Last updated on July 30th, 2023 at 10:34 am
Although originally designed for hunting and wildlife enthusiasts, trail cameras are an excellent choice for security and surveillance as well. These cameras can detect movement, capture suspicious activity, and alert you immediately. Moreover, since they are powered by batteries, they can be placed or hidden almost anywhere.
With their increasing popularity for security surveillance, there are many options available in the market, which can easily get very confusing. Hence to make things easier for you, we have researched a few of the best options that you must consider:
Best Trail Cameras for Security
Trails Camera For Security and Survailence Reviews
1. GardePro E6 Property Security Trail Camera
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This innovative camera new trail camera is equipped with an antenna on the E6 to support a more reliable and strong wifi signal transmission. It is also compatible with Bluetooth. To prioritize customer experience and accessibility, the camera includes an ultra-low power wireless module. It is extremely efficient in power conservation, allowing 8 batteries to last for almost a year on standby.
What we love about this trail camera is that not only does it have a reliable wifi and Bluetooth connection, but it also has its own app. GardePro Mobile is free and user-friendly, allowing you to operate your camera and view and download media to your mobile phone without having to remove the SD card. Moreover, it lets you add and manage multiple cameras. The app is compatible with both the latest Android and iOS versions.
Further on, the camera is also equipped with upgraded 940nm infrared technology alongside smart infrared illumination technology, an advanced optical lens, and an ultramodern image sensor that guarantees clear night vision. As a result, you will be able to capture crystal-clear night footage up to 75ft. Additionally, this trail camera captures sharp 24MP still images and is able to record 2304x1296P H.264 video with sound. This high-definition footage is then compressed to make downloading and sharing much easier.
As if having its own app, no glow night vision, strong wifi signals, Bluetooth connection, and high-resolution videos and images weren’t enough; the camera also offers various other impressive features. Such as three capture modes, i.e., photo, video, and both photo and video, waterproof, portable, programmable operation hours, time-lapse, loop recording, time stamp, sound recording, protected, and a programmable time zone.
GardePro E6 Trail Camera – For Wildlife Deer Scouting Hunting or Property Security
2. SPYPOINT Cellular Security Trail Camera
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The LINK-MICRO-S-LTE has innovative power solution technology, which really impressed us. Its built-in solar panel, coupled with a rechargeable lithium battery pack, sets a new standard for battery life. Not only is it incredibly long-lasting and dependable, but it also saves the users heaps of money on batteries.
This trail camera prioritizes users’ convenience. It offers cellular technology alongside a simplified platform. This makes the trail camera perfect not only for digitally savvy hunters but for everyone. This means if you are just learning about trail cameras for security purposes, this camera would be perfect for you.
Moving on, this camera can be connected to the free Spypoint app. This app offers multi features, out of which the main ones are camera management, customization, and media access. You can choose the specific scouting tools you want to use and tailor the camera according to your preferences. In addition to this, you can receive high-definition pictures directly on the app. As a result, you don’t need to waste time retrieving the SD card and can immediately see what’s happening. We found this to be extremely beneficial for security.
Another great feature is that this cellular trail camera has a fairly strong detection circuit. The trigger speed is 0.4 seconds which is much better than most cameras; however, the recovery time is a lot slower. Nevertheless, the camera features a 110 ft detection range and a broad field of views. Given the low price, this camera seems like a great option for house or property security. The trail camera’s quality is also backed by a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty in case of any concerns, which we think is a great offer.
SPYPOINT Cellular Security – Best option if you are looking for a LTE-Capable Cellular Trail Camera.
3. Spartan 4G LTE GoCam Wireless Trail Camera
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We find this trail camera to be perfect for scouting and surveillance. It has a 0.6-second trigger speed to easily capture fast-moving objects. It takes high-resolution 8MP pictures and can capture 1024×576, 30-second-long video clips with sound. It has multiple modes, including motion PIR with flexible settings and time-lapse with several interval options. It is also equipped with a blackout flash invisible IR LED array for night illumination, allowing it to capture sharp, high-quality pictures and videos at night. A detail we love is that the pictures include an information strip that displays the date, time, moon phase, temperature, and the camera’s battery level.
Moving on, it has dust-tight and water-resistant IP65-rating construction and is specifically created with a durable build and rugged design to withstand the outdoors. Its industry-leading durability is supported by a full two-year warranty. The Spartan GoCam 4G/LTE Trail Camera has an extremely convenient design making it simple to use. It has a 2″ LCD display, large, labeled buttons, an efficient latch design, and a well-arranged setup menu. It also has a high battery life. Luckily, it can easily be powered by 4, 8, or 12 AA batteries or through a 6-Volt External Battery Jack.
Additionally, this camera is compatible with the Spartan Camera Management App. This allows the user to remotely update their camera settings and quickly transfer and view photos and videos. Moreover, a web portal is also available and easily accessible to be used interchangeably with the app.
We can’t ignore the camo customization options the camera offers: Spartan Areus, Realtree EDGE, and Mossy Oak Break-up Country. We find this makes the camera stand out from the rest as it is easier to hide and personalize. Lastly, its mounting facilities comprise a Python lock, tripod, and mounting strap, making it an excellent choice for security.
Spartan 4G LTE Wireless Trail Camera – For Scouting or Property Security & Surveillance.
4. GardePro X50 Celluar Trail Camera
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GardePro packs a whole lot of features into this trail camera. The GardePro X50 is an advanced 4G LTE cellular trail camera, integrated with a cellular module allowing it to be remotely operated through its very own multipurpose app, GardePro Mobile. Not only can it be used to view pictures, but it also allows you to control your wifi alongside your camera. The camera also has a tough and durable housing design. It is IP66 waterproof and can operate in temperatures around -4 to 140F, which makes it perfect for security, such as property surveillance.
Moreover, this trail camera has a range of cutting-edge features. It features a time-lapse mode that can be used to set it to capture pictures interval. We find this to be extremely helpful for security. The X50 will then send pictures to your mobile in real-time or based on the Transfer Schedule on the app. The trail camera also includes 32mp 1080p, 0.1s trigger speed, 1080p resolution, night vision capabilities up to 100ft, and 4G LTE connection to download photos and videos to your phone in a flash.
We were particularly impressed by its adaptive infrared night vision, which conserves up to 75% of battery power at night, in addition to automatically adjusting the infrared illumination based on the distance of the movement to ensure clear, sharp images. However, what makes the camera stand out to us is its all-new lite video feature. It compresses the video so you can watch it in its entirety without having to pay more for the costly HD version. All of these coupled make it an excellent choice for security.
GardePro X50 – Best Under $100 option, with great value for money.
5. usogood WiFi Monitoring and Home Security Trail Camera
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Equipped with the latest CMOS sensor, this trail camera is able to capture 24MP high-resolution images and film 4K ultra-HD videos with audio. Moreover, it also features 940nm no-glow night vision infrared LEDs. This means that the camera remains well hidden even at night. Moving on to the design, it is IP66 waterproof, and the mounted wifi camera is protected by both a password and a lock, making it an extremely useful surveillance asset.
Another impressive quality of the camera is that it can easily be controlled through its built-in WIFI function and the app’ Hunting Camera’. The app needs to be manually connected, but once that’s done, it can be used to view images, save media to your phone, and set parameters.
We also noticed that a usogood trail camera focuses on convenience. It has a 0.2s trigger speed to easily track fast-moving objects, and its 2-inch LCD screen lets you view media directly on your mobile in real time. Additionally, the trigger distance is up to 20m, 65 feet detection range, and it has a 120 ° detection angle which guarantees that any movement will be caught. Moreover, it is designed to be user-friendly; as a result, navigating and customizing your preferences has never been easier! The 3 PIR sensors that help create the broad 120° detection angle can be turned off to save power. The time-lapse feature can be utilized to automatically takes photos at set intervals, irrespective of whether any movement is detected or not. You can customize this trail according to your security needs making it a remarkable security option.
usogood Trail Camera – For Outdoor Monitoring and Home Security
6. NEXCAM Solar Powered Security & Property Monitoring Trail Camera
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The solar-powered NEXCAM trail camera has an alternative, convenient way of recharging. This is not only extremely handy but also helps conserve battery. The solar panel helps power the cameras existing 4400mAh rechargeable battery.
Moreover, not only does this trail camera record high-definition 4K video and 46MP sharp images, but it also features sophisticated night vision. It has a 0.1s fast trigger time and 36pcs 850nm infrared LEDs. This means the pictures taken at night will be crystal clear, and all the tiny details will be visible. The infrared light will keep the camera discreet even when it is recording.
With a strong, reliable design, the camera and the solar panel are both IP66 waterproof. This allows them both to withstand rain and dust, making them perfect for outdoors and security.
Furthermore, the camera has a built-in wifi and Bluetooth function, which can be used to connect it to its mobile app, which can, in turn, be used to preview or download media directly on your mobile phone without having to remove the trail camera.
What we love is that this trail camera comprises multiple innovative features. It has improved H.264 video compression technology. This means, comparatively, this camera will help you save plenty of storage space. Another feature is loop recording, which will enable the trail camera to continue recording even when the storage has already been used up. Old files will simply be overwritten. This ensures no breaks in the recording, which is essential in any surveillance device.
GardePro E6 Trail Camera – For Wildlife Monitoring, Property Security & Hunting Scouting
7. KEEN Cellular Smart Motion Activated Trail Camera
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This KEEN trail camera features 2K 360-degree day and night vision. Together with a 4MP resolution, it records sharp, vibrant 2560 x 1440 Super HD videos all day. It has a 0.5s trigger time making it easy to capture fast-moving objects. The most impressive feature, however, is its PTZ technology which allows it to pan 355° and tilt 140° for the greatest field of view and zero blind spots. Additionally, it is equipped with no-glow infrared LEDs, which are invisible to humans and wildlife alike, resulting in reliable, crisp pictures at night.
Other remarkable features include time-lapse, flexible storage, smart playback, real-time notifications, and live videos. Its smart PIR-activated sensor helps ensure the camera does not have many false alarms and does not get triggered by factors such as raindrops. The camera is a smart choice for security as it also has a built-in mic and siren, which can help intimidate any unwanted guests. It can also easily be customized and controlled through the free Reolink App and Client and Alexa.
Moreover, the fitted solar panel provides the camera with a continuous power supply. This, coupled with the 4G network, allows you to simply leave the camera after installation, as you can easily observe everything remotely.
Built to withstand outdoors, the camera is IP64 waterproof which means this trail camera can survive rain, moisture, and extreme temperatures. We find this makes it ideal for outdoors and reliable security as no natural causes will interfere with your camera. Fortunately, the camera also has features for its own security and easy installation. It has a camo finish and comes with a strap that can easily connect the camera to a tree or your preferable place.
KEEN Cellular Motion Activated Trail Camera – Ideal for off-grid wild areas with 360° Pan Tilt and 2K Night Vision.
8. WOSODA Trail Camera for Home Security
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The WOSODA features many remarkable features. The camera captures 16MP crisp and vivid pictures during the day and sharp black and white ones at night. The high megapixels give a detailed view of its surroundings, making this trail camera suitable for property security. Moreover, it is also able to record 1080 high-resolution videos. Luckily, the camera has a 0.3-1 second trigger speed which warrants clear still images without much delay.
Moving on, this trail camera also has multi-recording modes and multipurpose functions, perfect for observing wildlife and surveillance. This trail camera, unlike other recent models, does not have an app. You can view pictures and videos on the machine, or you can use the SD card to view them elsewhere.
Another impressive feature is its low-glow PIR Technology. This allows the camera to capture up to 17000 images of photos while remaining discreet. Moreover, the camera is fitted with an automatic IR filter. To further help its night vision, the camera also has 25Pcs 850nm infrared low-glow black LEDs. The low-glow LED lights are not visible, so no wildlife or intruder would be able to sense them. Additionally, its 65ft flash range ensures high-quality pictures even at night.
Its strong, reliable design is backed by its IP54 waterproof certification. It proves the camera’s ability to resist rain, sand dust, or corrosion. Moreover, the tough case guarantees you a long-lasting service life.
Fortunately, the camera is an affordable and excellent option. It is easy to install as it comes with a mounting strap that you can use to install it wherever you want. It doesn’t have many fancy features but has top-notch picture quality and night vision, which we find makes it a decent option for property security.
WOSODA Trail Camera – Good for garage & home security on a budget.
Buyers Guide: Things to consider when buying a trail camera for security, surveillance & monitoring
Many people are repurposing or opting for trail cameras to add extra security to their properties. However, choosing the perfect one that fits your needs can be difficult. People who are not wildlife enthusiasts are likely not to be aware of what to look for when purchasing one. Therefore, we made this guide to answer some of your questions.
When looking for a cellular trail camera for security, it’s important to know which features you want. Here are some of the major things to consider:
Image/Video Quality
One of the most prominent features to look out for is megapixels. The higher the megapixels of an image, the sharper and clearer the image will be. Generally, a trail camera’s resolution ranges from around 1080p to 8 MP and more. While picture quality varies among various trail cameras, video resolution is typically 720p, 1080p, and 4K. The same rule applies the higher the resolution, the sharper the video will be.
Lens
When deciding which lens to opt for, you will usually have to choose between a fixed lens that has a limited field of view and a wide lens that has a broader view. For security, a trail camera with a pan and tilt is a smart choice. Although it has a fixed lens, it rotates all the way, providing an unlimited field of view.
However, there is one more thing to consider. Optical zoom is a feature that is generally found on lenses with a narrower viewing angle. You are able to zoom in but will have to sacrifice a broader field of view. Hence it is up to you, the buyer, to decide what fits your needs better.
Detection Circuit
The detection circuit is perhaps one of the principal factors to consider for security. It includes three crucial things, the Detection Zone and the Trigger and Recovery time.
The Detection Zone encompasses the total surface area in which a camera recognizes either motion or heat, causing it to capture a photo. To find the perfect camera, you need to make sure that you have an adequate detection Width and detection Range that covers the entire area you aim to monitor.
Trigger time or speed is the total time the trail camera takes from first sensing the motion until it captures a picture. Recovery is how fast a camera can move on from one picture and be ready for the next. Trigger speed typically ranges from 0.5 to 1 second. However, low trigger speed leads to blurry results or sometimes does not capture the subject. For security, we suggest choosing trail cameras with trigger speeds around 0.1 to 0.4 seconds to make sure nothing is missed.
Flash Type
There are two types of flash- red glow infrared flash and an undetectable “No Glow” flash. Red glow IR cameras emit a faint red light when capturing images or videos at night. On the contrary, no glow IR cameras are undetectable. Despite the clear advantage of the latter flash, the infrared flash generally tends to take clearer night pictures/videos.
Camouflage and Security
It is key to find a camera that is discreet and easy to install. It should not be easily visible so intruders or others so they cannot remove or avoid it. Hence camouflage is key. However, external measures also need to be taken to protect the cameras. Numerous trail cameras are designed with a hole through which a Python cable lock can be threaded. Others are fitted inside small, special cages created specifically for these cameras. They have a pre-cut hole for the lens, PIR, and flash.
Battery Life
When using a trail camera for security, you are likely to leave it for prolonged periods of time. To ensure constant, reliable surveillance, long battery life is essential, so you don’t have to constantly change them. Moreover, a decent battery life will also help save money on the camera’s life.
Typically trail cameras are driven by AA batteries. However, recent models provide a way to utilize external power supplies. This could be either one or a combination of any three of the following: DC, an external high-capacity rechargeable battery such as lithium, or a solar panel. These options considerably increase the battery life of trail cameras and are extremely useful. For surveillance, flash and videos are likely to be heavily used.
Storage Capacity
This decides exactly how many photos or videos the camera can store. If you intend to take a lot of photos or videos, it is important to ensure that you choose a camera with plenty of storage space or one that automatically overwrites old images. A large storage capacity will prevent you from constantly having to worry about clearing media.
Instant Notification
This feature is important for security and is luckily found in many trail cameras. As soon as the camera’s motion sensors are triggered, an instant notification is sent to your phone. This allows you to investigate the cause almost immediately. Some cameras send photos and videos directly to your phone as well. While some even go as far as offering live streaming to your phone. What you want depends on your preferences, but this is an important feature to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): About Security Trail Cameras
Q: Can you use a trail camera as a security camera?
A: Yes, cellular trail cameras can be a cost-effective alternative to standard security cameras while being just as effective. They capture even the smallest movement, are easy to hide, have excellent night vision, and can potentially have unlimited storage. They have various models to choose from, so it’s easy to find one that perfectly meets your specific requirements. It’s also a lot easier to install and is much more practical. It can also be fixed in any place of your choice, whether that is up a tall tree or inside bushes. Moreover, they are manufactured to have a long-lasting power supply which makes them more convenient. For home security, trail cameras can easily be utilized to secure the perimeters and monitor any area you feel needs extra security.
Q: What is the difference between a trail cam and a security camera?
A: There are several crucial differences between the two. Trail cameras were originally designed for Hunting and scouting. While security cameras, as the name suggests, were for security and surveillance. Therefore, there are glaring differences in their performance. Unlike trail cameras that capture pictures or short videos when their motion sensors detect movement, security cameras can transmit 24-hour video feeds.
A security camera is typically much more noticeable than a trail camera and cannot be hidden easily. In contrast, that may seem like a disadvantage it may actually act as a deterrent and discourage robbers and others. Nevertheless, trail cameras are more covert, making it easier to capture pictures of intruders and prosecute them. They would be extremely hard to avoid.
Q: How do you hide a trail camera for home security?
A: While hiding a trail camera for security purposes, you need to make sure that you are installing it out of the line of sight of trespassers and camouflaging it properly.
If it’s in an easy-to-spot place, like low on the ground, it would be very easy to avoid it or interfere with it. Therefore, for security, it’s suggested to elevate your camera’s position, so it’s not easily identifiable. Ideally, they should be fixed about 3 meters above the ground.
Secondly, camouflaging your camera is also essential. Many trail cameras have a camo design which makes it easier to blend them in with the surroundings. Your focus should be finding a spot with bushes or heavy shrubbery to make it easier to hide the device. However, if that is not possible, you could also get artificial plants or a mounting box to conceal the trail camera.
Trail cameras are small and easy to fit into tiny, obscure places. Typically, telegraph poles or a tree are considered to be the safest place to hide a camera, but they will need proper camouflage. Once you keep the fore mentioned points in mind, you can hide the camera wherever it seems reasonable. However, keep in mind there shouldn’t be many obstructions in the camera’s view as it will compromise the quality. Additionally, keeping it out of direct sunlight is key in preventing any unwanted glares.
Hiding the camera also depends on the design of your trail camera. For example, if it is wireless, then it can be installed anywhere, giving you several placement options.
Since the camera is being used for security, a flash that is visible to humans may come in handy. It could light up when it detects movement alerting intruders that the premises are secured. This could act as a deterrent; however, hiding them is still the better option.
Conclusion
Trail cameras are an excellent option for security. They have a variety of options and customizations available, making them easy to use and dependable. Whether it’s to secure your house or business, their specialized features cannot be overlooked. This guide went over everything you need to look out for when making your purchase. We hope it was useful and helped you make a smart decision.