Hidden Camera Buying GuideUpdated 2 years ago
Introduction
The advancement of technology has given us many new and innovative devices. Devices to help us stay connected, be entertained and become more productive. Technology has also made us much safer and it has given us the opportunity to be able to see everything that is going on around us, in our homes and at our businesses. While entertainment and being productive are very important aspects of our lives, many of us like the idea of having eyes and ears wherever we need them, even if they are digital.
Hidden cameras, also known as spy cameras, give us that glimpse into our homes, offices and other places where we need to know what is going on or what is being said. They can help us keep a close eye on our spouses and pets while we are at work and our employees while we are at home. There are many uses for hidden cameras and this buyers guide will help you understand what makes a good hidden camera and how you can choose the right one for your needs.
Why Do You Need a Hidden Camera?
When asked the question, “Why would you need a spy camera?”, we can easily answer with, “Why not?”. After all, we have a right to know what is going on in our home and at our business and a hidden camera can give us that information quickly, easily and affordably. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons you might need to buy a hidden camera:
Home Security- even if you already have an existing home security system, a hidden camera can be used as a backup system in case an intruder disables the main CCTV system. With a hidden camera, you can still see what is going on in your home or at your business and record every second of the action.
Nanny Cam- for the most part, nannies take very good care of our children. But if you suspect that something is not right when you are at work or on a date night with your spouse, a hidden camera can help you know for sure and help you protect your children and keep them safe. Read our tips for buying a nanny hidden camera.
Nursing Home- our elderly parents deserve a safe and comfortable place to live during their retirement years. We are always hearing about elder abuse at nursing homes and we hope that it isn’t happening to someone we love. Make sure it isn’t by installing a hidden camera in their room and record everything that happens when a caregiver is with them.
Cheating Spouse- if you suspect your spouse of cheating, install a hidden camera in your home and be sure. Capture all of the action in HD video with sound and record it directly to an SD card or to your mobile device. Don’t risk your marriage by making accusations. Be sure with a hidden camera!
Children and Pets- keep tabs on your children and pets while you are at work or out shopping and know what is going on in your home. Do your kids have friends over that shouldn’t be? Are your pets on the furniture or chewing up your favourite pair of shoes? A hidden camera will let you know for sure.
Flatmate Stealing- if you are suspicious of a flatmate who might be going into your room after you leave the house or stealing from you, a hidden camera will help you catch them in the act.
As you can see, there are many reasons to buy and install a hidden camera in your home or business. Now, let’s see how to choose the right one.
How To Choose The Best Hidden Camera
Choosing the best hidden camera means deciding just what you need the camera for. Are you trying to catch a cheating spouse or an employee who might be slacking off? Or are you keeping an eye on your inventory, making sure you aren’t losing any to theft? Whatever your reason to purchase a hidden camera, choosing the best one for your needs will ensure that you get the footage you need and the best value for your money.
To choose the right hidden camera for your needs, first decide what it is you will be using the camera for. Then look at the cameras features including viewing options, storage, how easy it is to use and what features are most important to you.
Top Hidden Camera Features
Many of today’s hottest trending hidden cameras offer a wide range of features to choose from. Here are the Top Hidden Camera Features that you should look for when choosing a hidden camera for your home or business:
2 Way Audio- this enables the user to listen and respond to an intruder, your children or pets, your spouse, employees or anyone who is in your home or business.
1080p Colour Video- when you want to capture all of the action in full detail, 1080P colour video will give you the sharpest image possible.
AC Powered- this is important if you want to operate the camera 24/7 as it will ensure the camera stays powered on and ready for use.
Battery Powered- battery power can be useful in remote locations or if your home or business is susceptible to power outages.
Night Vision- perfect for when the lights are out or it is nighttime and your camera is mounted outside. Night vision will let you see what is happening in the dark and in low light conditions.
Motion Activation - the motion activation feature lets you conserve battery power and storage space by only recording when there is movement. Motion activation typically begins recording when movement is first detected and for up to 2 minutes after movement stops.
Smartphone Compatible - being able to view and control your hidden camera from your smartphone or mobile device means that you don’t have to be sitting in front of a computer to see what is happening in your home or at your business. You can view the action while having lunch, from your car or anywhere you are!
Movable Lens- if being able to see more than what a stationary camera allows is important to you, choose one with a moveable lens that enables you to capture the action in every corner of the room without having to install additional cameras.
Micro SD Card Storage - with most hidden cameras, you can view the action on your smartphone or other mobile device and record it using a downloadable app. If you want more recording options, choose one that offers micro SC card storage and automatically record every second of the action direct to an easy to install micro SC card.
Easy to Use Mobile App - being able to monitor your home or office from anywhere in the world means you need to use a downloadable mobile app. Choosing a camera that has an app that is easy to use is important, especially if you are not very good at using technology.
Sleek, Stylish Design - not all hidden cameras are the same and if finding one that looks and performs well is important to you, choose a hidden camera that offers a sleek stylish design that will look natural in any setting.
Discrete Monitoring- hidden cameras should be just that, hidden. They should enable you to discreetly monitor your home or office without being seen or heard.
Top Hidden Camera Locations
Hidden cameras can be mounted anywhere you need them and as long as you have a power source, they can be left unattended for as long as you like. Whether you are trying to catch a thief or a dishonest spouse, here are the Top Hidden Camera Locations you will see used more often by security professionals:
- Wearable
- Warehouse
- Office/Business
- Living Room
- Kitchen
- Hotel Room
- Garage/Shed/Outdoors
- Car & Vehicle
- Bedroom
Hidden Camera Viewing Options and Storage
Most hidden cameras use a Micro SD card to record video. But this doesn’t mean that all do and that could be an important factor to consider when shopping for a hidden camera. Whether your camera supports a 32G, 64G or 128G microSD card, you will be able to record data, how much depends on the card itself.
MicroSD cards make it easy for users to transfer video data from the hidden camera to your computer for later use.
Another option for viewing video footage from your hidden is mobile-based apps. Some apps let you record data right from the app itself, while others only let you view the video footage.
Shop For A Hidden Camera At The Spy Store Today
No matter what your reason for needing a hidden camera or where you are going to install it, choosing one that is right for you is important. From the Why to the How and the Top Hidden Camera Features and the Top Hidden Cameras themselves, The Spy Store has the products, the service and the support you need when choosing a hidden camera for your specific needs.
Catch that cheating spouse, dishonest employee or intruder in the act with a hidden camera from The Spy Store today and save money on every product we carry. The Spy Store has built a reputation for quality and value and our team of product experts are committed to serving the needs of our customers. Shop with The Spy Store today and experience the difference our quality and value can make for you.