Paranormal investigation equipment advice: trust a mix of tools, question the results, and always respect the spirits, writes EMMA SAUNDERS of Ghostly Gatherings
When it comes to tools in paranormal investigations, I’ve tried just about everything. EMF meters, REM pods, cat balls, spirit boxes, Ouija boards, hexcoms, human pendulums — you name it, I’ve used it.
But honestly, I’m quite picky about what I think actually helps and what’s just noise.
Paranormal Investigation Equipment I trust
Let’s start with the devices I do trust. EMF meters and cat balls have been pretty reliable for me. They respond to questions during sessions and often seem to pick up on things we can’t see or hear.
REM pods are another I’ve found useful, especially in spots where the energy feels heavy or there’s known activity.
For example, at places like Buckingham Gaol or The Mallard, these have lit up or reacted consistently in response to what we’re asking or experiencing.
Spirit boxes and Ouija boards are a bit more hit and miss.
Spirit boxes can be useful, but they’re often full of static and noise that you need to filter through carefully.
Ouija boards. They’re powerful if everyone in the group is serious and respectful, and as such are my favourite piece of equipment. But I hate it when people fake the planchette moving or push it aggressively. It kills any chance of real communication and makes a mockery of the process.
I’ve had to tell people off for pushing the planchette, and I don’t hold back.
Why I Don’t Like SLS Cameras As Paranormal Investigation Equipment
Now, I have to be honest about SLS cameras — I don’t like them at all.
I’ve taken a scientific course on ghost hunting and learned how SLS cameras work. They use millions of LED lights to measure distances and create shapes, which means the ‘figures’ they show are often just reflections or shadows, not spirits.
I saw this happen once at The Cromwell Hotel. Everyone was convinced they saw a spirit on the camera, but it was actually just a backpack I’d left on the table. I walked over and picked it up, and the image disappeared.
That’s why I don’t trust SLS cameras much — they can give false positives.
That said, every tool has its place.
For example, at Sejunhoe, we got a perfect alignment — an image on the SLS camera, a REM bear going off, a cat ball activating, and rustling nearby. When all those things happen at once, you can’t just dismiss it.
Human pendulums can work too, but they’re hit and miss.
You ask yes/no questions and see if the pendulum moves one way or the other. Sometimes it responds well, other times it’s just wobbly nonsense.
In the end, no device is foolproof.
The key is using a combination and reading the whole picture — not relying on just one gadget.
You’ve got to be careful, sceptical, but open-minded.
And always, respect the spirits and the space you’re in. No amount of gadgets will replace that.
What did you think of this article about paranormal investigation equipment? Share your thoughts or tools of choice in the comments!
