While we no longer sell covert recording equipment directly, video mystery shopping remains one of the most in-demand—and best-paid—types of work in the industry.
Over the years, we’ve tested a wide range of covert recording devices, worked closely with experienced video shoppers, and reviewed thousands of submissions. That means we don’t just know what looks good on paper—we know what actually works in real-life visits.
Below, we’ve pulled together our top recommendations, along with honest insights into how each option performs in practice.
Covert Camera Glasses
If you’re looking for a natural, “see what you see” perspective, covert camera glasses are a fantastic place to start.
Because the camera sits at eye level, the footage feels intuitive and realistic—perfect for capturing the customer journey as it happens. They’re discreet, comfortable, and ideal for blending in, especially if you already wear glasses as part of your everyday look.
Best for:
Shoppers who want authentic point-of-view footage with minimal setup.
Things to note:
These devices typically record in shorter clips (around five minutes), so you’ll need to merge files before submission.
? If you have multiple clips that are under 30 minutes, you must merge the videos. If you would like Proinsight to do this for you, please email shopper@proinsight.org — we will deduct £5 from your mystery shop fee to cover time.
Covert Camera Pen
Simple, effective, and budget-friendly—the covert camera pen is a long-standing favourite.
It looks just like a standard pen but records high-quality video and audio. Clipped into a shirt or jacket pocket, it naturally captures what’s happening in front of you without needing constant adjustment.
Best for:
First-time video shoppers or as a reliable backup device.
Things to note:
Positioning matters—be mindful of clothing so the camera isn’t obstructed during your visit.
Covert Camera Smart Watch (Video & Audio)
For longer or more detailed assignments, smartwatch cameras offer a big advantage: continuous recording.
Instead of multiple short clips, you get one seamless video file—meaning less editing and faster submission. You can also discreetly check that recording is active, which adds an extra layer of confidence during your visit.
Best for:
Shoppers completing longer visits or anyone who wants a smoother, low-maintenance workflow.
Things to note:
This option tends to sit at the higher end of consumer-grade devices—but the convenience often makes it worthwhile.
LawMate PV-500 Neo Pro (Our Strongest Recommendation)
For those ready to take video mystery shopping seriously, the LawMate PV-500 Neo Pro is widely considered the gold standard.
This professional-grade system separates the recorder from the camera (often a button camera), delivering exceptional video stability, strong low-light performance, and crystal-clear audio. It’s trusted not just in mystery shopping, but in professional environments where reliability is critical.
While it is a bigger upfront investment, it consistently delivers the highest-quality results—and that can make a real difference.
Shoppers using LawMate equipment often find they are:
- Selected more frequently for video assignments
- Considered for higher-value and more sensitive projects
- Able to work across multiple mystery shopping providers
Is the Investment Worth It?
In most cases—yes.
Video mystery shops typically pay 50–100% more than non-video assignments covering the same journey. Many shoppers find they recoup the cost of their equipment quickly, sometimes within just a few jobs.
Higher-quality kit also means:
- Fewer rejected submissions
- Reduced risk of technical issues
- A smoother, more confident experience overall
Final Advice
No matter which equipment you choose, a few simple steps can make all the difference:
- Always test your video and audio at home before a live visit
- Carefully review your brief so you know exactly what needs to be captured
- Only use recording equipment for authorised mystery shopping assignments
Video mystery shopping can be incredibly rewarding—not just financially, but in the variety and quality of projects you’ll be invited to take part in. Choosing the right kit is your first step toward success.