Ultimate USB Spy Camera Guide of [year] – Top 7 Reviewed
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07.19.2023
Written By: John Fox | Security expert / Locksmith 30 Years Experience
There are various types of USB cameras in the market with numerous shapes and sizes. This makes it challenging to choose the best spy camera for your office or home. But do not worry, we are here to help you out with this exact problem. We have made this guide to help you figure out a perfect spy camera for you based on your requirements and need. Our best pick has to be SpyTechStop Hidden-Camera Wireless USB-Charger 4k.
In this guide, we have tried the top USB spy cameras, which will be perfect for your home or office. We have also included –
- Top USB spy cameras based on budget.
- A detailed review of each spy camera product.
- A product buying guide will help make the final choice.
- Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Best Overall
1. 4k FHD USB Charger Wifi IP Camera w/ Motion Detection & Remote Viewing
This is truly the juggernaut of USB cameras. If you’re looking for something with every feature and with a great design this is the one you need to go to. This charger comes with a 4K recording which is above and beyond the picture quality of all of the other cameras listed here. It also supports motion detection as well as voice monitoring.
The camera also comes with a very impressive night vision feature which contains four LEDs that let you really be able to see in the dark. This is also helped by its hundred and 66° wide-angle lens that lets you see from wider angles.
The support and the app that come with this are both available for android and Apple and upon testing the app we were impressed at how easy it was to use
The camera comes with remote viewing features that allow you to be able to check on your camera from anywhere. This allows you to make sure that nothing is going on while you’re outside of the home or lets you record only when you want to.
This hidden charger camera is the best fit for you if you want to do spying along with real-time security surveillance. This device acts as a two-way camera that can do spying and charge other devices at the same time.
Features:
- 4K / 2K / 1080P / 720P HD resolution
- Supports motion detection, voice monitoring
- Motion Detection
- infrared night vision 4 LEDs
- 166-degree wide-angle lens
- Supports Apple or Android phones
- Wifi and Remote Viewing
What We Liked:
- Storage capacity is 128 GB
- Records footage in 4k
- Amazing list of features
What We Didn’t Like:
- Higher price than other cameras
Verdict:
If you need a juggernaut of a wifi hidden camera with a large storage capacity, this may be a good option for you. The memory card of this camera is extended up to 128GB. These cameras also come with an option of a loop recording feature, which overwrites the old footage in the memory card when the space gets full.
Most Popular
2. Hidden Camera USB Charger 1080P
This hidden camera is equipped with all the features you may need. This hidden camera is completely wireless and is perfect if you want to keep it hidden. This camera acts as a charger and also a spy camera. This device also comes with an App that offers you real-time footage anywhere and anytime.
This spy camera not only offers a motion detection feature but also offers a night vision feature. This will help to record the footage even in low light conditions, and you won’t miss any small details. This USB spy camera records in 1080p High Definition video quality, which gives you a clear and sharp image. This spy camera comes with a Micro SD card, which gives storage up to 32 GB. But 32 GB will be more than enough for you as this camera overwrites the old footage when the storage gets full.
Features:
- View Angle : 100°
- Night Vision : Yes
- Loop Recording : Yes
- Video Resolution : 1080p HD
- Weight : 4.9 ounces
- Dimensions : 1.77″ x 1.77″ x 1.77″
What We Liked:
- Night Vision feature is provided
- Comes with a smartphone App for live recording
- Motion Detection feature
What We Didn’t Like:
- While using releases quite a bit of heat
Verdict:
This wireless hidden spy cam is the best option for you to buy if you are going to use both the night vision and loop recording feature. This device can also help you to watch real-time recording through the smartphone app.
Best Budget
3. USB Charger Mini Camera (Memory Not Included)
This is one of the best high-quality USB wall charger spy camera. This USB charger camera consists of amazing features like HD 1080p video quality, motion detection, low light recording capability, etc. This hidden camera comes with an indicator switch, mode switch, slot for a memory card, reset button, and port for a USB charger. The main advantage of this hidden camera is that the indicator light of this cam is very light, which makes it less easy to detect.
This security camera has a built-in microphone, which will aid in recording video footage with the audio. This spy camera offers an IR LED light, which is great because it helps to document the footage even in low light situations. This security camera is easy to use. You just have to make sure that the charger camera is plugged into the socket. The app for this security camera can help you to watch the footage of multiple USB spy cameras simultaneously from one smartphone.
Features:
- View Angle : 120°
- Night Vision: No
- Loop Recording : Yes
- Video Resolution: 1080p HD
- Weight: 1.58 ounces
- Dimensions: 1″ x 1″ x 1″
What We Liked:
- Multiple Resolution Option
- The quality of the video is in HD
- Can support up to 128 GB MicroSD card
What We Didn’t Like:
- While using releases quite a bit of heat
Verdict:
This WIFI wireless hidden camera provides multiple resolution options for recording the footage. By default, the resolution is set to 1080p, but you can change the resolution to 2k, 4k, 720p from the smartphone app.
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4. Spy Camera Wireless Hidden Wifi Charger Camera with Remote View
This mini spy camera is the latest product in the market. This hidden camera comes with a discreet design and great features. The viewing angle of this camera is 90°, which is great if you want to cover a large area. This USB wall charger camera has a great video quality with 1080p high-definition resolution. The high-quality footage makes it easy to not miss out on any details.
This USB charger camera offers a loop recording feature as well as a motion detection feature. This camera starts recording when the motion is detected. Another great feature of this security camera is that it does not pick up interference in motion like moving of curtain. This hidden camera detects humans properly. This hidden camera will not make you worry about the space in the memory card; it will automatically overwrite the old footage for continuous recording.
Features:
- View Angle : 90°
- Night Vision : No
- Loop Recording : Yes
- Video Resolution : 1080p HD
- Weight : 3.52 ounces
- Dimensions: 1.8″x 2.1″ x 1.1″
What We Liked:
- Easy to use and install
- Storage capacity is more than enough
- The quality of the video is great
What We Didn’t Like:
- IR Vision is not included
- No low light capturing capability
Verdict:
This is a perfect option for you to buy if you need a spy camera with a strong motion detection feature. This hidden wifi cam does not pick up any motion interference like moving of curtains and perfectly detects humans.
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5. Spy Camera Charger – Hidden Camera
This is one of the hidden cameras which is known for its durability and quality. This USB spy camera comes with advanced motion detection features that start recording only after motion is detected. This feature also helps to save space on the micro SD card as it is not continuously recording. The viewing angle of this hidden camera is 90°. This is a lightweight and portable hidden camera. This hidden camera records only video footage and does not record any audio.
Even though this spy camera does not come with wifi connectivity, it provides a loop record feature that automatically overwrites the old footage and helps to save space on the memory card. This USB spy camera is a good option for you if you want to hide your camera in plain sight. This camera also works as a real charger and does record the footage even though it is charging other devices.
Features:
- View Angle : 90°
- Night Vision: No
- Loop Recording : No
- Video Resolution: 1080p HD
- Weight: 0.952 ounces
- Dimensions: 1.18″ x 1.18″ x 2.17″
What We Liked:
- Acts as a charger and a camera
- Strong motion detection
What We Didn’t Like:
- Does not record audio
- Night Vision is not included
- Does not come with WIFI connectivity
Verdict:
This wireless hidden cam is known for its durability and reliability and can provide extra security to your home. This camera also provides the option of loop recorded video, which will overwrite the old footage when storage in your micro SD card gets full. This ensures the smooth process of continuous recording.
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6. CAMXSW 1080P HD WiFi Camera for Ho
This USB wall charger camera is the perfect alternative for you if you’re seeking a low-cost hidden camera. This is one of Amazon’s best-selling spy cameras. CAMXSW 1080P HD WiFi CAMXSW 1080P HD is a USB charger that doubles as a spy camera. This two-in-one device is simple to use and set up. All you have to do is to make sure the camera is connected to a USB port. This spy camera captures images and video in excellent quality. You may fine-tune the sensor sensitivity with the enhanced smart detector. CAMXSW 1080P HD WiFi will transmit a Push Notification with photographs to your smartphone when it detects motion.
You may use the App to view what’s taking place right at the moment. When the SD card is full, the most recent video will immediately overwrite the oldest. The SD card slot, of course, supports memory cards with capacities ranging from 16 to 128 GB.
Features:
- Unit Dimensions: 6.26 x 3.11 x 0.39 inches
- Weight: 0.64 ounces
- Battery Type: 1 Lithium-Ion Battery
- Motion Detector: Active
- Video Resolution: 1080p HD Quality
What We Liked:
- The camera application has no monthly fee
- It is compatible with IOS and Android
- It has a connect and play feature
- Image quality with high resolution
What We Didn’t Like:
- It has poor connectivity
Verdict:
CAMXSW 1080P HD Hidden USB Charger Camera comes with a slew of excellent capabilities at a reasonable price. This device is one of Amazon’s best-selling items. It includes a plug-and-play capability that lets you attach the camera to any household electrical socket.
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7. Long Cam Spy Camera – USB Charger
If you want to keep a watch on your caregiver, babysitter, or even your infant, Nanny Spy Camera – USB Charger is the perfect option for you. Along with its tiny dimensions, this hidden camera is easy to conceal in plain sight. This camera may also be used as a wall charger and can record video while charging various electronics. The fact that any covert camera sensors will not discover this security camera is one of its key advantages. Wifi connectivity is available on this spy camera. Nanny Spy Camera – USB Charger supports motion detection, and it will notify you via the app on your smartphone if it tracts motion.
Many tiny concealed cameras have low image quality, but Nanny Spy Camera – USB Charger stands out with 1080p video and snapshot clarity. A 120° wide-angle lens provides a wide field of vision, allowing you to capture more of the location in high definition from a single strategic position and ensuring you don’t skip anything. With loop recording or motion detection mode, this superb nanny hidden camera records to your SD card. This tiny spy camera constantly rewrites older files, allowing for continuous surveillance for up to 5 days. SD cards are also protected from corruption by surge multi-protection. Finally, it accepts SD cards up to 128GB in size.
Features:
- Dimension: 3.94 x 3.9 x 2.24 inches
- Weight: 5.3 ounces
- View Angle: 120-degrees
- Loop Recording: Active
- Resolution: 1080p HD Quality
- Motion Detector: Active
What We Liked:
- Quickly switches from loop records to motion detection
- It can support a micro SD card that can hold up to 128GB of data
- It has a lens with a wide field of view
- It has 1080p HD Quality.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The night vision feature is not supported
- The box does not include an SD card
Verdict:
If you need to keep your gadget camouflaged, a small Nanny Spy Camera – USB Charger is ideal. This camera’s broad lens offers a 120° viewing angle, perfect if you want a camcorder with an extensive range of vision.
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A Product Buying Guide on How to Select the Perfect USB Spy Camera
Before buying any USB spy camera, you should decide what features you’ll be using and what exactly you need a spy cam for. There are many factors to consider before selecting any camera, like video resolution, size, low light documenting capacity, durability, battery life, etc. We have made this buying guide to assist you in selecting a perfect camera for your home surveillance.
Video Resolution Quality
Video resolution quality is one of the most important factors to consider. When you choose a camera with higher image quality, it allows you to see small details and gives a clear and crisp video. Most of the cameras in the market have higher quality than 720p. The minimum resolution of the cam should be at least 1080p; going lower quality will result in blurry images and videos. (1)
Size
Another important feature to look for before buying any hidden camera is its size and appearance. Any hidden camera should be small in size and discreet. The hidden camera should not be larger than normal chargers as it will look awkward and will draw attention from people. So always select a camera with a small size and discreet design.
Motion Detection
This is the most helpful feature to have in a hidden cam. All the hidden cameras we have listed in this article come with a motion-activated feature. The motion detection feature is great because it only starts to document when it detects any motion. This also helps to save tons of space in your micro sd card. Some hidden cameras will also send you an alert on your smartphone app every time it detects any motion. This way, you will always be notified of what is happening around your home.
Cost
This aspect is based on your preference. When you purchase an expensive camera, it comes with many amazing features, but that will be a loss of money if you are not going to use all features. Also, nowadays, with technological advancement, there are many good quality wireless hidden cameras available with great features at an affordable price. In this article, we have mentioned USB cameras as per every budget, so do check them out.
Micro SD Storage Capacity
The recorded videos are automatically saved to your microSD card. It is always recommended to select a cam with a high storage capacity as it not only save the videos but also does not require constant attention. Many cameras support an SD card of up to 128 GB. So if you are planning to set up a camera and not check up on it constantly, getting a camera that supports a large-size memory card will be a good option for you. (2)
Regarding the storage problem, most of these hidden cameras come with a continuous recording in loop feature. This feature will aid in overwriting the old videos and images and helps to avoid the space getting full. This also avoids the hassle of constantly emptying up the storage.
Night Vision
This is another great feature to have. This feature will help you to capture a clear and high-quality image in low-light conditions. As the technology is developing, many hidden cams can record videos in infrared light also. Having this feature in your spy cam can definitely ensure you an extra layer of protection and can ensure peace of mind.
Wifi Connectivity and Phone App
Having a wifi connected cam is not necessary but can be proven helpful in certain situations. Wi-Fi-compatible devices are easy to run and much faster than other devices. Having a wifi compatible cam can help you watch the live footage of your home or office.
The smartphone app of your device can help you with watching multiple footage at the same time. Through an app, you will be getting notifications or alerts every time any movement is detected. The apps are simple to use and configure. With the help of these smartphone apps, you can also control and monitor the hidden cams. From these apps, you can also contact customer support if any problem arises.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Spy Cameras
Is having a hidden camera legal?
You should always understand the laws of your state before purchasing any hidden cam. In the United States, it is legal to record a video of your home with the means of a hidden cam without the consent of the person you are recording. But this law is applicable only for two conditions, one being that it is your home and the second being it is applicable only for videos and not for audio.
How Do USB spy hidden cameras work?
The USB hidden cameras act as a charger as well as a camera. You just have to plug the cam into a USB port. Usually, these cameras have one or two ports to charge your other devices and a wide-angle lens to stream the footage. The videos which are recorded are stored in the memory card. (3)
How to install a hidden security camera?
All the wifi hidden cameras are easy to install. You just have to plug them into any power source. If you have a device that supports wifi connectivity, then firstly connect it to your home wifi connection. Secondly, download the app on your smartphone or PC. If you have a device that does not support wifi connectivity, then you can directly set up the camera with the help of the instruction settings given in the product manual.
Do we have to purchase a micro sd card along with the USB hidden camera?
This is based on your need. If you want to store your recorded footage, then select a USB camera with a higher space memory card. Most of the USB cameras come with limited space capacity and provide the feature of loop recording. This feature helps to automatically overwrite the old footage in your micro sd card and save tons of space.
Final Thoughts
Security is a number one concern when it comes to our loved ones or family. So you should always select hidden cameras based on your need and purpose. You can buy any of the recommended devices mentioned in this guide without any hesitation. All the hidden cameras have great features and a discreet design.
Although our top pick would be Spy Hidden-Camera Wireless USB-Charger 1080P Full HD because of its great features, small size, and strong low light documenting capacity. We hope this guide has helped you to choose the perfect wifi hidden camera for security for your home.
References
(1) Video resolution – https://animoto.com/blog/news/hd-video-creation-sharing
(2) microSD card – https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-mistakes-avoid-buying-next-microsd-card/
(3) USB port – https://www.computerhope.com/jargon/u/usb.htm
Our Recommendation Again
John Fox
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is John Fox and I’ve been working as a security consultant for over 20 years now. During my time in the industry, I’ve learned about what it takes to ensure your home and family are always safe. With Safe Now, I’ve tried to take those two decades of experience and share it with others. My goal now is to help others figure out how to make the right choices for their businesses and families. On my website, you’ll find tips and guides on how to prevent crimes, as well as product recommendations. What’s more, my readers can learn more about what to do in case of an emergency and how to protect themselves at all times. So, if you want to know everything there is about security systems and home safety, I invite you to join me and my team and help us build a community together.
