One of the newer developments in the game camera industry is the use of wireless and cellular technology. Wireless cameras are extremely user-friendly and very convenient as you don’t have to walk into the woods each time you want to see what’s captured on the camera.
Cellular game cameras are good for property surveillance as they can transmit real-time alerts of trespassers on the property. After the camera detects and captures an image of an object passing by, within 90 seconds you will have that image on your phone or email. If you’re looking for the best wireless trail cameras on the market, our wireless trail camera reviews will help you choose the one for your needs.
See The Quick Comparison Chart
What is a Cellular / Wireless Game Camera?
Cellular and wireless trail cameras are a combination of a traditional game camera and a basic cellphone. The two devices are housed in one unit that usually comes in a weatherproof case. They share the same power supply, which is usually lithium batteries.
To use a cellular trail camera you need to have an activated SIM card and a corresponding cell phone plan that will provide transmission of photos. Once you activate the card, the camera can start transmitting images. A wireless game camera transmits images by using a wireless network.
While the images stored on the SD card are of higher resolution, the images that are sent to your email or phone are compressed and smaller. On the most cellular and wireless cameras, the user can set up as many as 4 recipients of both phone and email. Some models offer Bluetooth connectivity as well.
Difference Between Wireless and Cellular Trail Cameras
Wireless vs. Cellular Trail Camera
Actually, a wireless trail camera is not exactly the same as a cellular trail camera. a wireless game camera uses a wifi signal to operate and you need a wifi connection to be able to send images. On the other hand, cellular game cameras need an activated SIM card to be able to send images via text or e-mail.
In case you are planning to use your game camera for hunting purposes, we would recommend that you prefer a cellular game camera. The reason is, you are less likely to have wifi connection everywhere you go while an activated SIM card will allow you to send images from anywhere at any time.
However, if you are a homeowner and if you are planning to use your game camera only in the limited range of your home area such as security purposes, then a wireless game camera would be the better option for you. In order to ensure security and better surveillance, you will probably prefer to place your game camera up high and wifi signals are mostşy strong enough to connect between a roof and a ground-level router or cell phone.
Since cellular service charges are higher than wifi network charges most of the time, you need to consider whether or not you need the cellular feature for your purposes of use. The only investment you need to make for a wireless game camera is the original service cost, after all, and there is no monthly service charge as for a cellular trail camera. Wifi networks are local, password protected and they are reserved only for the owners.
How Do Wireless Game Cameras Work?
Wireless trail camera design includes a built-in transmitter, which then uses a wireless network to send images to the recipient’s phone or email. The benefit of these cameras is that they are extremely user-friendly and are very easy to install. Compared to traditional trail cameras there’re fewer attachments and no USB cords. You just choose a wireless network and connect to your camera.
The only drawback to wireless trail cameras is that when used in the outdoors, the outdoor environment can hamper the wireless signal. Also, you have to be inside the Wi-Fi range in order to receive the images.
How Do Cellular Game Cameras Work?
Cellular trail cameras also use GSM networks to transmit the recorded images. The recipient can also get images by either phone or email, or both of them at once. You will need a SIM card and data package to transmit the images.
These cameras are usually quite compact and are suitable for use both indoors and outdoors. Similar to wireless game cameras, the installation is simple with no wires required.
Of course, everyone’s impressions after using a cellular trail camera differs but mostly they are considered to be the most advantageous game camera option on the market.
Best Wireless Trail Cameras Comparison Chart
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | CREATIVE XP 4G Cellular Trail Camera |
| View On Amazon |
 | Campark T80 Trail Camera |
| View On Amazon |
 | Bigfoot 3G Camera |
| View On Amazon |
 | Spartan GoCam |
| View On Amazon |
 | Moultrie Mobile XV7000i Cellular Trail Camera |
| View On Amazon |
Wireless Trail Camera Reviews (Recommended Picks)
1. CREATIVE XP 4G Cellular Trail Camera
CreativeXP 4G cellular trail camera is one of the most highly rated game cameras on the market. It features a 65 ft range of night vision thanks to its 56pc no-glow IR LEDs. CreativeXP records full HD 1080P videos as well as 12MP photos during both day and night time. With its wide dynamic lens with a 110° PIR angle and 0.35s trigger speed, you can capture up to 5 photos per trigger.
The WIFI cellular feature allows CreativeXP to instantly send photos and videos to any phone or email registered in the USA. Also, this feature is extremely easy to use as there is a free SIMHero card included in the package which can be activated online in about only 5 minutes. On top of it all, it comes with a 32GB SD card.
CreativeXP is IP54 waterproof and can stand harsh conditions such as heavy rain, dust, mud, ice, and snow. It operates with 12 AA batteries or can be used with a solar panel for constant energy. By means of its multiple photos and video settings, you can select the time-lapse feature to receive photos every 3 minutes or maybe use the timer to record videos only during a certain time range.
One thing you should note is that CreativeXP does not come with remote control and you will need to use the device itself when you want to send photos and videos or change any settings.
Pro – SIM card is included.
Con – No remote control device.
2. Campark T80 Trail Camera
Campark T80 trail camera with its built-in WIFI and APP control functions is our top pick. The WIFI function is extremely easy to use as all you have to do is to download the APP on your mobile phone and then connect with WIFI. Afterward, you can easily check the camera angle on your phone and adjust the camera position. Then, all you have to do is to adjust the settings and you will be set to check the photos and videos on your phone directly.
Campark T80 is motion activated and can capture 20MP vivid images and 1296P resolution videos with sound. You can view them all on its 2.3″ color TFT LCD screen. It has a triggering distance of 65ft as well as IR flash and 36pc 850nm infrared LEDs for perfect night vision.
Furthermore, Campark T80 is IP66 approved. This means that its sturdy case will protect it from water and dust damage even in harsh environments like a desert or a tropical rain forest. Plus, this game camera comes with a threaded tripod and a mounting strap so that you can easily install it anywhere you like.
Campark T80 is compatible with an SD card of class 10 up to 32GB. However, the package does not contain an SD card. It comes with a remote control which has a range limitation. You will need 8 x 1.5V AA batteries to get this trail camera going. the only thing customers have complained about are the instructions on the user manual stating that they could have been clearer.
Pro – Comes with a remote control device.
Con – User’s manual is unclear.
3. Bigfoot 3G Camera
Bigfoot 3G camera is a perfect option for scouting, hunting, wildlife research, and surveillance purposes. It has a photo resolution of 12MP and can capture high-resolution videos of 1080P. It can also do night time recordings thanks to its 56 no-glow IR LEDs and 65ft range. While the day photos are crystal clear and in color, night time recordings can be viewed in black and white. It has a wide-angle lens and the trigger speed is 0.4s while the recovery time is about 1s.
Bigfoot comes with a preloaded SIM card and it can be connected to the AT&T network. The SIM card can be used 30 days for free and when this time is over you will need to choose and purchase a data plan relative to your needs. There is also a free APP available online and once you have downloaded this APP you can control the settings of the camera from your smartphone and start sending photos and videos.
It is a motion-activated camera and operates with 12 AA batteries. There is also a 12V solar charger available if you need an alternative power source. Moreover, there is a 16GB SD card included in the package. However, some customers have complained that the objects seem too far away in their shots because of the wide focus of view.
Pro – Compatible with a solar charger.
Con – No magnifying feature for close recording.
4. Spartan GoCam
Spartan GoCam is ready to use once you take it out of the box. You don’t have to install a SIM card in it, it already contains one. The SIM card is connected to an Internet provider, and the data plan can be added to an existing account, or you can start a new data plan especially for the camera. The data plan can be activated and deactivated whenever necessary. All you need to do is to activate the service from HCO, use the camera menus to set your desired parameters, and your camera is ready to use. Moreover, The SIM has a great signal, especially if you use the external antenna provided, and it will send you the camera feed even from remote locations.
Spartan GoCam’s trigger speed is under one second. The photo resolution is 8MP while the video resolution is 720P. Its IR LED array provides illumination to 70ft for night images and videos. You can set duty periods for different trigger intervals or use the time-lapse feature for shooting photos or videos. It can be set to overwrite the oldest photo on the SD card with the most recent if the SD card is full. This way you don’t lose the most recent photos when the SD card is full.
Spartan GoCam is highly water-resistant and operates with 12 AA batteries. Some customers have complained that it drains the batteries pretty quickly, though. It comes with a set of microfiber towels for drying the unit.
Pro – Comes with microfiber towels for cleanup.
Con- Runs out of batteries pretty quickly.
5. Moultrie Mobile XV7000i Cellular Trail Camera
Moultrie Mobile XV7000i cellular trail camera is a great product for instantly receiving game camera images to your smartphone, tablet, or computer. It runs on Verizon’s 4G network and allows you to transmit the captured images to a server by a built-in cellular modem. Then, by connecting to this server via the Moultrie Mobile app or website with your smartphone or computer you can access these images. You buy your data directly through Moultrie independent of your current phone provider. All you need to do is to activate your account and choose the data plan that best fits your needs.
Moultrie Mobile XV7000i is a motion-activated camera that provides you with 20MP photos and 1080P HD videos. It features an 80ft detection range and an invisible flash in order not to spook wildlife. You can also take crisp night photos thanks to its ILLUMI-Night 2 sensor. The trigger time is only 0.3s. XV7000i is powered by 12 AA batteries. The batteries also power the built-in cellular modem.
One feature of the camera is that it is also sensitive to changes in the heat and is triggered by these changes. It means that on windy days, for example, it may get triggered and take photos of nothing which can be quite frustrating for some.
Pro – Built-in cellular modem is powered by the batteries.
Con – High sensitivity causes unwanted footages.
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Covert Scouting Camera |
| View On Amazon |
 | Spypoint Link Micro-V 4G Cellular Trail Camera |
| View On Amazon |
 | Snyper Hunting 12 MP Wireless Trail Camera |
| View On Amazon |
 | CuddeLink Dual Cell Game Camera |
| View On Amazon |
 | Stealth Cam GX Cellular Series Trail Camera |
| View On Amazon |
6. Covert Scouting Camera
Covert Scouting camera comes with a mossy oak finish that’s easy to blend in with its surrounding environment. It features a built-in infrared flash with 60 invisible LEDs and a 100ft range. Plus, it takes 12MP still images and can record 1280×720 resolution videos with sound. Trigger time is 0.7s, which is slightly higher than some other models on the market.
The camera takes high-quality pictures, and it only takes a minute or so for the picture to reach your phone. This is a good feed, and you can use the data to see exactly when something enters the camera’s FOV. Moreover, the 2″ color viewer makes it easy to control the settings of the camera and preview pictures and video in the field.
It runs on the AT&T network. You will need to choose a data plan and download Covert mobile app. This scouting camera can support SD cards up to 32GB, as well. It is powered by 12 AA batteries like most of the other models available on the market. In spite of all its good features, unless you are technically inclined, it may be a bit difficult for you to set this camera up.
Pro – Menu is user-friendly.
Con – Setting up is a bit complicated.
7. Spypoint Link Micro-V 4G Cellular Trail Camera
Spypoint Link Micro-V 4G is one of the smallest cellular game cameras on the market. It comes with a preactivated SIM card and free 30 days of unlimited photos. Also, a free monthly plan of 100 photos is offered. You need to follow a simple, three-step process to activate the Link-Micro using the Spypoint app. This app will also allow you to change settings, monitor camera status, and view images from anywhere.
Spypoint is offered in two different models, each working with different networks. One network is Verizon and the other is AT&T. You need to choose the one that suits you better.
Spypoint captures 10 MP photos, has a 0.5s trigger speed and 80ft flash range. The flash is IR and thus you will not need to worry about spooking animals or people seeing it. It is motion-activated and operates with 8 AA batteries which are included in the package. Moreover, a tree mount comes with it for easy installation and a 16GB micro SD card.
On the negative side, some customers have complained about the poor quality of customer service.
Pro – Comes with a preactivated SIM card.
Con – Poor customer service.
8. Snyper Commander 4G Cellular Trail Camera
If you’re looking for a durable trail camera that can send high-quality directly to your phone, you should take a closer look at the 12 MP model developed by Snyper Hunting. This model comes with a built-in SIM card, and it will text you the camera feed directly on the phone. You can also install the manufacturer’s app on your phone and watch the photos whenever you want. Furthermore, the app GPS locator allows the user to see the trail camera locations on the interactive screen map. If your camera gets stolen, simply open up the app and find out where the camera is.
Snyper Commander operates with 10 AA batteries and has long battery life. Moreover, the battery saving feature makes it very effective even during the cold winter months. Every time you get a picture, it will also show the battery status, so you don’t have to travel to the camera’s location to check it.
On the negative side, the camera’s menu could be better. Some people might need some help figuring out how to access all the camera’s features, but the tech support will help you with that.
Pro – GPS locator allows you to see the exact spot of the camera.
Con – Menu is a bit complicated.
9. CuddeLink Dual Cell Game Camera
Cuddelink Dual Cell is a game camera by Cuddeback which is offered in 2 cellular modes. Mode 1 is for a standalone cellular trail camera that uses LTE technology for transmitting images to your smartphone or computer. Mode 2 uses CuddeLink technology. this technology allows you to use up to 16 cameras under only one data plan. So, instead of choosing a data plan for each camera that you set up, you can pay for only 1 data plan and combine them all under it. The mobile operator this game camera works with is Verizon.
Cuddelink Dual Cell game camera has a 20MP photo resolution. It features a dual flash illumination that has a built-in no-glow black flash and long-range IR. One can use the long-range IR for normal use and the black flash for complete invisibility. this game camera has 0.25s trigger speed and 1s recovery time. There are also many other fun features such as a fully programmable time-lapse feature and separate day and night delay settings.
Cuddelink Dual Cell game camera runs on 6 D cell batteries and is compatible up to a 32GB SD card. Unfortunately, neither the batteries nor the SD card is included in the package.
Pro – Up to 16 cameras can be used under one data plan.
Con – 6 D cell batteries make the device a bit heavy.
10. Stealth Cam GX Cellular Series Trail Camera
Stealth Cam’s GX cellular series comes in two versions. One of them works with cellular operator AT&T while the other works with Verizon. It has 4G connectivity and the Stealth Cam App is available both for iPhone and Android. Once downloaded the app, you can manage all your camera settings either from your smartphone or computer.
What you can do from your phone or computer includes viewing the latest transmitted images and videos, creating and managing galleries, deleting images, pinching, and zooming. The home screen also displays cell signal, image count, battery level, and memory card usage.
Stealth Cam GX captures 22MP photos which are a very good resolution. It features 42 no-glow IR emitters for 100ft of infrared light. This way, you will not spook wildlife or any trespassers. The trigger speed of GX is 0.5s. Matrix Advanced Blur technology and Retina Low Light sensitivity make sure that all photos and videos captured are crisp and crystal clear.
GX runs on 12 AA batteries and can support up to 32GB SD cards. It also features an external power jack for a 12V battery box. One negative side of it is that people have complained about its difficult setup.
Pro – Two versions are available for two different operators.
Con – Difficult to set up.
Choosing the Best Cellular / Wireless Trail Camera
The best cellular game camera should have all the features of a good trail camera and on top of it all some extra features. Here is an easy guide on how to choose the best cellular / wireless game camera;
GSM Network
When you are trying to select a cellular trail camera for your use, one of the first aspects that you need to consider is which carriers the device works with. Some products can work with more than one operator in your location. ın that case, prefer the one which works with operators providing the strongest signals. This way, you will face minimum service unavailabilities.
Almost all of the cellular cameras work with a GSM network. If you are in the U.S., then you will have to obtain cell service through either AT&T or T-Mobile carrier. However, after activating the SIM card, most of the time you can use your own cellular carrier and have the camera transmit images to any cell phone or network.
Some products available on the market come with preloaded SIM cards. Once you have received the product, all you need to do is to activate this SIM card that was sent along with it. Actually, this makes things quite simple and saves you from the effort of acquiring a new SIM card to be used with your new best cellular game camera. You may consider this aspect as well while making a purchase.
3G or 4G Coverage
Cellular trail cameras are offered in two different options of broadband cellular network technology; 3G and 4G. The letter “G” stands for generation and consequently, 3G means 3rd generation while 4G means 4th generation. the fundamental difference between these two generations of network technology is their speed. 4G connectivity is roughly 10 times faster than 3G. ın other words, you can do data transmission much more quickly with a 4G device than with a device with 3G connectivity.
New 5G devices are on the verge of entering the market. Therefore, getting a 3G device might be a bit old fashioned at this time of technology. You would probably be best off with a cellular camera with a 4G network connectivity. However, products using 4G are a bit more expensive as you might have already guessed. Since purchasing a new product is mostly about price-performance effectiveness, it all comes down to your needs.
If you are a busy person, do not have much time to spend on waiting for data transmissions, etc. you may prefer a 3G connection and save some money. On the other hand, if you want to send and receive your photos and videos instantly you should definitely get a cellular game camera that works with 4G connectivity.
Payment Plans
After you have purchased a cellular trail camera, you need to activate the SIM card before being able to transmit images. After completing the activation process, you will need to choose a data plan offered by the mobile service operator that the device works with. Going through these data payment plans before making a decision is of vital importance because it will affect the budget you spare for your game camera to a great extent.
Most of the time you can find these data payment plans online or you may call the local mobile service operators and ask for information. Remember that you need to think wider and think about if the payment plan will meet your needs in the long run. of course, many service operators allow you to change your data payment plans when needed and this is an advantage. make sure that your operator will allow for the same thing.
Some products come with 30 days of free data use, for instance. This may be a very good feature in order for you to be able to see more or less how much data you consume in a month and make a good projection for the future.
Sensitivity
Keep in mind that most cellular trail cameras are motion activated and some are sensitive to sudden changes of heat. This makes them quite sensitive to their surroundings. cellular game cameras will probably get triggered by false factors such as strong wind or a cat passing by and send you some useless images. Unfortunately, these unwanted photos and videos will affect your data consumption and will add to your bill.
Try to prefer a cellular trail camera of which you can change the sensitivity or the detection range. This way, you will avoid false alarms and reduce the data consumption for insignificant occurrences.
Storage Options
Cellular trail cameras have two main ways of storage. The first one is the local storage and the other one is cloud storage. Wildlife cellular cameras usually have slots for SD cards. You can insert an SD card for storing all your wildlife recordings locally in these cards. For some products, the micro SD card is included in the package and you do not need to purchase one separately.
Cellular trail cameras with cloud service allow you to upload all the recorded photos and videos to the cloud. Since they will all be kept in the cloud, you will not need to worry about losing your data or getting it damaged. Plus, you will be able to access all your data from anywhere at any time. On the other hand, you would need the SD card itself to access the photos saved into the SD card locally.
If you are planning to keep your data saved in an SD card instead of paying subscription fees for cloud storage, remember that all SD cards have limited memory spaces. Try to choose a device that supports an SD card that will meet your expectations. Some devices are compatible with 16GB SD cards whereas others can compensate 32GB or higher. Think of how much space you will need and choose wisely.
Another feature some cellular game cameras have worth considering is data management when the SD card is full. Some devices delete the oldest photos saved on the memory in order to make space for new footages. Decide if this feature will work for you and choose accordingly.
Instant Notifications
Most wireless game cameras have online applications. Once you have downloaded these apps, the device will be able to send you notifications whenever there is new footage. These notifications can be very useful to you regardless of your purpose of use. If you are using your new wireless trail camera for security purposes you would probably want to be notified whenever there is action in your property. Likewise, if you are a hunter watching wildlife you would want to be notified whenever there is an animal in the range.
Instant notifications will make you aware of what is going on and allow you to take action in time. It is of little use if you notice there has been a trespasser on your property after they are long gone or there was a deer in your focus of view in the morning but it just wandered away… Thus, make sure that the device that you purchase has an easy-to-use online app that will send you instant notifications.
Remote Access
A good cellular trail camera should have remote access. You should be able to view your recordings instantly in the comfort of your home or practically from anywhere with the use of an online app or remote control. Remote controls mostly work in a limited range. Therefore, an online app is the best option in this case.
One of the most attractive features of cellular trail cameras is to be able to send your photos and videos to your phone or PC immediately. This will save you from many trips to the actual location of your trail camera to retrieve your recordings. It is a vitally important feature especially if you are using your game camera for hunting purposes.
Think about it. Each time you go to retrieve the photos and videos saved on your game camera you will leave your scent in the perimeter. Different smells are very likely to spook animals and cause them to stay away from the area around your trail camera. A cellular game camera that you have remote access to will come very handy in this situation.
Battery Life
Most wireless trail cameras have relatively shorter battery life when compared to that of traditional game cameras. Shorter battery life means more often visits to the area you have installed your game camera and more labor. Necessarily check out the average battery consumption of the game camera you are interested in before making a purchase.
You can prefer a device that works on lithium batteries as they last about four times longer than alkaline batteries. See if you can use rechargeable batteries with the device, too. It would save you a lot of money and is much eco-friendlier. Some products on the market are compatible with solar panels to produce their energy. Sınce solar energy is an endless source, you may want to consider such a device to save yourself from the energy problem altogether.
Warranty
Another aspect to consider when choosing a cellular game camera is the warranty that comes with the product. Most of the warranties will not cover cell coverage termination or poor cell reception. Therefore, make sure that you have read all the warranty terms very carefully and see what is risky and what is not. Remember that you cannot have everything covered but the warranty should at least cover the major aspects for a reasonable period of time.
Conclusion
Cellular trail cameras are a great option if you are looking to upgrade your surveillance or wildlife watching experience. They are really good for surveillance purposes as you can instantly see who is trespassing on your property. The cameras are also advantageous for hunting as you can at once see who is passing the feeder. Top-rated wireless and cellular game cameras mentioned above are the best wireless trail camera options that we have found on the market. Our wireless game camera reviews were compiled based on many factors, including their feedback of real users, products’ rating, quality, and the usefulness of the included features.
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