Security cameras are excellent tools for monitoring the activities of guests and strangers around your home or business. However, they can be very easy to spot making them rather poor options for secretly monitoring others.
Fortunately, there are alternatives to regular security cameras that can perform the same task without giving away their identity and purpose. One such device is the smoke detector camera.
Smoke detector cameras are security cameras disguised as smoke detectors. These devices are ideal for secretly recording footage as they’re usually mounted on ceilings and walls and are unlikely to be detected by intruders.
If you’re looking to get one of these devices for your home or business, you might find it a challenge to choose from the plethora of options available. To help you to make a wise purchase decision, we’ve reviewed the best products on the market. Before we dive into the reviews, let’s look at what you should consider when buying a smoke detector camera.
What to Look for When Buying a Smoke Detector Camera
These are a couple of important aspects to consider when buying a smoke detector camera:
Discreet Design
If you’re looking to get a smoke detector camera rather than a regular security camera, then you’re likely looking for a way to record footage discreetly. Thus, it is important that the device you choose looks just like a regular smoke detector and does not give anyone reasons to suspect that it’s recording video.
Most good dummy smoke detectors with cameras feature vents and LED lights that make them indistinguishable from a regular smoke detector.
Good Video Quality
If the videos and pictures captured by your hidden camera are blurry, they might prove to be of little use to you. You’ll need to make sure that your pick has a video capture resolution of at least 1280 x 720 pixels (HD) and preferably a 1920 x 1080 resolution. You should also go for a device with a wide-angle camera as it’ll be able to capture more of the scene.
Ease of Installation and Use
To avoid having a frustrating experience with installing the smoke detector camera and setting up the mobile apps, ensure that your choice is easy to install and use. You can figure this out by reading the reviews from previous customers. If multiple reviewers complain of issues with setting up and using a particular smoke detector camera, you might want to consider a more user-friendly alternative.
Features and Specs
If you want to get good value for your money, you should make sure to get a device with solid specs and a good range of features. Some of the features to look out for include motion detection, night vision, remote video viewing, recording to external storage, and loop recording.
If you want to avoid having to plug in your device constantly, you should get a product with long-lasting battery life. You can also choose to get a smoke detector camera that requires a constant direct connection to a power source.
Best Smoke Detector Cameras Reviewed
Here are our top picks for the best smoke detector cameras you can buy at this time.
Overall Best Hidden Smoke Detector Camera – WNAT Smoke Detector Camera
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The WNAT Hidden Smoke Detector Camera is one of the best smoke detector cameras you can buy today. Unlike most options that are only dummy smoke detectors, this product is a fully functional smoke detector that also packs a hidden 1080P camera. Thus, you get great value for your money and avoid having to install a separate functional smoke detector.
The camera on the WNAT device has a 125° field of view, which makes it excellent for capturing footage in an average-sized room. From a distance, the camera is virtually impossible to detect and looks like an LED bulb. The device is easy to install, and once you set up the mobile app on your device, you’ll be able to stream and record the video footage on your device.
The WNAT smoke detector spy camera boasts an array of features, including night vision, motion detection, remote video viewing, and high-resolution video recording. It supports external SD cards with up to 128 GB of storage space. The device comes with a large 5500 mAh battery, lasting for up to 20 hours when recording and up to 5 months on standby.
If you’re looking for a capable smoke detector spy camera that doubles a fully functional smoke detector, the WNAT spy camera is your best bet. While it may be pricier than other options, it packs a complete array of features and has many positive ratings from satisfied customers.
Stand-out features of this camera smoke detector:
- 125° wide-angle camera
- Battery offers up to 20 hours of video recording and 180 days of standby time
- Supports up to 128 GB SD cards
- PIR human motion detection
Best smoke detector security camera – NUNET Smoke Detector Hidden Surveillance Camera
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Another excellent smoke detector security camera is the NUNET Dummy Smoke Detector Camera. This non-functional smoke detector comes with a hidden 125° wide-angle camera that captures video at 720p resolution. The device is easy to set up and use and comes with a 32 GB memory card.
The NUNET surveillance camera also features PIR motion detection, which alerts you on your mobile device whenever movement is detected. The device has a massive 6000 mAh battery and a standby time of up to180 days. It also features night vision and will work just fine in dimly lit spaces.
The NUNET smoke detector hidden camera is an excellent option to consider and is highly rated by users who find the video quality superb and the app easy to use.
Stand-out features of this camera smoke detector:
- Comes with 32 GB memory card
- PIR motion detection
- 6000 mAh battery
- High-resolution video recording
Best hard-wired smoke detector camera – WF-402HAC Sony 1080p IMX323 Chip Smoke Detector Spy Camera
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Battery-powered smoke detector cameras are great, but it can be a hassle to charge them every so often. If you’d rather have a hard-wired smoke detector camera, the WF-402HAC Sony 1080p spy camera is a great option to consider. It connects directly to a 110-220V AC power source, eliminating the need for a battery.
The WF-402HAC features a high-resolution camera with excellent optics. The camera has a big sensor, which lets in more light and allows the device to produce crisp footage in dim lighting conditions. The device also features motion detection, night vision, a high-quality glass lens. It comes with 16 gigabytes of internal memory, storing up to 200 hours of video footage.
The WF-402HAC smoke detector camera comes in at an excellent price for the features it offers. It is recommended by a high percentage of users who have tried it. If you’re looking for a reliable hard-wired smoke detector camera, you can’t go wrong with the WF-402HAC.
Stand-out features of this camera smoke detector:
- Powered by 110-220V AC line
- High-quality optics
- 16GB internal memory
- 940nM IR filter
Best wireless smoke detector – CAMXSW HD 1080P Wireless Hidden Smoke Detector Camera
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The CAMXSW HD Wireless Smoke Detector Camera is an excellent option to consider if you’re looking for a completely wireless security camera. It connects to your mobile device over WiFi, and you can view the live video feed through the mobile app. The dummy smoke detector packs a 1080p camera and also offers night vision with 4 infrared lights.
Motion detection is also available on this device. You can save the pictures and video footage captured to micro SD cards. It supports up to 32 gigabytes of external storage. The device is very affordable and has a good number of positive ratings and reviews from satisfied customers.
Stand-out features of this camera smoke detector:
- 1080p video recording
- Includes 4 infrared lights for night vision
- Up to 32 GB of external storage
- Remote video viewing on the mobile app
Best WiFi smoke detector camera with internet viewing – WF-404HAC Sony 1080p Smoke Detector Spy Camera
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WiFi-enabled smoke detector cameras are great for surveillance if you’re within range of the device. However, if you want to view the live video stream from any location, you’ll need to get a device that supports remote internet access. The WF-404HAC Sony 1080p Smoke Detector Camera is a superb security camera with internet viewing.
The WF-404HAC features a 1080p camera and connects to a direct 110V – 220VAC power source. Once you install the device and set up the app on your mobile device or PC, you can view the video feed over a WiFi connection or remotely via the internet. You get access to a reliable P2P server through which you can easily set up remote viewing without much hassle.
The device is ONVIF compliant and works with the most popular NVR software applications. The remote viewing via the P2P server is free and doesn’t require any subscription or registration. The device is reasonably priced for its features and is recommended by most users.
Stand-out features of this camera smoke detector:
- Remote video viewing via the internet
- High-quality optics
- Motion detection
- Night vision
Best night vision smoke detector camera – Camakt WiFi HD Smoke Detector Camera with Night Vision
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The Camakt WiFi HD Smoke Detector Camera is a great option to consider if you need to monitor your home or other places at night. It features IR night vision, which can enable it to record clear footage even in the dark. The dummy smoke detector comes with a 1080p camera and supports motion detection.
The Camakt smoke detector camera can be charged while recording. It offers up to 3 hours of continuous video recording on a single charge. It is easy to install and use and supports SD cards of up to 64 GB storage capacity. If you’re looking for a smoke detector camera with night vision support, the Camakt WiFi HD smoke detector camera is a great choice.
Stand-out features of this camera smoke detector:
- IR night vision
- 1080P camera
- Loop recording
- Motion detection
Best smoke detector nanny camera – Sunsome Upgrade WiFi Smoke Detector Nanny Cam
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The Sunsome Upgrade WiFi Hidden Camera is an excellent nanny cam that can record crisp 1080p videos. It features motion detection and will alert you on your mobile device when motion is detected. The device also supports real-time video streaming to remote devices over WiFi. You can monitor your spaces with the supported Android and iOS apps.
If you want to save video footage, you’ll need to install an SD card. The device supports up to 64 GB of external storage. Loop recording functionality is also present, and you can enable timestamps in the photos and videos. Battery life is up to 4 hours on a charge, but you can charge it while recording.
The Sunsome Upgrade WiFi smoke detector nanny cam comes in at a great price and has many positive consumer reviews. It’s a great way to discreetly install a nanny cam for monitoring your home or business.
Stand-out features of this camera smoke detector:
- 1080p video recording
- Real-time remote video viewing
- Up to 64 GB external storage
- Loop recording functionality
Best hidden smoke detector camera with WiFi – SecureGuard Smoke Detector WiFi Spy Camera
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When you take a look at the SecureGuard Smoke Detector Camera, you’ll find it difficult to tell it apart from a real smoke detector. It features a hidden 1080p camera that is difficult to spot. The device is battery powered and has a long-lasting battery life of up to 36 hours on a single charge. Thus, you can use the spy camera without having it plugged in all the time.
The SecureGuard smoke detector camera is effortless to set up and use. It comes with a 16 GB micro SD card but can support up to 32 GB of external storage. You can view the live video feed from the camera through your mobile devices over a hidden WiFi network. The product is highly rated by users and is one of the best smoke detector cameras you can buy today.
Stand-out features of this camera smoke detector:
- 1080P Full HD video recording
- 16 GB micro SD card included
- Long-lasting battery life of up to 36 hours on a single charge
- Hassle-free setup
Best smoke detector camera with App – FUVISION Smoke Detector Hidden Camera with Cell Phone App
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The FUVISION smoke detector hidden camera is a superb option for covertly monitoring the activities taking place in your house or business place. It features a Full HD camera that records crystal clear video. You can stream the videos and photos to your mobile devices over a 2.4G WiFi network using the recommended app.
The device also supports night vision and comes with a PIR motion sensor that alerts you whenever motion is detected. It packs a 6000mAh battery for a standby time of up to 180 days. The device is easy to install, and the app is intuitive and fully functional. You can also record videos to a local micro SD card.
If you’re looking for a capable smoke detector camera with a good app that is easy to set up and use, the FUVISION device is a great choice.
Stand-out features of this camera smoke detector:
- High-quality mobile app
- PIR motion detection
- 6000mAh battery
- Good video quality
WiFi smoke detector with hidden camera – Newwings WiFi Hidden Smoke Detector Spy Camera
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The Newwings WiFi Hidden Smoke Detector camera is another excellent option that you might want to consider when you want the camera to be discreetly hidden. This smoke detector supports remote video viewing over WiFi with the recommended iOS and Android app. The device features a well-hidden 1080p camera and supports IR night vision and motion detection.
The rechargeable battery on the Newwings smoke detector camera can power the device for up to 4 hours. If you want to avoid having to charge the device very often, you can leave it plugged-in while recording footage. It supports loop recording to micro SD cards of up to 64 GB. The device comes in at an affordable price and offers decent value for money.
Stand-out features of this camera smoke detector:
- 1080p camera
- IR night vision
- Motion detection
- Remote video viewing over WiFi
- 90° wide-angle lens
Frequently Asked Questions on Smoke Detector Cameras
What is a smoke detector camera?
A smoke detector camera is a device that looks just like a regular smoke detector but has a built-in hidden camera that can capture video footage secretly. Keep in mind that some of these devices do not actually detect smoke but are mainly used as spy and security gear.
What does a camera smoke detector look like?
A smoke detector camera usually looks indistinguishable from a real smoke detector. This makes it very difficult to detect that a spy camera is installed. They typically feature vents to make them look realistic and a tiny lens disguised as a button or an LED light.
How to install a smoke detector hidden camera?
Before you install your smoke detector camera, you’ll want to first select a suitable location on your ceiling or wall where it will likely go unnoticed but have a good view of the room. Next, you’ll need to follow along with the instructions included with your product. Your smoke detector camera will likely come with some mounting screws and any other items required for the installation.
How to tell if a smoke detector has a hidden camera?
Real smoke detectors are usually battery powered since they require very little energy to function. Thus, if you detect that a smoke detector has wires attached, it could be that it has a hidden camera and is plugged in for non-stop recording.
You can also sweep the area with a bug detector device. Alternatively, you can look for a camera lens on the smoke detector. If you shine a light at the smoke detector and see a reflection from a tiny opening, you’re very likely looking at a spy camera.
How to tell if there’s a microphone in a smoke detector?
To check if there’s a microphone hidden in a smoke detector, you’ll need to scan the area with a bug detector device. You can also listen for interferences when making phone calls in the area where the smoke detector is located.
Smoke Detector Camera Apps
When setting up a smoke detector camera, you’ll usually have to download a compatible app on your mobile device through which you can view the live stream from the camera. Most products have their proprietary apps which you can find on their website or the app stores. Others work with third-party solutions as well.
If you’ve purchased a smoke detector camera, you should find instructions included on how to install the app on your smartphone or tablet and connect to the device. Once you have set up the app properly, you should be able to view the video feed from the camera and receive notifications when motion is detected by the motion sensor.
If you struggle with setting up and using the app, you can search for online video tutorials explaining how to operate the software. Alternatively, you can try contacting the customer support team of the manufacturers of the device or the publishers of the app.
When Looking for a Smoke Detector Camera with Audio
If you’re looking for a smoke detector camera that can record audio, you’ll have a hard time finding one in the U.S. Many products have disclaimers on their sales page that states: “Due to federal regulations, this device does not record audio”. It turns out that there is a federal law that prohibits the manufacture, sale, and use of devices designed to secretly record private conversations. This explains why you won’t find smoke detector cameras with audio recording capability in the U.S. Except with law enforcement agencies.
Final Thoughts on Smoke Detector Cameras
Hopefully, you’ve learned a lot from this article that’ll help you choose the right smoke detector camera for your needs. Be sure to keep in mind the tips mentioned, and don’t forget to check out the excellent products reviewed above.
SAY CHEESE! My name is Mike and I love technology, software, and crypto. I grew up around my ‘nerdy’ engineering parents who’ve worked for high tech start-ups and aerospace companies. They’ve taught me everything I know, from destructing the latest phones to playing around with drones, writing lines of code and investing in cryptocurrencies. I take things apart, put them back together and add some (code). I breathe and live tech and can’t wait to teach you more!