10 Best Trail Cameras For Security
In today’s world, safety cannot be assured; hence, people need to find new ways of ensuring their protection. The emergence of trail cameras that activate when the movement of humans and animals are detected is one of such ways. The question however is: what is the best trail camera for security?
The best trail camera for security is the Bushnell Core DS No Glow. It is packed with impressive features that make it effective for both day and night-time use.
However, we will be looking at a list of the 10 best trail cameras for security based on their features – their strong points and where they come in handy. Information contained in the rest of this article will help you make an informed and confident choice; so let’s roll!
10 Best Trail Cameras for Security
Of course, the trail cameras that will make our list are those whose specifications especially as they are suited for security, outmatch the others. These cameras particularly have an enhanced capacity for discrete operation and cannot be easily detected by targets. The trail cameras that make our list include:
Best Overall – Bushnell Core DS No Glow
The overall best trail camera is the Bushnell Core DS No Glow. It has been selected amongst others due to its price and unique features that are appreciated by most trail camera users.
The Bushnell Core DS No Glow trail camera is one of its kind. This trail camera rose to its rank with its unique features, qualifying to become the best for security. It features two image sensors; one designed for sharp and clear images by day time, while the other one is designed for night-time use as it sports an optimized contrast clarity at 80ft under dim weather conditions.
The Bushnell Core DS No Glow trail camera is designed to withstand extreme hot and cold weather conditions. Its name – DS (Dual Sensor) No Glow is derived from its almost invisible day/night time LED light. This feature makes it convenient for both security and wildlife purposes. It has a triggered response time of 0.2 seconds and Full HD video capture at about 60fps with excellent audio quality.
The Bushnell Core DS No Glow trail camera also features waterproof construction powered by regular AA batteries.
Its specifications include:
Trigger Speed: 0.2 seconds.
Megapixel: 30 MP.
Flash range: 80ft.
Video length: 60 seconds.
Resolution: 30MP
Illumination: No Glow Infrared LED
Video Quality: 1080p @ 60fps
You can check out the Bushnell Core DS No Glow Trail Cameras on Amazon.
Best on a budget – Spypoint Force-20 Trail Camera
Not everyone has the money to pay for a $200 trail camera. So why not get one with most of the features within your budget? In this section, we will discuss a trail camera that is both effective and also pocket-friendly.
The best trail camera for security on a budget is the Spypoint Force-20 Trail Camera.
This trail camera comes from the stables of Spypoint which is a well-known name in the trail camera manufacturing industry.
One powerful feature of Spypoint FORCE-20 is the excellent clarity of its captured images with its 20-megapixel lens. It is one of the best cameras for surveillance and is ideal for people considering their budget though it is not the cheapest in the market.
This trail camera features a Multi-shot Mode, capturing five images once movement is detected. It is also great for use at night time with its 48 low-glow LEDs capable of capturing infrared images under poor light conditions.
The Spypoint FORCE-20 Trail Camera is easy to use and understand. It has been designed to be extremely durable in terms of battery life and usage. Notwithstanding that it is cheap, this camera is a powerful one; however, you must note that it doesn’t allow audio recording in its video recording mode.
Its specifications include:
Trigger Speed: 0.7 seconds
Megapixel: 20MP
Price: $100
Illumination: Infrared LED
PIR Range: 70ft.
Resolution: 20MP
Video quality: 1080p
Flash Range: 80ft.
You can check out the Spypoint FORCE-20 Trail Cameras Amazon.
Now that you have seen our overall best trail camera for security and the best based on budget, it’s time you meet our top ten best cameras. These cameras have been selected based on their efficiency and other top qualities which make them particularly suitable for security.
Bushnell Core DS No Glow
Remember the Bushnell Core DS No Glow! We spoke about it earlier in this article. It is our best trail camera this season based on its powerful features. With its dual-sensor that produces clear images and videos both in the day and at night, its HD video capability, trigger time at just 0.2 seconds, waterproof finish, and good battery life, the Bushnell Core DS No Glow remains a clear winner.
Bushnell Core DS Low Glow
Also from the stables of Bushnell, the Core DS Low Glow is a rugged camera designed after its predecessor – our best camera – the Bushnell Core DS No Glow. The only significant difference between this model and its predecessor is its infrared LEDs which show a red glow and which is good for night time image capturing. This Low Glow model is suitable for conditions in which you don’t want to miss a shot or don’t want to bother your neighbors or alert possible thieves and intruders with white flashes.
The Bushnell Core DS Low Glow trail camera is designed with waterproof construction powered by regular standard AA batteries. This Camera is very durable and great for your backyard security coverage – it, however, is not suitable for locations requiring absolute stealth capturing. It also lacks any form of wireless capability on its structure.
Its specifications include:
Video resolution: 1080p @ 60fps
Megapixels: 30MP
Audio recording: Yes
Trigger Speed: 0.2 seconds
Illumination: Infrared LED
PIR Range: 80ft.
Resolution: 30MP
Flash Range: 80ft.
You can check out the Bushnell Core DS Low Glow Trail Camera on Amazon.
Bushnell Trophy Camera Essential E3
If you’re seeking a mix of affordability and effective performance in your choice of trail cameras, then the Bushnell Trophy Camera Essential E3 is a very great choice for you. One fantastic feature of this camera is its ability to capture three still images per detection. Its capturing interval can be adjusted between one second and sixty minutes. It can also be set at five seconds per HD quality video to capture clear video recordings.
The Bushnell Trophy Camera Essential E3 is powered by eight regular AA batteries capable of lasting up to a year. It also has a detection range of up to 100 ft, making it useful for capturing distant movement. It can also operate in hot or cold extreme weather conditions.
This trail camera also features an infrared flash with a 16MP resolution CMOS sensor for night image capturing. It, however, lacks image geo-tagging features and any form of wireless capabilities.
Its specifications include:
Megapixel: 16MP
Video resolution: 1280 X 720 pixels
LCD: Yes
Resolution: 16MP
Audio recording: Yes
Trigger Speed: 1 second
Illumination: Infrared LED
PIR Range: 100ft.
Flash Range: 100ft.
You can check out the Bushnell Trophy Camera Essential E3 Amazon.
Spypoint Solar Dark
Just like superman, the Spypoint Solar Dark trail camera utilizes the power of the sun. In simpler words, it is powered by solar energy and features low glow LEDs, making it perfect for both day and night time image capturing. Like its other models, it features an ultra-fast trigger, with a speed of 0.07 seconds and 42 Low Glow LEDs. It also has a flash range extendable to about 90ft.
Since its battery is solar-powered, there is no need for you to add an external battery! But for modesty, the manufacturers added slots for six AA batteries.
The Spypoint Solar Dark can detect movements in a 110ft proximity. It can also record 720P videos with sound, time-lapse movies, and initiate blur reduction.
Its specifications include:
Megapixel: 16MP
Video resolution: 1280 X 720 pixels
Battery: Solar powered + slots for AA
batteries.
LCD: Yes
Resolution: 16MP
Audio recording: Yes
Trigger Speed: 0.07 seconds
Illumination: Infrared LED
PIR Range: 110ft.
Flash Range: 90ft.
You can check out the Spypoint Solar Dark Trail Camera Amazon.
Spypoint Link-S Trail Camera
The Spypoint Link-S cellular camera is a solar-powered security camera capable of sending live and recorded feeds directly to your synced mobile device. With this trail camera model, you can remotely monitor activity ongoing at its location, download live or recorded feed directly to your synchronized mobile device, send critical notifications, etc. It might be said that the Spypoint Link-S trail camera has similar features with the Spypoint Solar-W especially solar power but one significant difference is their varying prices and battery life.
A single unit of the Spypoint Link-S trail camera is usually delivered with a pre-activated SIM card so that users can begin using it immediately. However, you must check the running costs of your cellular plan. Aside from the solar power feature of the device, it also features a slot for SD card storage and 4G LTE mobile network; trigger speed of 0.07 seconds; and 42 high power LEDs based on Infrared technology. It, however, doesn’t have any alternative for video or image coverage transmission.
Its specifications include:
Megapixel: 12MP
Video resolution: 1280 X 720 pixels
Battery: Solar powered + slots for AA batteries.
LCD: Yes
Resolution: 12MP
Audio recording: Yes
Trigger Speed: 0.07 seconds
Illumination: Infrared LED
PIR Range: 100ft.
Flash Range: 80ft.
You can check out the Spypoint Link-S Cellular Trail Camera Amazon.
Bushnell Trophy Camera Aggressor 24MP Low Glow
If you ever had the opportunity of staying in the mountains or any other region which experiences severe weather conditions, then you’d have heard about this trail camera model. The Bushnell Trophy Camera Aggressor 24MP Low Glow is a camera with a very rugged camouflaged outer-pack capable of withstanding massive damage from most forms of impact. Its motion-triggered sensors that can capture images of subjects and objects up to 100ft away.
It features a five way button control panel having illuminations for night time usage. It has a 0.2 seconds trigger speed with a recovery rate of 0.5 seconds. Unlike its budget model, its resolution was heated up to about 24MP and features a color LCD rather than the black and white LCD. It supports audio recording for its video capturing mode and SD card storage of up to 32GB.
Its specifications include:
Megapixel: 24MP
Video resolution: 1280 X 720 pixels
Battery: Powered by standard double-A batteries.
LCD: Yes
Resolution: 24MP or 20MP (depends on the variants).
Audio recording: Yes
Trigger Speed: 0.2 seconds and 0.5 seconds recovery rate.
Illumination: Infrared LED
PIR Range: 100ft.
Flash Range: 100ft.
You can check out the Bushnell Trophy Camera Aggressor 24MP Low Glow Amazon.
Spypoint Force-20 Trail Camera
The Spypoint FORCE-20 remains our security trail camera of choice on a budget because despite being affordable, it is a powerful trail camera built for home and building security. Its 20MP lens for good image quality, Multi-shot Mode that enables it captures up to 5 images at once, 42 low glow LEDs, and a trigger speed of 0.7 seconds, among other features, all for $100 makes it our clear winner in that category.
Stealth Cam G42NG
Stealth Cam has a reputation for designing the best trail cameras for security. Its No Glow Triad G42 model, represented as G42NG, is a great trail camera for both security and game hunting purposes. It features four different resolutions at which it functions: 12MP, 8MP, 4MP, and 2MP. Irrespective of its resolution, the Stealth Cam G42NG can significantly produce high-quality image and video capturing during the day or at night and in absolute weather conditions.
Once triggered, the No Glow G42 Trail camera captures between one and nine picture shots depending on your adjustment, thanks to its Burst Mode. It also features a blur reduction effect, 100ft infrared range, HD video recorders, about 42 Infrared emitters, and a 12V battery box. It is powered by eight AA batteries, which can be quickly depleted due to its high power .usage.
Its specifications include:
Megapixel: 12MP
Video resolution: 1080p @ 720fps
Battery: Powered by standard AA batteries.
LCD: Yes
Resolution: 12MP, 8MP, 4MP, or 2MP (depending on your adjustment).
Audio recording: Yes
Trigger Speed: 0.5 seconds.
Illumination: Infrared LED
PIR Range: 100ft.
Flash Range: 100ft.
You can check out the Stealth Cam G42NG Amazon.
Stealth Cam DS4K
The Stealth Cam DS4K is the world’s first 4K trail camera for video capture. This trail camera has been designed to meet the enormous image and video quality requirements for both security and wildlife photography. Many people have said that it resembles alien-technology based Star Trek, but we assure you that it is much better than it seems!
The Stealth Cam DS4K features a Burst Mode which lets it capture about nine images within 5 seconds of being triggered – isn’t that amazing?! It also offers a video resolution of about 3840 x 2160 pixels in broad daylight, assuring you that it is fit for both day and night time capturing.
Its trigger response falls within 0.4 seconds, and it also features a 30MP still image resolution with an infrared flash range of 100ft. It also features a Hybrid Capture Mode which records both images and videos in a 16:9 wide image ratio per detection. It, however, requires about 12 AA batteries for power making it heavy and bulky.
Its specifications include:
Megapixel: 30MP
Video resolution: 4K
Battery: Powered by twelve standard AA batteries.
LCD: Yes
Resolution: 30MP.
Audio recording: Yes
Trigger Speed: 0.4 seconds.
Illumination: Infrared LED
PIR Range: 100ft.
Flash Range: 100ft.
You can check out the Stealth Cam DS4K Amazon.
Spypoint Force-10 Trail Camera
The Spypoint Force-10 trail camera is the best entry-level c.amera for discrete monitor and capture mode. It can capture 10MP photos alongside other color HD videos during the day and also white/black at night. Its image and video capturing functionality are duly credited to its infrared LEDs. It features a 2-inch LCD screen for configuration purposes and is capable of capturing soundless videos.
Unlike its predecessors, the Spypoint Force-10 trail camera is compact, yet sophisticated which is a growing trend for new trail cameras produced by the company.
However, amidst all these good features is one flaw – it comes in a plastic casing. Such property is not suitable for regions with a high crime rate, except it is camouflaged and the plastic is reinforced to withstand severe weather conditions and impact.
The manufacturers of the Spypoint Force-10 trail camera, however, thought it wise to include a lithium-ion battery pack alongside the camera’s slot of six double AA batteries.
Its specifications include:
Megapixel: 10MP
Video resolution: 1280 x 720 pixels
Battery: Powered by lithium-ion batteries + six standard AA batteries.
LCD: Yes
Resolution: 10MP.
Audio recording: None
Trigger Speed: 0.7 seconds.
Illumination: Infrared LED
PIR Range: 100ft.
Flash Range: 100ft.
You can check out the Spypoint Force-10 Trail Camera Amazon.
Are Trail Cameras good for Home Security?
There is a general need for people to protect themselves and the valuables in their home. Mostly when your neighborhood is filled with petty theft and other insignificant crimes, cameras like CCTV cameras aren’t reliable due to their reliance on electricity – although some don’t rely on electricity.
We have already written a full article about this topic so y.ou can look it up on this site. Trail cameras aren’t only great because they work with the least power source, but also because they can be remotely controlled. So yes! trail cameras are not only good but great for home security because of their multiple features effective in capturing night and day time activities.
You can get a trail camera based on your particular security need. Some individuals choose based on their budget rather than effective response and data recording. However, whatever your choice of the trail camera is, you will find that their features are great!
How do you set up your Trail Camera for Security?
Trail cameras are pre-programmed devices with different installation/mounting, configuration, and customization settings. The get the best from them, you need to read the user’s manual or buyer guide to get more acquainted with how to set them up and these settings.
The first thing you have to note is that your trail camera’s functionality would be based on your specified features. Some factors to consider before buying a trail camera for your home security include pricing, discrete operation, power options, image/video resolution, mounting, storage options, and flash.
The following steps are to be followed when setting up a trail camera for security:
Step 1 – Choose an appropriate camera that meets your requirements and is compatible with your home’s environment. The information contained in this article will help you choose one that will meet your expectations.
Step 2 – Order from certified stores or retail outlets. Amazon stores worldwide are reliable places where you can get the best brands and models. There are other online stores that you can check out using a search engine.
Step 3 – Carefully assemble the parts of the camera based on the instructions given in the user’s manual. Most modern trail cameras have easily assembled parts thanks to the ingenuity of their manufacturers.
Step 4 – Select a good location to install your camera based on your knowledge of the environment. The best location will be one where your targets move around frequently. These can be entrance porches, open hallways, or places where your valuables are kept.
Step 5 – Mount the trail camera based on the instructions given in the user manual. Mount the camera in the specified position and ensure you camouflage with environmental materials, e.g., camouflage clothing, leaves, and letterbox casing.
Step 6 – Test the camera’s trigger speed, capture relapse time, and other vital functions. Check the configuration and customization settings and adjust as necessary. You should also ensure that your SD card is properly formatted and fixed to prevent corruption and the associated loss of recorded information.
Step 7 – Use and maintain the camera by cleaning it and checking it for issues. You can also try monthly maintenance to be assured of reliability. However, note that frequent visits to the camera can give it away and make your efforts futile.
How to hide the trail cameras for security
Although trail cameras are designed to be discrete, you need to know how to hide them effectively and without a trace. Since you will be monitoring unauthorized activity in your home environment, proper hiding is essential to avoid any suspicion by the subject being captured. When it is detected the targeted burglars or trespassers may change their minds or may even steal or destroy the camera.
Here are the different strategies you might want to consider when hiding your trail camera:
Use a great location
Choosing the right location is vital when hiding your trail camera from the unsuspecting eyes of your culprit(s). These trail cameras are often available in camouflage skin so you can easily hide them if you have trees, bushes, or any form of vegetation in your surroundings. If on the other hand, you are living in an urban area, you have to get a little more creative with hiding your camera. You might want to consider a shaded location or purchase one that has a design that can easily blend in. You might also try painting the camera while considering the lens.
Get the right mount for the camera
Mounting your camera is going to be somewhat straightforward, especially when you have bushes, trees, or any form of vegetation around. You could also try building mounts, birdhouses, or anything out of your creativity for the trail camera’s mount. You should also secure the trail camera firmly with either bungee cords, steel cables, or other straps. The designs of your preferred securing material should match the camera and the background so as to not give it away.
The right distance
Another critical thing to consider is the cameras capturing distance. Placing it close to the area you seek to protect will unveil it, making it evident to the intruder. Setting it too far from its place of surveillance would also strain its detection range, making its use seem futile. Testing out a few spots for mounting is an excellent activity before finally mounting the cameras.
Trail cameras are available in different varieties, depending on what a user is looking for. It is, however, vital that you note your specifications before checking out trail cameras. Deploying trail cameras in home security is a wise choice since the other types of cameras currently being used rarely display the features which trail cameras are known for!
Most trail cameras can report breaches over Wi-Fi or cellular data, making it easy for users to monitor their property. Real-time detection of security breaches may help save the day. It will help seek help before the situation gets out of hand or before your home is broken into or your property is stolen. You may alert your family members or neighbors or call the police.
