The best…spy gadgets
TCO DVR Spy Camera, Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen, and more
TCO DVR Spy Camera
The lens on this mini video camera looks like a button when you hide the rest of the device behind the placket of a coat or suit jacket. Just slip the lens through a buttonhole and you’re ready to bring home 4 GB worth of clandestine footage or still photos.
$25, amazon.com
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
Source: Popular Mechanics
Armasight Spark CORE Night-Vision Monocular
There are cheaper night-vision gadgets, but this one “illuminates things with an eerie level of precision.” It’s great for tracking nocturnal animals.
$524, armasight.com
Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
Source: Wall Street Journal
SV-WRSD Wireless RF Signal Detector
This small radio-frequency detector lets you quickly sweep a room for audio transmitters or hidden cameras—a precaution that’s become more useful as “nanny cams” have proliferated.
$180, spyville.com
Source: Wall Street Journal
Esonic U2 Cellphone Recorder
This device makes recording a smartphone conversation simple—if you live in a state whose privacy laws allow it. Just plug the recorder into the headphone jack of any iPhone or Android and turn the recorder on.
$109, sears.com
Source: Gizmodo.com
Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen
Gerber’s new tactical pen will write upside down or in the rain, but “shows its true colors when danger strikes.” Made of machined steel, it can be a weapon of last resort and features a steel tip strong enough to break glass.
$62, gerbergear.com
Source: Gizmag.com
-
5 tax deductions to know if you are self-employed
The explainer You may be able to claim home office, health insurance and other tax deductions
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
-
5 trips where the journey is the best part
The Week Recommends Slow down and enjoy the ride
By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published
-
Crossword: February 19, 2025
The Week's daily crossword
By The Week Staff Published