As technology continues to evolve, so do the tools we use to interact with nature. Cellular trail cameras are a game-changer for nature enthusiasts, hunters, and property owners alike.
These high-tech devices allow you to remotely monitor wildlife or keep an eye on your property, sending photos and videos directly to your phone or email.
This article will focus on 7+ stand-out models.
Best Cellular Trail Cameras: Reviews & Recommendations
How Cellular Trail Cameras Work
Cellular trail cameras work much like regular trail cameras, but with the added ability to send images and video directly to your phone or email via a cellular network. Here’s a basic breakdown of how they function:
- Detection: Like other trail cameras, cellular trail cameras use motion sensors to detect movement in their field of view. Once movement is detected, the camera triggers to take a photo or video.
- Capture: The camera captures an image or records a video. The quality and detail of this media can vary depending on the specific model of the camera.
- Transmission: This is where cellular trail cameras differ from their non-cellular counterparts. Instead of storing the captured image or video on an internal memory card to be retrieved later, a cellular trail camera sends this data directly to you. It does this using a built-in cellular modem, which operates much like a cell phone.
- Receiving Images/Videos: The images or videos are sent to your mobile device or email using a cellular network. This requires a subscription or data plan with a cellular service provider. The specific provider can often be chosen based on the best cellular reception in the area where the camera will be used.
- Reviewing the Data: Once the image or video is received, you can review it in real-time, allowing you to monitor wildlife activity, security footage, or hunting grounds from anywhere.
Remember, while cellular trail cameras offer the convenience of remote access to your images and videos, they do require a good cellular signal in the area of use.
Additionally, keep in mind that data plans or subscriptions usually incur a monthly fee.
Best Overall: Tactacam Reveal X-Pro
Product Description
The Tactacam Reveal X-Pro is a trail camera that stands out in its category. It is designed to deliver a seamless experience, from setup to image capture.
Built with cellular capabilities, it allows for real-time image and video transmission straight to your smartphone.
Its robust construction ensures durability, while its compact size makes it discreet and easy to install.
The Reveal X-Pro boasts a high-resolution 12MP camera, capturing crisp and clear images during both day and night.
Its fast trigger speed, paired with a wide detection range, ensures you won’t miss any action. The camera also offers HD video recording for those wanting to capture more than just still images.
Key Features
- 12MP high-resolution camera
- Fast trigger speed
- Wide detection range
- HD video recording
- Real-time image and video transmission
- Robust and compact design
Best Value: SpyPoint Flex G-36
Product Description
For users seeking excellent performance at an affordable price point, the SpyPoint Flex G-36 is a strong contender.
This cellular trail camera offers a great mix of functionality and value, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced users.
The Flex G-36 features a 10MP camera that delivers high-quality images. Its infrared boost technology ensures clear night vision, while its 0.07-second trigger speed captures fast-moving objects with ease.
The camera also offers multi-shot mode, allowing you to capture several images per detection.
Key Features
- 10MP camera
- Infrared boost technology for clear night vision
- 0.07-second trigger speed
- Multi-shot mode
- Excellent value for money
- User-friendly interface
- camera for high-resolution images
- Real-time image and video transmission
- Robust construction for increased durability
Best Night Photos: Stealth Cam Deceptor
Product Description
The Stealth Cam Deceptor excels when it comes to capturing high-quality images in low light conditions. This camera features a 22MP camera and utilizes a NO GLO IR flash that provides clear, detailed images without alerting or scaring off wildlife.
Built with rugged material, the Deceptor is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it perfect for year-round outdoor use. Its intuitive interface and quick set pre-programmed option make setup and operation simple, even for beginners.
Key Features
- 22MP camera for high-quality images
- NO GLO IR flash for superior night images
- Rugged construction for outdoor use
- Intuitive interface and quick set pre-programmed option
- Burst Mode and time-lapse functionality for varied capture options
Best App: Moultrie Mobile Edge
Product Description
The Moultrie Mobile Edge trail camera stands out for its excellent companion app. The 16MP camera delivers clear images, while the Moultrie Mobile app allows you to view and manage your photos from anywhere using your smartphone.
The camera features a fast trigger speed and a detection range of up to 60 feet, ensuring nothing escapes its view. It also offers HD video recording and operates on 12 AA batteries for long-lasting performance.
Key Features
- 16MP camera for clear images
- Moultrie Mobile app for easy photo viewing and management
- Fast trigger speed and 60 feet detection range
- HD video recording capabilities
- Operates on 12 AA batteries for extended use
Tactacam XB
Product Description
The Tactacam XB trail camera is designed for those who demand top performance and longevity. With a 24MP camera, it captures ultra-high-resolution images and 1080p full HD videos. It also boasts an impressive 0.4-second trigger speed, ensuring you never miss a moment.
This model stands out for its long battery life, capable of capturing up to 24,000 images on a single set of batteries. It also features a 100-feet flash range, providing far-reaching visibility, even in low light conditions.
Key Features
- 24MP camera for ultra-high-resolution images
- 1080p full HD video recording
- Fast 0.4-second trigger speed
- Long battery life, capable of capturing up to 24,000 images
- 100-feet flash range for better visibility at night
Bushnell Cellucore 20
Product Description
The Bushnell Cellucore 20 is a highly reliable trail camera that offers excellent image quality and advanced features.
It comes with a 20MP camera that captures stunningly clear images and HD video. Its standout feature is the No Glow technology, which allows for discreet surveillance without alarming wildlife.
The Cellucore 20 is built to withstand harsh conditions and is easy to set up with pre-set menus. It boasts a long battery life, making it an excellent choice for extended outdoor use.
Key Features
- 20MP camera for clear images
- HD video recording
- No Glow technology for discreet surveillance
- Pre-set menus for easy setup
- Durable construction for harsh conditions
- Long battery life for extended use
Cuddeback Tracks
Product Description
Cuddeback Tracks is a trail camera that offers an impressive combination of performance and affordability. It has a 20MP camera and records 720p video, capturing sharp images and videos. The camera also features a fast trigger speed of 0.25 seconds, ensuring you don’t miss any action.
The Cuddeback Tracks is equipped with infrared flash technology for superior night images. It runs on 12 AA batteries and offers a long battery life, making it an excellent choice for long-term monitoring.
Key Features
- 20MP camera for sharp images
- Records 720p video
- Fast 0.25-second trigger speed
- Infrared flash technology for superior night images
- Runs on 12 AA batteries with long battery life
Reconyx Hyperfire 2 Cellular
Product Description
The Reconyx Hyperfire 2 Cellular is a premium trail camera known for its top-notch performance and durability. It features a 14MP camera and can record 720p video, providing you with crystal-clear images and videos.
This camera stands out for its ultra-fast trigger speed of 0.25 seconds and a detection range of up to 100 feet. It is also equipped with No-Glow High Output Covert Infrared Technology for capturing high-quality night images without alerting the wildlife.
Key Features
- 14MP camera for clear images
- Records 720p video
- Ultra-fast 0.25-second trigger speed
- Detection range of up to 100 feet
- No-Glow High Output Covert Infrared Technology for night images
- Durable and reliable construction
Covert 2021 Blackhawk LTE
Product Description
The Covert 2021 Blackhawk LTE is a trail camera that offers a unique blend of performance and convenience. The camera features a 20MP lens for capturing high-quality images and videos. It sends 5-second video clips with instant pictures directly to your Covert App, ensuring you stay updated in real-time.
The Blackhawk LTE has a built-in infrared flash with 60 invisible LEDs and a 100ft range. Its robust construction ensures resistance to harsh weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for outdoor use.
Key Features
- 20MP camera for high-resolution images
- Real-time image and video transmission to your Covert App
- Built-in infrared flash with 60 invisible LEDs
- 100ft detection range
- Robust construction for outdoor use
Spypoint Flex
Product Description
The Spypoint Flex is a versatile trail camera designed to adapt to your needs. It features a 12MP camera and can record 720p videos, providing clear images and videos. The camera also includes a multi-shot mode, allowing you to capture several images per trigger.
The Spypoint Flex stands out for its ultra-fast 0.07s trigger speed, ensuring you never miss a moment. It also comes with an infrared boost technology, enhancing night vision and capturing clear images even in low light conditions.
Key Features
- 12MP camera for clear images
- Records 720p videos
- Multi-shot mode for capturing several images per trigger
- Ultra-fast 0.07s trigger speed
- Infrared boost technology for enhanced night vision
Stealth Cam DS4K Transmit
Product Description
The Stealth Cam DS4K Transmit is known for its superior image quality and advanced features. It captures ultra-high-definition 4K video and 30MP still images, delivering the best resolution in the market.
The DS4K Transmit sends images and video clips directly to your phone, allowing you to monitor wildlife or your property remotely. It also features a fast trigger speed and a wide detection range, ensuring you capture every detail.
Key Features
- 30MP camera for ultra-high-resolution images
- Records 4K video
- Real-time image and video transmission to your phone
- Fast trigger speed and wide detection range
- Robust construction for durability and weather resistance
Wildgame Terra Cell
No products found.Product Description
The Wildgame Terra Cell is a trail camera designed for simplicity and efficiency. It’s equipped with a 12MP camera, capturing clear images and videos during both day and night. It also offers real-time image delivery to your smartphone, keeping you updated on wildlife activity in your area.
The Terra Cell stands out for its easy setup and user-friendly interface. It features a fast trigger speed and a wide detection range, ensuring you never miss any action. Its durable construction makes it resistant to harsh weather conditions, providing reliability and longevity.
Key Features
- 12MP camera for clear images
- Real-time image delivery to your smartphone
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface
- Fast trigger speed and wide detection range
- Durable construction for outdoor use
Trail Camera Accessories We Like
When setting up your trail camera, there are a few accessories that can enhance your experience and the camera’s performance. These include:
- Solar panels: These can provide continuous power to your camera, eliminating the need for frequent battery changes.
- Security boxes: These protect your camera from theft or damage by wildlife.
- Mounting brackets: These allow for flexible installation, helping you achieve the perfect angle for your shots.
- SD cards: Having extra storage ensures you don’t miss any important captures.
Cellular Trail Cameras and Hunting Ethics
In the world of hunting, the use of cellular trail cameras has sparked a debate about ethics. While these devices can provide valuable data about animal behavior and movement patterns, they also have the potential to be misused.
It’s important to remember that ethical hunting involves fair chase. This means giving animals a reasonable chance of escape and not using technology to gain an unfair advantage. As such, hunters should use trail cameras responsibly, ensuring they respect wildlife and maintain the spirit of fair chase.
How We Rate the Best Cellular Trail Cams
When rating the best cellular trail cams, several factors are taken into account. Here’s a general idea of what might be considered:
- Image Quality: High resolution for both day and night images is crucial. The clarity and detail of the photos or videos can play a significant role in identifying animals or intruders.
- Trigger Speed: This refers to how quickly the camera can capture an image after detecting motion. A faster trigger speed means fewer missed opportunities.
- Recovery Time: This is the time it takes for the camera to be ready to capture another image after taking the first one. Shorter recovery time is generally better.
- Detection Range: The distance at which the camera’s sensors can detect movement matters. A longer detection range can cover a larger area.
- Battery Life: Since these cameras are often left unattended for long periods, good battery life is essential. Some models also offer solar power options.
- Reliability of Cellular Connection: The camera should consistently send photos or videos to your device without issues. This depends on both the quality of the camera’s cellular modem and the strength of the cellular signal in the area.
- Data Plan Costs: Different brands have different plans. Some might offer pay-as-you-go options, while others might require monthly subscriptions. The cost and flexibility of these plans can impact the overall value of the camera.
- Ease of Use: The camera should be easy to set up and manage. This includes the process of installing the camera, changing settings, and viewing the images or videos on your device.
Remember, different users might prioritize different features. For example, a hunter might care more about trigger speed and detection range, while someone using the camera for home security might prioritize image quality and reliable cellular connection.
Therefore, the ‘best’ cellular trail cam can vary depending on your specific needs.
FAQs
Q: Are cellular trail cameras worth it?
A: Yes, cellular trail cameras can be a valuable tool for those who need real-time updates about wildlife activity in their area. They provide convenience by sending photos and videos directly to your phone or email.
Q: Do all cellular trail cameras require a subscription?
A: Most cellular trail cameras do require a subscription or data plan with a cellular service provider. This is because they use cellular networks to transmit images and videos.
Q: How long do batteries last in a cellular trail camera?
A: The battery life of a cellular trail camera can vary greatly depending on the brand, model, how often it captures and transmits images, and the type of batteries used. Some cameras can run for several months on a set of batteries.
Q: What is the best trail camera that sends pictures to your phone?
A: This can depend on your specific needs and budget. However, some highly rated options include the Bushnell Cellucore 20, Hapimp Trail Camera WiFi, Spypoint Link-S, Spartan HD GoCam, and TACTACAM Reveal XB.
Q: Is it worth investing in cellular trail cameras?
A: If you need real-time updates and don’t mind paying for a data plan, then yes, a cellular trail camera could be a worthy investment. They offer convenience and timely information, which can be particularly useful for hunters or wildlife enthusiasts.
Q: Are cellular game cameras worth it?
A: Cellular game cameras can be very useful for monitoring wildlife patterns and hunting. They provide real-time updates, allowing you to respond quickly to changes in game activity.
Q: Which Tactacam trail camera is best?
A: The ‘best’ Tactacam trail camera can depend on your specific needs. However, the TACTACAM Reveal XB is highly rated for its ease of use and versatility.
Q: Which states ban cellular trail cameras?
A: Regulations can vary widely and change over time, so it’s best to check with local wildlife agencies or hunting regulations for the most accurate information.
Q: Do you have to pay a monthly fee for a cellular trail camera?
A: Yes, most cellular trail cameras require a monthly data plan or subscription to transmit images and videos.
Q: Do you have to pay a plan for every Spypoint camera?
A: Yes, Spypoint cameras require a data plan for transmitting images and videos.
Q: Do cellular trail cameras need a data plan?
A: Yes, cellular trail cameras require a data plan to transmit images and videos over the cellular network.
Q: Which cellular trail camera has no fees?
A: While most cellular trail cameras require a data plan, there may be some models that include a certain amount of data with the purchase of the camera. It’s best to check product descriptions or contact the manufacturer for the most accurate information.
Q: What to look for when buying a cellular trail camera?
A: When buying a cellular trail camera, consider factors like image quality, trigger speed, flash range, battery life, ease of use, and the cost of the data plan.
Q: How long does a cellular trail camera last?
A: The lifespan of a cellular trail camera can vary based on factors like build quality, usage, and exposure to harsh weather conditions. However, many cameras can last several years with proper care and maintenance.
Final Thoughts on the Best Cellular Trail Cameras
Cellular trail cameras offer a convenient and efficient way to monitor wildlife or keep an eye on your property.
While they come with a higher price tag and require a data plan, the real-time updates and high-quality images they provide make them a worthwhile investment.
Whether you’re a hunter, a wildlife enthusiast, or a property owner, there’s a cellular trail camera out there that can meet your specific needs.
