8 Best Wildlife Trail Cameras

The market for cameras is now huge. In all photoshops and of course, online, you will now find a range of cameras that adapt to your individual needs. A special camera type is the game camera, which until a few years ago eked still a niche and was mainly used by hunters. The main areas of application of the game camera were, for example, wild crossings and so-called churning (lock feeding) in forest areas. Hunters still use these cameras many times today.

Nevertheless, private households have also joined the buyer group. Especially in times when the burglary numbers continue to increase and many residents want to know what is happening in front of and around their house, the game camera is now also very well received by this target group. Online you can find out about the numerous wildcat types in forums. So that you do not have to bother, we present for you the 9 best game cameras compared, explain the technical components and then give you many useful tips along the way, what you when buying a Wildlife must watch out.

1. EARTHTREE 12 MP 1080p Full HD Hunting Camera

High-resolution images pose no problem for wildlife cameras today. The EARTHTREE 14 MP, which shoots photos with up to 14 megapixels, also delivers high image quality. In addition, the model is able to record videos in 1080p Full HD. Thus, breathtaking moments of nature are supported by a very clear tone. In addition, the EARTHTREE is able to take pictures and sound recordings during the day and in the evening and at night. The model also has the latest infrared technology, which depicts the invisible flash. So if you want to take animal photos, the animals will not be scared while taking pictures. As soon as the night starts, the infrared flash activates automatically when shooting, Furthermore, the camera is able to record objects up to 20 meters away. Further technical specifications of the EARTHTREE:

• Trigger with 0.5 seconds
• Interval recording, time lapse, timer, password protection, time stamp, low battery alarm are functions that are integrated into the camera
• Housing of the camera is waterproof and dustproof
• Operating temperature is in the range of -20 to 60 degrees Celsius
• Use also in difficult situations with a lot of rain or thunderstorms
• Fully automatic infrared filter
• Camera supports SDHC cards up to 32GB
• Operation also possible in energy-saving mode

Note: that the memory card is not included. In addition to the camera, the delivery set includes a USB cable, mounting material and a user manual. Furthermore, you can leave the camera running for up to 6 months in standby mode.

2. ICUserver 3G – security camera

They have already read about wild game cameras developed specifically for hunters. The ICUserver 3G surveillance camera is also a model that is ideal for hunting and direct object surveillance with a 50-degree lens. When you buy the camera, it is ready to use. The special feature of this model: It can only be operated with the enclosed SIM card. Furthermore, the camera sends the photo to the phone with a response time of just 0.4 seconds within one minute. This is possible through the 3G network. The card works according to the manufacturer throughout Europe. Digitization is a top priority for the ICUserver model because the photos and video clips become sent directly to the APP for Android and iOS. These can be found with “ICUserver” in the respective app stores. Also in terms of security, the manufacturer has thought of his customers, because the images are encrypted on the Internet and password protected at login.icuserver.com available. Also, the included Memory card has room for 300 photos. Further technical details of the camera:

• Models with 50 degree lens (hunting camera) or 100 degree FOV lens (security camera)
• Image resolution adjustable in 5/8/12 megapixels
• 56 invisible infrared LEDs provide 15 meters night vision distance
• Clear and sharp images in daylight and at night
• adjustable PIR sensitivity, multi-trigger, adjustable pauses between the motion releases, time-lapse, timer
• built-in 2 inch color screen

The SIM card works throughout Europe and rates are valid for 12 months.

3. AlfaView Wildlife Camera 16MP 1080p HD

Hunting has a long tradition in many countries, which goes back far into history. Even today, the hunting industry is booming, which naturally also has a high interest in hunting accessories. These include wildlife cameras, especially the Distianert wildlife camera, which can take photos with a resolution of 16 megapixels and videos in 1080p HD. In addition, it is in no way inferior to other game camera models and has a time-lapse function, is capable of interval recording and has, among other things, a time stamp. Furthermore, the AlfaView has the latest no-glow 940mm black infrared LED (64 pcs), The LEDs were therefore installed in the camera by the manufacturer, so that hunters no longer have the problem that the camera is detected by animals or even by humans, especially in sensitive image areas. Further technical specifications of the camera:

• HD video recording from 1 to 60 seconds
• The camera has a trigger interval. You can take photos at a preset interval
• Storage medium: Micro SD card (up to 32 GB)
• Operated by 8 batteries

For different purposes of use, the camera can be placed in strategically different locations. Mostly it is used in the animal world, but also to monitor the house and land. In addition to the camera, the delivery set also includes a mounting bracket, a USB and AV cable, a strap and a user manual.

4. Apeman wildlife camera 20MP 1080P infrared night vision

A powerful and well-processed game camera, we can also recommend the manufacturer Apeman. The wildlife camera of this brand resolves content up to 20MP. For video content, however, 1080p resolutions are realized by this special camera.

Especially interesting in this model is the significantly improved night-shot quality. This ensures that the movements can be recorded well in low light conditions. So the camera does not flash.

To guarantee a generally good weather ability, the Apeman game camera has been IP66 certified. Thanks to the waterproof design, it can also be ensured that both the LED lights and the lenses are not damaged.

Further technical features of the Apeman Wildcamera:

• Photos: 20MP
• Videos: 1080p or Full HD
• Triggering speed: 0.35 seconds
• IP66 dust protection
• Display: 2-inch

5. Upgraded Crenova Trail Camera 12MP

With game cameras, you can have a lot of fun in nature photography. Even with the Crenova 12MP 1080p Infrared, you can shoot exciting and enthralling photos and videos of animals in the wild. The different image resolution of the camera (5 to 12 megapixels) ensures high-quality images. The camera’s screen also provides you with colourful pictures and videos in daylight and in black and white. The videos are recorded in 1080p Full HD for 5 seconds to 10 minutes with sound. Thus, the game camera model is very well suited for hunters, as the camera is also a reliable monitor device if you are alone in the forest or even in the jungle. Hunters should be at Crenova take special care:
With this camera, which has the fastest shutter speed of 0.6 to 0.8 seconds in the hunting camera industry and has a very high detection range, you will not miss a shot. Further technical details of the game camera:

• 65ft Detection Range
• Video: 1080p
• Memory format: JPEG / AVI
• 120° Wide Angle
• Video recording with sound
• Automatic shutdown after 2 minutes
• TV exit

The delivery kit contains a manual and metal-resistant support in addition to the camera. Also included are a USB cable, an AV cable and a harness.

6. Campark Wildlife Trail Camera 14MP 1080P

A game camera that offers a resolution of up to 14 megapixels and can record videos with Full HD can also be ordered from the Campark brand. This high-quality camera for outdoor use is equipped with a 2.4-inch LCD display. Various IR sensors also ensure that movement activation can be used.

In the Campark game camera, especially the resolution quality and the recording speed can be seen. The triggering time is given by the manufacturer with only 0.3 seconds. Incomparable game cameras, this is often 0.7 seconds, so in practice, a pretty big difference is observed.

Thanks to the improved infrared technology, it is also easily possible that night vision can be used. For this, the manufacturer integrates 24 invisible LEDs with 940 nm infrared technology. Therefore, when taking pictures with this camera, the flash will not fire. This is important so that animals do not get scared and the photos and videos are then unusable.

Of course, the waterproof design is very important in a well-equipped game camera. Of course, the manufacturer of this game camera also uses appropriate precautions and integrated IP56 protection, so that this model is not only dustproof but also waterproof.

Please find attached an overview of the most important technical specifications of this model:

• Recordings in 1080p – Full HD
• Range: 20 meters
• Tripping time: 0.2 seconds
• 120° Wide Angle
• Waterproof

7. SecaCam HomeVista Full HD Professional Trail Camera

Outdoor activities have become increasingly important in recent years. And digital cameras of all shapes and sizes are becoming more and more popular in the outdoor sector. Above all, the market for game cameras has grown more and more in recent years and now has a large number of buyers. Outside of forested areas, you will also enjoy great popularity. A popular model among consumers is the SecaCam HomeVista, which records in Full HD and is part of professional outdoor equipment. In this model, the manufacturer has the image sensor and the exposure optimized so that the camera shoots crisp pictures even at night. In addition, the SecaCam is weatherproof and wireless and is mainly used in domestic and commercial surveillance. If you want to have the camera delivered to your home, it is already preconfigured and equipped with an 8GB memory card and a total of 8 batteries. Approximately 5,500 pictures and 60 minutes of film footage fit on the storage medium. All you have to do is place the camera in the place intended for it and switch it on. The maximum standby time for this model is six months. Further technical details of the SecaCam model in a nutshell:

• Videos in Full HD and with sound
• 100 degree wide-angle lens without typical fisheye distortion
• Thanks to the image sensor, you can shoot crisp images at night
• 15m night vision range
• Flash range of around 15 to 20 meters
• In camouflage design and difficult to discover at night
• Weather resistant with protection class IP544

In addition to the camera, the delivery includes a memory card, batteries, a mounting strap and a USB and video cable. In addition, the delivery set contains a multilingual user manual.

8. Victure Wild Trail Camera Trap 1080p Full HD

Today’s wildlife cameras are not only for hunters and hunting enthusiasts who want to see what happens in their area at night. Increasingly, the cameras are also used in houses and on land, as the concern of many citizens has risen sharply during the last few years. Among the wildlife cameras, there are numerous models, including the Victure Wildkamera Fotofalle, which records photos and videos in HD quality. With this camera model, you can not only observe animals but also record moving objects and monitor the safety in the office or in your home and the public. The image resolution of the camera is 12 megapixels, In addition, the model is able to record videos in 1080p Full HD. Another characteristic feature of the camera is that it shoots crisp images during the day and that high-resolution black-and-white images are taken during the night. In addition, the camera has a self-timer with a tripping time of 0.5 seconds. So you will not miss any exciting moments, even if the camera is up to ten meters away from the object. In addition, the Victure model comes with some other technical features. So you have the model dimmed LEDs and infrared technology. A fully automatic IR filter and the so-called low-glow black LEDsmake sure that no bright lightning occurs at night and the animals do not get scared. Further technical features of the camera:

• Image sensor: 1/4 CMOS sensor
• Lens: f = 3,1mm with an automatic IR filter
• Storage formats: For photos: JPEG; For videos: AVI
• Tripping time: 0.5 seconds
• IR flash: 24 infrared LEDs for night photography
• Acquisition angle of the sensors: 90 degrees
• Connections: Mini USB 2.0
• Storage Medium: Camera supports SD / SDHC memory cards up to 32GB
• Screen: 2.4 inches

Additional technical gimmicks are included in the user manual, which is part of the delivery. The design of the camera is dustproof, crash proof, rainproof. This camera can also be used for monitoring in the house.

What you have to consider when buying a game camera

Although smartphones and tablets today no longer need to hide behind digital cameras or camcorders, the technical advantages of traditional cameras outweigh them. Based on the products described in our comparison on BesTen, you have seen that game cameras are by no means just for hunters. You will also find applications with farmers and collectors as well as in the area of safety technology. Many residents of single or multi-family homes have a wildlife camera on the house for surveillance so you can see what is going on around your home and property in the evenings and at night. But before you decide to buy a game camera, you should inform yourself in advance for exactly what purpose you want to use the camera and what requirements it should meet you. Unlike camcorders or digital cameras, most game camera models have been designed for specific purposes, as you can see from each of the above products.

Factors that are crucial in a wildlife camera

Since a game camera is also in the evening and at night in the dark in its place, should be placed on the purchase, especially on the image resolution, which is responsible for the high or low resolution. In general, 3 megapixels (MP) are sufficient to achieve good image quality. Most cameras described have this resolution, but there are also models with much higher image quality. So some game cameras have a resolution of 5, 8, 12 and even 16 MP. The respective image resolution also depends on what you want to do with the camera. For example, for scientists who want to observe animals, a camera with 3 MP is enough Finally, you do not want to take pictures for a fashion catalogue or create glossy photos for a cookbook or something similar. You should also be wary of the seller saying “The more megapixels, the higher the image quality”. If a camera is advertised with 12 MP, for example, this is far from proof of pin-sharp pictures. The reason: wildlife cameras often take pictures with a resolution of 3 or 5 MP. Through the so-called interpolation the image is then extrapolated to 12 MP. From the already existing pixels then additional subpixels are calculated, which are added to the image. When buying a game camera, you should especially pay attention to whether the resolution is a value after the interpolation or the pictures are actually taken with 3 or 5 MP.

Tripping time of the game camera

In addition to the resolution of the images, you should also be informed when purchasing the shutter release of the camera. This is the time it takes a camera from motion detection to start recording. In contrast to the image resolution, the shutter release time on the camera cannot be set, but is preset by the manufacturer. Based on the previous descriptions of some wildlife camera models, you can see that the shutter speed is very low for most cameras. For some models, it is just under 1, with other cameras, it is just over a second. This value is usually also a good value, If, for example, you want to take pictures of animals as they change, they are usually well visible in the picture. If you are about to buy a game camera, you will also find that there are cameras with a value of less than 1 second. The reason: The camera was tested by the manufacturer under ideal conditions. Due to weather conditions, it can of course come with the trip time to restrictions. This also applies to the picture quality. The more you engage with wildlife cameras, the more you will find that there is a specific temperature rangefor the cameras they work under. If the temperature is exceeded or underrun, it comes in any case to restrictions. Not only in the image resolution and therefore in the quality, but also in the triggering time. As a rule, the temperature range in wild cameras is between minus 20 and 50 degrees Celsius.

Infrared flash at the camera

As with all other cameras, game cameras naturally work with the flash. As you have already seen, the cameras use the so-called infrared flash. At locations such as grape orchards or changing places, Wild keeps pace. Here it is advisable to photograph with the infrared flash, so as not to scare the animals unnecessarily. However, there are also cameras with a conventional white flash. For example, with this flash type, a moving object can be photographed because the white flash works with shorter exposure times compared to infrared flash.

In addition, some wild-card product descriptions may include the terms no-glow and/or low-glow. Specifically, this means: Either a simple glow is visible during a recording (low-glow) or even none (no glow). Also, the specification of 940mm will often run into you when dealing with wild cameras. This is the indication of the wavelength. For models that use a so-called black flash, the wavelength of the LEDs is 940mm and is not visible to humans or animals. A black flash also makes sense if you use the camera to monitor buildings. Burglars and other troublemakers will not notice the triggering of the camera. The low-glow flash, in turn, has the advantage of higher flash range. In addition, the images are illuminated by the flash more than the black flash. This ultimately affects the picture quality. If you study the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, you will also notice that most infrared flashes are equipped with a filter. The reason: Since the filter is installed in front of the lens, the unnecessary infrared during the day is filtered out. In darkness, the so-called IR filter is folded away. In most wildlife cameras, this is associated with a slightly louder click and may cause the animals to be startled and flee.

Last update on 2020-07-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API