Updated on Oct. 20, 2024
Security cameras bring peace of mind, but at a cost. The best fake security cameras are a sneaky way to protect your home and business on a budget.
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Most of us don’t have thousands (or even hundreds) to drop on the latest home security devices. The best fake security cameras (also referred to as dummy security cameras, simulated security cameras or faux security cameras) are designed to look like the real thing—sans the functionality. These decoys can act as a deterrent to would-be thieves, trespassers and loiterers at a fraction of the cost. Besides being low-maintenance and affordable, faux cameras are simple to install and don’t require apps or subscriptions to home security companies. Best yet, most are under $50, so they’re a budget-friendly solution to self-monitored home security systems. Although some more experienced thieves may be able to spot a fake, there are ways to increase your fake security camera’s effectiveness. Consider installing motion-detector lighting (one of our picks combines a motion detector with a fake camera), choosing machines with realistic-looking housing and adding warning decals to the device’s sides.
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When searching for the best fake security cameras, consider trusted brands. Tough and dependable, GE’s simulated security camera is ready for both indoor and outdoor use. This device offers a security presence, real or imagined, rain or shine. Its waterproof, rotating head replicates a high-tech, bullet-style security camera for an inexpensive price.
Because there’s no complicated wiring, it’s easy for someone of any DIY skill level to install and maintain.
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With this four pack of fake dome cameras scattered around your property, intruders may think twice before trespassing. It also comes with a convincing protection sticker that makes it appear like a professionally-installed system. Burglar-proof your home without dishing out dollars on pricey systems.
Place them near the front door, over the garage or in your office—the compact, lightweight design makes them a no-brainer to install almost anywhere. Choose between two different finishes (black or white) and scatter amongst real cameras to further heighten the hoax.
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They say the devil is in the details, which is certainly true with this solar-powered dummy security camera. The infrared LED lights blink in convincing intervals and the video cables coming out of the device effectively sell the semblance of vigilance. In short, this camera looks as real as it gets without actual functionality.
Because it is also compatible with two AA-batteries, it works even when the sky is cloudy.
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Not all fake surveillance cameras look like domes or tracking devices. This Power Gear decoy security camera cleverly mimics a doorbell camera, complete with a flashing LED light to seal the deal. Installed next to a door, it can make porch pirates think twice about snagging packages.
Pick up a few Ring security decals to boost the deception.
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Even the most experienced shoplifters and vandals feel like someone’s watching them when they eye the BNT Dummy Fake Security Camera. It’s a larger camera with authentic detailing on the lens and a red LED light, which comes on in the dark.
With over 6,000 positive ratings on Amazon, it tops out as their number one best seller in simulated surveillance cameras. The larger size and non-blinking red light gives the appearance of a pricey smart camera at the cost of a restaurant meal.
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Convenient and doesn’t need batteries to work? We’re in. This solar-powered decoy is bullet-shaped and comes with convincing signs to ward away eager burglars. Plus, the easy instructions (and included hardware) make installing these as simple as mounting a few screws.
Faux video cables add another layer of deception. Plus, unlike white plastic competitors, the camera’s silver plastic parts look like metal from only a few feet away, heightening the illusion.
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There’s nothing like a startling flash of light to send a prowler packing. Handy Brite’s motion sensor fake camera can detect motion at night. A built-in motion sensor activates eight ultra bright LED lights as soon as it detects movement up to 25-feet away.
Because the lithium-ion battery is solar-powered, there’s no need to worry about dead batteries. Additionally, the peel-and-stick setup means homeowners can set it up in just minutes—no screws or hardware required.
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Apart from deterring unwanted visitors, the TorchStar LED faux security camera light also operates as a motion-detector light. Upon recognizing movement, it illuminates the driveway, backyard or porch. It senses motion from up to 33 feet away, flipping on and staying lit for as long as 30 seconds. Boasting 155-lumens, this bright light mimics big-brand security systems like ADT, without the cost of a subscription.
Because it’s weatherproof and rated to operate even in sub-freezing temperatures, it’s well worth the price tag.
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The Swann simulated CCTV camera takes the top spot as the best fake security camera that imitates a modern bullet camera. Built to appear just like a Ring or Google Nest camera—but boasting zero security subscription fees—it’s the perfect inexpensive deterrent.
Cleverly, Swann offers real security systems, so thieves won’t know the difference between this camera and a similar, working model. Not only does it have a one-year warranty, but it also works both indoors and outdoors thanks to the weatherproof casing.
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What’s better than one fake camera? Four fake cameras! Apart from looking real enough to fake your neighbors, this outdoor fake security camera system offers safety in numbers. When more cameras are present, thieves are less likely to risk a break-in or steal porch packages. Four security camera warning decals come with the kit to deter would-be intruders.
Similarly, included is a foot-long faux video cable that enhances the realism factor. It’s totally optional, so feel free to skip it if you’re going for a wireless security system look.
When it comes to choosing a fake security camera, there are a variety of factors to consider before your purchase. You’ll have to decide where you plan to put the fake camera, your budget and your style, shape and color preference. To ensure your device looks as real as possible, check for the following:
Similarly to working security cameras, the faux options also come in a variety of styles and shapes. Here are the types you can expect to see on the market:
As an experienced product reviewer and DIY expert, I’ve covered everything from pests to pool cabanas to painting.
Emily Way is an associate shopping editor for Family Handyman with experience researching products and recommending the best designs to consumers. She researched and updated this piece. Way consulted James Banta, Chief Safety Officer at SecurityNerd.com, on what makes a quality security camera.
As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. While fake security cameras don’t offer the same protection as real security cameras, finding the right model is still our top priority. It’s important to select a product that looks and performs as expected for would-be intruders.
To begin, we found the most popular picks on Amazon, Walmart and Lowes. Then, we researched the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we did the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interacted with the product, and if it stood up to the test.
Banta says substituting impostors for real cameras can deter thieves who are looking for the quickest score, but may not work on a veteran.
“An ordinary opportunist will be more cautious seeing a camera mounted on a structure and will generally go to a place with less security to do ill deeds,” he says. “A more seasoned burglar will notice it is not a real camera and will break into the structure.”
For apartments and other rental properties where installing a real camera isn’t an option, it’s a great backstop to have against baddies. We suggest pairing a fleet of fake security cameras with at least one real, working motion detector camera to ensure thieves stay away.
Since decoy security cameras only need enough power to run a blinking LED light, batteries will usually last around six months. In cold weather, battery life may be shorter. Check on your faux camera more frequently in the winter.
Some cameras are solar-powered, so there’s no need to swap out batteries in the winter. In addition, a few of the finds above use a combination of lithium-ion batteries, AA batteries and mini solar panels to ensure outages don’t affect the performance.
