Choosing a hidden camera is something that always requires you to keep a few key things in mind. People turn to hidden cameras for a number of different goals, whether they're trying to compile evidence in the event of a home break-in, or are trying to keep a closer eye on the nanny who watches their children while they are at work. Paying close attention to not only the type of camera you buy, but also features like motion-activation, storage capabilities and more, will help make sure you end up with the most effective solution possible and that you spend your hard-earned money in the right way.

Motion Activation

One feature you'll definitely want to at least consider when it comes to a hidden camera is motion activation. As the name implies, the camera will only start recording when movement is recognized by an internal sensor. This allows you to "set it and forget it" without needing to worry about whether or not you turned the camera on before you left the house.

Choosing a Type

One of the primary factors you'll want to concern yourself with when choosing a hidden camera involves what the actual camera will be hidden inside. This will largely come down to both how you plan on using the device and the environment it will be a part of - remember, "discreet" is always a key word to focus on. If you're looking for something compact that will arouse no suspicion in your bedroom, a mini clock radio night vision camera will likely be the way to go. At the same time, a clock radio located in an area like your kitchen may attract the type of attention you don't want.

Thanks to how compact these cameras typically are, you can often find hidden cameras inside a wide range of everyday household items: from sun glasses to watches to light bulbs and more.

Power

Another factor you'll want to heavily consider comes down to how the camera itself is powered. Many hidden cameras have built-in rechargeable batteries that can run for between five and even ten hours or more without intervention - great for a situation where you need to monitor what is going on inside your home while you're at work or otherwise away. Choosing a hidden camera that requires the use of a wall outlet may limit your options, but it will also guarantee you won't miss a minute of the event you're actually trying to capture. Many units have both, giving you a wider variety to select from.

Wireless Functionality

One of the most important features to look at when choosing a hidden camera comes down to whether the unit is effectively standalone, or whether it can be connected to the wireless Internet network in your home. If you choose a standalone unit, you'll need to remove the SD storage card and plug it into a computer to view any footage. If the unit can be added to your wireless network, you can watch footage remotely as it is captured on a computer, a smartphone, a tablet or any other mobile device where an Internet connection is present.