Body-Worn Camera Buyer's Guide

Brian F.
Body-Worn Camera Buyer's Guide

 

So, what’s available for body-worn video recording equipment? Wearable spy equipment can be used in many applications, from secret shopping to recording personal interactions.

Certain types of body-worn cameras can have advantages over others, but it all depends on what the situation demands. Full body-worn kits normally include a hidden camera and a pocket DVR.

Handheld body-worn cameras are normally items such as pens, flash drives, and even Bluetooth earpieces. More advanced body-worn kits can have audio, extra battery packs, and even a built-in LCD screen on the DVR to be able to review video anywhere, anytime.

Less expensive models like glasses or pens require the video to be played off the SD card and usually through a computer. Some other items can be connected directly to a monitor to review footage.

HERE ARE THE KEY CONSIDERATIONS TO EVALUATE WHEN LOOKING FOR A BODY-WORN CAMERA

FIELD OF VIEW

Depending on the specific device you choose and the unit's video resolution, you'll get devices that can either capture a wide or narrow field of view. However, some manufacturers don't always divulge their devices' correct field of view. So, the only way to get an idea of what your specific device will capture is to watch a demo video of the device being used or try it out for yourself.

With that being said, most body-worn cameras that record in standard (720P) resolution will have a narrower field of view. In comparison, devices capable of recording in high-definition (1080P) will capture a wider field of view.

VIDEO AND PICTURE QUALITY

As mentioned, most of our body-worn spy cameras will record in 1080P. Depending on the exact purposes you plan to use your camera for, you might not necessarily need the highest level of resolution. In other words, if you plan on using your spy camera to capture small details, such as written text on a computer screen, you will want to use a higher-resolution camera.

In fact, only cameras that record in 4K resolution (3840x2160) can capture such small, minor details. On the other hand, if you only need to capture larger details, such as a person's face, actions, or voice, a camera recording in standard 1080P will do the trick.

Finally, in addition to the different levels of resolution, some of our cameras also have a convenient snapshot feature, which can be used to capture still-frame shots at the touch of a button without attracting any attention.

MICROPHONE QUALITY

In addition to being able to record in either standard or high-definition, many body-worn cameras can also capture audio. Being able to capture both video and audio is ideal, especially if you plan on using your device for any legal or court-related reasons.

AMOUNT OF BATTERY LIFE

Because of their smaller size, most body-worn cameras have shorter, limited battery life. However, all our cameras come with a built-in lithium-ion battery, which can be fully recharged quickly within 1 to 3 hours, depending on the product.

Typically, our devices offer anywhere between 60 to 90 minutes of battery life, but some may last even longer. Our spy watch camera provides a 1-hour and 40-minute battery life and blends well with dress or casual attire.

INTERNAL OR EXTERNAL STORAGE TIME

Once again, due to their limited size, most of our devices will only have about 50 to 120 minutes worth of built-in storage. However, many of our devices, such as our 1080P Key Fob Hidden Video Recorder, are compatible with external SD cards, which can increase your storage space for recording video and audio.

TIME AND DATE STAMPING

Time and date stamping is a feature where your recorded video will automatically be tagged with the exact time and date it was recorded. Nowadays, this feature is relatively standard for all spy cameras. However, depending on what you're using your camera for, this feature might only sometimes be vital to you.

For instance, if you plan on using your device as a nanny cam around the house, you might not need to have the video time and date stamped. But if you plan on using your hidden body-worn camera for any court or legal reasons, it's a good idea to look for a device that offers this feature.

THE BEST BODY-WORN SPY CAMERAS

Whether you're looking to use a body-worn camera for legal reasons or need extra security and peace of mind around the house, you'll be glad to know that we offer a wide range of different device styles and designs that seamlessly blend into virtually any environment.

Please browse our online spy shop and choose from our selection of spy glasses, spy pens, spy watches, key fobs, and more! Ultimately, you can use our lineup of body-worn cameras for various reasons, including child custody cases, domestic situations, workplace harassment, and more.

So, by keeping the reason you'll be using your device in mind and all of the factors we've touched on above, you'll be able to choose the best device for your specific needs..

WHEN WOULD I NEED TO USE BODY-WORN RECORDING EQUIPMENT, AND WHAT TYPE WOULD BE BEST FOR ME?

So, what does your situation demand? Do you need to give customer service training as a secret shopper? Need to film video hands-free for a work or school project? Conducting interviews but don't want to distract your subject?

Body-worn recorders can be good alternatives when you cannot introduce a new object into your environment or are in an environment not your own.

Small handheld recorders often have shorter battery life than full-size body-worn kits, but the most significant advantage is recording at a moment's notice. These devices are often disguised as everyday, commonly used items.

Recorders such as pens, glasses, earpieces, etc., not only blend well with many situations, but they're quick-to-start recorders that are easy to operate and can be kept within reach.

Full-size body-worn kits often have a longer battery life with hot-swappable batteries, but they usually require to be equipped in advance, and sometimes modifications need to be made to clothing.

Body-worn kits also allow for more diversity by enabling users to choose different camera types for low-light situations. Button camera kits will allow you to personalize your equipment and keep it discreet.

THINK ABOUT YOUR SITUATION

What will you be heading into? Will you be secret shopping or dealing with potential verbal conflict? How about helping a loved one with their memory, harassment at work or home, leaving video notes, or dealing with a potentially violent conflict?

What about some YouTube fun, sporting events, or holiday videos? We have the spy gadgets to make it happen.