When you first heard about trail cams, chances are you instinctively knew that you wanted one. The best trail cameras are versatile devices that you can use for multiple activities – from checking on your dogs while you are away to hunting camera stealth cam and carrying out wildlife camera and research.
There are many trail camera models available, and each model has unique specifications and features. In this buying guide, we will be discussing the technicalities surrounding trail cameras, their uses, and things you should consider before buying. There are many trail camera reviews out there, but we give you a clear and concise compilation of the best trail cameras available on the market. We researched for you!
Keep reading this article to learn more about the best trail cameras on the market!
The Best Trail Camera Reviews Are:
Reconyx Hyperfire 2 HF2X Covert IR Camera – Best Trail Camera Overall
The Reconyx Hyperfire 2 is a covert scouting trail camera that offers several high-end features to the hunter, professional photographer, and wildlife biologist. This trail camera’s features include the following:
- A trigger speed of 0.25 seconds
- 150-foot flash distance
- Range between 80 and 100 feet
- Five-year manufacturer warranty
- Dimensions of 4.5″ x 5.5″ x 2.5″
- 720p High Definition video recording capability
This versatile, high-performing trail camera has everything you need, including a quick trigger speed of 0.25 seconds and a detection range or detection zone of up to 100 feet. The images that this camera produces have high resolutions, and it can record 720p HD video clips that are 10 second long.
The Reconyx Hyperfire 2 HF2X Covert IR Camera is suitable for users with any technical skill level and any application. This camera is also one of the user-friendliest models in this list.
One issue with this Reconyx Hyperfire is that it only captures short video clips, and only at 720p HD instead of 1080p HD.
Pros
- Red Glow Infrared flash with invisible LED’s
- The battery life lasts up to two years
- Quick trigger speed and long detection range
- High-quality images
- Variable ISO settings for photographers
Cons
- Video clips may be too short
The Reconyx Hyperfire 2 is an excellent addition to the hunter and wildlife photographer’s gear with its high-resolution image capturing and covert red glow infrared flash.
Browning Strike Force HD – Best Trail Camera for the Money
The Browning Strike Force HD camera offers incredible value for money with its array of high-end features and benefits. This model’s features include the following:
- 10-megapixel camera
- Glow Infrared flash with LED illumination
- 1280 x 720p HD video
- 100-foot flash distance
- 0.067-second trigger speed
- Zero Blur Technology with password protection
The Strike Force HD is a camera from Browning Trail Cameras, one of the leading trail camera browning brands in the market. This camera has a high image and video resolution, a fast trigger speed, and a compact, lightweight design.
The Strike Force HD also features several shooting modes, and it has a relatively low power requirement, which reduces the load on the camera’s batteries. Another standout feature of this camera is that you can program it for 6 or 8 shot bursts, remote triggering, motion triggering, or 2 minutes of HD video capturing at a time.
The sound quality of the Strike Force HD’s videos is not preferred, but the camera performs exceptionally well in all other aspects.
Pros
- Quick trigger speed
- Multiple programmable capture modes
- High image resolution
- Runs on fewer batteries than similar models
- Zero Blur technology allows for clearly defined images
- Long 100-foot flash distance
- Easy to set up and use
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- The sound quality of the video is not professional grade
- Trigger speed may not be ideal for home security cameras
The Browning Strike Force HD is a versatile, affordable, and high-performing trail camera stealth cam that offers exceptional value for money. Check out other great Browning models here.
Cuddeback 20MP – Best Trail Camera for Hunting
The 20-megapixel trail game camera from Cuddeback is a viable option for tracking game during your hunting camera trips. It is one of the best game cameras on the market. The Cuddeback 20MP’s features include:
- A 0.25-second trigger speed
- Low-light CMOS image pir sensor
- 20-megapixel camera
- Zone control
- 100-foot flash route
- 1-second speed
A prominent feature of the Cuddeback 20MP trail cams is its fast 0.25-second speed, which is the same as the trigger speed of our top pick. The Cuddeback also has a quick recovery speed to increase the possibility of multiple shots within a short time lapse frame.
The images are captured at 20 megapixels with a built-in low-light CMOS image sensor to reduce blur and to maintain image quality when zooming. The image sensor also reduces IR motion blur.
The camera also features multiple-zone controls, including a wide view that works best for open fields and centered view that works best for trails. This is a good brand of trail cameras, and we cover other Cuddeback models here.
One minor drawback of this camera is that setting it up can be a complicated process. The camera is also not compatible with the newer class 10 memory cards, which can be a hassle.
Pros
- Quick 0.25 trigger speed
- Fast recovery speed after capturing an image
- High-quality imagery with CMOS image sensor
- Long 100-foot flash route
- Ample zone control functionality
Cons
- User-friendliness can be improved
- The camera is not compatible with new class 10 memory cards
If you want a camera that produces high-quality images and that has a quick trigger and recovery time, consider the Cuddeback 20MP.
Amcrest ATC-1201 12 MP
At the lower end of the price range but the high end of the quality spectrum is the trail game camera from Amcrest. This camera’s features include the following:
- 12-megapixel camera
- 1080p HD video record capabilities
- Night time vision capturing with 36 glow infrared LEDs
- Glow Infrared triggers for fast-action image capturing or video record capabilities
- 2-inch LCD
- Battery or DC powered
- Night Vision
The trail camera moultrie from Amcrest features several high-performance specifications. The most prominent feature is the 12-megapixel camera that can record 1920 x 1080p HD video. This feature allows you to display video footage on a large-screen television without compromising image quality.
The camera features automatic motion sensing that has a detection range of up to 65 feet, even at night time or night vision. This range is particularly useful for hunters and professional photographers.
The camera has IR triggers that allow for a trigger speed of 0.7 seconds. The battery’s standby time lapse is also relatively long, and it can last up to three months on a single charge. The camera is compatible with both 8 GB and 32 GB memory cards.
While the 2-inch LCD is quite small, it is sufficient to help you orientate the camera and achieve the most desirable capturing position. Many consider the Amcrest to be one of the best game cameras to buy.
Pros
- A quick trigger speed of 0.7 seconds
- Long battery life
- A detection range of up to 65 feet
- 1080p HD video record capability
Cons
- The 2-inch screen may be too small
The Amcrest camera produces high-resolution footage and images. The other features, like the trigger speed, also makes it a suitable camera for multiple applications.
Bushnell 8MP Trophy Cam
The 8MP Trophy Cam from Bushnell is the trail camera for hunters and photographers who need full-color HD video and multiple images per trigger. The 8MP Trophy Cam’ features include:
- An 8-megapixel camera
- Up to three images per trigger
- 1280 x 720p HD video record capability
- Video clip recording up to one minute
- Simultaneous video record capability and image capturing
Off the bat, it is clear that this trail camera moultrie has several high-end features. The camera can record HD videos with a length of up to one minute while taking pictures when triggered. The specifications of this camera allow for ample versatility, and you can use for hunting, animal detection angle or detection zone, and home security.
The images that this camera captures are not only detailed, but they also printed with the date, the time, the current moon phase. You can also see the temperature and geotagging information on the images, which makes the camera a valuable tool for research.
The interface is somewhat complicated and is best suited to experienced users. Additionally, the camera may not be compatible with all SD cards.
Pros
- High-quality and durable camera
- Simultaneous video and image capturing
- Images are information-rich
- The unit is completely weatherproof
- Flash range of up to 80 feet
- Adjustable web belt included
Cons
- Complicated interface for some people
- The camera is not compatible with all SD cards
The Bushnell 8MP Trophy Cam is a versatile trail cams and suitable for multiple outdoor and indoor settings.
Moultrie M-990i
The Moultrie Gen 2 M-990i provides picture quality photos and clarity and several high-end features to make your life as a hunter or photographer easier. The features of the Moultrie M-990i include:
- A 10-megapixel camera
- A trigger speed of less than one second
- A detection range of 50 ft
- A flash range of 70 feet
- Invisible flash technology
- 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio
- Rugged case for added protection
The Moultrie M990i is an affordable trail camera with a 10-megapixel camera and a trigger speed of less than one second. The camera also features 940NM IR flash technology that is entirely invisible to give you a clear image without the animal, even knowing that the camera is there.
This trail camera has an average motion detection range of 50 ft and a bright flash range that extends 70 feet. The camera’s durable and camouflaged casing protects the sensitive components like the lens and the IR filter from the harsh elements and any abrasions that the camera may encounter.
Minor drawbacks of this camera are that may switch to night mode or night vision when there is still enough light, which can result in overexposed images. Additionally, the latching system of the front cover is flimsy.
Pros
- Invisible infrared trail flash technology
- Wide aspect ratio
- Durable case protects components like the lens and IR filter
- The 10-megapixel camera captures high-quality images
Cons
- The front cover’s latching system can be improved
- The camera may switch too early to night mode or night vision
The Moultrie M990i is a durable and reliable addition to any hunter or photographer’s gear. If you value reliability and bright imagery, this may be the trail camera for you. Check out our roundup of Moultrie trail cameras.
Stealth Cam 8MP 30IR
The Stealth Cam 8MP 30IR is a compact trail camera and ideal for tracking game during hunting camera expeditions. Of the game camera reviews, the Stealth Cam 8MP 30IR is a viable option. This dependable trail camera’s features include the following:
- 8-megapixel camera
- A built-in 2.5-inch LCD screen
- 1280 x 720p HD video record capability capability
- Compatible with up to 32 GB SD card storage
- 30 x IR emitters with an 80-foot flash range
- Programmable menu backlight
- Hunting Cameras
- Manual shot capability
The Stealth Cam 8MP with its 30 infrared transmitters can take one picture quality every 5 to 10 seconds to provide you with thorough coverage of movements in the area throughout the day or night.
The camera works exceptionally well for hunting, as the camera gives you a real-time analysis of the location utilizing a collection of pictures. The 2.5-inch LCD screen is big enough to provide you with enough information so you can make on-site changes to the camera’s positioning.
If you use the camera with Gamefinder software, you can quickly scroll through the images to give it the appearance of a GIF image, which takes up less space than a video.
One issue with the Stealth Cam is that you have to spend some time to figure out how the custom settings work. Other than that, this camera is easy to use, and it performs well.
Pros
- Compact, reliable trail camera
- Ideal for hunters
- Produces a collection of photos with quick scrolling
- LCD screen for making on-site changes
Cons
- Changing custom settings can be difficult
The Stealth Cam 8MP 30IR is a user-friendly and reliable camera for picking up movements in the hunting field.
Browning Trail Camera Dark Ops
The Browning Trail Camera Dark Ops is a camera that blends in well with the typical outdoor environment, and it produces high-quality images and video. This trail camera’s features include the following:
- A 10-megapixel camera
- A trigger time of 0.67 seconds
- HD video clips from 5 seconds to 2 minutes
- A flash range of 70 feet
- Browning Buck Watch Time-lapse mode viewer software
- Invisible infrared flash
- Compact camo case
The Browning Trail Camera Dark Ops is perfect for outdoor scouting and hunting with its 10-megapixel camera that captures high-quality images and videos. The camera has a relatively short trigger time of 0.67 seconds, and it has a flash range of up to 70 feet for improved animal detection.
The camera uses six AA batteries that will provide power to the camera for up to a year, and it is compatible with a 32 GB SD cards. The unit is not only compact but at one pound, it also has a lightweight.
One problem with this camera is that proper alignment can be a challenge, and the quality of the hinge that covers the settings panel are lacking.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight trail camera
- The 10-megapixel camera captures high-quality images and videos
- Viewer software allows for easy area analysis
- Invisible infrared flash doesn’t scare animals away
Cons
- Proper alignment can be difficult
- Casing hinge quality is poor
The Browning Trail Camera offers incredible image clarity, a long AA batteries life, and a long flash range. This camera is ideal for any outdoor application.
Covert MP8 Trail Camera
The Covert MP8 Trail Camera is at the low end of the spectrum, both in terms of features and price. However, it offers value for money and is worth considering if you want value for money.
- Mossy oak break-up country style
- Dimensions: 5” x 3.8” x 3”
- Durable casing and camera components
- 8-megapixel camera
- Up to 12 months of AA batteries life
One of the best features of this camera is its extended AA batteries life and its power saving features. The camera also delivers incredible image clarity, despite the megapixels. The 28 infrared LEDs provides sufficient detail for imaged captured in the dark, and the camera automatically adds information like the time, date, temperature, and moon phase to the photos.
The Covert MP8 also has reliable motion activated detection, and you can monitor movements in an area sufficiently.
Pros
- 28 Infrared LED’s enhances the quality of photos and videos
- Excellent image clarity at night vision for night photos
- High-definition video record capability includes audio
- The color viewer is big and easy to read
- Red Glow
- High-end battery saving features
Cons
- Short flash range
- The camera doesn’t work well with generic AA batteries
At this low price point, the Covert provides excellent value for money. The flash range may be short, but the image and video quality are sufficient.
Moultrie Game Spy A-5 Gen 2
The Moultrie Game Spy A-5 has a relatively low price and is a suitable budget cellular trail camera for hunters. Among the game camera reviews, the Moultrie is an excellent option for beginners or people on a budget. The camera’s features include the following:
- 1.5-second trigger speed
- A 5-megapixel camera
- A flash length of 50 feet
- A range of 40 feet
Despite its low resolution, this trail camera from Moultrie captures images of decent quality. The camera has a fixed flash distance of 50 feet and a range of 40 feet. While these ranges are relatively short, the consistency allows you to set up the camera without having to worry about finer details.
The infrared allows for sufficient image detail at night, and the camera has a multi-shot mode to provide unparalleled functionality for this price point. The camera captures videos at a resolution of 640 x 480p. The video resolution may be low, but it is understandable when you take the price into account.
There is no getting around the fact that the 5-megapixel camera is outdated and too weak for most outdoor applications. This camera is ideal for people who have a unique use for the camera but don’t have a generous budget.
Pros
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Long AA batteries life
- Durable and reliable camera
- Camera from a reputable brand
Cons
- 5-megapixel is too weak for most applications
- The camera is bulky and heavy
- Limited configuration options
Despite its outdated features, the Moultrie Game Spy A-5 Gen 2 has its rightful place in the market, mainly because of its durability, long AA batteries life, and low price tag.
Moultrie PANORAMIC 150
The Moultrie PANORAMIC 150 is a game trail camera with a mid-range price point, and features that make it one of the best game cameras in this category. This camera’s features include:
- An 8-megapixel camera
- Three motions sensors
- 150-degree field of view
- HD video capture throughout the day and night
The Moultrie PANORAMIC 150 derives its name from the wide 150-degree field of view and three motion sensors to pick up the smallest movement in the area. This camera also provides the user with an array of features that include system customization, time-lapse, and video and image options.
One issue with this camera is that it is on the heavy side and difficult to position in overhead locations. For a camera of the caliber, it is also surprising that it doesn’t record videos at a resolution of 1080p HD.
Pros
- Full 150-degree panoramic view
- Three motion sensors
- Motion delay settings to extend AA batteries life
- Highly configurable camera to meet your needs
Cons
- The camera is heavy
- Limited to 720p HD video record capability
The Moultrie PANORAMIC 150 is ideal for capturing images and recording video in wide open fields.
Browning Trail Camera Spec Ops XR
The Browning Trail Camera Spec Ops XR offers excellent value for money to hunters, photographers, and other professionals like wildlife researchers. This camera’s features include:
- A 20-megapixel camera
- A 0.4 – 0.7 adjustable trigger speed
- Video record capability resolution of 1920 x 1080p HD
- A range that is adjustable up to 80 feet
- A flash length up to 70 feet
The Browning Trail Camera Spec Ops XR is the trail camera for professionals with its trigger speed that you can adjust between 0.4 and 0.7 seconds.
The camera can also record 2-minute HD clips with audio. You can also make on-site camera adjustments by using the 2-inch color screen. The screen is also great for playing back videos and finding out what recently happened in the area.
Pros
- 20-megapixel camera record high-resolution images and videos
- Adjustable trigger speed and range
- HD video clips have audio
- Suitable for professional hunters and photographers
Cons
- High price tag
The Browning Trail Camera Spec Ops XR is one of the high-end trail cameras on the market. If you have a generous budget, this model is worth considering.
Buying Guide
The buying guide below can help you make an informed buying decision. In this guide, we will be taking an in-depth look at trail cameras, how they work, and crucial buying considerations that you should keep in mind when shopping for one.
What is a Trail Camera?
A trail camera is a camera specifically designed for an outdoor setup. To function in a permanent outdoor location, a trail camera has to be waterproof and able to withstand abrasion. A trail camera also has to be securely mountable to record an area without being moved by the wind, animals, or moving branches.
There are several uses for trail cameras. People use these types of camera primarily for hunting and wildlife camera for photography, but you can also one for home or campsite security.
Most trail cameras can gather images at a range of around 50 feet. Some higher-end models can have an effective range extend as far as 100 feet, however.
Moultrie, Cuddeback, and Browning are the most popular brands. Followed by Wildgame Innovations and Primos.
Different Types of Trail Camera
There are many types of trail cameras, each with different features and specifications like focusing on abilities, sharpness, and motion detection.
Below is a list of the most common trail camera types.
Infrared Camera
Infrared camera are ideal for capturing images at night. If you want 24-hour surveillance of a specific area in the wild, consider this types of camera. Modern infrared cameras not only capture pictures after the sun sets, but also typically have high resolutions to capture night images with sufficient clarity.
Since infrared cameras are helpful for things like species identification, researchers typically prefer this type of trail camera.
Most infrared models are easy to install, they can withstand harsh elements like rain and the sun’s heat, and they are tamper-proof.
Because infrared cameras have high-end features, they are generally not the most affordable. Infrared cameras may also not reach their full potential around reflective surfaces, mainly because of the LED lights mounted on them.
Flash Camera
A flash trail camera automatically switches to flash mode when it gets dark to take clear night shots. During the day, the flash mode switches off, and the unit will capture images using the available light.
Like most other trail cameras, flash cameras are easy to install, portable, and available in a wide selection of resolutions and physical sizes. Generally speaking, a flash camera’s image quality is high, and they offer better zoom capabilities than any other type of trail camera.
Drawbacks of this type of camera are that the flash is bright, which can scare off animals. The flash camera also makes a shutter sound when the flash is triggered.
Security Camera
Security trail cameras are specifically designed to record an area in your absence. The objective of this type of camera is to provide you with evidence of wrongdoing at your campsite or premises and to serve as a deterrent to potential intruders.
Security trail cameras are reliable and tamper-proof, and you can set them up temporarily in a fixed position. Because of their characteristics, surveillance cameras are widely used as trail cameras to capture wildlife.
Cellular Camera
Cellular trail cameras transmit the images they record to your phone via an internet connection. Like a cell phone, this type of camera needs a SIM to work, and most of them work on GSM networks.
Modern cellular wireless trail cameras feature motion sensor technology, and they will start capturing and submitting images when it picks up movement. Many hunters and wildlife photographers prefer mobile cameras because they easy to set up and install, and they generally affordable.
Wireless Wi-Fi Camera
Wireless cameras transmit images via a wireless network with built-in transmitters. To receive images from this camera, you have to connect to the camera’s network. Like cellular cameras, wireless Wi-Fi cameras are easy to install, and they are ideal for indoor and semi-outdoor applications. View our best wireless trail camera picks here.
Buying Considerations
Trail cameras are technical products, and by keeping the considerations below in mind, you will be able to select a model that is suitable for your unique requirements.
Detection Circuit
Detection circuit refers to the range in which a trail camera can detect movement and the camera’s trigger speed. The range is measured in feet, and the trigger speed is measured in seconds.
The range is a crucial consideration when you are shopping for a wireless trail camera. Hunters require a long ranges, and will often select a trail camera that can detect movement at around 100 feet. The advertised range may be longer than the actual range, however. In some cases, the trail camera can manage only 60% of the spectrum it claims to reach.
Field of view is another crucial consideration when selecting a wireless trail camera. Field of view refers to the width of the angles at which the camera can detect movement. As a rule, the wider the field of view, the longer the action will be in range.
Trigger speed is significant as it determines the time it takes for the camera to detect movement and capture an image. The faster the trigger speed, the more likely the camera will capture the animal as it moves through the field of view.
For capturing quick-moving animals, you need a trigger speed of around 0.14 seconds. If the trigger speed is longer than one second, it may be too slow to capture a decent image. Also, the recovery time the camera takes to get ready for the next capture can be as long as five seconds at low trigger speeds.
Cellular cameras typically have long recovery times because they have to transmit and store the image before it can get ready to capture the next picture.
Video or Images?
Megapixels (MP) is the measurement of image quality. Wireless Trail cameras typically have an image resolution between 5 MP and 7 MP. If you need a trail camera for hunting, a resolution in this image range will be sufficient.
If you need a wireless trail camera for wildlife photography, for example, you need a model that can capture images at a high resolution of 12 MP to 20 MP.
Most trail cameras have a video feature as well. There are many different video capturing features available. Video lengths typically range from 3 to 300 seconds. Some cameras only record videos in black and white while high-end models record videos in high-definition.
You also have different audio options. Some cameras record sounds while others mute sounds. Your video capturing requirements depend on your unique situation. If you are producing a wildlife documentary and have a generous budget, you may need a wireless trail camera with High Definition video capture.
On the other hand, if you want to detect the presence of wildlife in a specific area for a hunt, you may only need image capturing.
Durability
Durability is an essential consideration for any camera. When it comes to trail cameras for outdoor use, however, durability is non-negotiable. You want your trail camera to withstand inclement weather, knocks, and direct sunlight.
Some curious animals may recognize your camera as a foreign object and start prodding it. If you have a flashing camera with a shutter sound, some animals may try to destroy it.
Most trail cameras have protective, waterproof casings to protect the more delicate components. The best way to determine whether a camera is durable and sufficiently protected by outer layers is to do research and read the product specifications.
If you need a trail camera to monitor an indoor area, or if a permanent structure sufficiently protects the trail camera, the durability component may not be as necessary. You can instead focus on features like image quality or battery life.
Flash Technology
There are, in essence, two types of flash technology for trail cameras, namely LED or infrared. The kind of flash you choose is significant as a flash can affect the camera’s immediate environment.
An LED flash consists of a white, bright light to produce vivid and color images, even in pitch black darkness. The drawback of this type of illumination is that it can scare away animals. A flash can also blind you for a few seconds if you look directly at it.
If you use this camera in a developed area, the LED flash can be disturbing to people nearby, especially if motion triggers the flash.
Many hunters and wildlife researchers prefer the infrared flash that is invisible save for a red light on the camera. This type of camera has no adverse effect on animals in the area, and you are more likely to achieve a successful hunt with this flash.
Storage Capacity
Since you don’t want to end up with a full memory card halfway through your hunting or camping trip, consider your storage requirements carefully. Almost all modern trail cameras are compatible with 32 GB SD cards, which is sufficient for most applications.
If your trail camera captures videos or if it takes multiple shots with one snap, you may need a higher storage capacity. While it is possible to delete unnecessary images or footage from the card, you may not be able to sift through the content and select the ones you don’t need.
To be on the safe side, try to select a camera that can accommodate a large memory card, and consider your usage carefully.
Battery Life
You may want your trail camera to capture images for an ongoing duration of hours or even days. Long-term surveillance requires sufficient battery life. Most trail cameras have a battery life that can last as long as a year.
There are some things you can do to enhance your trail camera’s battery life. The first is to opt for an infrared flash instead of a LED one. An LED flash tends to consume a lot of battery power to produce a bright light.
Cellular cameras typically have a shorter battery life than other types of trail cameras. If you need a camera for long-term surveillance, a mobile model may not be the most suitable option.
Some cameras feature a built-in solar panel to take some of the load off the battery. You can also add a separate solar panel, but you may have difficulty keeping the panel obscured from plain view.
Accessibility is a crucial consideration when it comes to the battery of your trail camera. If the trail camera is mounted in or around your home, short battery life may not be a problem. However, if you have to hike a few miles into the wilderness to get to your camera, you need a reliable battery with long battery life and sufficient storage capacity.
Viewing Options
Some trail cameras feature a view screening that displays images from the storage or a live feed from the lens. A viewing screen is helpful for several reasons. If your SD card ran out of storage space, you can view and delete content there and then without plugging the card into your computer.
A viewing screen can also help you set up the camera in the most desirable position. If you don’t have a viewing screen, judging the lens height and field of view and be challenging.
High-end viewing options include HD compatibility and an LCD screen. While these extras can be particularly valuable, they tend to add quite a bit to the camera’s price tag. These electronics may also be sensitive to outdoor elements and abrasions, and you will likely need additional protection for your screen.
A large screen can add to the dimensions of your camera and affect things like portability, weight, and the ability to hide the camera. On the other hand, you don’t want a viewing screen that is too small, as you will impair your ability to view the footage.
Additional Accessories
Trail camera models have different extras available. You may also have to buy accessories separately to optimize the value you derive from your trail camera. These accessories include things like security boxes or anti-theft cables to prevent someone from stealing your camera.
Some trail cameras may also require additional equipment for installation or secure mounting. Your trail camera’s existing mounts may not be compatible with the structure you have available, or you may be facing high winds that can blow the camera out of a tree.
A handy add-on is a solar panel that powers the camera directly, which is helpful if the camera is monitoring an area for several days. There are some issues with solar panels, however. Even small ones are difficult to blend in with the environment, especially since they have to be fully exposed to sunlight.
A solar panel also affects the portability of your trail camera gear. A built-in solar panel can add to the bulkiness of the camera and increase its weight significantly.
Price
The price of a trail cameras ranges from as little as $60 to as much as $10,000. Establishing a budget for a trail camera can be a challenging task. Before you can decide how much you want to spend on your new trail camera, you have to be honest to yourself about your requirements.
If you are new to the world of trail cameras, you may not need all the features that a trail camera can offer, and a low-cost unit would be enough to meet your needs. Check out our post on budget trail cameras.
If trail cameras have always interested you, and you have enough money to take the plunge, consider a higher-end model with more features.
Additionally, you should be practical about your needs. If you want to monitor an area with a size of 676 square feet, you don’t have to pay more for a model with a 100-foot range.
Trail Camera Reviews Final Thoughts
We have come to the end of the best trail cameras reviews.
When selecting a trail camera for general outdoor image and video capturing, you will want a model with a high range, a quick trigger response, and high-quality imagery – even in dark or poor weather conditions.
The Reconyx Hyperfire 2 HF2X Covert IR Camera meets all these requirements with its trigger speed of 0.25 seconds, 150-foot flash range, detection range between 80 and 100 feet, and 720p High Definition video recording capability.
If value for money is what you are looking for, consider the Browning Strike Force HD with its 10-megapixel camera, infrared flash with LED illumination, and 100-foot.
