Best Spy Cameras Guide & Reviews of 2021

A few years around, a spy camera may have sounded like a futuristic thing, but in 2021, these security cams are quite common. Homeowners now use these convenient devices to keep their families and belongings safe from ill-intentioned individuals. Plus, it adds a layer of safety and peace of mind to the home. This review of the best spy cameras of 2021 will help consumers find the surveillance product that suits them.

Brad Smith - Editorial Staff

Updated: April 20, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

Finding the best spy cameras takes a lot of work, and most consumers don’t have the time or energy to do the research. That’s understandable, and it’s why this list can come in handy. To identify the top contenders, it was important to analyze the features that homeowners want.

  • Features

    0-10

    monitoring period, 24/7 alerts, disaster protection etc.

  • Support

    0-10

    telephone, email, chat, and other channels

  • Price

    0-10

    monthly fee, money-back, trial period

  • Ease of Use

    0-10

    installation, maintenance, service support

  • Trust Score

    0-10

    BBB.org and Trustpilot (positive, negative reviews)

It took a team of people, but now consumers can find the top spy camera for their needs. After hours of researching, writing, and testing, this finalized list is here to help. The team analyzed each product, gave them a grade from 0-10 for all the metrics, and found the final averages. Now, it’s time to see who made the cut.

1. DivineEagle WiFi Camera Charger: Small, Mighty, & Live-Streaming

Total Score 9.6/10

DivineEagle WiFi Camera MAIN
DivineEagle WiFi Camera Product 1
DivineEagle WiFi Camera Product 2
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$36.99

Visit Website
Best for Live Streaming

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This HD spycam immediately starts recording in 1080p HD digital quality. So, users get striking images of the nearby surroundings. Plus, intelligent motion detection can pick up on the slightest movement, so it’s great for deterring burglars.

Customers can choose from two kinds of video recordings. The first will do a continuous live stream, while the second starts gathering footage when the motion detector goes off.

Pros:

  • Automatically saves to micro SD card/USB
  • Easy to charge
  • HD quality images
  • Live-streaming capabilities
  • Motion detector prompts recordings
  • Small and discreet
  • There is a USB port

Cons:

  • It can't record sound
  • Little-known brand
  • Not hard to find online

With its loop video recording and SD card protection, this is a cam that people can count on. It is also very affordable and easy to find. On the downside, clients won’t be able to hear anything when they playback the footage. So, it may not be the most reliable ally if they need evidence.


2. Ehomful Cop Spy Cam: Easy & Discreet

Total Score 9.4/10

Ehomful main
Ehomful Cop Spy Cam Product 1
Ehomful Cop Spy Cam Product 2
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9/10

Starting Price

$37.99

Visit Website
Best for Wearable

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This Ehomful spy camera is more of a bodycam. It is battery-powered and lasts about 180 minutes on a single charge. This is a good option for someone who wants to get brief snippets of recording rather than overnight loops around the house.

That said, it records in 1080p HD quality and has a wide-angle lens, 140°.

Pros:

  • Doesn't require a charger
  • Doubles as a USB
  • It can go on a mounting stand, too
  • No cables needed
  • Portable
  • Sleek pocket cam
  • Timestamp/clock on video

Cons:

  • Memory card not included
  • No night vision
  • Short battery life

To be fair, there is no night vision, so keep that in mind when weighing the options. However, it’s a wearable device, which makes it quite unique. Users can stick it on a lanyard or on their keys, and it saves up to 8 hours of video.


3. Ehomful 1080P HD Wireless Hidden Camera: Sturdy and Reliable

Total Score 9.4/10

Ehomful main
Ehomful 1080P HD Wireless Product 2
Ehomful 1080P HD Wireless Product 1
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$69.99

Visit Website
Best for Handheld

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This spy camera from Ehomful is a tiny Wi-Fi pen cam with a rotating head. It has a motion detection alarm, so it’ll start recording when it senses movement. The device can also support up to 128 GB of memory, which is a few months of files. Along with a concealed charger, the cam has a CMOS image sensor, so the clips are nice and crisp.

Pros:

  • CMOS image sensor
  • High definition images
  • Mobile control
  • Playback memory
  • Remote viewing
  • Support USB/SD cards up to 128 GB
  • Wide-angle lens

Cons:

  • A bit expensive compared to competitors
  • No night vision
  • Not waterproof

This cam works as intended, but it isn’t anything too special. Also, it’s a bit expensive compared to similar models. It may be hard to find replacement batteries, and many reviewers say they would like the package to come with extra batteries.


4. Arebi Mini WiFi Camera: A Convenient Mini Cam

Total Score 9.2/10

Arebi main
Arebi Mini WiFi Camera Product 2
Arebi Mini WiFi Camera Product 1
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$39.98

Visit Website
Best for Mini-Size

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This is one of those mini spy cameras that are convenient to have on hand. It is portable and easily connects to Wi-Fi. The model is a high-definition device, recording in 1080p image quality.

Plus, users can place it indoors or outdoors. Something that sets it apart from similar products is that it has a night vision range of 15 feet.

Pros:

  • Can record while it charges
  • Convenient push notifications
  • Different mounting options
  • Movement detection
  • Night vision capabilities
  • Records up to 30 hours of footage
  • Super small and discreet

Cons:

  • It's a bit annoying to use the app
  • Micro SD card not included
  • Short battery life

Users can also mount it on the wall or to the dashboard of the car so it could work as a dashcam. The HIDVCAM app is a bit glitchy, and the battery only lasts about one hour before it needs charging, so keep that in mind.


5. MHDYT Mini Spy Camera: So Small, It’s Almost Invisible

Total Score 9.2/10

MHDYT main
MHDYT Mini Spy Camera Product 1
MHDYT Mini Spy Camera Product 2
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$28.98

Visit Website
Best for Best for Budgets

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This is one of those pocket pin spy cameras that people can use indoors and outdoors. Plus, they can wear it or use the mirror and magnet mounts to keep it somewhere else. It has audio and motion alerts, as well as high-definition images, so individuals will always know what’s going on.

Pros:

  • Easy to hide
  • Mirror and magnet mounts
  • Recording and snapshots
  • Removable magnet
  • Supports USB/SD cards up to 32 GB
  • Wearable spy cam
  • Works in low-light situations

Cons:

  • Lasts less than an hour when fully charged
  • Not as powerful as other cams
  • SD card sold separately

This cam is super small and discreet, less than 1 square inch, so it’s very convenient. However, it only lasts for about 50 minutes on a single charge, so it’s not intended for long-term use. That said, it continues to record while it’s charging, so that’s a huge plus.


6. Gawain Mini Spy Camera: A Discreet, Wearable Option

Total Score 9.2/10

Gawain main
Gawain Mini Spy Camera Product 1
Gawain Mini Spy Camera Product 2
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$29.99

Best for Motion detection

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Gawain spy cameras vary in terms of size and features, but this one is modern, sleek, and wearable. Customers can use it just about anywhere, and it boasts a loop recording and a 140° field of view. There is no sound recording function, just 1080p high-definition images.

It’s wireless, and the battery only lasts for about an hour, but at least users can continue recording while it charges.

Pros:

  • Doubles as a spy bodycam
  • High-def quality
  • Motion detection
  • Night vision
  • Small and discreet
  • Works anywhere
  • 1-year warranty

Cons:

  • Doesn't record sound
  • Made for the indoors
  • Short-term battery life

This cam has motion detection up to 16 feet, which is quite good. And while clients can use it outdoors, it is best when it’s inside. With its wide-angle lens and wireless functionality, it has very few hiccups.



1. Arlo Pro 3 Hidden Spy Camera: Plays Nice with Others

Total Score 9.0/10

Arlo Main
Arlo Pro 2 Camera
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$399.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A
Best for Reputation

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

As far as spy cameras go, it doesn’t get much better than Arlo. The Pro 3 was a CNET Editor’s Choice, and it has all the top features that consumers want. This includes a wide-angle lens 160°, third-party integrations, and a wire-free setup.

Not only does it have night vision, but it plays the videos in color rather than black and white.

Pros:

  • 2K high-definition
  • Installs in minutes
  • Long battery life
  • Motion detection works manually or automatically
  • Remote viewing
  • Trusted security brand
  • Wider field of view

Cons:

  • 300-foot wireless range
  • Not completely waterproof
  • Very pricey

There aren’t too many bad things to say about the Arlo Pro 3. The battery lasts for six months, it has a built-in siren, and it boasts two-way communication. That said, it’s pricey and may be out of budget for some families.


2. Reolink Argus 2 Hidden Spy Camera: A Green Option for Environmentalists

Total Score 9.0/10

Reolink Cameras Review
Reolink Argus 2 Product 2
Reolink Argus 2 Product 1
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$94.99

Visit Website
Best for Solar Power

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

For those who consider themselves eco-friendly, this spy camera is just the ticket. It boasts full 1080p HD images, as well as night vision. With its PIR motion sensor, homeowners can know about intruders before they even become a threat.

The 130° wide-angle lens is another good feature. Plus, shoppers can feel good purchasing from a well-known security brand.

Pros:

  • Choose between battery or solar-powered
  • IP65 weatherproofing
  • Low battery notifications
  • Rechargeable
  • Remote live viewing
  • Two-way audio
  • Wide field of view

Cons:

  • Local storage only
  • Only available in white
  • Poor BBB rating

Not only does this Reolink cam have advanced capabilities, but it won’t break the bank. There are very few downsides, but among them are the limited color availability and the poor BBB rating.


3. Panasonic Homehawk Home Monitoring Kit: A Mid-Range Outdoor Option

Total Score 9.0/10

Panasonic main
Panasonic Homehawk Product 2
Panasonic Homehawk Product 1
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$129.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for Wide FOV

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Panasonic is already a well-known company with a decent reputation. However, not many people know about its hidden spy camera models. The Homehawk cam has a 172° wide-angle lens as well as two-way audio speakers.

It works with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, so clients can take advantage of voice commands. It only has local storage, but at least there aren’t any cloud fees.

Pros:

  • Convenient, wireless setup
  • Integrates with Google Home & Amazon Alexa
  • No storage fees
  • Multi-packs available
  • Positive customer reviews
  • Real-time alerts
  • Two-way communication

Cons:

  • A bit pricey
  • Bulkier than other models
  • No cloud storage

With the accompanying mobile app, users can get real-time alerts, which adds more peace of mind. Also, the customer service associates have excellent reviews and are available via live chat.


4. Kuna Maximus Video Hidden Spy Camera & Outdoor Light: Works Double-Duty

Total Score 9.0/10

Kuna main
Kuna Maximus Video Product 2
Kuna Maximus Video Product 1
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$222

Visit Website
Best for Camouflage

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This hidden spy camera from Kuna is the perfect way to camouflage a security cam. It doubles as a porch light and looks aesthetically pleasing while protecting the family. It also has IP43 weatherproofing, a 115-decibel siren, and a two-way intercom. The motion detection range is a bit shorter than others, at 10 feet, but it’s still halfway decent.

Pros:

  • Doubles as a porch light
  • ENERGY STAR rated
  • Person/motion detection
  • Quick-push buttons for greetings and police
  • Real-time alerts straight to the phone
  • Two different styles available
  • Works with LEDs and incandescent lightbulbs

Cons:

  • A bit pricey
  • More difficult to install
  • Poor BBB rating

The Kuna cam has a 116° field of view, which is pretty good. It is moderately priced, although it is an investment. There are two styles available, and according to reviews, it’s quite a responsive product.


Top 10 Hidden Cameras of 2021 (Pricing & Features)

After looking through the best spy cameras, individuals may still be unsure, which is the best choice. So, take a look at this comparison table to see the top features of each device. Analyze and compare things like price, connectivity, video, and more.

Provider Price Battery/AC Cloud Storage HD Images Live Stream Night Vision Size Waterproof 24/7 Video Best For
1. Divine Eagle $37.00 Batt. No Yes Yes No 1.2″ x 1.2″ x 2.2″ Yes Yes Live-stream
2. Ehomful Mini $38.00 Batt. No Yes Yes No 0.6″ x 1″ x 4.4″ No No Wearable
3. Ehomful 1080P $70 Batt. No Yes Yes No 0.8″ x 1″ x 4.5″ No No Handheld
4. Arebi $40.00 Batt. No Yes No Yes 5.7″ x 3.6″ x 1.7″ No No Mini size
5. MHDYT $30.00 Batt. No Yes No No 0.9″ x 0.9″ x 0.9″ No No Budgets
6. Gawain $30.00 Batt. No Yes No Yes 0.9″ x 0.9″ x 0.9″ No No Motion detect
7. Alro $400 Batt. No Yes Yes Yes 3.5″ x 2″ x 3.1″ Yes Yes Reputation
8. Reolink $95.00 Batt. No Yes Yes Yes 2.3″ x 3.8″ x 2.3″ Yes Yes Solar power
9. Panasonic $129 Batt. No Yes Yes Yes 10.6″ x 2″ x 2.2″ Yes Yes FOV
10. Kuna $222 Batt. No Yes Yes Yes 13” x 6.5” x 9” Yes Yes Camouflage

How to Hide Security Cameras Inside & Outside the Home

Installing a spy camera for the home can be a tricky process. Homeowners don’t want to make the cam obvious, but they must put it someplace where it can get good views. Here are eight clever ways to mount those cameras.

1. Disguise Them Inside Everyday Objects

These days, there are lots of hidden outdoor camera options. Manufacturers are finding clever ways to hide cams in fake rocks, lawn ornaments, and other everyday objects.

2. Hide Them Under Eaves or Beams

This is a great option for people who have outdoor patios, porches, or decks. Hidden security cameras can easily fit in the nooks and crannies of these eaves and beams. Plus, these are unassuming places for many people, so they can be kept out of sight from the public.

3. Put Them in a Tree or Bush

Individuals can use nature to their advantage by putting a mini WiFi camera in a tree or bush. Some companies make cams that are green or brown to blend in better with outdoor surroundings.

4. Stick Them Behind a Glass Door

There are lots of WiFi camera models that are so small they are just about unrecognizable. To the uneducated passerby, they are invisible. Check out one of these mini devices and stick them behind a pane of glass in a door or window.

5. Use a Birdhouse Decoy

This may sound too obvious, but a hidden camera fits nicely in a little birdhouse. The only downside to this tactic is that birds may find a home in the makeshift house.

6. Take Advantage of Camouflage Skins

Today, it's easy to find a video camera with different skins or coverings. While the basic models are usually black or white, others can be camouflage or grassy. This comes in handy when homeowners want to plant a cam in the yard without it looking obvious.

7. Try Using PVC Pipes

Another cool idea is to place a hidden camera in a PVC pipe and stick it in the front yard or driveway. These objects are so unassuming that no one pays them any mind. However, they can capture all kinds of footage, even at night.

8. Look for Combo Devices

Finally, try looking for a hidden camera that's combined with another device.

Pros & Cons of the Hidden Cameras

While there are lots of advantages to hidden cameras, there are some pitfalls that shoppers should be aware of. First, take a look at the pros of these devices, because there are more benefits than disadvantages. However, be sure to take the cons into account, too.

Pros:

  • Can be useful in cases when the police get involved
  • Devices can go indoors and outdoors for greater convenience
  • Mobile alerts let users know about break-ins right away
  • The remote control allows individuals to change cam settings anytime, anywhere
  • The added peace of mind of hidden cameras is indispensable
  • They're becoming more affordable and accessible to renters
  • Video playback and live-streaming features

Cons:

  • Cams can glitch out, especially if the Internet connection is bad
  • Some hidden cameras are super expensive and out of budget
  • They can be bulky and hard to install, especially for beginners

What to Look for When Buying a Hidden Security Cam

It’s also important to know what to look for in a hidden camera. While this list of the best 2021 spy camera models can be useful, every home and family are different. So, what works for one person may not suit another individual.

Check out some of the top things to look for when reviewing different devices, starting with the suggestions below.

1. Location

Location isn't only important in real estate. When buying a video spy camera, consider where it will go. If it's going to be outside, that will determine which models are up for consideration.

2. Video Quality

This is a big thing to look for in hidden cameras. These devices are small, so consumers should look for something with 720p quality or higher. Otherwise, it will be hard to make out the images and videos in the recording.

3. Record Time/Clock

Speaking of recordings, look for a hidden camera that can handle video clips and still images. It's also a good idea to check whether the product uses cloud storage or an SD card.

4. Field of View

The field of view varies among hidden cameras, so pay attention. The wider the view, the more coverage, but this can also diminish the image crispness.

5. Sound

When looking for a hidden camera, don't overlook the sound quality. While images are crucial, the sound is just as important. Besides, having good audio quality means that the cam can better support two-way communication.

6. Image Resolution

This should go without saying, but hidden cameras are only as good as their image quality. While not every cam is capable of facial recognition, at least look for high-definition pictures.

7. Wi-Fi Capacity

Another essential component of a hidden camera is Wi-Fi connectivity. It's not hard to sync up to the home's Internet network, but the connection should remain stable throughout the day and night. Also, be sure that it's secure and not prone to hacking.

8. Night Vision

Finally, night vision is essential because so many home invasions happen after dark. Look for the hidden camera with night capabilities or low-light support. Even if it cost a bit extra, it's worth the investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • 1. What is the Best Hidden Security Camera?

    The best-hidden camera depends on the customer and what they need. It’s a good thing that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all security cam. The truth is, families, have unique needs and preferences, so it makes sense that there are lots of cams on the market. The best device will be the one that supports the user’s needs.

  • 2. How Do You Detect If There Are Hidden Cameras?

    These days, it’s not always easy to spot a hidden camera. Technology is improving, so people must be on their A-game. First, look at the environment and keep an eye on secretive places like behind eaves or in bushes.

    If it’s dark, try to find any blinking lights that may indicate a recording device. Or shine a flashlight and see if there are any reflective surfaces in the area, which may identify a secret cam.

  • 3. Is It Legal to Wear a Hidden Camera?

    Most states have hidden camera laws, and they vary by location. Typically, it is fine to have a security cam at home. However, they are not usually legal to have in bathrooms or bedrooms.

  • 4. Can a Cell Phone Detect a Hidden Camera?

    It is possible to find a hidden camera with a cell phone. Start by checking the nearby Wi-Fi networks. If there is a surveillance device around, it will show up on the list of available networks. In case this doesn’t work, there are some mobile apps, like Fing, that can detect secret devices.

Summing Up: Stress-Free Safety and Convenience

Generally speaking, any of these best spy cameras can be great for families or individuals who want to add another layer of safety to their homes. Besides, there are many different options available, ranging in price and features.

Hopefully, this best spy camera review and shopping guide have made it easier to find a suitable device. While it may be an upfront investment, the convenience and peace of mind are more than worth it.


Editorial Staff

Brad has worked as a sales manager in the security sector for 10 years. He is curious, attentive to details, and hard-working. He has dedicated several years to helping customers with their safety and protection. His background has helped Brad to write comprehensive security and life safety materials, which he has been writing for about 4 years. Brad has contributed work to The Washington Post, DailyJournal, Los Angeles Times, and many others.


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