Using a Security Camera Through a Window: Tips and Considerations

Using a security camera through a window can be a convenient and discreet way to monitor the outside of your property without mounting the camera outside. However, there are specific challenges, especially when it comes to night vision and motion detection.

Update: February 2026.  The answer to the question “can I use a security camera through a window?” is now a resounding YES!

The Pakatak WindowCam is easy to set up, just peel and stick.  Up and running in seconds.  WiFi enabled so you can view live and receive motion alerts to your phone.  Record fantastic 3K video footage, in colour, day and night!

Hassle free installation, peel and stick in seconds. Change camera location easily.

Surveillance camera with built in infrared for night vision..

One major issue is with infrared (IR) night vision. Many security cameras use infrared LEDs to illuminate dark areas, but when used through glass, these IR lights reflect off the window, creating a bright glare that obscures the view. This makes it difficult or even impossible to see outside at night. For this reason, it’s best to choose a camera with good low-light capabilities if you require night vision. A camera with a high-quality sensor can capture clear images in low-light conditions without needing infrared, allowing you to see through the window effectively at night without reflective issues.

The Z82 is another surveillance camera capable of recording day or night through a window.

Motion activated recording through glass..

Another consideration is motion detection. Not all security cameras can detect movement accurately through glass. Always do your research and look for a camera that has been specifically manufactured for this purpose. Some cameras also use software-based motion detection, which might work through glass, but it’s best to test this feature as it may not be as sensitive as needed.

Some types of cameras, such as trail cameras, use heat sensors to trigger and start recording.  Through glass, these heat sensors would be all but redundant and so that rules out using a trail camera to monitor an area through a window.

Switch off the lights!

Finally, to avoid any unwanted reflections during recording, it’s essential to keep the indoor lights off in the room where the camera is set up. Reflections from indoor lighting can interfere with the camera’s view and reduce image quality. By managing lighting and selecting the right type of camera, you can effectively use a security camera through a window for reliable monitoring.

Why would I want to use an indoor security camera to monitor an area outside?

There are various dfferent reasons why this can be a simple surveillance option for some..

• No installation, no fixing a camera to a wall or running cables back inside your building to pick up power or carry the video signal etc.
• A camera inside a window can also be very covert if you did not want an obvious CCTV camera fixed outside.
• It could be that you want to put a camera inside your car to capture footage through a window of the vehicle, perhaps to capture footage of vandalism of the vehicle or around your property.
• Another is for flexibility of the camera location.  You can easily change the spot you have chosen for the camera without more installation and fixing work, just move it from one window ledge to another!

So it can be an ideal option in certain scenarios but it’s important to choose the right camera for the job!