How to Choose a Hidden Camera

Key Takeaways:

• Choose Appropriate Form Factor: Select hidden cameras disguised as everyday objects (like clocks or AC adapters) based on your environment and needs.
• Consider Video Resolution: Low-light performance is key if you’re recording in dim settings; look for low-lux or infrared options.
• Storage & Power Options: Opt for cameras with motion-activated recording to save on battery and memory, and determine if AC or battery power best suits the placement.
• Remote Viewing: IP-enabled cameras allow for live monitoring from mobile or PC, useful for real-time security.

Here's what you need to know to select the perfect hidden camera for your needs.

Form Factor

Start by asking yourself what type of hidden camera fits best into the places you'll be using it most. Choose cameras built into alarm clocks, smoke detectors, AC power adapters, coat hooks, stuffed animals, DVD players, and much more. When you need to capture covert video (and audio) on the go, check out our huge selection of body worn cameras. These cameras are completely disguised as wearable articles, making it possible for you to record covert footage without drawing any attention to the camera itself. With a wearable camera, you can record all the action with a ballpoint pen, a baseball cap, a necktie, a pair of eyeglasses, even though the button of any shirt. And if you're a do-it-yourself, you can easily make your own hidden camera in just a few minutes with our versatile and rugged Camscura Micro.

While most of our hidden cameras include built-in digital video recorders (DVRs), we also carry some models that require a separate, standalone recorder. Some standalone DVRs operate wirelessly; others need to be physically connected to their source cameras. Keep that in mind when you're comparing the price and performance of various models.

Video Resolution and Shooting in Low Light

You'll also want to consider the level of video performance you need. Every camera we sell can shoot high quality video in typical outdoor daytime lighting or standard indoor room lighting conditions. Cameras with more sophisticated optics will give you sharper images, more accurate color, and better contrast between light and dark tones. Many higher-performance cams will also provide better image quality when there's less light in a room. Of course, our infrared "Night Vision" models can capture images anywhere, including total darkness.

To make your shopping experience easier, we divide our cameras' video performance ratings into three categories: High Quality, High Resolution, and High Definition. Think of those three categories as Good, Better, and Best, respectively. We also provide picture resolution specs (expressed in pixels) so you can compare models simply and easily.

If you plan to use your camera primarily in low-light conditions, look for models with low "lux" rating numbers. The lower the lux rating, the more proficient the camera is at recording when there's minimal light hitting its subject. Typically, a lux rating of 2 or lower will provide good image resolution in dimly lit rooms. As noted above, if you need a cam that can shoot and record in the pitch dark, choose an infrared (IR) Night Vision model.

You can learn a lot about picture quality and low-light performance by reading our descriptions and the specs of each model but experienced best hidden camera users know that there's no substitute for hands-on experience. When you unpack your new camera for the first time, try it out in the location and lighting conditions where you'll be using it most often. If you can't do that, try to simulate the conditions as much as possible. Often, subtle changes in the positioning of your camera can significantly improve the quality of your results.

Video Storage and Viewing Options

Video storage and recording times differ among hidden cameras. Most of our models capture and store video to a standard SD memory card (though some models don't use SD cards and record directly to the camera's built-in internal memory). The SD card can be easily removed and plugged into any computer, where the video you've shot can be viewed, edited, and saved. Devices that use internal memory (our necktie camera, for example) are plugged into a computer for video viewing and sorting.

The amount of video you can record before you need to change cards (or fill up a device's internal memory) varies by camera. Most cameras accept memory cards of varying capacities, generally from 2GB to 32GB. But due to engineering differences between models, there's not an exact formula that lets you directly equate the capacity of the card with the total hours and minutes of recording time that a particular camera provides. For example, some hidden cameras might give you 20 or 30 minutes of video per GB of memory, while others might deliver well over an hour per GB. Generally, the higher resolution the video signal, the shorter amount of total recording time you can get per SD card.

If you want to view and record video remotely, some models include IP (Internet Protocol) technology that allows you to monitor the action from your PC or smartphone as it happens. BrickHouse sells a number of IP cameras that provide this feature. Some are very easy to set up and use; others require a good working knowledge of network technology to get them up and running.

Battery or AC Power...Or Both?

Whether a camera runs on rechargeable batteries or AC power often depends on its form factor. For example, a DVD player or AC adapter camera would look out of place if they weren't plugged into a wall outlet. We offer you the most versatility possible and allow you to choose the features that you need most by providing a variety of form factors with various options. Some of our hidden cameras, such as several of our wall clocks, come with battery or AC power options, color or black-and-white recording options, and more.

Battery life varies among rechargeable hidden cameras. To make sure you're getting maximum usage between charges, follow the instructions carefully. Many of our hidden cameras feature motion-sensing activation; they'll only start recording when a person or object enters their field of view.

These cameras use only a tiny amount of power in standby mode, so they can go for a month or more without recharging. Some models are even body heat activated, meaning they won't start recording until they detect a subtle change in temperature that occurs when a person enters the room. Motion sensing and heat activation can go a long way toward maximizing battery life. These features also help you to record more of the action to an SD card or the cam's internal memory while minimizing the need for excessive searching to find the segment you're looking for during playback.