Are you looking for the best cellular trail camera? You’ve come to the right place. Before cellular trail cameras were introduced in the market, all trail cameras required Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capability to transfer images successfully. Nowadays, most trail cameras come with cellular capability and GPS functionality which allows you to retrieve the data remotely from the location where they are installed. In this article, we will review for you some of the top models available on the market right now. We will also guide you to select the best model for your needs.
Cellular trail cameras come with an embedded SIM card inside which allows them to send information about the trail camera’s location and its images directly to your mobile phone. This means that you don’t have to physically retrieve the image from the trail camera. For it to be retrieved, you can send it directly to your phone via an app. Some cellular trail cameras will also allow you to remotely change some settings and take video recordings of events occurring at specific areas where cellular trail cameras are deployed. These features were previously only available on models that cost well over $200. Therefore, the best cellular trail cameras with these features were considered to be in the high-end category at that time. However, cellular trail cameras have now become much more affordable and accessible to more buyers as these models are becoming cheaper and better quality than ever before.
Some people think that the best cellular trail camera is just another way for hunters to track their game, but it is much more than that. The camera can be set up remotely without having to worry about setting it up near a power outlet which makes them perfect for any outdoor activity like camping, hiking, hunting, or fishing. These cameras provide an unobstructed view of what’s going on around you with their wide-angle lens and HD video capabilities so you can see everything from every angle at once.
Top 11 best cellular trail cameras in 2024
Best Cellular Trail Camera – Reviews
1. Tactacam Reveal X Cellular Camera
- Stills resolution: 8/12/24MP
- Video resolution: 1080p
- Detection range: 96 feet
- Night vision: Yes
This best cellular trail camera by Tactacam, Reveal, is the new big thing in the market for getting trail footage. This camera comes with a 25% discount for Verizon Reveal customers to utilize some pretty neat features like Image on Demand and 24MP photos.
This tiny little device can take up to 12MP clear photos regardless of the time of day. Gotta love those super speedy trigger speeds where this sub 1/2s compact lens will catch anything! Plus built-in colored night vision means you can use this indoors nonchalantly at whatever color lighting is presented.
If you are interested in more advanced features, this cellular trail camera has got you covered. Reveal cell cam can record a video with a resolution of 1080p and sports a Sony sensor chip. This chip captures high-quality sound, motion, and color. All of this is available at a reasonable price.
2. Creative Xp Cellular Trail Camera
- Stills resolution: 12MP
- Video resolution: 1080p
- Detection range: 80 feet
- Night vision: Yes
The Creative Xp 4G LTE no glow cellular trail camera features Full-HD Night Vision (65 ft range) and records crystal clear 1080P Videos / 12MP Photos during the day and night time. The Wi-Fi cellular feature allows it to instantly send photos and videos taken to any U.S. phone or email. It includes a free Simhero Card with 500 Free Photos & 32 GB SD Card. Besides, it is water and snowproof so that when you’re outside enjoying nature, you don’t have to worry about technology giving out on you at the wrong time.
The animals or trespassers will not be able to see the 56 no-glow IR LEDs because there are flash patterns hidden in plain sight– this is our new version of “hide-in-plain sight.”
Do you want to get into the wilderness without going there physically? Enjoy remote viewing anywhere in the world with an outdoor wireless trail camera 4G LTE. The motion-activated PIR sensor detects intruders by capturing one to five photos per trigger and uploads them in real-time. You’ll be able to see a wild game like never before with a wide dynamic lens and night vision capabilities. No need for additional cables or equipment when using this product because it can store images on an SD card up to 32GB. Never worry about running out of storage space because it’s equipped with Memory Cycle Technology. Thus, it is the best cellular trail camera every hunter needs!
3. Reconyx HyperFire 2 Cellular IR Camera
- Stills resolution: 15MP
- Video resolution: 720p
- Detection range: 150 feet
- Night vision: Yes
Go on the hunt without getting caught with this best cellular trail camera. The Reconyx HyperFire 2 Cellular IR Camera packs 15MP of resolution and captures video with audio at 720P HD. However, the most impressive features by far are its cellular 4G LTE connectivity and 0.2-second trigger speed which lets you take covert shots from over 150 feet away in total darkness – way out of sight. No need to scurry up close when this camera is talking to Verizon’s network: it transmits laser-sharp images and sounds even across vast distances. With a 5-year warranty from the manufacturer, an integrated night vision range finder, a wide-angle lens made for low-level lighting, and all those high-tech features that keep you safe – this is truly a hunter’s dream!
No other game camera gives you such a high level of long-distance stealth and resolution. It’s sort of like owning a war satellite that can float in the air around your land: pinpoint accuracy on low light shooting is the real deal with this camera. Add to all those awesome features, its IP67 weatherproof rating, and you’ve got yourself a real winner.
4. Moultrie Mobile XV-7000i Trail Camera
- Stills resolution: 20MP
- Video resolution: 1080p
- Detection range: 80 Feet
- Night vision: Yes
The Moultrie Mobile XV-7000i is the best cellular camera that pairs with the Verizon 4G network and delivers high-quality images right to your phone, tablet, or computer. This game camera features 20 MP images and will capture crisp and clear night pics for those hunting hours during non-daylight. With an 80-foot detection range, blazing .3 trigger speed, and ILLUMI-Night 2 sensor (which works during daytime as well), this combo package can’t be beaten.
Running on 12 AA batteries Moultrie game cameras have an approximate life expectancy of 25 days per set of cells before requiring change which makes them ideal for hunters looking to shoot daily photo sessions upwards of 500 feet from their property while they’re at work – in addition to nighttime hunts. This best game camera will send notifications when something is detected and can be set up to record 1080p HD video clips or stills at a rate of 5 images per second. We recommend this best cellular game camera for deer, coyotes, bobcats, and other larger games.
5. Covert WC Series LTE Cellular Trail Camera
- Stills resolution: 32MP
- Video resolution: 1080p
- Detection range: 100 feet
- Night vision: Yes
The Covert WC Series LTE no glow cellular trail camera provides premium 1080p resolution, with a 1-10 turbo shot burst mode and 44 No Glow LED bulbs. With its fast trigger speed of .4 seconds and detection range of up to 100 feet, you’ll never miss another moment in the woods. The camera offers HD 32 MP resolutions for crisp images day or night without spooking wildlife.
It brings convenient features like a 1.5-inch color viewer with a user-friendly interface and a date stamp for still images displaying the time and temperature alongside moon phase data to keep you informed of what’s happening on your property. Pipe through security keeps thieves at bay by securing them from access.
The wireless transmission feature on this trail camera is second to none. It will send instant pictures right to your Covert Wireless App using the approved cellular network and also allows you to view images, manage settings changes, grant guest access, or interact with your camera in a near real-time capacity.
This best cellular camera is perfect for those who love to take images of their favorite places. The LTE technology improves battery life and wireless functions, making it easier than ever before to capture your memories. This device also has a 2-year lifespan when fully charged with 12 AA batteries (not included), but if you want the option of using an SD memory card, be sure not to forget one in order or this will affect how long your outdoor adventure lasts.
6. Cuddeback IR J-1521 Trail Camera
- Stills resolution: 20MP
- Video resolution: 1080p
- Detection range: 100 feet
- Night vision: Yes
Capture the beauty of your outdoor environment no matter what time of day it is with this Cuddeback IR J-1521 Trail Camera & SD 32 GB Memory Card Bundle. With a 1/4 trigger speed, you won’t miss out on all those adventure moments that give life to old memories. This camera has a 20MP image sensor and captures pictures at ultra-long-range distances. The 7P HD 1080p color night vision offers crisp images for those dark evening adventures away from camp. With a battery life that can endure for as long as two weeks, the camera makes itself an excellent choice for hunting. You can use a wildlife camera to attract wildlife to come to you, making it a convenient way to capture nature’s beauty.
Take photos or capture video without risking being seen by game or trespassers thanks to this high-quality cellular trail camera made by Cuddeback. Whether you’re scouting a game or setting up a security camera, the Cuddeback IR J-1521 Trail Camera & SD 32 GB Memory Card Bundle makes it easy to get the photos and videos you need. Sharp 20 MP images capture every detail of your adventures in crisp clarity, while vivid night vision lets you see up to 30 ft. away. The 1/4 trigger speed helps keep up with fast-moving subjects, and the included SD memory card provides storage for all your favorite moments.
7. Bushnell Impulse Cellular Trail Camera
- Stills resolution: 20MP
- Video resolution: 1080p
- Detection range: 150 feet
- Night vision: Yes
Keep an eye on activities across your favorite hunting grounds with the Bushnell Impulse 20MP Cellular Trail Camera. The camera captures images of whatever it sees, one second apart for a real-time view of what’s happening, and offers all the features you need to get that perfect shot of your prey in its natural environment. When enabled with cellular transmission, you can enjoy live footage wirelessly transmitted directly to your smartphone so you don’t miss a moment from anywhere in United States coverage zones.
This is a state-of-the-art US cellular trail camera that has all the features you need for capturing wildlife. With an active cell connection, this Bushnell game camera records everything day or night on your cellular phone and sends video clips to your phone in real time. The benefits don’t stop there – with 1-second image recovery, this popular game camera will have no worries catching anything from small animals like squirrels and chipmunks to big game like deer, coyotes, bears, and hogs. The convenient 150 ft range allows use close to home so you get live updates any time something happens on your property as well as times when out on hunting trips far away. This best cellular trail camera is such a powerful tool that it also lets you track deer migration patterns and see which times of the year your property is most active. The time-lapse mode makes for fun videos to share with friends and family, while the quality night photos are comparable to a digital camera at night on full blast – truly amazing.
8. Browning Defender Pro Scout Cellular Trail Camera
- Stills resolution: 18MP
- Video resolution: 900p
- Detection range: 80 feet
- Night vision: Yes
This Browning Cellular Trail Camera is the best cellular trail camera for a hunter, hiker, and explorer with features designed to get close-to-nature photos. This best trail camera offers an 80-foot motion detection range. The 0.22 Second Trigger Speed and 8 rapid-fire images mean no more coming back home disappointed because something moved and you lost your opportunity for that candid photo.
With the adjustable infrared LED illumination at night and the 120 ft flash range, nothing will catch you by surprise when it’s too dark to see. Taking full advantage of Verizon’s 4G LTE coverage allows users to access their camouflage camera from anywhere using only their smartphone. Alongside this adaptable device, customers will also receive a 32 GB memory card as well as a J-TECH card reader so they can have all the advantages from one purchase without having to spend more on accessories. Investing in Browning trail camera is worthwhile.
9. Stealth Cam GX Cellular Camera
- Stills resolution: 22MP
- Video resolution: 720p
- Detection range: 100 feet
- Night vision: Yes
The Stealth Cam GX is an outstanding model from the Cellular Series of Stealth trail cameras. Its 22MP IR Camera is the solution for high-quality resolution and larger coverage with a 100-foot infrared range. Furthermore, the trail camera also offers longer battery life and app control. Therefore, with this stealth camera setup, you will be able to take control of your camera from anywhere in the world. Let’s get started so that you can see what makes this best cellular game camera a great option for all of your home security needs.
Many features of this model make it perfect for surveillance: Smart Illumination Technology with 42 NO GLO IR emitters provides full light coverage even at night; HD Video recording 5-180 seconds with a 16:9 Wide Image Ratio captures information at crystal clear clarity; Control over stills, video modes, and other camera functions through a free downloadable app; Auto-Dim feature turns off LED lights when not in use to preserve battery life and eliminate detection; Motion, Sound & Vibration Alerts send notifications to your device when there is any movement or noise within the camera’s line of sight; Built-in microphone and speaker allow you to communicate with someone at the camera’s location; and last but not least, the 16GB SD card will provide enough space to keep you covered for a long time.
We’re confident that these features taken together, combined with this Stealth Cam trail camera’s ease of use in any home security situation make it an overall top choice for the best budget cellular trail camera.
10. Spartan 4G LTE GoCam Wireless Trail Camera
- Stills resolution: 3/5/8MP
- Video resolution: 480p
- Detection range: 100 feet
- Night vision: Yes
The Spartan 4G/LTE GoCam Wireless Trail Camera is the best way to watch wildlife in your backyard day and night with no worries; a wire-free camera that has easy installation without Wi-Fi. It’s compact, which makes it perfect for several different environments from farmland to forests.
The invisible nighttime black light illumination with IR LEDs can catch all those secretive creatures that come out in the dark – you’ll never again miss what you’re trying to capture! With videos as well as photos, you’re covered even if motion or a timer triggers the camera. You can view whatever images were triggered on your phone after the event, right at home or wherever there’s connectivity, and then choose how they are sent: either sent to your email or uploaded to your favorite social media site or cloud storage. That way, you’re never short on options when it comes to where the images are stored.
The GoCam Ghost 4G/LTE GC-G4Gb is a smart device with motion detection that can be set up based on specific areas of investigation or around the perimeter to watch for stray animals. The camera is wireless so no need to dig holes or leave wires behind. It also has a weather-resistant enclosure that makes it the best cellular trail camera for outdoor conditions from forests and fields to stormy coastal environments. Set up as motion detection security surveillance, you can have the GoCam Ghost 4G/LTE GC-G4Gb positioned to monitor all the activity around the perimeter of your property, catching any intruders and alerting you when something suspicious is going on.
11. SPYPOINT LINK-Micro-S-LTE Solar Cellular Trail Camera
- Stills resolution: 10MP
- Video resolution: 480p
- Detection range: 80 feet
- Night vision: Yes
The new SPYPOINT LINK-Micro Solar Cellular Trail Camera is the newest in their line of US cellular trail cameras. If you are looking for the best cellular trail camera under $200, then you can’t go with this model. With its 480p video quality, 10MP stills with a fast .4 second trigger speed, and 80 feet detection and flash range this trail cam will make hunting a breeze. Best of all, you’ll never have to worry about running out of power again – with features like a 16GB MicroSD card for storage and a free SPYPOINT APP that lets you monitor your camera from your phone anywhere at any time.
This is the best solar cellular trail camera for this price range because it comes fully loaded and ready to go so that it can meet any demands of remote hunters or wildlife photographers on the hunt. The LIT10 rechargeable lithium battery coupled with the solar panel means that you will be able to capture your game and enjoy it for a long time without the worry of depleting the battery.
The camera’s free app allows you to see what your camera sees, wherever you are in real time! Sign up for a membership with Spypoint and you’ll have access to tons of resources dedicated to helping you get the most out of this best trail cam.
Buyers Guide: Things to consider when buying the best cellular trail camera
We’ve ranked these cameras based on the quality of their build and features as well as their value for money. If you’re still not sure what to get, here are some important factors to consider:
1. Resolution
The most common resolution that cellular trail cam offers today is 8 megapixels. However, if you think this is sufficient enough, then there is nothing wrong with getting a camera with a lesser resolution. It might even save you more money in the long run because generally, a camera with a lower resolution uses less power and memory storage space (which we’ll discuss later). Just make sure that you can see enough detail so that you’ll be able to identify your game or target right on its picture or video and read any important information such as its tag number.
2. Battery Type and Life
If you are a frequent hunter or hiker who goes out alone, then you must get the best cellular trail camera with long battery life. Some best cellular trail cameras can already run for more than two months on just one set of batteries (varying between 9 to 12 AA lithium-ion batteries). You may also want to consider the type of battery or power source used by the device since some cameras don’t work well when there is no electrical supply available.
3. Image and Video Quality
It’s not enough that your best cellular trail camera captures clear images; you should also look at other factors like color accuracy, brightness, and frame rate which affect exposure time (exposure time is the amount of light your device lets in so it can take a clear picture). The better camera you get, the better images and video quality you’ll have. But just because there are cellular trail cameras out there with stunning images and videos doesn’t mean that they should be at the top of your list. Here’s something to consider: if you’re shooting in low light conditions, then cellular trail cameras with lower megapixels will capture quality videos compared to those with higher pixels.
4. Trigger Speed
Cellular trail cameras have two types of trigger speed – reaction time (how quickly it starts taking pictures or recording) and recovery time (time taken before it takes another photo after the previous one). Cellular cameras vary depending on their models but generally, the faster they recover from one shot to another, the better.
5. Mobile Application
If you have the best cellular trail camera with an app that connects it to your phone, then you’ll be able to check everything from afar even when you’re away from home. This is perfect for anyone who is often on outdoor trips since this will help them save time and effort in checking their camera screen while out in the wild (which can be difficult sometimes).
6. Other Features
Depending on what type of experience you want from your best cellular trail camera as well as how much money you’re willing to spend, these additional features may come in handy: rapid trigger, 2-way audio communication, night vision, and game summaries/tagging.
7. Price
The price of the best cellular trail cameras can vary depending on the features and functions they offer, as well as their build quality and sensors. You can expect to get a decent camera that works well for game scouting and surveillance for roughly $200 to $500. However, you can find cheap trail cameras under $200 as well. More expensive options with better features are available but you should also be aware that even if you’re willing to invest more, it doesn’t mean that your device will have an impeccable performance history or a lot of good reviews from other buyers. It’s always best to shop around first before making any decision (especially if this is your first time buying a cellular trail camera) so you’ll know what size and type of model you need as well as the price range where you can get your desired features and functions.
FAQs About Cellular Trail cameras
What is a cellular trail camera?
It’s a trail camera that uses cellular data (GPS) or cell signal instead of sending RF / WiFi signals to send pictures remotely. This technology enables you to receive pictures without having an external device/modem because it uses your mobile device as a receiver.
What is the difference between WiFi-enabled and cellular trail cameras?
The Cellular Trail cameras allow you to send images directly from them over the cellular network. Whereas most Wi-Fi trail camera requires a WiFi network to connect with a wired router. It limits the operation range and may work only in your backyard. Moreover, they also require configuration to get up and running.
Most of the cellular trail cameras have a subscription plan to send your images over cellular networks such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. The cost of their plans is comparatively lower than wifi-enabled cameras. This will save you some money in the long run. They also don’t need any configuration at all and are very easy to use. You just need to set the cameras up and forget about them.
What are some of the benefits of using the best cellular trail camera?
There are many advantages associated with cellular trail cameras that make them a highly desirable product for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Best cellular game cameras provide some of the most comprehensive data on any type of animal or human activity within proximity to where it is deployed which is why they’re commonly used by rangers in national parks to monitor their land and wildlife populations without disturbing them unnecessarily. These cellular trail cameras can be used for home security and placed in backyards and gardens to function as outdoor security cameras. They can also be placed inside sheds or garages where these cameras with their infrared sensors can work as indoor security cameras.
How to get the pictures from cellular trail cameras?
You will receive a text or email with a link to your images. Most antivirus software will block the download but you can simply disable the software before clicking on it and then download your picture from your cellular trail camera to your phone or laptop. However, not all cellular trail camera manufacturers support this type of downloading. If you have problems please contact the manufacturer directly.
How do you track a cellular trail camera?
Tracking the best cellular trail camera is as simple as tracking your cell phone. After buying one of these, all you have to do is go to their website and sign in with your account information. There they will give you the option to track your camera’s location in real time.
How do you install a cellular trail camera?
You will have to choose the best place to get the telemetry over the cellular network. After getting that spot, make sure you set the angle right for your trail camera to cover a broad area so that you don’t miss any sightings. Also, make sure your camera isn’t easily sighted by intruders, and also it should be installed firmly so that can’t be displaced or stolen easily.
Always remember that when installing cellular trail cameras you should never place them in areas that have a lot of human activity. This will make it difficult for animals to approach the camera and let you get an image.
Are Cellular Trail cameras legal to use?
The answer is yes, cellular trail cameras are legal to use and there are no laws that prohibit you from purchasing and using a cellular trail camera. However, buying it for any illegal purpose is never recommended and may put you in great trouble. It is always recommended to make sure that the property that you are installing your trail camera isn’t prohibited from surveillance by the Government or it doesn’t belong to someone that wouldn’t like you to mount your trail camera there.
How can I protect my cellular trail camera?
Yes, there are several ways to protect your best cellular trail camera: Registering your camera with the manufacturer Protecting your SIM card by using it inside a metal casing, and never showing/sharing your SIM card with anyone. Do not purchase a pre-activated SIM card and if you have to buy one from the seller, ask for proof that it was registered first before selling/shipping it out. This will prevent people from hijacking your camera. Protecting the cellular trail camera itself, most of them are pretty rugged but some will have issues with water and dust. Always buy waterproof housing for your camera. Also, check out the list of cellular trail cameras that can be used by law enforcement because they’re built to withstand almost anything (weatherproof, heat resistant)
Is a cellular trail camera worth the money and how do cellular trail cameras work?
A cellular trail camera is worth the money if you’re using it for hunting or security purposes and being able to view your images quickly as well as being able to access them over long distances.
How to protect your privacy when using a cellular trail camera?
The allure of hunting down your dinner and posting the footage online can certainly be one of the most exhilarating experiences you will have. But as it turns out, this hobby can come with a lot of legal issues — not just regulations on getting your hands on guns or ammunition but also privacy concerns. More and more game hunters are facing problems when they take videos of themselves hunting down animals for personal satisfaction. And if you’re one of them, then here’s how to protect yourself:
1. Consider The Law And Regulations In Your Area
There are countries where hunting is allowed like Canada, America, Australia, Germany, Iceland, Sweden, Finland, and Poland. But there are also areas where this activity is heavily regulated or even prohibited.
For example, in the United Kingdom, hunting for game birds and animals like deer and rabbits was once allowed — but not anymore. Now, these activities are banned except for special cases such as conservation projects or research on particular species.
In some parts of America, it’s illegal to record images of yourself while hunting big game such as elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and others. The District Attorney’s Office in Humboldt County California strongly recommended that hunters refrain from posting the footage online because they could be charged with criminal offenses — especially if their actions led to the death of an animal.
2. Think Of The Potential Consequences
If you are found uploading those hunting videos to social media platforms, then there could be serious results.
Game hunters have tried their luck at taking videos of themselves and sharing them on social media, thinking that they are just being creative and doing what they love. However, it turns out that these videos can lead to unwanted legal problems.
With this in mind, you need to avoid sharing videos of yourself hunting for two reasons: one, people might misinterpret your intentions; and two, uploading those clips can cause legal problems if the activity is prohibited in your area.
How we tested and ranked the best cellular trail cameras
When looking for the best cellular trail camera, we searched the internet for hours. We read numerous expert reviews analyzed customer feedback, and were able to find the 23 best cellular trail camera models that were highly rated by both experts and consumers. We then narrowed down our selection to the top 11 best models by comparing their specifications and prices. We then personally tested these models both in the home environment and wilderness to see if they really lived up to our expectations. We evaluated their connectivity, picture quality, detection range, trigger speed, and overall quality and construction. After testing them thoroughly on all dimensions, we then finally ranked them based on our findings into our list of the top 11 best cellular trail cameras, so that you can buy your desired one with confidence.
Final Thoughts
We hope this article has helped find the best cellular trail camera for your needs. Remember, a good cellular trail camera is just as important to hunting season as having all of the right gear. Moreover, it can be great for security purposes. If you want more information about any of these products or have questions on which one would be best suited for you and your hunt, please don’t hesitate to contact us via email. We’re happy to help answer any question that we can.
