Top Cellular Trail Cameras for 2023

Cellular trail cameras have become popular for remote monitoring without SD card retrieval. This guide will outline the key factors to consider when choosing the best cellular trail camera for your needs. We will provide an overview of top models on the market from reputable brands. Important criteria to compare include cellular network compatibility, monthly data plan costs, image and video quality, detection features, battery life, and special capabilities like live streaming. With an understanding of these key variables, you can logically evaluate the pros and cons of different options. Our goal is to equip you with knowledge to select the ideal cellular trail camera for hassle-free surveillance and instant access to high quality footage.

When selecting a cellular trail camera, beyond photo/video quality, the data plan price and network support are pivotal. Here’s why:

Operational Costs:

Unlike traditional trail cameras, cellular variants transmit photos and updates via cellular networks. The associated data plan price directly impacts the ongoing operational costs of the camera. By listing this price, we offer you a clear picture of the recurring expenses, ensuring transparency and helping you avoid unexpected costs in the future.

Functional Compatibility & Coverage:

The effectiveness of a cellular trail camera largely hinges on its network support. Different areas might favor one cellular service provider over another due to variations in network coverage. By detailing the networks each camera supports, we guide you in pinpointing a device that aligns with the service providers available in your intended deployment location.

With the details on data plan price and network support at your fingertips, you can confidently choose a camera that won’t let you down in terms of cost or connectivity. Here are 9 cameras we‘ve researched for you:

1. Spartan GoLive

• Network support: AT&T and Verizon
• Data plan price: From $15.99/month
• Live Streaming: Yes
• Picture/Video Quality: HD photos with 8 MP resolution and videos up to 30 seconds at 1080p resolution.

The Spartan GoLive firmly positions itself among the best cellular trail cameras available today. Its defining feature is the innovative live streaming capability; with just a quick tap in the app, users are ushered into a live feed boasting a seamless 30 FPS, ensuring top-tier streaming quality. Alongside this, the camera’s robust anti-theft GPS is noteworthy. It guarantees tracking continuity even in scenarios where the antenna might be damaged or batteries are removed. To further alleviate any user concerns, GoLive accommodates a generous 128Gb SD card, providing extensive storage for all your captured moments.If you’re in the market for a cellular trail camera with live streaming capabilities, the Spartan GoLive should be at the top of your list.

Cons:

While the quality is commendable, its price point may be a bit steep for some users.

2.Camojojo Trace

• Network Support: AT&T
• Data Plan Price: Starting at $4.99/month
• Live Streaming: Yes
• Picture/Video Quality: HD photos (5 MP) and 1080p videos (30 fps)

Camojojo Trace is another standout cellular trail camera that offers live streaming capabilities, among other impressive features. One of its noteworthy attributes is exceptional night vision, making it one of the best cellular trail cameras for low-light conditions. With a rapid trigger speed and an extensive 20-meter detection range, it ensures you won’t miss any passing critters.

What truly distinguishes Camojojo Trace is its video transmission optimization, even on cost-effective data plans. You’ll receive complete videos, not just snippets, making it convenient for tracking animal behaviors through video footage. Additionally, the camera boasts AI identification capabilities, simplifying the process of identifying and tracking specific wildlife effortlessly.

Moreover, the Camojojo App allows for seamless picture sharing. You have the flexibility to add your friends’ cameras to your account or have them add your camera to theirs. This collaborative approach ensures you can easily create shared albums, fostering a sense of camaraderie among fellow wildlife enthusiasts.

Cons:

It’s essential to note that the Camojojo Trace exclusively supports AT&T, which may limit its network compatibility for some users.

3.Moultrie Mobile XA-7000i

• Network Support: AT&T
• Data Plan Price: Starting at $4.99 per month
• Live Streaming: No
• Picture/Video Quality: Photos at 20 MP (interpolated) and 1080p video resolution.

The Moultrie Mobile XA-7000i stands out as a dependable choice for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife monitoring aficionados. With robust AT&T network support, you’re assured of consistent connectivity, essential for remote monitoring.

While live streaming is not a feature, this cellular trail camera excels in delivering high-quality photos, boasting a remarkable 20 MP (interpolated) resolution, ensuring you capture intricate details in every shot. Moreover, its 1080p video capability enhances your ability to record sharp and vivid footage of wildlife activities.

Cons: Users have reported false triggers occurring fairly often with the Moultrie Mobile XA-7000i, which can result in unnecessary recordings.

4.Browning Defender PRO SCOUT MAX

• Network Support: AT&T and Verizon
• Data Plan Price: Starting at $9.99 per month
• Live Streaming: No
• Picture/Video Quality: High-resolution photos at 20MP and HD video at 1600 x 900 resolution.

The Browning Defender PRO SCOUT MAX truly shines with its exceptional daytime image quality, delivering sharp and vivid photos that brilliantly capture the natural world’s beauty in fine detail. This feature positions it as the perfect choice for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor observers who value crisp images in daylight conditions.

Adding to its appeal, this trail camera offers an extended battery life, ensuring uninterrupted operation for extended periods – a crucial factor for prolonged outdoor monitoring and wildlife documentation. This cellular trail camera features rapid detection capabilities, swiftly capturing wildlife movements and guaranteeing that no critical moments are missed during outdoor adventures.

Cons:

The Browning Defender PRO SCOUT MAX’s internal antenna doesn’t support a booster antenna in low-reception areas, potentially affecting its performance in such locations.

5.Reconyx HyperFire 2 Cellular

• Network Support: AT&T and Verizon
• Data Plan Price: Starting at $5/mo
• Live Streaming: No
• Picture/Video Quality: Photo resolution: 3 MPXL; Video resolution: 720p with audio

The Reconyx HyperFire 2 Cellular trail camera truly shines with its No Glow Infrared technology, which discreetly captures high-quality images and videos without disturbing your subjects or drawing any attention to the camera’s presence. This innovative feature ensures that you can observe wildlife and outdoor activity without causing any disruptions.

Moreover, setting up this cellular trail camera is a breeze, thanks to its user-friendly interface that allows for quick and seamless configuration right from your phone. What sets the Reconyx HyperFire 2 apart is its impressive 5-year warranty, offering you peace of mind and assurance in the camera’s durability and performance over an extended period. With this warranty in place, you can confidently rely on the camera to deliver consistent and reliable results for years to come.

Cons:

The Reconyx HyperFire 2 Cellular trail camera does not offer video transmission, which might be a limitation for users seeking real-time video monitoring. Additionally, its pricing could be considered on the higher side, potentially posing budget constraints, especially for beginners.

6.Cuddeback CuddeLink Dual Cell

• Network support: Verizon
• Data plan price: Starting at $10/mo
• Live Streaming: Not supported
• Picture/Video Quality: 20MP Photo

The standout feature of this device is undeniably its CuddeLink technology. This ingenious feature allows multiple cameras – up to 16, to be precise – to communicate and transmit their data through just one master device. This essentially means that if you have a large property or area to monitor, you don’t need a cellular plan for each individual camera. Instead, all the cameras can share one single $10/month cell plan, which can lead to substantial savings over time, especially if you’re running numerous cameras.

Cons：

Setup can be confusing.

7.Tactacam Reveal X Gen 2.0 

• Network Support: AT&T and Verizon
• Data Plan Price: From $13/mo
• Live Streaming: No
• Picture/Video Quality: 16MP, HD video

The Tactacam Reveal X Gen 2.0 stands out as an affordable and reliable cellular camera compatible with both AT&T and Verizon networks. The data plan prices differ based on the provider, but users seeking live streaming capabilities can expect to pay from $13 per month. With a solid picture and video quality offering 16MP and HD video, this device promises clear visuals, making it a value-for-money choice in the current market.

The camera’s IP66 rating is noteworthy, indicating its durability and resistance to dust and high-pressure water jets, ideal for rigorous outdoor applications. Coupled with its user-friendly setup, which ensures a hassle-free experience even for those not particularly tech-inclined, the Tactacam Reveal X Gen 2.0 emerges as a top contender for those in search of a dependable remote surveillance solution without a hefty price tag.

Cons:

Setup can be a bit challenging, especially for novices.

8.Stealth Cam Fusion-X Pro

• Network Support: AT&T and Verizon
• Data Plan Price: From $5/mo
• Live Streaming: No
• Picture/Video Quality: Up to 36MP photo and 1080P video

Overview: The Stealth Cam Fusion-X Pro is a robust cellular camera offering compatibility with both AT&T and Verizon networks. One of its standout features is the automatic connection it establishes with these major carriers, simplifying the setup process. Additionally, users are given a choice in terms of photo resolution, allowing flexibility to select from 36MP, 16MP, 8MP, or 4MP based on their specific requirements, ensuring optimal storage usage and desired clarity.

Cons: One limitation observed by users is a delay in capturing. This can sometimes result in pictures where the subject, such as a deer, is already midway or further out of the frame, potentially missing crucial moments.

9.Bushnell Cellucore Live

• Network Support: AT&T and Verizon
• Data Plan Price: From $10/mo
• Live Streaming: Available
• Picture/Video Quality: 32MP photo and 1080P video

With the Bushnell Cellucore Live in your surveillance toolkit, you’re investing in a blend of convenience. As you set it up on your preferred networks, AT&T or Verizon, you’ll immediately benefit from its seamless connectivity. Its live streaming feature is especially crafted for you, ensuring you can keep an eye on your surroundings in real-time from wherever you are. You’ll be pleased with the clarity of the 32MP photos and 1080P videos, capturing every detail you want to see. If you’ve ever struggled with tracking your camera’s location, the integrated GPS system is your answer, pinpointing the exact spot for you. Plus, the swift trigger speed means you won’t miss those fleeting moments, capturing images almost instantly once motion is detected. With the Bushnell Cellucore Live, you’re not just getting a camera; you’re equipping yourself with a comprehensive monitoring solution tailored to your needs.

Cons:

While the camera offers a range of impressive features, a drawback is its battery life, which may require more frequent replacements or recharges than some users might prefer.