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Need Help?Best Trail Cameras of 2023 so You Never Miss a Thing
Are you using the right trail camera for your hunting strategy? You might only get one shot at capturing that majestic gobbler or big buck. But how do you know you’re choosing the best trail camera for your specific needs?
We caught up with seasoned hunting pros, Daniel McVay and Jeff Danker from BuckVentures Outdoors, about the importance of trail cameras for scouting those prized bucks and refining your game strategy.
Capture critters while you wait up in your deer stand, watch wildlife on your property, or secure your home from trespassers with a trail camera. Day or night, you should be able to count on your gear. Stick with us to learn all about the best trail cameras!
Compare the Best Trail Cameras of 2023
You need a trail camera that keeps up with the game you want to track! We break down the most important features you should know about if you’re ready to choose from the best trail cams on the market.
Editor’s Note: We updated our original article on July 31, 2023. You’ll now find even more information to help you choose between our recommendations for the best trail cams of 2023.
| Best Trail Cameras of 2023 Breakdown | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trail Cam | Megapixels | Trigger Speed | Detection Range | Video Quality | Solar Powered | Solar Compatible | Cellular Enabled |
| Muddy Matrix Cellular Camera | 36 MP | 0.4 seconds | 80 ft. | 1080P HD with Audio | No | Yes | Yes, AT&T or Verizon |
| Moultrie Micro-AC42i Micro Series Game Trail Camera | 42 MP | 0.4 seconds | 70 ft. | 720P | No | Yes | No |
| Stealth Cam 26mp Fusion Wireless Camera | 26 MP | 0.4 seconds | 80 ft. | 720P HD with Audio | No | Yes | Yes, AT&T or Verizon |
| Wildgame Innovations Mirage Pro Lights Out 32 MP Game Camera | 32 MP | 0.25 seconds | 80 ft. | 720p | No | No | No |
| SPYPOINT FLEX G36 Cellular Trail Camera | 36 MP | 0.3 seconds | 100 ft. | 1080p | N/A | Yes | Yes, Multi-network |
| Tactacam REVEAL X-Pro Game Camera | Up to 16 MP | < 0.5 seconds | 96 ft. | HD | No | Yes | Yes, AT&T or Verizon |
| Stealth Cam Deceptor Wireless Camera | 40 MP | < 0.3 seconds | 80 ft. | 1440p | No | Yes | Yes, AT&T or Verizon |
| SPYPOINT FLEX-S Cellular Trail Camera | 36 MP | 0.3 seconds | 100 ft. | 1080p | Yes | Yes | Yes, Multi-network |
| Tactacam REVEAL X Gen 2.0 Game Camera | Up to 16 MP | < 0.5 seconds | 96 ft. | 1080p | No | Yes | Yes, AT&T or Verizon |
| Moultrie EDGE Mobile Nationwide Cellular Trail Camera | 33 MP | 0.85 seconds | 80 ft. | 720p | No | Yes | Yes, Multi-network |
| SPYPOINT LM 2 V Twin Pack W/2 Micro SD Cards | 20 MP | 0.5 seconds | 90 ft. | N/A | N/A | Yes | Yes, Verizon |
| Wildgame Innovations Terra Cell Trail Camera | 24 MP | 0.7 seconds | 80 ft. | N/A | No | No | Yes |
Our Process + Proof
We surveyed Academy staff, industry experts, and customers about their favorite trail cameras. In this process, we gathered their insights and experience to learn about which trail cameras you should consider. Trends come and go. The products we feature in this list outlast the season with the features you need to get the performance you want.
Important Trail Camera Features & Considerations
- Megapixels: Megapixels determine how much detail your trail camera can capture in each image. The higher the number, the clearer the photo.
- Trigger speed: Trigger speed means the speed at which your camera can take a photo from the time it’s activated by an animal walking into range.
- Detection range: The longer the detection range your camera has, the further away an animal can be from your camera and still be photographed.
- Video resolution + quality: A good video can help confirm the direction your game is headed, or provide added entertainment by enjoying the sights (and sounds, if your camera supports it) of the range.
- Solar powered: Solar-powered game cameras can extend the time between your trips out to check or change the batteries in your camera. (On average, you check a regular battery-powered camera every 3-4 months. A solar-power camera may only need to be checked every 6-12 months.)
- Solar compatible Certain cameras are solar compatible, which means they can be powered by an external solar panel purchased separately. This gives you even more versatility and flexibility about where and how you use your trail cams.
- Cellular enabled This technology has revolutionized the way wildlife enthusiasts and hunters monitor their game trails, allowing them to capture images and data from a distance as well as adjust their strategies accordingly.
Best Trail Camera with the Highest Megapixels
When it comes to trail cameras, a higher number of megapixels (also known as video resolution) equates to its ability to capture sharper, more detailed images. Higher megapixels also yield greater clarity and color accuracy.
When you’re focused on capturing fine details like antlers and fur patterns, having a good trail cam with quality video resolution can make such a drastic difference! You can also enjoy making out more details in darker, low-light conditions.
The Muddy Matrix Cellular Trail Camera gives you the freedom to capture and/or pattern your game in confidence. Enjoy premium features: 36 megapixels, an impressive 80-foot detection range, crisp HD video with audio, and flexible cellular capability.
You won’t find those prized bucks downtown, so you’ll need great connectivity for the most remote deer leases or properties. This trail cam can auto-detect which carrier has the strongest signal in your area. Tap into the camera from your smartphone via the app.
- Megapixels: 36 MP
- Trigger Speed: 0.4 seconds
- Detection Range: 80 ft.
- Video Quality: 1080p HD (with audio)
- Solar Powered: No
- Solar Compatible: Yes
- Solar Compatible: Yes, AT&T or Verizon (pre-installed SIM cards)
Compact, convenient, and conceal with ease! The Moultrie Micro-AC42i Micro Series Game Trail Camera offers everything you love about a trail cam – but in a smaller size. Its invisible infrared flash can capture bright, clear images without spooking off the target.
This micro trail camera from Moultrie features various shooting modes, excellent video capabilities, and a sealed weather-resistant casing for durability. Scout those big bucks while enjoying its sharp 42 megapixels and fast trigger speed.
- Megapixels: 42 MP
- Trigger Speed: 0.4 seconds
- Detection Range: 70 ft.
- Video Quality: 720p
- Solar Powered: No
- Solar Compatible: Yes
- Cellular: No
“Back in the day when we didn't have trail cameras, you didn't know what would come in. You might shoot a 140-inch deer and there's a 165-inch 10 minutes behind him. That to me is key to being able to shoot the biggest buck on your property. It doesn't take a lot — just some corn and a trail camera.”
— Jeff Danker of BuckVentures Outdoors
Best Trail Camera with the Fastest Trigger Speed
Fast trigger speed allows a trail camera to capture images quickly and accurately when it detects motion. When you want to capture quickly without worrying about rapid battery drain, quick trigger speeds help minimize needless power consumption.
The Fusion Wireless 26MP Trail Camera by Stealth Cam makes cellular activation a breeze! Transmit images to your smartphone within minutes using the quick scan QR setup.
Stealth Cam offers affordable data plans for the Fusion trail cam, which is compatible with both AT&T and Verizon. Capture animals on your property without alerting them with 26-megapixel photos and an 80-foot infrared flash range.
- Megapixels: 26 MP
- Trigger Speed: 0.4 seconds
- Detection Range: 80 ft.
- Video Quality: 720p HD (with audio)
- Solar Powered: No
- Solar Compatible: Yes
- Cellular: Yes, Verizon and AT&T
The Wildgame Innovations Mirage Pro 32MP Game Camera is a reliable companion for hunters seeking high-quality images and videos. Its sharp 32-megapixel camera and advanced nighttime capturing capabilities deliver impressive results. The exposure control feature makes finding the perfect combination of clarity and distance even easier.
You can trust this camera to perform effortlessly – thanks to its quick trigger speed of less than half a second. Additionally, the Mirage Pro 32 stays quiet with Silent Shield technology, ensuring that the game is not spooked. This innovative feature allows you to capture wildlife without disturbing their natural behavior for every budget!
- Megapixels: 32 MP
- Trigger Speed: 0.25 seconds
- Detection Range: 80 ft.
- Video Quality: 720p
- Solar Powered: No
- Solar Compatible: No
- Cellular: No
Expert Tip:
Slow trigger speed usually misses subjects entirely. You might only capture a portion of the game. Even worse, slow trigger speed can even yield blurry images — especially if the subject is moving quickly.
Best Trail Camera with the Longest Detection Range
Detection range is another non-negotiable feature when you’re looking for the best trail camera. It refers to the distance at which a camera's motion sensor can detect movement and trigger the camera to take a photo or video.
The SPYPOINT FLEX G-36 has an incredible 36MP photo resolution and 1080p videos with sound. You’ll be impressed by the detail this trail camera captures. The responsive trigger adjusts settings for optimal quality in any conditions, while its Constant Capture technology ensures you never miss a moment.
The FLEX G-36 works on all major cellular networks (including US Cellular). That means you’ll get to connect to the best coverage in your area. Trust the SPYPOINT FLEX G-36 for superior performance and reliable connection on your hunting adventures.
- Megapixels: 36 MP
- Trigger Speed: 0.3 seconds
- Detection Range: 100 ft.
- Video Quality: 1080p HD (with audio)
- Solar Powered: N/A
- Solar Compatible: Yes
- Cellular: Yes, Multi-network LTE
The REVEAL X-Pro Game Camera from Tactacam is perfect for the most remote locations or hunting properties with limited access. Start seeing the action as it’s happening even when you’re not in the woods with this discreet, powerful cellular-enabled trail camera. Stay connected and capture the action day or night with a fast 0.3-second trigger speed and no glow IR technology.
- Megapixels: Up to 16 MP
- Trigger Speed: 0.3 seconds
- Detection Range: 96 ft.
- Video Quality: HD
- Solar Powered: No
- Solar Compatible: Yes
- Cellular: Yes, AT&T and Verizon (sim cards included)
Expert Tip:
You shouldn’t just grab a trail cam with the furthest long-range detection distance! A longer detection range can also result in more false triggers since the camera can also detect motion from other sources such as swaying branches or falling leaves.
Best Trail Camera with the Highest Video Quality
Clear, detailed video can help identify individual animals or track changes in their physical characteristics over time. High video quality can make sharing and analyzing the captured footage that much easier.
Enjoy performance like never before with the Stealth Cam Deceptor Wireless Camera’s improved battery life, connectivity, and photo resolution. You’ll capture sharp 40MP images and 1440P videos with audio. It offers an 80-foot detection range, 0.3-second trigger speed, and selectable recovery timeout.
Set up the Stealth Camp Deceptor Wireless Trail Camera in your hunting space with ease. With its compatibility with AT&T and Verizon, this camera delivers reliable performance for your hunting needs.
- Megapixels: 40 MP
- Trigger Speed: <0.3 seconds
- Detection Range: 80 ft.
- Video Quality: 1440p QHD (with audio)
- Solar Powered: No
- Solar Compatible: Yes
- Cellular: Yes, AT&T and Verizon
Expert Tip:
Higher-quality video also results in larger file sizes, which take up more storage space and may be more difficult to transmit or share.
Best Solar Powered Trail Camera
Solar panels replace the standard batteries (or another external power source) typically found in a trail cam. Solar-powered trail cameras have integrated panels that absorb sunlight and convert it into electrical energy, which is then used to power the camera's functions.
The SPYPOINT FLEX-S Cellular Trail Camera elevates the acclaimed performance of the FLEX with improved battery life, enhanced connectivity, and increased photo resolution. It offers expanded capabilities with a new supported carrier for improved performance and the ultimate versatility.
This trail camera combines the performance and flexibility of the FLEX with an integrated solar panel. The solar panel charges the internal lithium battery, ensuring extended camera functionality for confident scouting.
- Megapixels: 36 MP
- Trigger Speed: 0.3 seconds
- Detection Range: 100 ft.
- Video Quality: 1080p (with audio)
- Solar Powered: Yes
- Solar Compatible: N/A
- Cellular: Yes, Multi-network LTE
Expert Tip:
You’ll typically use solar-powered trail cameras in remote areas. Keep in mind that they require sufficient sunlight to function properly and may not work as well in cloudy or shaded areas.
Best Solar-Compatible Trail Camera
‘Solar-compatible’ is a feature on a trail camera. This connects the cam to an external solar power source to keep the camera's batteries charged. Especially useful for extended outdoor use, you won’t have to ‘babysit’ your equipment or replace the batteries constantly.
Tactacam’s REVEAL X Gen 2.0 is a reliable scouting tool that combines innovative technology with easy setup and multi-carrier capability. Hunters can enjoy real-time photo delivery from anywhere with durability designed to withstand extreme weather conditions!
With this trail cam, you don’t have to worry about contracts or activation fees. Simply enjoy the flexible month-to-month data plans for the ultimate convenience and freedom. This small, discreet game camera also has a newly developed hybrid mode that ensures faster communication and improved battery life.
- Megapixels: Up to 16 MP
- Trigger Speed: <0.5 seconds
- Detection Range: 96 ft.
- Video Quality: Up to 1080p/f HD
- Solar Powered: No
- Solar Compatible: Yes
- Cellular: Yes, AT&T and Verizon (sim cards included)
Moultrie Mobile's Edge Cellular Trail Camera features Auto Connect, built-in memory, and unlimited cloud storage. Enjoy exceptional image quality and clearer night images along with improved IR LED arrangement. With flexible power options and an expanded PIR, you’ll enjoy convenience and performance with this trail camera!
Setting up the Edge is easy — just scan the QR code and you're ready to go. The Fold & Transport Cellboost antenna ensures better connectivity and portability. With a 2-year warranty and access to U.S.-based customer support, Moultrie Mobile's Edge offers industry-leading features and reliability. No extra fees or limitations.
- Megapixels: 33 MP
- Trigger Speed: 0.85 seconds
- Detection Range: 80 ft.
- Video Quality: 720p
- Solar Powered: No
- Solar Compatible: Yes
- Cellular: Yes, Multi-network
“One of the most important tools we use — and the most revolutionary things to come on the market — is a trail camera. We use them all over the place.”
— Daniel McVay of BuckVentures Outdoors
Best Cellular-Enabled Trail Cameras
A cellular-enabled trail camera transmits photos or videos wirelessly to a remote location via a cellular network. This handy trail camera feature gives users the ability to view images of footage remotely. You can also adjust camera settings and receive notifications whenever it detects motion.
The Spypoint LM 2 V Twin Pack doubles your trail camera capacity! Enhance your scouting capabilities for exceptional value. No more difficult choices between monitoring locations.
As an evolution of the LINK-MICRO revolution, it brings brand-new functionality and features while also delivering affordability. The LM2 will exceed your expectations and offers you impressive performance — all at an affordable price!
- Megapixels: 20 MP
- Trigger Speed: 0.5 seconds
- Detection Range: 90 ft.
- Video Quality: N/A
- Solar Powered: N/A
- Solar Compatible: Yes
- Cellular: Yes, Verizon
The Terra Cell 16-Megapixel Cellular Trail Camera by Wildgame Innovations has 21 850nm LEDs plus an impressive detection/flash range and a rapid trigger speed. These features work together to capture even the most fleeting subjects/game with ease. Keep a watchful eye on the farthest reaches of your property while respecting the established patterns of game animals residing there.
- Megapixels: 24 MP
- Trigger Speed: 0.7 seconds
- Detection Range: 80 ft.
- Video Quality: N/A
- Solar Powered: No
- Solar Compatible: No
- Cellular: Yes
Have Fun Out There!
Now that you’ve seen our picks for best trail cams, you’re ready to have fun out there. Head into your local Academy Sports + Outdoors, or go check out our trail cam selection online to pick up your favorite of our picks — or to find your own.
Have more questions? Don’t forget to check out our Game Camera Buying Guide if you want even more tips on trail cameras.
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