Mini Spy Cameras
How to choose a mini spy camera
Small bodies mean trade-offs
A smaller camera holds a smaller battery. Mini cameras are excellent in motion triggered standby, waiting days or weeks and recording only when something happens, but continuous recording drains them in hours. For constant recording, choose a model that can stay plugged in or a mains powered hidden camera instead.
WiFi, 4G or card only
WiFi models let you watch live and get motion alerts on your phone. Where there is no WiFi, a shed, a gate, a holiday home, a 4G model with a SIM slot is the only option that reaches you. Card only models are the simplest: no network, no app, and you review the footage when you collect the camera.
Compare the types
 WiFi mini |  Card only mini |  4G mini | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live view | Yes, over home WiFi | No, records to card | Yes, over a mobile SIM |
| Needs | A WiFi network in range | Nothing | A 4G data SIM |
| Battery | Hours continuous, days on motion | Hours continuous, weeks on motion | Hours continuous, days on motion |
| Suits | A room at home or work | A cupboard, a vehicle, a short job | A shed, a gate, a holiday home |
Buying guides
Hidden Camera Buying Guide AustraliaThe object decides everything
DIY Spy Camera Buying Guide AustraliaBuild your own hidden camera
Wearable Camera Buying Guide AustraliaHow to choose the right one
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Common questions
How long does the battery last?
Hours in continuous recording, days or weeks in motion triggered standby. Models with a USB input can stay plugged in and run without limit.
Can it record in the dark?
Most have infrared night vision, which records in full darkness without a visible light. The listing gives the range.
Do I need WiFi?
Only for live viewing and alerts. Card only models need nothing, and 4G models bring their own connection on a SIM.
Is it legal to use a hidden camera in Australia? Australian law
On your own property, to protect your home, vehicle and family, yes, with limits. Surveillance devices laws differ by state and territory, and filming people where they expect privacy, such as a bathroom, a bedroom or a changing area, is not allowed. Recording private conversations you are not part of is generally not allowed either, so switch audio off for anything that records while you are away. A business using cameras should tell people they are being recorded.