The Mini Pen Digital Camera Recorder (Things You Never Knew Existed, $139.98) looks just like a normal pen, but is actually a mini high resolution digital camcorder that fits right in your shirt pocket. The camera is activated the same way as a normal pen would retract, so no one would be the wiser to your covert documentation. Also, the pen actually works, so your cover will never be blown!

This color CMOS pinhole camera has a 352×288 resolution that films AVI quality video and stores to its built-in 4GB memory. The pen unscrews so you can plug it right into the USB port of your computer to view your video and/or charge the battery (adapter also included). There’s no setup required, just plug it in and go, which makes it incredibly easy for you technologically impaired folks out there.

The camera records until the memory is full, which is approx 12 hours, and the Li-ion battery last about 3 hours. The device automatically saves its contents before the battery dies, which is pretty awesome because you don’t want to secretly recording the scandal of the century, only to have your battery die on the cusp of the pivotal scene and have nothing to show for it.

All in all, a pretty cool little camcorder, although the price can be a little steep for those just looking for a cool new toy. For those serious James Bond wannabes out there, this might just be the perfect contraption to jump start your spy career.

3 out of 5 stars.

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