A hidden camera can show you what happens at home while you are out: who comes and goes, whether a package was taken, or whether something went missing. Choosing the right one comes down to a few simple questions, and staying within the law matters just as much as the camera itself.
What to look for
- Video quality. 720p HD is enough to see faces and what is happening across a normal room. Higher resolution gives sharper detail but fills the memory card faster.
- Motion detection. The camera only records when something moves, which saves battery and memory and makes footage much quicker to review.
- Battery or mains power. Battery cameras can go anywhere but need recharging. A camera that plugs into power can run for much longer.
- Storage. Most hidden cameras record to a micro SD card. Check the largest card size it takes and how long that lasts at your chosen quality.
- A believable disguise. The camera should look like something that belongs where you put it, such as a USB stick or charger near a computer or power point.
Where to place it
- Point it at entry points: the front door, a hallway, or the room where valuables are kept.
- Place it at about chest or shoulder height, angled slightly down, so faces are visible.
- Avoid pointing it at a bright window, which can leave people as dark shapes.
- Test it for a day and check the footage before relying on it.
Staying within the law
This is general information only, not legal advice. Rules differ between states and territories.
- Never record in private places. Bathrooms, toilets, change areas and other people's bedrooms are off limits everywhere in Australia.
- Record your own property only. Do not point a camera into a neighbour's home or yard.
- Be careful with sound. If a camera also records audio, the listening device rules for recording conversations apply as well. See our guide on recording conversations in Australia.
- People who work in your home. If you employ someone at home, such as a nanny, carer or cleaner, workplace surveillance rules may apply, and in some states you must tell them about cameras.
- Shared and rented homes. Recording other adults who live with you, or a tenant's private space, can be unlawful.
Our lawful use guide has more detail.
Our USB Hidden Camera
Our USB Hidden Camera looks like an ordinary USB stick, records 720p HD video with motion detection, and comes with an extended battery pack and a 16GB micro SD card. It takes cards up to 128GB.
Common questions
Can a hidden camera work without Wi-Fi?
Yes. Cameras that record to a memory card work without Wi-Fi. You view the footage later on a computer.
How long will the memory card last?
It depends on the video quality and how much movement there is. With motion detection on, a card lasts far longer because the camera only records when something happens.
Can I use footage as evidence?
Footage recorded lawfully on your own property is often useful to police and insurers. Footage recorded unlawfully may not be accepted and could expose you to a penalty.