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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Nanny Cams

Trust, but verify. Whether it's a new caregiver or just keeping an eye on the kids, we tested nanny cams from obvious to completely hidden—finding what provides visibility without turning your home into a spy movie.

Last updated: January 28, 2026
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Best Overall Our top recommendation
Best Overall
Dog Camera Treat Dispenser

Furbo

Dog Camera Treat Dispenser

4.5 (23,456 reviews)

Not hidden, but brilliant for caregiver monitoring. The treat feature gives you a reason to check in without seeming surveillant.

Resolution

1080p

Features

Treat dispenser, bark alert

Audio

Two-way

Vision

Day/night

Pros

  • Treat-tosser for engagement
  • Barking alerts
  • 1080p day/night

Cons

  • Subscription for full features
  • Expensive
  • Obvious camera

Head-to-Head Comparison

ProductRatingPrice Action
Dog Camera Treat Dispenser
Dog Camera Treat Dispenser Best
Furbo
4.5
$169 View
Hidden Camera Alarm Clock
Hidden Camera Alarm Clock Value
WAYMOON
4.2
$50 View
Mini Camera (Nanny Cam Setup)
Mini Camera (Nanny Cam Setup)
Blink
4.4
$30 View
USB Charger Hidden Camera
USB Charger Hidden Camera
TECHNOVIEW
4.1
$40 View
Pro Smart Baby Monitor
Pro Smart Baby Monitor
Nanit
4.6
$299 View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall
Dog Camera Treat Dispenser

Furbo

Dog Camera Treat Dispenser

4.5 (23,456 reviews)

Not hidden, but brilliant for caregiver monitoring. The treat feature gives you a reason to check in without seeming surveillant.

Resolution

1080p

Features

Treat dispenser, bark alert

Audio

Two-way

Vision

Day/night

Pros

  • Treat-tosser for engagement
  • Barking alerts
  • 1080p day/night

Cons

  • Subscription for full features
  • Expensive
  • Obvious camera
Best Value
Hidden Camera Alarm Clock

WAYMOON

Hidden Camera Alarm Clock

4.2 (8,765 reviews)

A functional alarm clock with hidden camera inside. No one looks twice at a bedside clock.

Resolution

720p

Storage

SD card (32GB max)

Vision

Night vision

Disguise

Alarm clock

Pros

  • Completely hidden in clock
  • Loop recording
  • Motion activated

Cons

  • 720p only
  • No live streaming
  • Must retrieve SD card
Budget Pick
Mini Camera (Nanny Cam Setup)

Blink

Mini Camera (Nanny Cam Setup)

4.4 (56,789 reviews)

When you want monitoring that's visible—some parents prefer caregivers knowing they're watched.

Resolution

1080p

Audio

Two-way

Storage

Cloud or USB

Size

2 x 2 inches

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Small and subtle
  • Alexa integration

Cons

  • Not hidden—obvious camera
  • Subscription for history
  • Basic features
USB Charger Hidden Camera

TECHNOVIEW

USB Charger Hidden Camera

4.1 (3,456 reviews)

Plugs into any outlet and actually works as a charger. The most covert option—but place it where you need coverage.

Resolution

720p

Storage

SD + cloud

Disguise

USB wall charger

Detection

Motion activated

Pros

  • Completely covert
  • Actually charges devices
  • Motion detection

Cons

  • 720p quality
  • Small viewing angle
  • Needs outlet placement
Premium Pick
Pro Smart Baby Monitor

Nanit

Pro Smart Baby Monitor

4.6 (12,345 reviews)

When baby monitoring becomes data science. Tracks sleep patterns, integrates with breathing sensors, gives actual insights.

Resolution

1080p

Features

Sleep tracking, breathing wear

Audio

Two-way + background

Mount

Wall/stand

Pros

  • Sleep tracking analytics
  • Breathing wear integration
  • Split-screen two babies

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Subscription for full features
  • Complex setup

Buying Guide: How to Choose Nanny Cams

Nanny Cams: Trust, But Verify

Hiring someone to care for your kids is an act of faith. Cameras don't mean you don't trust—they mean you're a responsible parent.

Hidden vs. Obvious
Hidden cameras:
  • Caregiver doesn't modify behavior (true baseline)
    - Can feel deceptive if discovered
    - Check local laws on recording consent

    Obvious cameras:
    - Deterrent effect—bad behavior less likely
    - More ethical/transparent
    - Caregiver may resent being "watched"

    ### Legal Considerations
    - Video: Generally legal in your own home
    - Audio: Many states require one-party or all-party consent
    - Notice: Some states require disclosure to household employees
    - Check your state laws before recording

    ### What to Monitor For
    - Interaction quality with children
    - Following instructions (feeding, nap times)
    - Phone/TV usage during work hours
    - How they handle difficult moments
    - Visitors while you're away

    ### Hidden Camera Disguises
    - Alarm clocks (bedroom placement)
    - USB chargers (living room/kitchen outlets)
    - Smoke detectors (ceiling coverage)
    - Teddy bears (nursery)
    - Picture frames (anywhere)
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Nanny Cams

    Is it legal to use hidden nanny cams?

    Video-only recording in your own home is generally legal in all US states. Audio recording laws vary—many states require consent. The safest approach: tell caregivers they may be recorded without specifying where.

    Should I tell the nanny about cameras?

    Ethically and often legally, yes. Many families mention "security cameras throughout the home" without detailing locations. This maintains deterrent effect while being honest.

    What if I see something concerning?

    Document everything with dates and times. For minor issues, address directly. For abuse or neglect, contact authorities immediately and preserve footage. Don't wait.

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