Don’t we all have moments we wish we’d caught on camera? For most, these moments are happy ones, but there are likely just as many unhappy ones, from the license plate number of the person who dented your car to a thief caught in the act of stealing from your home. Unfortunately, it’s hard to keep an eye on those who would wrong you, and it’s especially hard to trap a criminal if they know someone is watching.

Enter: spy cameras. Call them what you want – hidden cameras, nanny cams, surveillance equipment – the purpose is all the same: to protect yourself and your loved ones from groups of people with insidious intentions. Unlike the big round cameras mounted to the ceilings of retail stores or outdoor surveillance cameras, the point of spy cameras is discretion, both in size and in general appearance.

While you might be picturing a teddy bear with one blinking red eye from a dramatic TV show or a body cam disguised in a shirt button from a 007 film, real spy cameras come in all shapes and sizes with many diverse features. From covert one-inch mini cameras that are easily transported to everyday objects like clocks and chargers with hidden recording devices, spy cameras today are capable of live-streaming, night vision, motion detection, and more.

So whether you’re looking for peace of mind while the babysitter watches your kids or to apprehend a burglar, we’re here to help. After careful research and analysis, we’ve compiled ten of the best spy cameras on the market to be your extra set of eyes.

Editors choice

1. Omples Hidden Camera Clock

9.75 / 10

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If you’re looking for a device that serves multiple purposes and has state-of-the-art features, the Omples Hidden Camera Clock is the spy camera for you. Not only is this a useful choice as a working clock, but the hidden spy camera within makes the Omples one of the most discreet options too.

This clock has a powerful camera capable of crystal-clear video quality with an adjustable angle and ten “no glow” infrared LED lights to support excellent night vision recording. Compatible with WiFi, the Omples connects seamlessly to an app for quick and easy access to all its great features, including video live streaming and motion detection notifications. To switch between live streaming and recording, simply insert a 32GB micro SD card. The camera can record continuously when plugged in, so you don’t need to worry about battery life.

A spy camera hidden within an everyday object is what makes the Omples design so special. There’s no need to worry about camouflaging a tiny black cube with surrounding objects because no one would suspect there’s a camera hidden in such an inconspicuous clock. The Omples is also easy to set up since the clock function is battery powered, and the camera has a rechargeable battery that is easily charged with the included USB cable. Unlike other units that become more obvious when charging, no one would think twice about a corded clock.

It’s likely the novel design and great software that make the Omples Hidden Camera Clock a more expensive option, but it’s a reliable, long-lasting device that is supported by stellar customer service, which makes the price worth it.

Key Features

  • App-enabled video live stream
  • 24/7 recording option with SD card
  • Clock powered by AA battery
  • Camera powered by lithium-ion battery
Specifications

  • Product Dimensions: 5.9 x 2.8 x 7.1 inches
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080P HD
  • Night Vision?: Yes
  • Compatible With: WiFi and 32GB micro SD card
  • Brand: Omples
Pros

  • Clear video quality
  • Strong night-vision capabilities
  • Well-camouflaged camera
  • Unique motion detection notification feature
Cons

  • Unclear warranty period
  • Not compatible with 5G
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Premium pick

2. FuVision Photo Frame Hidden Security Camera

9.99 / 10

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The FuVision Photo Frame Hidden Security Camera is a top choice spy camera, not only for its powerful software but for its covert design. Though the FuVision has great features and a unique design, it’s also a reliable and long-lasting option.

This device is WiFi-enabled, which allows for seamless remote access to a live video stream available through an app that’s compatible with iOS and Android. Whether you’re looking to record day or night, the FuVision has you covered with 1920 x 1080P HD and “no glow” night vision LEDs that allow you to see up to 30 feet in the dark. The motion detection function includes a PIR movement sensor alarm that sends an alert to you through the app and records a short clip of the event on your 128GB SD card.

The design of the FuVision is genius, with a tiny camera hidden inside an ordinary picture frame. Thanks to its wire-free design, you don’t have to worry about bringing any unwanted attention to your spy camera, either. The camera battery is rechargeable and allows for up to 20 hours of continuous recording or 365 days of standby time in motion detection mode. When it’s time to charge, simply plug the device into any USB cord. Plus, it’s a real changeable picture frame, meaning it blends into any environment, from the living room to the office.

The FuVision Photo Frame Hidden Security Camera is simply one of the best spy cameras on the market, with powerful features and an inconspicuous design.

Key Features

  • Wire-free design
  • App-enabled video live stream
  • Built-in rechargeable battery
  • PIR motion detection system
Specifications

  • Product Dimensions: 10 x 7.8 x 0.66 inches
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080P HD
  • Night Vision?: Yes
  • Compatible With: WiFi and up to 128GB micro SD card
  • Brand: FuVision
Pros

  • Covert camera design
  • Useful motion detection notification option
  • Strong night vision capabilities
  • Long-lasting battery life
Cons

  • Unclear warranty period
  • Not compatible with 5G
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Best value

3. FabQuality Spy Camera Pen

8.50 / 10

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The FabQuality Spy Camera Pen is a top choice for consumers looking to combine the functionality of a device featuring a built-in hidden camera with the portability of a smaller standalone spy camera. For an affordable price, you can live out all your 007 fantasies with this great spy camera pen.

This pen’s camera is capable of recording at 1280×1080P HD video resolution and comes with a 16GB micro SD card for storing footage. If you’re looking to record beyond that, the FabQuality supports up to a 32GB micro SD card. To view recorded footage, simply plug the micro SD into the included USB drive and insert it into your computer’s USB port.

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A real working pen, this device comes with five ink cartridges and writes smoothly. The discreet design of the camera allows for recording while writing or when stationary in a shirt pocket or on a desk. Easy to set up and use, this pen works with just one click for “on” and one click for “off”. The battery life supports up to 50 minutes of continuous recording at a time, but you can save SD card space and battery life by entering motion detection mode. When it’s time to charge, simply plug the pen in with the included USB cord, and you’re all set.

As far as spy cameras hidden in everyday objects go, the FabQuality Spy Camera Pen is a great option. Not only is it easily transported, but it’s also very affordable. Plus, it has great software that’s easy to use, no matter your skillset.

Key Features

  • Working pen with five ink cartridges
  • 16GB micro SD card included
  • Nonstop & motion detection recording modes
  • Built-in rechargeable battery
Specifications

  • Product Dimensions: 6.9 x 3.4 x 1.3 inches
  • Resolution: 1280 × 1080P HD
  • Night Vision?: No
  • Compatible With: 32GB micro SD card
  • Brand: FabQuality
Pros

  • Affordable option
  • Inconspicuous camera
  • Easy to transport
  • Strong video quality
Cons

  • Low battery life
  • Difficulty inserting and extracting micro SD card
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4. TOQI Spy Camera Charger

9.25 / 10

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The TOQI Spy Camera Charger pulls double duty as a dual-USB charger and as a powerful spy camera. For consumers interested in top-notch device functionality and discreet design, the TOQI is a great option.

The TOQI boasts clear video quality that is viewable by a live stream with its accompanying app. The app also allows you to record video or take pictures, which are saved on the micro SD card of your choice (the TOQI supports up to 128GB). Motion detection and loop recording modes are also supported to help conserve SD card space. Additionally, the TOQI is equipped with special security protocols and is password protected to prevent any hackers from breaking in and watching your live stream.

The TOQI’s design is simple but effective. To use, simply plug the charger into any outlet, and you’re all set. The TOQI is a real, working USB charger, which records even while charging your devices. Incredibly discreet, the TOQI looks exactly like a typical charger, and blends in seamlessly with its surroundings. Due to its small size, the TOQI is easy to transport and is adaptable to any environment, from the office to the home. Though it’s a reliable device, if you find your unit isn’t working as it should, the TOQI is covered by a one-year warranty and has excellent customer service.

The TOQI Spy Camera Charger is a top-notch spy camera for new consumers and tech whizzes alike, with a covert design, great features, and all the functionality of a real dual-USB charger.

Key Features

  • Dual USB device-charging ability
  • App-enabled video live stream
  • Powered by outlet
  • One-year warranty
Specifications

  • Product Dimensions: 4.6 x 3.1 x 1.4 inches
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080P HD
  • Night Vision?: No
  • Compatible With: WiFi and up to 128GB micro SD card
  • Brand: TOQI
Pros

  • Clear video quality
  • Discreet unit design
  • Easily transportable
  • Useful motion detection feature
Cons

  • Lacks night vision
  • Narrow camera angle
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5. AOBO Mini Security Camera

9.00 / 10

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The AOBO Mini Security Camera is a top choice if you’re looking for a spy camera that breaks the mold. With a wearable option and great features, the AOBO is a unique spy camera that users love.

The AOBO has a 150-degree wide-angle lens that produces high-quality video both day and night, with 1080P HD capabilities and six “no glow” infrared LED lights that reach up to 16 feet of distance. The AOBO is WiFi-enabled and supported by an app that allows for motion detection alerts and video live streaming from anywhere you are. For recording, simply insert the micro SD card of your choice (up to 128GB). To view recorded footage, you can either access it via the app or plug the micro SD into a USB reader and insert it into your computer’s USB port. To save storage space, you can either switch the AOBO to motion detection mode or rely on the loop recording function to overwrite the oldest footage on your micro SD card.

The design of the AOBO is all about portability, with multiple modes for setting up your spy camera. The back of the camera is magnetic for easy placement on metal surfaces, and it also comes with a rotatable base. The star feature is the watchband, however, as it allows users to take the AOBO anywhere they want, which is especially convenient for hands-free scenarios like driving or exercising.

The AOBO Mini Security Camera is simply one of the best and most portable spy cameras on the market, with a sturdy design, powerful software, and great features.

Key Features

  • 150-degree wide-angle lens
  • Wearable watch band option
  • App-enabled video live stream
  • Built-in rechargeable battery
Specifications

  • Product Dimensions: 1.3 x 0.5 x 0.8 inches
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080P HD
  • Night Vision?: Yes
  • Compatible With: WiFi and up to 128GB micro SD card
  • Brand: AOBO
Pros

  • Convenient motion detection notification feature
  • Easily portable
  • Clear picture quality
  • Simple setup
Cons

  • Less discreet design
  • Unclear warranty period
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6. Relohas Mini Spy Camera

9.99 / 10

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While the Relohas Mini Spy Camera may be on the pricier side of the small spy camera spectrum, its powerful software and inconspicuous design are worth the cost. The Relohas has all the best features with none of the glitches or quirks common to small spy cameras.

The Relohas boasts a 140-degree wide-angle lens capable of 1080P HD crystal clear video quality, while the night vision is supported by three “no glow” infrared LED lights and is capable of showing up to 720P. It is also WiFi-enabled and connects to an app that allows for remote video live streaming. Within the app, this unit has four recording modes, including continuous recording to a micro SD card of your choice (up to 128GB), timed recording, phone-powered recording through the app, and motion detection recording. Motion detection mode sends an alert directly to your phone through the app when any movement is detected. To prevent false alarms, simply adjust the motion sensor sensitivity to low, medium, or high.

The design of the Relohas is unique; with the help of a cable, the camera can be extended out up to 8.47 inches. The hook function allows users to hang the camera on many different surfaces, or you can attach the camera to a smooth surface with the provided 3MM sticker.

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Whether you’re looking to keep your spy camera in one place or carry it with you wherever you go, the Relohas Mini Spy Camera is one of the best spy cameras on the market.

Key Features

  • App-enabled video live stream
  • 140-degree wide-angle lens
  • Zoomable/Hook design
  • Built-in rechargeable battery
Specifications

  • Product Dimensions: 2.56 x 1.77 x 0.79 inches
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080P HD
  • Night Vision?: Yes
  • Compatible With: WiFi and up to 128GB micro SD card
  • Brand: Relohas
Pros

  • Easy to transport
  • Strong night vision
  • Helpful motion detection notification feature
  • Four available recording modes
Cons

  • Not compatible with 5G
  • Shorter warranty period
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7. Arebi Mini Spy Camera

9.50 / 10

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The Arebi Mini Spy Camera is one of the best discreet spy cameras on the market. A great all-around choice, this small unit boasts excellent portability, while its powerful software hosts all the best features.

The Arebi’s camera features a 150-degree wide-angle lens and 1080P HD video recording capabilities for excellent video and picture clarity. It also has a night vision function with six “no glow” infrared lights that allow users to see up to 16 feet of distance. Compatible with WiFi, this unit comes with its own app for iOS and Android phones, where users can watch a live video stream, change recording modes, and receive motion detection alerts. Thanks to the motion detection feature, snapshots, and recordings of any movement are saved automatically to any micro SD card up to 128GB.

The Arebi’s design is small and discreet and also features a magnetic back for easy adhering to metal surfaces. The battery life is capable of up to one hour of continuous recording, but can also record while charging via either of the two included charging cables, one of which is flexible for positioning the camera lens. While the Arebi should function perfectly, if you find that your device isn’t working as it should, you’re protected for up to one year under Arebi’s warranty.

At the end of the day, the Arebi Mini Spy Camera is a great choice for a powerful spy camera that not only has great features but an inconspicuous design that’s easily portable.

Key Features

  • 150-degree wide-angle lens
  • App-enabled video live stream
  • Built-in rechargeable battery
  • One-year warranty
Specifications

  • Product Dimensions: 1.18 x 1.73 x 0.94 inches
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080P HD
  • Night Vision?: Yes
  • Compatible With: WiFi and up to 128GB micro SD card
  • Brand: Arebi
Pros

  • Great image quality
  • Unique motion detection notification option
  • Small and transportable design
  • Magnetic back feature
Cons

  • Not compatible with 5G
  • Low battery life
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8. MHDYT Mini Spy Camera

8.25 / 10

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The MHDYT Mini Spy Camera is a great choice for potential consumers looking for an inconspicuous unit that also boasts great software. With a solid design and some unique features, it’s no wonder the MHDYT is such a popular option for both first-time buyers and tech-savvy experts.

The MHDYT is capable of great camera quality with 1920X1080P HD at 30 frames per second and superb night vision with four “no glow” infrared LED lights. This unit supports anywhere between a 4GB and 32GB micro SD card and comes with multiple storage-space-saving modes, including motion detection recording and loop recording. While the battery life only supports around 50 minutes of continuous usage, it’s easily recharged and can operate while charging.

The design of the MHDYT is one of its best features because it is truly unique. Though small in size like other standalone spy cameras, this unit features removable magnets and mirrors. The mirror is mounted above the lens, which allows for better camouflage, while the magnet allows for easy adhering to metal surfaces. Also, unlike other units, the MHDYT comes complete with multiple attachment options, including a clip, bracket, and sling, making it especially useful for consumers looking to wear their spy camera. While the MHDYT is certainly reliable, if any issues arise pertaining to the hardware, it’s backed by a one-year warranty and excellent customer service. 

With so many great features and a novel design that supports top-notch portability, the MHDYT Mini Spy Camera is a quality spy camera that checks all the boxes.

Key Features

  • Removable magnet and mirror included
  • Loop recording function
  • Built-in rechargeable battery
  • One-year warranty
Specifications

  • Product Dimensions: 0.87 x 0.87 x 0.71 inches
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080P HD
  • Night Vision?: Yes
  • Compatible With: 4GB – 32GB micro SD card
  • Brand: MHDYT
Pros

  • Convenient motion detection capability
  • Small and portable unit
  • Strong night vision function
  • Multiple attachment options
Cons

  • Short battery life
  • No WiFi live video streaming ability
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9. Sir Gawain Mini Spy Camera

8.20 / 10

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The Sir Gawain Mini Spy Camera is a popular spy camera option for those in need of a reliable unit that doesn’t break the bank. One of the smaller units on the market, the Sir Gawain’s design ensures that it is both portable and discreet.

The Sir Gawain’s star feature is its fantastic 150-degree wide-angle lens, which boasts 12MP photo capturing ability and crystal-clear 1080P HD video. With this in mind, the night vision, which is supported by six invisible infrared LEDs and can detect up to 16 feet, also provides great image quality. Additionally, the motion detection function begins recording at any minor movement and can do so for up to 60 minutes of battery run time. Though the battery life of this unit isn’t the strongest, it can record continuously while charging, which is made simple thanks to the USB cable included with the device.

A tiny unit, the Sir Gawain is perfectly portable for users looking for a spy camera that can transition between multiple locations. Though it only supports a 32GB micro SD card, the loop recording function automatically overwrites the oldest files for continuous recording beyond the SD card limit. The good news is, if you find that your unit isn’t performing as promised, the one-year warranty and diligent customer support will be there to support you.

All in all, the Sir Gawain Mini Spy Camera has all the best features and a discreet, portable design at a price that can’t be beat.

Key Features

  • 12MP photo capturing capability
  • 150-degree wide-angle lens
  • Built-in rechargeable battery
  • One-year warranty
Pros

  • Affordable option
  • Effective motion detection function
  • Easily transportable
  • Strong night vision capabilities
Cons

  • Short battery life
  • No WiFi video live streaming ability
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10. Divine Eagle Spy Camera Charger

8.00 / 10

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The Divine Eagle Spy Camera Charger is a great choice for first-time consumers looking for a starter spy camera. The Divine Eagle is a simple device that is both discreet and multi-purpose.

The Divine Eagle has powerful software with great features, including strong motion detection, which begins recording automatically at the slightest movement. With stellar video quality, you can rely on the Divine Eagle to capture every minute detail. The memory card protection capabilities include surge protection to save micro SD cards from corruption and a loop recording function, which automatically records over the oldest files for continuous recording beyond the typical 32GB SD card limit.

The design of the Divine Eagle includes a functioning USB charger that is powered by simply plugging the unit into an outlet. Able to record video even when charging a device via the USB port, this unit boasts great functionality. Though the Divine Eagle is reliable, if you find that the device has broken or has any technological defects, you’re supported by a one-year warranty and great customer service.

The best part of the Divine Eagle is its inconspicuousness; to the naked eye, it truly appears to be just a charger. This design aspect, combined with its small size, allows for easy portability. Plus, you never have to worry about charging it, simply plug it in, and you’re all set. All these user-friendly design features plus powerful software makes the Divine Eagle Spy Camera Charger one of the best spy cameras available for first-time consumers.

Key Features

  • USB device-charging ability
  • Loop recording function
  • Powered by outlet
  • One-year warranty
Specifications

  • Product Dimensions: 1.2 x 1.2 x 2.2 inches
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080P HD
  • Night Vision?: No
  • Compatible With: 32GB micro SD card
  • Brand: Divine Eagle
Pros

  • Useful motion detection feature
  • Memory card protection capabilities
  • Strong video quality
  • Discreet unit
Cons

  • Lacks night vision capability
  • No WiFi live video streaming
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Even though most spy cameras come at an affordable price, it’s important to make sure the camera you invest in has the features you’re looking for. No one wants to waste even $20 of their money on something that doesn’t do what they want. All spy cameras have many great features, but some boast unique and interesting capabilities beyond the basics.

Basic Features Of Spy Cameras

All spy cameras are capable of recording, though the amount of footage they can record depends on the size of the micro SD card they are compatible with. Most cameras are able to support up to 32GB, which is equivalent to 4-6 hours of video, but there are a few that go beyond and support up to 128GB, which is equivalent to 16-24 hours of video. When it’s time to look at the footage, users simply remove the micro SD card and insert it into their laptop or other supported device and open the corresponding video files.

Something all spy cameras also have in common is their discreet design. Most spy cameras are either very small and black in color, or hidden within everyday objects, like pens or picture frames. This makes for easy placement in areas with higher foot traffic like bedrooms, living rooms, or kitchens. The smaller units allow for great portability, with users able to easily move their spy cameras to different places requiring supervision like the office, home, or car.

Lastly, all the spy cameras on this list are capable of motion detection, which means the camera automatically starts recording or snaps pictures when triggered by movement. This is useful for those not looking to use up all the space on their micro SD card with mundane footage. Because this might not be ideal for heavily-trafficked areas, motion detection is typically only one of several recording “modes” spy cameras are capable of.

Unique Features Of Spy Cameras

One of the main advantages of some spy cameras is the ability to connect to WiFi to support live video streaming. Many of the more advanced spy cameras work with an app, compatible with Android and iOS, which allows users to view a live video stream, receive motion detection notifications, and switch recording modes.

For those in need of round-the-clock surveillance, some spy cameras come complete with night vision capabilities, typically supported by “no glow” built-in infrared LEDs. The number of LEDs is significant, with most cameras boasting between four to ten LEDs, as they improve the clarity of the night-vision footage. Cameras supporting this function often give an estimate of the distance and depth the night vision allows users to see, which can go all the way up to 16 feet.

The design of spy cameras is ever-evolving, with more innovative models supporting better portability and even wearability. Some of the smaller units come with built-in magnets for easy adhering to surfaces, while others include watchbands or lanyards for simpler transport. While most invest in spy cameras to monitor their homes, this function is great for users interested in protecting themselves by wearing the camera on their person.

While spy cameras may have once been the stuff of movies and reality TV shows, today there’s a device that fits the wants and needs of nearly everyone, and often at an affordable price to boot.

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