Which spy cameras to choose?

Are you planning to invest in a spy camera purchase? It is a good project that requires special attention on your part with regard to the choice of equipment to acquire. On the market, you will find many models, so you will face a selection more or less difficult. It is in order not to get lost in this phase that you will have to take into account the most important criteria to consider when acquiring a spy camera.

Your needs

The camera choice you will have to make will be based primarily on your needs. It is important to determine in advance what kind of circumstance you will use this material. Indeed, the adapted gadget will depend on the intended use. You will have the choice among these different types:

Mini cameras 

They are often presented as a small tiny box. Discreet, they are intended to be placed generally on a specific place. Some are for example to be placed on switches and smoke detectors. This type of camera would be suitable if you want to use it at home to monitor someone. It can also be installed in offices and other locations. 

Disguised cameras

Disguised cameras work in much the same way as the mini camera. They are often depicted as a banal object so as not to arouse suspicion. You will find them in the form of digital radio, lamp, clock, etc. The advantage with this hardware is that you will have the ability to move it easily, without attracting attention. It is therefore also suitable for indoor use, such as in an apartment. 

Cameras worn on the body

This camera model will be perfectly suited if you need to record different scenes during your day. You can choose between camera pens, wristwatches and other models in the form of everyday objects. The portable aspect of this type of camera is a real asset in that the scenes to be filmed take place in unsecured locations. On the other hand, this may be a disadvantage if you need to make a recording of an event that is supposed to take place without your presence.

Features

Now in the technology age, manufacturers are constantly finding new features that could be useful to users. So there are some interesting options that you need to consider in order to choose a good spy camera.

For better practicality, opt for a model that incorporates internet connectivity. Even in your absence, the connection provides real-time monitoring via your smartphone or PC. It can also perform remote controls from the camera.

Next, focus on equipment with a sensor, i.e. a motion detector. The advantage with this technology is that you won't need to turn on the gadget for a while. The object itself will light up and start filming as soon as it perceives the slightest movement. It will remain off if no movement is detected. Some models connected with wifi are able to send you notifications when they start automatically. In addition, with a camera with a sensor, the battery will not be wasted for nothing, because the device only uses it when it is filming.

The camera must also have a good memory capacity. The one with an expandable memory is more recommended to make sure the recordings are all well memorized. In fact, you should ask the seller if the device is compatible with a high storage card in case you intend to use it. You also have to be careful, because some models are expandable, but require supports that are difficult to find on the market.

Finally, consider the seal if you need to place the device on an area often exposed to moisture. Non-waterproof electronic equipment is easily damaged when it comes into contact with water. So, before you make your purchase, make sure the gadget is moisture-resistant.

The quality of the images 

What good would a camera be if it couldn't even provide sharp images? That's why you'll need to check that the recorded images are of good quality. Dealers often offer models with resolutions between 480 and 960 pixels. This is usually the ideal feature if you want to get good visual renders. However, if for you, the quality of the images is very important, there are more interesting models like full HD or ultra HD 4K. 

In order for the camera to record day or night, good resolution is not enough, it must incorporate a means of night vision. This technology would especially help you film those who intrude at night with only a small flashlight. The recommended night vision distance is at least 5 to 6 meters so that the images are sharp enough.

Autonomy

To ensure that the most interesting parts are properly recorded, make sure the spy camera has a good range. Especially if you need the material to shoot long sequences, you'll need to invest in a version with good battery life. However, if you plan to record only short videos, you may be able to move to a model suitable for this use.

In terms of mini camera, a good battery life usually revolves around 50 to 60 minutes. Check with your seller, or on the technical sheets to find out what time. 

The price 

Price is always one of the most important criteria in terms of purchase. Each spy camera has a price that varies according to its quality, functionality and brand. Note that the best performing cameras known are usually the most expensive. Naturally, they have a very good quality. Here's a quick price reference so you can get an idea of the budget.

• The entry-level models are available from a few tens of euros.
• Those in the middle range cost around 100 euros.
• And high-end cameras can cost up to several hundred euros.

Still pay attention to the prices of cameras too sold. They are sometimes of very poor quality and do not guarantee any durability.