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Choose A Trail Camera That Sends Pictures To Your Phone
This artice will help you to decide which cellular trail camera to choose from the best currently availble in 2022. All the cameras here will send pictures to your phone via either a 3G or 4G cellular mobile network.
I have reviewed the latest 4G cellular trail cams at the top of this article. Followed by the older 3G cellular trail cameras.
I suggest only to take a look at a 3G camera if your chosen scouting area is limited to 3G coverage.
If your unsure on what to look for in a quality cellular trail cam. Check out my FAQs here for further information.
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4G Cellular Trail Cameras
Exodus Render 4G LTE Verizon Cellular Trail Camera
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First off, the Exodus Render 4G uses the Verizon cellular network. It comes supplied with a Verizon SIM card. Ensure that your potential camera spots for the season are in areas with at least 2 bars signal.
The video and photo quality are excellent both day and night time, providing clear detailed images. Video quality transmission size is only 640×480 resolution which is enough to see if its worth requesting a full HD copy for download to your smartphone app.
The Exodus Render 4G is a premium level camera and doesn’t come cheap. However the camera comes with a 5 year warranty, plus a 50% reduced price replacement option if your camera is stolen.
Just remember to register the camera with Exodus within 30 days to ensure the warranty is valid under this T&C!
Both setting up and operating the camera is done via the Scoutec App which is available for both Apple and Android devices. The app allows you to download images, adjust camera settings, plus manage your data plans.
Typical data plans as of August 2022 start at $3 for 25 Megabytes although the 250MB plan at $15 per month is popular with users. There is a fixed line rental of $7 per month for each camera, however the data plan can be shared across multiple cameras.
You can test the cellular signal to ensure the camera is transmitting photos prior to leaving the camera in the field. In addition, it’s possible to set a status report every 24 hours even if the camera hasn’t captured any pictures just to give peace of mind that everything is up and running.
The Scoutec app has a feature to view the cellular signal status in real time by way of 6 signal strength bars. Even at 2 bars the Render 4G will transmit without issues.
Menu settings may also be adjusted via the camera’s internal viewing screen. This allows you to adjust the video and photo settings, preview your camera’s point of view before closing the hinged door at the front. Which is a very nice feature to have.
You can set the interval of how often you receive photos to the app. This can be immediately after a trigger or multiple times a day, down to once a day to save on battery life.
In regards to viewing photos in the app. You can request a HD or high definition resolution image for download if you decide it’s worth taking a closer look at a particular deer.
As with all trail cameras the Render 4G is not immune to false triggers if there’s a lot of foliage blowing around in high winds.
The great thing is you can remotely change the interval period for a photo to be taken or switch off daytime capture just until weather conditions improve. This avoids the potential of having a load of pictures without game animals present sent to your phone.
Exodus recommends Lithium batteries to power the Render 4G. A set of 8 batteries generally last 2 months, say from early September through to November.
There is a solar panel with a 3000Mah internal battery pack option. This is available separately or you can buy both together in a package deal.
Summary
In summary, the Exodus Render 4G is a reliable cellular camera that comes with a 5 year warranty.
The data plans are a little more expensive compared to others but you do get the peace of mind that your camera is operating in the field without any issues.
The decision of whether to go with the Render 4G is largely down to performance versus price.
- 12MP Downloadable HD Photo
- 1920 x 1080 HD Video (Downloadable)
- Up to 32GB SD Memory Card
- 0.3 Second Trigger Speed
- 65 ft. Flash Range
- 70 ft. Detection Range
- 8 AA Lithium Batteries
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5 year "No BS" warranty
Excellent Reliability
Expensive initial outlay
TACTACAM Reveal XB Cellular Trail Camera
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Tactacam is based in Caledonia, Minnesota and are well known as a company in the field. They have 2 cellular trail cams in their range, today I’m going to share some key points on the Reveal XB which is the higher spec camera of the two.
The Reveal XB uses the 4G network and it comes not with one SIM but two. Both Verizon and AT&T full size SIMS. This is great as you can choose which network provider works best in your area and select the accordingly.
Unlike the Exodus Render 4G trail cam, the Reveal XB doesn’t have an LCD viewing screen, everything is done using the smartphone app.
The app is available for both iOS and Android phones. Setting up the camera is made easy by scanning the QR code found on the inside of the camera’s hinged control panel door.
The control panel has a number of green LEDs which light up. The lights indicate the camera has a compatible SD card (32GB class 10), the SIM card is activated, battery power, plus the all important cellular signal strength bars.
You can also check the signal strength inside the app along with all the menu settings for the camera. Personally I like the simple, clean layout design of the app compared to other apps used for wireless trail cams.
The gallery inside the app displays large preview snapshots of all the photos and videos transmitted to the app remotely via the network.
To watch or view an image is just a matter of holding down on screen for a moment the image to bring up the HD download options, which there is a charge to your data plan once downloaded.
The data plans are well thought out and cover most levels of usage. Pro level at $120 for unlimited downloads of video / photos. The starter plan is $55 a month for 250 photos. Alternatively you can opt to just pay as you go for 50 images at $5.
The Tactacam XB has a long detection range of 80 feet with no glow night illumination to match. The trigger speed is quick at around under half a second.
In terms of power, the XB takes 12 x AA batteries. Tactacam do recommend using Energizer lithium batteries which are expensive. There is an external port for a solar panel if you feel that maybe a more economical option over time.
Summary
Overall, the Tactacam does the basic task of remote scouting well. The app is easy to set up along with the camera.
Video and photos are both decent quality when downloaded in HD via the app and you can choose which ones to download to save on your data plan.
The Tactacam XB comes with a one year warranty, and good US based customer support.
- 24 Megapixel
- 1920 x 1080 Full HD Videos with Sound
- Up to 32GB SD Memory Card
- 0.5 Second Trigger Speed
- 80 ft. Flash Range
- 80 ft. Detection Range
- 12 AA Batteries
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Easy to set up
Choice of Verizon / AT&T
Batteries could get expensive
Moultrie Mobile Delta Cellular Camera
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Moultrie has a reputation for reliability. My first Moultrie trail camera was the budget A-30 trail cam way back when it was first made available to buy.
I still have it after all these years and it’s working as well as the day I bought it. This led me to take a look at the Moultrie Delta with a degree of expectation.
First off, this trail camera comes with a choice of 2 network providers. A Verizon 4G network camera, plus a AT&T version. The connection is reliable too, and looking at the feedback from other users throughout the States it seems to be reliable accross North America.
The camera is operated via the free Moultrie mobile app, allowing you to manage your data plan and change any settings within the camera remotely. Please note that the camera does not have an internal LCD screen so this is the only way to operate the camera.
If you take a look at the specification of the camera below, you’ll see that all the essential figures are impressive.
A 0.35 second trigger speed is very fast, coupled with an equally impressive detection range of 80 feet.
Summary
Overall this is one of the best budget 4G cellular trail cams out there in 2022. I would also consider the Tactacam Reveal XB also if you’re on a budget.
The standard data plan only allows you to receive the medium resolution pictures. You’ll have to extend the data plan to receive higher res pictures which is a slight downside.
The most important aspect of any cellular trail camera is how well it connects to the data network. The Moultrie Delta performs very well even in low signal strength areas.
Just make sure you use a class 10 SD card, ensuring the card is formatted via the cameras menu to achieve the best quality still pictures.
- 32 Megapixel
- 1920 x 1080 Full HD Videos with Sound
- Up to 32GB SD Memory Card
- 0.35 Second Trigger Speed
- 80 ft. Flash Range
- 80 ft. Detection Range
- 12 AA Batteries
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Reliable data connection with Verizon 4G
Fast trigger speed
Additional data plan charge to receive high resolution photos
Browning Defender 4G Cellular Trail Camera
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This was the first cellular trail camera model introduced to the Browning camera range and it still available to buy.
There are currently two versions. The only difference being, one connects to the AT&T Network, the other to the Verizon Network. The camera shown here is for the AT&T Network, which seems the most popular.
The night time pictures and video are not as high quality as some of the other non cellular Browning trail cameras in their 2022 lineup, which is a bit of a disappointment. However they are reasonable quality for a cellular trail camera.
The camera will send pictures and video to your phone via the free app, plus upload to Browning’s own cloud service as part of the data plan, so you can view your pictures using a laptop computer.
Summary
There’s a lot to like about the Defender 4G. The reliable connection to the data network and a host of features in the menu settings to name a few.
There’s a number of monthly data plans to suit your budget as well.
The Defenders images are slightly grainy in low light. Although I am comparing it to the Browning XD Pro and other top end cameras in the range which don’t have a cellular connection ability.
Maybe I’m being too harsh as this camera does pack a lot of features alongside the cellular capability side of things.
- 20 Megapixel
- 1920 x 1080 Full HD Videos with Sound
- Up to 512GB SDXC Memory Card
- 0.2 Second Trigger Speed
- 120 ft. Flash Range
- 80 ft. Detection Range
- 16 AA Batteries
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Reliable 4G connection
Super fast trigger speed
Night-time images could be better
LTE 4G Cellular Trail Camera
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The original Bigfoot camera model became a favourite amongst hunters and land managers very shortly after it arrived on the market several years ago. This was due to the cameras reliability and the first class customer service.
The main difference between the newer 4G camera and the 3G version is the 4G model receives pictures via both MMS text message as well as email.
Unfortunately AT&T stopped the MMS text service via 3G, so its older brother will now only receive pictures via email.
The other point worth noting is that for some reason the company that makes the cameras, opted for a different camera lens on the 4G. Nothing wrong with the latest lens apart from the fact it has a narrower field of view.
If your thinking of placing the camera near a large food plot it may be worth looking at the older 3G version instead.
Overall, the new 4G version performs very well. With a solid trigger speed and high quality images and video.
Summary
Overall this 4G camera is an upgrade on its older 3G Bigfoot brother.
Its a bit of a shame that they decided to change the camera lens to a slightly narrower field of view lens.
Having summed up everything, the 4G LTE is a great performing cellular trail camera, that is easy to set up. Plus the customer support is first class, if in the unlikely event you need help with the camera setup or it develops a fault.
- 12 Megapixel
- 1920 x 1080 Full HD Videos with Sound
- Up to 32GB SD Memory Card
- 0.35 Second Trigger Speed
- 65 ft. Flash Range
- 65 ft. Detection Range
- 12 AA Batteries
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4G Network connection
First class customer support
Narrow field of view compared to its older brother
Spypoint Link Micro LTE Cellular Trail Camera
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Link Micro is an ultra compact camera. The camera body measures at only 3.1″ W X 4.4″ H X 2.2″ D. The advantage being that it makes the camera less noticable on public land.
The other aspect to take note of is that this camera is a photo mode only camera. There is no option to record video available.
The camera records 2 pictures upon being triggered at up to 10 MP image resolution. All the pictures are stored onto a 32GB SD card which can be accessed via the free downloadable app.
If your running more than one camera it’s super easy to select which camera to view stored images from via the Spypoint app.
A really clever feature of the app is that it has a species feature. Click on buck and it displays only pictures with a buck present, which does work well in practice.
Summary
If you’re looking for a mutli camera setup the Link Micro is certainly worth considering.
The low cost per camera, plus the multi camera support via the app make it a great choice as part of a camera scouting network.
The stil pictures are good quality too.
- 10 Megapixel
- Up to 32GB SD Memory Card
- 0.5 Second Trigger Speed
- 80 ft. Flash Range
- 80 ft. Detection Range
- 8 AA Batteries
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Easy to set up
Free app works well
No video mode
Yellowstone 4G Cellular Trail Camera
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Yellowstone 4G camera is supported by a US based team who are there to help if required. Which gives you peace mind when buying a cellular trail cam.
There are 2 cameras to choose from. Difference being the camera lens. One lens has a 52 degree FOV and the wider lens option being 100 degrees.
Having the choice of FOV means you can opt for the wider angle lens if you plan to cover a food plot or the narrower 50 degree lens for game trails.
The camera comes with a preconfigured SD and SIM Data card meaning you can have the camera up and running in under 10 minutes.
There is a solar panel option too and an extra cost if your planning on running the camera for extened periods over the season.
Summary
There’s plenty to like about the Yellowstone camera, mostly in it’s ease of setup.
The high-gain antennas provide excellent signal pick up too.
I’d like to have seen the detection range being a bit longer, but 65 feet is still very aceptable in most scouting situations.
- 12 Megapixel
- 1920 x 1080 Full HD Videos with Sound
- Up to 32GB SD Memory Card
- 0.4 Second Trigger Speed
- 65 ft. Flash Range
- 65 ft. Detection Range
- 12 AA Batteries
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Easy to set up
Customer service
Detection range could to be further
3G Cellular Trail Cameras
Creative XP 3G Cellular Trail Camera
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
CreativeXP [1] are a family run company based in New York. The team, Daniel and his wife Elizabeth provide excellent customer service and have a blog alongside their business website with useful guides on hunting and general trail camera use, so it’s worth checking out (see link above).
The camera will only work with an 3G AT&T SIM Card and will send photos to any US phone number. Once you’ve activated your SIM card and added your number your good to start receiving photos triggered by the PIR sensor on the camera.
The 12MP sensor records quality video at 1080p and night illumination is provided by 56 NO GLOW LEDs, so it’s ideal for use on public land where the camera may be seen or as a home security camera.
This camera does have a very wide field of view with a wide dynamic camera lens and a 110 degree PIR angle, which is 20 degrees wider than most trail cameras. This makes it an ideal choice to cover food plots or for surveillance of a property.
The camera is powered by 4 – 8 AA batteries or you can hook it up to an external battery or solar panel.
There are a range of settings to allow you to capture single pictures or bursts up to 5 images. The camera will accept SD cards up to 32GB in size.
The CreativeXP trail camera comes with a number of extras including a tree strap, wall mount bracket, USB and RCA leads. Most importantly CreativeXP provide a lifetime warranty with the camera.
Summary
The CreativeXP trail camera is fast gaining popularity due to it’s overall performance and customer service provided by the company.
It’s a bold move by the company to provide a lifetime warranty but it shows the trust they have in their own product. It’s definitely worth checking out if your looking to buy a cellular camera.
- 12 Megapixel
- 1920 x 1080 Full HD Videos
- Up to 32GB SD Memory Card
- 0.4 Second Trigger Speed
- 65 ft. Flash Range
- 65 ft. Detection Range
- 8 AA Batteries
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Wide field of view PIR sensor
Easy to setup straight out the box
Detection range could be better
Stealth Cam AT&T GXATW Trail Camera
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Stealth Cam GXATW is a versatile camera that is both suited to beginners and more advanced cellular trail camera users.
The camera sends images and video clips to your mobile device or computer. Supported by its own iOS and Android app called the “Stealth Cam remote App”.
The camera is 4G and uses the AT&T cellar network. There is a quick start guide on the manufacturer’s website on how to get up and running quickly.
Stealth Cam, call the GXATW camera “Triad” equipped. What this means is the camera will shoot using its 22 megapixel sensor at 4 resolutions, 22mp / 12mp / 8mp and 4mp. Video is recorded in full 1080p HD. The Final part of the “Triad” is the time lapse function with PIR override.
Features include a quick trigger speed. 42 black IR emitters for night time images with an impressive 100 foot range.
Power is from either, 12 x AA batteries or via an external power jack for use with a 12V battery box.
Extra features are an SD card slot that accepts 32GB capacity cards, a low battery indicator, plus an LCD display.
Summary
This camera works using the AT&T network with a data plan SIM card to make use of the cellular network connections.
If you can pick up a Stealth Cam GXATW at a reasonable price then it may be worth considering. However the camera is outperfomed in many aspects by more current cellular trail cameras out there.
- 22 Megapixel
- 1920 x 1080 Full HD Videos with Sound
- Up to 32GB SD Memory Card
- 0.5 Second Trigger Speed
- 100 ft. Detection Range
- 12 AA Batteries
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Low budget option
GEO-Tag pictures & video
Works only on AT&T Network reliably
Better cameras now available
Wireless Trail Camera FAQs
What is a wireless trail camera?
A wireless trail camera quite simply is a camera that will send a picture via text or email to your mobile device whether it be a cell phone, tablet or even a desktop computer.
Of course it depends on how you set up the wireless camera to send pictures that dictates how and what receives the picture.
What is the difference between wifi and cellular trail cameras?
Wifi trail cameras
Both will send pictures to your phone. The wifi only trail camera requires a wifi network to log into and join to be able to send pictures to your phone or computer.
A typical use of this type of trail camera is for security for an office building or the home. You set the camera up so that it joins your wireless router’s wifi network using the network password, the same as you would for all other external devices such as your tablet or cell phone.
Once the camera is connected to your wifi network it will send pictures to your chosen device, in most cases a cell phone to wherever you are as long as your phone has a cellular data signal.
There are a couple of downsides to the wifi only trail camera.
- Being permanently connected to a wifi network requires constant power so its always best to also connect the trail camera to an external power source.
- The range of the wireless connection is up to 100 feet in most cases, so the camera will need to be within this distance from the wireless router to be able to connect.
Cellular trail cameras
These types of trail cameras act in the same way as your cellular smartphone. They require a SIM card, whether its provided by AT&T or Verizon. The SIM card will connect to a cellular network and send pictures to your smartphone using this data connection.
Cellular trail cameras are ideal for scouting deer and other animals in remote areas and sending almost instant feedback on activity in front of the trail cameras PIR sensor. It does this of course by sending a picture to your phone.
There are several downsides to this type of wireless trail camera too.
- It requires a monthly fee to the network provider for the SIM card to be active.
- Cellular trail cameras do require a strong cellular signal, 3 bars in most cases at least to operate and send pictures. So always check the location in which you decide to set up the trail camera by having it send a few pictures to your cell phone.
Bluetooth trail cameras
I have written a separate post article on bluetooth trail cameras here. But in essence they will only connect to your smartphone if your within 30 to 50 feet from the camera.
This is very useful if your camera is set high up in a tree pointing at a bird nest. This means you don’t have to take a ladder with you or climb the tree every time to check the SD cards content.
