Hidden Home Security Cameras With Audio
KEY TAKEAWAYS
If you’re looking for a more discreet way to keep tabs on your home, consider hidden cameras. These small and compact devices are much easier to incorporate into any room without detracting from the aesthetics of the space. Let’s take a look at the best-hidden home security cameras with audio.
Things To Look For When Buying Hidden Security Cameras
Before you purchase a hidden security camera, you should first decide on the features you are looking for. Though there are many factors to consider, here are the main things you should check in hidden residential surveillance cameras.
Video Quality
Though security cameras aren’t as advanced in video quality as regular cameras, and it is still important not to go lower than 720p resolution. If you can, go for at least 1080p HD. This way, you will be able to identify the details of the video you capture, which is very valuable in investigations or emergency cases.
Audio Quality
Aside from the video quality, it’s also important to look for high-quality audio in a security camera. The current standard is to have two-way audio at least. In this feature, you are not limited to hearing what’s happening in your area, but you also get the freedom to communicate to those in your home — pets, children, delivery men, or intruders.
Ease Of Use
Another thing you should consider when it comes to surveillance cameras is the customer experience. How easy would it be to install and operate the camera? Does the manufacturer provide a clear instruction manual that allows you to put the camera securely in place?
You should also check the features advertised about the product and how easy it is for you to access them without encountering errors or difficulties. For instance, consider how easy it is to use the speakers, live feeds, smart alerts, or motion detection.
Recording Time
Hidden security cameras record footage differently. Some models only capture a few seconds of motion-activated clips, while others offer a continuously recording live feed. When shopping for cameras, check which one your camera offers and decide what you prefer.
You should also consider where the camera stores these recordings. You can have footage stored in a local source — USB or SD card — or you can use cloud storage. If cloud storage is offered, you can determine how much cloud storage it would cost and how much footage you can access before it rewrites.
Durability
If you’re investing in a security camera, you must buy something that will last you for a long time. You should look at the materials used for the camera, even if you only use it indoors.
For outdoor use, however, you have to ensure that the hidden camera is weather-proof. Look at the temperature range it can withstand and its IP rating, which describes how resistant it is against solids and liquids. At the very least, get a camera with an IP 65 rating, so you have something dust-, rain-, and snow-resistant.
Benefits Of Having Hidden Cameras
Video surveillance from hidden cameras is a solid strategy to ensure security for your family and property. Here are the benefits of investing in a security camera system:
Keep Intruders Away
The presence of security cameras alone has the power to intimidate thieves and other people from attempting to go near your property. If they see that you have an eye to watch over your place and call for the authorities, there’s a high chance that they will postpone their plans.
Capture Evidence
With security camera systems installed in your home, you have something to capture evidence in case an unfortunate incident happens.
Modern security cameras are equipped with photo, video, and audio recording features that you can use as evidence in filing police reports. This footage can be used to help the authorities gather information, catch the culprit, and aid court proceedings if they ever happen.
Monitor Hired Help
With indoor surveillance cameras installed in your home, you have the power to watch over activities happening inside even when you’re not there.
Whatever hired help you may have — babysitters, maids, cleaners, gardeners, caregivers, or assistants — you can ensure that they are doing their job well. In case you find out that they did something against your agreement, this footage will also help you establish your decision.
Look Out For Strangers On Your Property
People attempting to access your property, especially when you are not there, is not a unique event. Sometimes, people are tempted to go over — they may be inspectors, troublemakers, or simply curious citizens.
With the security cameras monitoring your property, you can capture suspicious behavior from any person, which you can also use to take precautionary security measures to protect your family, belongings, and the whole property.
Keep An Eye On The Kids
Aside from protecting your house from people outdoors, security cameras also allow you to watch over your family when you are at work, on the way home, or vacationing somewhere else. Some cameras allow live footage, so you can observe whether your children are following through with their chores, homework, mealtime, or curfew.
Furthermore, modern security cameras are equipped with two-way audio technology. So, if you want to make a quick reminder for your children, you can do so in a few clicks of your device.
Pet Peace
Pets are valuable parts of the family, but you can’t bring them everywhere you go. If you want to see what your furry friend is up to when you are not at home, a security camera can help you. Moreover, security cameras can help you talk to your pet, especially when they are acting up or exhibiting unusual behavior.
Saves You Money
Security cameras can also help you in saving up on money, especially when it comes to insurance premiums. When insurance companies see your investment, they will reward your efforts to maintain the safety of your home. Usually, they can give a 15 to 20% deduction to your rate.
Best Hidden Home Security Cameras With Audio
Hidden cameras are a beneficial tool for home security. Here are some of the best hidden cameras with audio capabilities you can install to protect your home.
| Product Name | Blink Indoor | Quniao Wireless-WiFi-Hidden-Spy-Camera | Swann Indoor/Outdoor Wireless | Google Nest Cam Indoor |
| Video Quality | 1920 x 1080P Full HD | 1920 x 1080P Full HD | 1920 x 1080P Full HD | 1920 x 1080P Full HD |
| Audio Quality | Two-way audio, with speaker output | Two-way audio with recording feature | Two-way audio | Two-way audio |
| Ease Of Use | Easy install, wireless, battery-powered | Plug-and-play, WiFi dependent | Plug-and-play, WiFi and electricity-dependent | Plug-and-play, WiFi and electricity-dependent |
| Recording Time | Unlimited videos for 60 days via cloud storage | 128 GB worth of videos via SD card | Cloud storage for 7 days and via local storage for 2 days | Cloud storage for 10 days |
| Durability | Not weather-resistant, indoor-only | Not weather-resistant, indoor-only | Weather-resistant with IP65 rating | Not weather-resistant, indoor-only |
1. Blink Indoor
- Video Quality: 1920 x 1080P Full HD
- Audio Quality: Two-way audio, with speaker output
- Ease Of Use: Easy install, wireless, battery-powered
- Recording Time: Unlimited videos for 60 days via cloud storage
- Durability: Not weather-resistant, indoor-only
The first device in our rundown is called the Blink Indoor, a spy camera, or simply just an excellent home security system. What’s interesting here is that you can talk to intruders using the two-way audio controlled via your smartphone with their app on it. It is one of the best wireless home security cameras. The Blink security camera is wire-free and Alexa-compatible.
If you are looking for a fully waterproof version, we suggest choosing Blink Outdoor. Complete HD video recording will be possible during daylight hours. At night, it smartly switches to the infrared HD night vision to provide quality footage that captures any movement around your property day or night!
| Pros | Cons |
| Budget-friendly | Extra expenses for recording storage |
| Two-way audio | Night vision needs improvement |
| Compatible with Alexa | No continuous live viewing |
2. Quniao Wireless-WiFi-Hidden-Spy-Camera
- Video Quality: 1920 x 1080P Full HD
- Audio Quality: Two-way audio with recording feature
- Ease Of Use: Plug-and-play, WiFi-dependent
- Recording Time: 128 GB worth of videos via SD card
- Durability: Not weather-resistant, indoor-only
If you’re looking for a discreet design, the Quniao Wireless-WiFi-Hidden-Spy-Camera with an air purifier fits the job perfectly. It delivers a solution that blends house decor with a hidden cam.
Aside from its looks, this camera is WiFi-enabled and delivers 24-hour audio, and video surveillance features you can access anywhere from your smartphone. It also has motion detection abilities, infrared night vision, and a two-way talk feature for added protection.
Though the audio clarity can be improved, the high-quality video it captures can satisfy users.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Perfect hidden design with real air purification feature | Muffled audio recording |
| Motion sensor alarm with smartphone alerts | Makes clicking sound when recording |
| Supports 24-hour surveillance | Companion app has problems sometimes |
3. Swann Indoor/Outdoor Wireless
- Video Quality: 1920 x 1080P Full HD
- Audio Quality: Two-way audio
- Ease Of Use: Plug-and-play, WiFi and electricity-dependent
- Recording Time: Cloud storage for 7 days and via local storage for 2 days
- Durability: Weather-resistant with IP65 rating
If you are willing to do a little splurging, the Swann Indoor/Outdoor Wireless Surveillance Camera is an excellent high-quality candidate. Coming at two cameras with every purchase, this Swann model offers support for both indoor and outdoor areas. It passed an IP65 rating, which means it can withstand weather conditions like snow and rain.
This security camera also offers a high-quality video resolution for up to 180-degrees around it and up to 20 feet away. Aside from that, it is equipped with heat detection, sensing warm objects like cars and people and triggering both notifications and recordings to help you act right away.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Works indoors and outdoors | More expensive than other options |
| Heat and motion detection | Limited storage |
| Night vision for up to 26 feet away | Not as discreet when it comes to design |
4. Google Nest Cam Indoor
- Video Quality: 1920 x 1080P Full HD
- Audio Quality: Two-way audio
- Ease Of Use: Plug-and-play, WiFi and electricity-dependent
- Recording Time: Cloud storage for 10 days
- Durability: Not weather-resistant, indoor-only
The Google Nest Cam Indoor shines as the best wired hidden security camera for your home. Though it’s not the most discreet in terms of design, the features of the Nest App and its 24/7 live-stream video at 1080 HD resolution are hard to ignore.
This camera is committed to security, too. Your private information and video recordings will be protected by two-factor authentication. Moreover, you can get storage space and alerts through the added Nest Aware service at a $6 subscription per month.
Once this camera is in your hands, enjoy the quick installation with clear app instructions and flexible mounting options.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| 24/7 live-streaming you can check anywhere | More expensive than other models |
| Get motion and sound alerts when suspicious activity is spotted | Cloud storage requires monthly payment |
| Call emergency services even when you’re away | Two-way audio can be improved |
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about using a hidden cam in your home by checking out our answers to the most asked questions about them.
Are hidden cameras legal?
Hidden cameras are legal across all 50 states, but for the most part, you can only record in common areas — never in bedrooms at bathrooms. Furthermore, many states don’t allow audio recording without consent, so make sure you do your research according to your state’s regulations.
Do hidden cameras need Wi-Fi?
Most hidden cameras record footage straight to local SD cards. However, some models offer 24/7 live footage and require a WiFi connection.
What’s the difference between a hidden camera and a spy camera?
Hidden camera and spy camera are two terms used interchangeably to describe security cameras people place in discreet places or under disguises.
How do you hide a camera in plain sight?
The best way to hide a security camera is to disguise them as an everyday object. Some cameras are already designed as a disguise, while others call for your creativity in hiding them.
How long do hidden cameras record?
Numerous factors can affect how long a hidden camera can record. Usually, you can record a few hours’ worths, but that can be higher depending on the video resolution, the memory available, and the camera’s power source.
Are you currently looking for the best indoor security camera companies in the market today? Check out this article from Security Forward.