Nanny Cameras for Home

We know that many people aren't familiar with nanny cameras and what various nanny cam terms mean. This is why we've put together a list of common terms about nanny cams:

WiFi Nanny Cameras - A WiFi Nanny camera is a nanny camera with wireless streaming built in. The main benefit of a WiFi nanny camera or hidden camera is its ability to live stream video, so you can monitor it remotely, most commonly on an iPhone or Android smartphone or tablet.

Micro SD Memory Card – A micro SD card is a type of memory card used by many nanny cameras to store recorded videos. Different camera models can have different size memory card specifications. Some cameras only take up to a 32GB card, while some can take up to 128GB or 256GB memory card.

Video Resolution – Video resolution refers to the quality of the camera. Over the years video quality for nanny cameras has improved significantly. Most cameras now feature either 720P or 1080P high definition video.

Frames Per Second (FPS) – Frames per second, or “FPS” for short, refers to the number of video frames per second. The more frames per second, the smoother the video. For example, TV shows are generally in 30 frames per second. For non-WiFi cameras, 30 frames per second is usually standard. For WiFi streaming nanny cameras, frames per second can vary between 15 and 30, depending on the camera.

Night Vision Nanny Cameras - Night vision hidden cameras and nanny cams feature a special IR (“infrared”) sensor that allows the camera to see in the dark. These night vision sensors are invisible to the human eye, but are visible to the camera lens, so it can see even when the lights are low or completely out. When night vision is enabled, the video switches from full color to black and white.

Viewing Angle - A nanny cam’s viewing angle is how wide the camera is. The wider the viewing angle, the more the camera lens will be able to see. Viewing angles can range from 65 degrees all the way up to 130 degrees, depending on the camera.

Motion Detection vs Continuous Recording -  Two common video recording types are motion detection or motion activated recording, and continuous recording. In motion detection recording, the camera will only record if it detects motion or movement nearby, such as a person walking by the camera. In continuous recording mode, the camera will record 24/7, regardless of whether or not there is motion or movement nearby.

PIR “Body Heat” Motion Recording - A newer, more advanced type of motion detection is PIR/”Body Heat” motion detection. For cameras that offer this type of recording, it utilizes a PIR sensor which detects a change in temperature, such as body heat, rather than traditional motion, which uses the camera itself to look for visible changes. The advantage of PIR motion recording is that it consumes less battery life, and there are less false positives, so the camera’s battery life will last much longer than a camera that uses traditional motion detection.

What's the difference between WiFi Nanny Cam and a Non-WiFi Nanny Camera?

Which one you need really depends on your particular video surveillance needs.. All-in-one/Non-WiFi hidden cameras are easy to set up and use, but only allow you to see the video after it has been recorded. If you need to be able to watch your video live as it is happening, then a wireless WiFi Hidden Camera would be the more appropriate option.

Is it OK to have a nanny cam?
One of the questions you may be wondering is if it’s okay to have a nanny cam in your home. In the United States, it is generally legal to install a nanny cam in your home. You’re generally allowed to place a camera in your home for home security and monitoring, even if you are not physically present.

However there are exceptions to this - the big exception being that you should not be installing a nanny cam or hidden camera in a place where someone would have a reasonable expectation of privacy. This means no cameras should be installed in places like bedrooms, bathrooms, or other areas someone would expect to have privacy.

Another consideration is whether or not you can use audio recording with your nanny cam. Different states have different laws regarding audio recording. Some states require “two party consent”, meaning that everyone being recorded must be told there is a nanny cam with audio. Other states are “one party consent” where only one person being recorded needs to be aware there is a camera with audio recording. Before using a nanny camera with audio, be sure you have researched and will comply with your jurisdiction's recording laws.

How much does a nanny cam cost?
Nanny cams range in price, and can start at less than $100, to over $500, depending on the included features and components used. Generally WiFi cameras are a little less expensive than non-WiFi cameras because of the internal components.

Cameras designed and assembled in the USA are generally a little bit more expensive, like our Pro Series WiFi hidden cameras, because they are built here in the USA, and feature top of the line camera components.

If you are on a budget, check out our gadgets under $150 here.

Do you need WiFi for a nanny cam?
No you do not need WiFi in order to use a nanny cam. Although WiFi nanny cameras are very popular because of their ability to let you watch your camera remotely, there are many non-WiFi cameras that simply record to a memory card for later viewing.

For example, a DIY pinhole hidden camera can be used without WiFi, and simply record to a micro SD memory card. To view your recordings, you would then take out the memory card, and plug it into your computer with the included micro SD card reader to watch the playback.

Should I get a night vision nanny cam?
Night vision cameras not only record in total darkness, but they also record very well in low-light situations. If you are looking to monitor a location that has little or no light, then a night vision hidden camera may be a good choice.

Can hidden cameras be detected?
Hidden cameras may be able to be detected by using the right counter-surveillance equipment. Hidden camera detectors can be small enough to fit in your purse, so if you’re traveling, such as staying at an AirBnb or hotel and want to scan the room for hidden cameras and spy cameras, there is inexpensive equipment that can do that.

If you are concerned that someone might have placed a hidden camera in your house or apartment, the same detection devices can be used to try and locate a hidden camera. .

Can I view the playback on my TV without needing a computer?
Depending on the model, yes. All of our higher-end nanny cameras come with RCA video connection cables that not only allow you connect the camera to your TV to view recordings, but to also set up optional recording features. 

Are any of these nanny cameras Macintosh compatible?
Yes. Any of the nanny cameras that record to a memory card are Macintosh compatible, because you can simply remove the card from the nanny camera. Also, any nanny cameras with built-in memory that are compatible with Mac computers will be indicated on the compatibility chart on the respective product pages.

Are nanny cameras legal to use?
Hidden cameras are legal in the US, however we do recommend you check with local laws and ordinances to ensure you are in compliance with all local laws, especially if you are gathering evidence that may need to be used in legal situations - such as a custody battle or marital dispute.

Nanny cameras are legal to use, as long as you aren't using them in places where a person would have a reasonable expectation of privacy. For example, you should not place a nanny cam in places like a bathroom or changing room. Places like a family room, living room, kitchen, home office, or common areas in your home are generally areas that are okay to conduct video surveillance.

Do nanny cameras have audio?
Some nanny cameras record audio, while others do not. Every nanny cam has different features, so be sure to check the specifications of the camera that you are interested in. Laws vary by state on the legality of using a nanny camera with audio, so be sure to check with the laws for your specific jurisdiction before using a nanny cam with audio, or enabling audio on a camera (if it comes disabled by default).

What is the best nanny spy camera?
There is no single "best" nanny cam (although we do have about a dozen top sellers that most people choose from). The best camera varies by situation - it is the one that fits your specific needs, and blends in best to the environment you want to place it. For example, a wall clock hidden nanny cam may be perfect for a home office, but might look out of place in your kitchen. If you have questions about how to choose a hidden camera, you can browse by room, or contact us and we'll help you determine which is the best for your particular situation.

How are hidden cameras powered?
Hidden cameras can be either battery or plug in AC powered, or even hardwired to your existing electrical in your home or office. Some cameras offer both - battery AND AC powered operation. So when you’re looking for a nanny cam, one thing to consider is the type of camera, and where you want to place it. If there is no power outlet nearby, you may be better off going with a battery powered nanny cam. .

Can I watch my spy camera on my smartphone?
Many of our spy cams are WiFi enabled, which allows you to watch them live on your smartphone. This gives you the ability to see what's happening live, and monitor your camera feed in real time. If the video recording you need isn't time sensitive, a self-recording or "all in one" camera may be more convenient to use.

Which is better - a battery powered or AC powered hidden camera?
Both battery powered and AC powered hidden cameras have pros and cons. Battery powered devices are more portable, however are better for short term use, since they have internal batteries that need to be periodically recharged. AC powered cameras alleviate the need for recharging batteries, however are limited in their placement, as they need to be near an AC outlet. It all depends on your particular needs when deciding which to choose - battery or AC powered.