battery life could be improved 
Magnetic surface attaches to all metallic surfacesLacks motion detection 
Plenty of wearability options Size could be a little smaller 

4. Sirgawain Mini Spy Camera With Night Vision – Best Budget Hidden Spy Camera

Sirgawain Mini Spy Camera With Night Vision - Best Budget Hidden Spy Camera
  • Cost: $29.99
  • Design: Wired 
  • Microphone Quality: Good 
  • Battery Life: 60 Minutes 
  • Voice Activation: No
  • Storage Size: 32GB 
  • Ease of Use: Average
  • Size: 3.78 x 1.46 x 3.7 inches
  • Disguise: None 

The Sirgawain Mini Spy Camera With Night Vision is a good budget option for those looking for a hidden security camera. It has 1080p HD resolution and can take 12 megapixel photos. A 140-degree wide angle lens and night vision extending up to 16 feet are also useful aspects. The camera makes use of six invisible LEDs.

It supports SD cards between 2 and 32GB although it does not come with one in the package. Something that could be improved is the battery life since it only has 60 minutes of run time. However, it can also record 24/7 when it is charging although it may be less discreet this way. 

The motion detection feature makes it a good option for those wanting to keep an eye on their pet, baby, nanny or housekeeper at home. However, its limited range of field means that it might take you a while to mount it properly and get the angle right. 

However, other areas of improvement include the small LED light that tells you what mode you’re using. It is difficult to tell if you have it on motion or loop, since loop will record 5 minute videos around the clock for approximately eight hours, then it will start overwriting itself depending on your storage. Thus, it is best to double check your settings. 

ProsCons
Can turn on and off automatically when not in use Lacks a built-in display to review footage 
Has 140° wide-angle lensPoor battery life 
Nigh vision reaches 16’ in terms of distanceUsers need to purchase a micro SD card separately 

5. MHDYT Mini Wireless Hidden Spy Camera – Best Range of Features

MHDYT Mini Wireless Hidden Spy Camera - Best Range of Features
  • Cost: $29.98 
  • Design: Wireless 
  • Microphone Quality: N/A 
  • Battery Life: 50 minutes
  • Voice Activation: No
  • Storage Size: 32GB 
  • Ease of Use: Good 
  • Size: 0.87 x 0.71 x 0.87 inches
  • Disguise: None

The MHDYT Mini Wireless Hidden Spy Camera comes with a wide variety of features. It is one of the smallest models on the market, packed in an 0.87 inch cube weighing only 0.7 ounces. This makes it a great option for those looking for a covert camera to monitor pets, nannies and babies without them noticing. 

The mini camera comes with handy removable magnets and mirrors. The mirrors are  mounted above the lens that easily hides it from view. The magnet installed on the back of the camera also allows you to attach it to metal tables, shelves, and lamps, depending on the angle you wish to record.

In terms of image quality, the MHDYT mini spy cam records video in high quality 1920 x 1080P HD at 30 frames per second. There are four infrared lights for enhanced night vision in low light and darker conditions, and the LED light stays dark to reduce glare.

The MHDYT tiny camera supports the use of a micro SD card with minimum 4GB and maximum 32GB, but the SD card needs to be purchased separately for loop recording. To preserve space, the camera will auto overwrite the oldest video files when the card is full. 

The motion detection mode also comes in handy to preserve storage space since it only captures footage when it senses motion. It comes with a built-in 240mAh battery,  which means that if it is used as a body cam it can last around 50 minutes after it is fully fully charged. It also supports recording mode while charging if you need to capture 24/7 footage. 

ProsCons
Comes with removable mirror and magnet Poor battery life 
Can support recording while charging for 24/7 footage Some issues with file type formatting 
Can take photos and videos Quality control 

6. Divine Eagle Spy Camera Charger  – Best Hidden Camera Charger 

Divine Eagle Spy Camera Charger  - Best Hidden Camera Charger 
  • Cost: $37.99 
  • Design: Wired
  • Microphone Quality: N/A
  • Battery Life: N/A
  • Voice Activation: None 
  • Storage Size: 32GB 
  • Ease of Use: Good 
  • Size: 1.18 x 1.18 x 2.17 inches
  • Disguise: Charger 

This camera is disguised as a USB charger, making it incredibly easy to hide in plain sight. One benefit is that it doesn’t require Wi-Fi. All you need is a micro SD card of up to 32GB and an outlet or power bank to plug it in. This means it can be used on a wired and wireless basis depending on how much battery life you need. 

The good news is that it is also a functional USB charger that allows you to charge mobile phones, tablets, and other devices. You can use it to monitor children, landlord, lodger, roommate, babysitter, nanny, caregiver, elderly parents, or even a roommate.

To view recorded footage, all you will need is to connect the camera via USB cable to a computer or phone and the date and time the video was captured will be displayed in the entry.

One drawback is that it doesn’t record sound so you can’t hear what people are saying. However, reviewers note that it has very high image quality and can take very clear photos to help catch people in the act, especially those who have stolen items from your home or committed other wrongdoings. 

ProsCons
Doesn’t require a Wi-Fi connectionLow lit and backlit recordings could be clearer
Comes with motion detection Have to set the time every time you plug it in 
Charger resemblance makes it easy to hide Lacks an audio recording feature 

7. WIMO Mini Spy Camera –  Best Remote View Security Camera 

WIMO Mini Spy Camera -  Best Remot
  • Cost: $29.99 
  • Design: Wired/Wireless 
  • Microphone Quality: N/A
  • Battery Life: Variable
  • Voice Activation: No 
  • Storage Size: 32 GB 
  • Ease of Use: Poor 
  • Size: 5.94 x 3.19 x 1.65 inches
  • Disguise: None 

With this spy camera, you are alerted about any suspicious activity immediately through their company’s app on your smartphone. The recording can be done on a loop or on a 24/7 basis provided that the user charges the built-in battery or leaves it plugged into the socket. However, it needs a microSD card in order to function, storing files up to a total of 32 GB. 

The user manual provides information on how to install the camera and adjust various settings without using an overly complex system. All you need is the via IWFCam app on your iOS or Android, which will ensure access to the remote view of your home, office, vehicle or any other monitored area. It also requires a Wi-Fi connection to work. 

On the other hand, some reviewers claim that the instruction manual lacks clarity and may be difficult to understand. There are also some quality control issues that users have mentioned, so it may be worth trying other mini spy cameras.

In spite of this, it is a good option for those looking for an affordable option that provides remote view through a smartphone since it also comes with motion detection and night vision in one convenient package. 

ProsCons
Comes with built in rechargeable batteryInstructions on how to use the security camera may be difficult to understand 
App enables remote view of camera recording Many customer reviews are negative 
Motion detection feature sends alerts to your mobile phone Too many visible lights on the camera make it difficult to hide in homes 

8. Arlo Essential Wireless Spy Camera – Best Home Surveillance Indoor/Outdoor Option 

Arlo Essential Wireless Spy Camera - Best Home Surveillance IndoorOutdoor Option 
  • Cost: $179.99 
  • Design: Wireless 
  • Microphone Quality: Great
  • Battery Life: 6 months 
  • Voice Activation: Yes 
  • Storage Size: Up to 2TB 
  • Ease of Use: Good 
  • Size: 3 x 2 x 3.5 inches
  • Disguise: None

The Arlo Essential Wireless Camera provides full high definition footage in 1080p. It can be used indoors and outdoors and comes with a wide 130 degree viewing angle. Setup is easy since it is a wireless camera, and you can set up multiple units to get more effective surveillance in multiple rooms.

The effective night vision allows you to view faces at night and even read license plates in full color, helping you keep your home as secure as possible against potential intruders. All you need is Wi-Fi to get started. 

With the free trial of Arlo Secure, you can also receive alerts about people, vehicles, and packages. This will allow you to take action like sounding the siren, calling a friend, or calling emergency services.

Another thing to keep in mind that it isn’t as subtle as other hidden security cameras because of its relatively large size. Despite this, it is compatible with the following:

  • Weatherproofing
  • Amazon Alexa
  • Google Assistant
  • IFTTT
  • Samsung SmartThings

Some users, particularly for outdoor cameras, have reported connectivity problems. Strong Wi-Fi connections are therefore essential. The cost is also something to keep in mind.

The main thing that makes Arlo cameras so expensive is that you typically have to buy them in a multipack or with a base, increasing the cost. However, this specific model is relatively affordable compared to their other lines. 

If you upgrade to the Essential Spotlight, you’ll also get additional features including the spotlight, outdoor weatherproofing, color night vision, zoom, an estimated six months of battery life, and Apple HomeKit compatibility. 

ProsCons
Can be integrated with other Arlo cameras around the home More expensive compared to other hidden residential surveillance cameras 
Provides emergency alerts with the Arlo Secure trial Large size makes it more visible compared to other hidden cameras 
Easy wire-free setup and installation Quality of customer service 

Choosing Security Camera For Home Safety

These days, keeping your home safe can be a challenge. Many security cameras for the home are DIY devices, meaning you have to set them up and monitor yourself. 

If you aren’t up to the task, it may be worth hiring a professional but you’ll need to pay additional costs like installation and monitoring fees. When choosing a security camera for optimal home safety, some factors to keep in mind include:

Design

Most surveillance cameras come in two forms: wireless options and wired options. Wireless options are more portable and can be placed anywhere but may have limited battery life. They come with either rechargeable batteries or ones you’ll need to replace. 

Alternatively, wired solutions can operate 24 hours a day, but they are less concealable because of their wiring. Most cameras also require a Wi-Fi connection in order to operate, but some may not require Wi-Fi

Audio/Video Quality

Video doorbells and most security cameras come with two-way audio which allows you to 

hear and speak with people or pets in front of the camera. However, some hidden cameras don’t have audio recording options which is something to keep in mind.

Video quality can also vary greatly between brands and models depending on cost. However, high resolution footage can take up more memory compared to low resolution footage. At night, you should also check whether the camera can record clear and crisp footage with infrared technology. Facial recognition can also be a useful feature. 

Battery Life

Battery-powered wireless security cameras can be the most flexible in terms of placement. However, you may need to charge them on a weekly, daily, monthly, or yearly basis depending on how often you use it.

Voice Activation

Many hidden security cameras are also compatible with smart home systems like Alexa that can provide added convenience to homeowners. They also provide useful monitoring and emergency services instead of relying on a landline that could be cut by an intruder or malicious person. 

However, these devices tend to be more costly than the average hidden camera, so be prepared to adjust your budget for this added perk. 

Size and Color 

Most people look for a security camera that is smaller in size in order to film a room or a place with greater discretion. They are easier to conceal in bookshelves, tables, ceilings, and hidden corners. 

If you buy a camera that is larger than a few inches, be prepared to have it spotted. If you want to conceal the camera from view, you may also want to consider buying a dark camera instead of a light camera.

Disguise

There are many reasons why you may want to have a hidden camera that is disguised from view. Many of them are disguised as a simple cube, but some models resemble chargers, pens, clocks, and more. These can come in handy for those wishing to use a device for when your home is being cleaned, watching your pets, or keeping an eye on children. 

However, it is generally good practice to read up on the laws in your area before using a wireless spy camera at home, especially if it has audio. Recordings may be illegal in some states and may not be considered as valid evidence in a court of law. 

Security

These days, privacy concerns are at an all time high. Because of this, more and more home one-time-use passcode via a text message, a phone call, an email, or an authentication app. On top of your username and password, this provides you with an extra layer of security.

Keeping your footage safe should be a high priority, especially if you are filming something sensitive.  

Cloud Storage

Before choosing a security camera it is a good idea to find out how much cloud storage that it comes with for free and how much any additional storage costs. These hidden subscription fees can elevate the price but can be worth it depending on your needs. 

Many companies prefer to store footage on the cloud on a remote server which can be more convenient for larger file sizes. It can also be more secure than a micro SD card. Paying more for cloud storage also enables you to review files instead of having them rewritten due to limited storage. 

Smartphone Alerts

In the event of an emergency, wireless home security cameras can send alerts to your phone when they detect motion in specified zones. Some cameras also have the ability to analyze footage to create alerts for people, faces, animals, vehicles, and even packages. 

Often, you can use the app to adjust the frequency and sensitivity of alert options and they can also be sent via text message or email depending on your needs. 

Monitoring Zones

Some home surveillance cams also provide monitoring zones where you can narrow a camera’s field of view to identify motion in that area. This can come in handy if you’re trying to identify theft in a certain location, watch your pet, or look after a child and avoid repetitive alerts from taking place. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Hidden Home Security Cameras

To help you find the best hidden home security camera for your needs and keep it concealed, here are some questions to keep in mind in terms of safety. 

Can a cell phone detect a hidden camera?

In today’s high-tech world, surveillance cameras are everywhere. “A hidden camera detector can find a camera anywhere no matter how well it is hidden.” You just press the button and you’ll know where to go from there.

Can I put a camera in my own bedroom?

It is not illegal to record video inside a private area such as your home. Well, it is better to avoid recording videos in your bedroom until it is required to keep an eye on your toddler. 

How do you check if your room has a hidden camera?

In a dark room, enable the front camera on your phone or tablet and slowly pan around each room. In case you see any small, bright lights that aren’t visible to the naked eye, you should look into them right away.

At the end of the day, there is no one size fits all option for a hidden home security camera. There are many types and models that can be used to keep an eye on family members, nannies, pets, and children, so it’s best to do your research and compare several options before choosing one. 
Finally, remember to check whether hidden surveillance cameras break any privacy laws in your area before installing one in your home. Read on to learn more about how to keep your home safe on Security Forward today!

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