Top 10 Hunting Cameras Reviewed & Rated

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
TEC.BEAN 12MP 1080P HD
Test Winner: TEC.BEAN 12MP 1080P HD
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A hunting camera is vital for monitoring animal patterns throughout the seasons. With the right information, a hunter can set traps and scout successfully without any surprises. Better technology has helped improve them over the years and made them more versatile than ever. Hunters that live in remote areas with acres of land have found that hunting cameras serve dual purposes; giving them peace of mind while away from home and scouting hunting routes. Whether you’re looking for a high-tech expensive device or something more basic and affordable, our list of the best hunting cameras include a great variety of choices to meet all of your needs.

Standout Picks

Crenova Game Trail Camera
No one in a million years would expect to see Crenova beating out big guns like Bushnell, Moultrie, and Browning. Crenova has created the only other 1080p camera on the list and has filled in the cons that put the TEC.BEAN in 3rd place. Amazingly, they did all of this and made the cost lower, that's why this product is the best camera for hunting on our list.
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TEC.BEAN 12MP 1080P HD
Making it into the top 3 is this TEC.BEAN model, that does everything a hunter would want and then some. About the only thing that is missing from it is wireless since they managed to put everything else into this game camera.
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Bushnell Trophy E2
Bushnell strikes again, but this is a more affordable hunting camera sans the wireless connectivity. Sometimes simple beats out advanced, and more customers have been satisfied with this model than any other.
Browning Strike Force
This hunting camera is a smart option if you want to get the best out of your hunting experience. The 24 MP Browning Strike Force trail camera works really well not only in the daytime, but takes great night time images as well. Therefore, you can take clear pictures no matter the degree of brightness. Moreover, it is compatible with up to 512GB SDXC memory cards, allowing you to store more images than ever!
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Bushnell Trophy Aggressor
As the first high priced hunting camera on the list, the Bushnell Trophy Cam HD Aggressor is the choice of millions worldwide. This is the brand that changed multiple industries and continues to redefine hunting cameras.
Primos Truth Cam 35
Truth cams really can’t get any simpler than this. The Truth Cam 35 is possibly one of the easiest cameras to operate without reducing its quality. Think of this camera as your eyes in the woods; 35 infrared LED lights make the darkest of environments crystal clear with night vision. One thing about this camera is that you can customize nearly everything about it, setting it to your specific needs and special circumstances.
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Moultrie M-888
Usually, Moultrie cameras are known for a low price and they are tough but don’t blow away the customers with specifications. The M-888 Mini turns that rumor on its head since this model packs a lot of heat. The black sheep of the Moultrie family is one of their better models with some unique flagship features.
Amazon Link
Primos 12MP
Primos is a really good brand that surprises a lot of customers with great hardware. Inside each Primos camera is top-notch materials made to make any hunting experience painless. This particular model is a bit of a sneaky favorite because of price and camera quality.
XIKEZAN Waterproof
Xikezan and its camo colored camera is a surprising addition to any list. A lot of customers have spoken out about the quality of the product, and it is slowly turning into something special. What makes it such a good buy isn’t just based on durability and price, but a lot of untapped power underneath the hood.
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Amcrest ATC 1201
The ATC 1201 by Amcrest is extremely easy to use; it includes a remote controller with 12 buttons that works up to 9m away from the device, including a built-in laser pointer. This camera supports a set of 4 or 8 AA batteries and allows you to customize the settings. Its resistant case design provides the right environment for the camera under nearly any circumstances the weather may create.
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Criteria Used for Evaluation

Effectiveness

Evaluating hunting cameras is similar to regular digital cameras, with the focus instead of being shifted to media quality, night capabilities, trigger speed, media manipulation, and durability. Pricing also helped to shape the list, but these five things were the biggest of the bunch.

Media quality has to do with picture and video quality during all times of the day. It would have been unfair to just give HD cameras the win since lower definition cameras are still capable. To balance out quality with actual capabilities, we looked at how the pictures turned out rather than the actual hardware. By using this method we were able to separate cameras that pumped up their specifications but didn’t live up to expectations.

Speed

You can have the greatest camera in the world and it can still take bad photos. That is why our criteria for trigger speed was put in to balance out the list. This is the speed that determines how fast (and how many) photos can be taken at any given time. If the trigger speed is too slow, you’ll get blurry or out of focus photos. Trigger speed also has an effect capturing ‘magic moments’ with video, or at the very least raising the chances you’ll get to capture that moment.

Advanced Features

Night Mode

The next thing we tested for was night capabilities, but only in models that supported it. Not all of the hunting cameras on the list supported night media, so we gave points to those that had it on the feature list and didn’t punish the cameras that didn’t. Even if night IR is a great feature, not every consumer will mark it as a killer feature. On the plus side, we found that the cameras without night modes had better battery management. That’s something to think about for users that leave their cameras out for a year at a time.

Media Manipulation and Durability

The two criteria’s that we tested last had to do with media manipulation and durability. With the former, we tested a camera’s ability to crop, correct and customize photos directly from the camera itself. This is a useful addition for buyers that want to edit their media but don’t have access to a computer. Being able to touch up media directly from the device is an often underrated feature of hunting cameras. They are never power, but still, a worthwhile addition, especially when the camera includes a nice screen. Durability is directly tied to the casing and not the camera, and a lot of brands excelled in this area. Points were given out to all that included the usual trifecta of shockproof, fog proof and water resistance. When you leave the camera out for long periods of time, the case has to be able to handle the elements, whether natural or not. Rain is one, while a long drop to the ground is also common. The length and quality of the warranty programs were also included in the criteria and shaped the top ten list to its current form.

10 Best Hunting Cameras

1. Crenova Game

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Crenova Game Trail Camera
Amazon Link

No one in a million years would expect to see Crenova beating out big guns like Bushnell, Moultrie, and Browning. Crenova has created the only other 1080p camera on the list and has filled in the cons that put the TEC.BEAN in 3rd place. Amazingly, they did all of this and made the cost lower, that's why this product is the best camera for hunting on our list.

Best Quality/Value Ratio

When it comes to choosing a hunting camera that offers great picture and video quality without breaking the bank, the Crenova Game and Trail camera is your best bet. It comes with a wide-angle and long-range view as well as with +40 infrared LEDs for night time view.

Features and Specifications

  • 12 Megapixel image resolution
  • 1080P video
  • 6-second trigger speed after motion detection
  • +40 infrared LEDs
  • 120° Wide angle
  • 65’ motion-sensing range

Price/Value

Customers that are looking for a quality camera without too many bells and whistles and for an affordable price will love this option!

Decision Time

With an excellent quality video and image resolution, fast motion sensor trigger and wide-angle viewing, this camera offers great features without a high price tag. The drawbacks? Battery life may not be as long as in some other options on our list, however, we feel this is not an issue that should affect your decision to buy this camera.

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2. TEC.BEAN 12MP 1080P HD

Where to buy
Amazon Link
TEC.BEAN 12MP 1080P HD
Amazon Link

Making it into the top 3 is this TEC.BEAN model, that does everything a hunter would want and then some. About the only thing that is missing from it is wireless since they managed to put everything else into this game camera.

Finally 1080p

This is one of the few full HD hunting cameras on the market, with an extraordinary 1920x1080p HD resolution. Any hunter that has a full HD set or computer knows what a difference it can make to have this model over a camera that only does 720p.

Features and Specifications

  • 12MP resolution with video recording up to 90 seconds
  • Up to 9 pictures per trigger
  • 75 ft. night time range
  • 5 full capture modes with an optional motion freeze
  • 2-inch color LCD viewer
  • Password protected camera

Price/Value

The first media-rich hunting camera on the list is actually a pretty good price, and not that expensive at all. Customers that want a lot of power behind their shots will be more than happy with this model.

Decision Time

This is the first 1080p hunting camera on the list, and may very well be the best. Hunters that are media enthusiasts will flock to this model over the others for its raw power.

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3. Bushnell Trophy E2

Where to buy
Bushnell Trophy E2
Amazon Link

Bushnell strikes again, but this is a more affordable hunting camera sans the wireless connectivity. Sometimes simple beats out advanced, and more customers have been satisfied with this model than any other.

Fast Trigger Speed

Fast trigger speed means better photos and videos. The latter is even more important, since missing the first second could make a huge difference in how special the video is to you. With a 0.3-second trigger speed, Bushnell continues its excellence in providing powerful cameras that dominate.

Features and Specifications

  • Available modes are 3,8 or 12MP
  • Low, Medium or High PIR
  • Trigger interval is programmable up to 60 minutes
  • 720p video with audio up to 60 seconds
  • Field Scan 2x can be set between 1 minute and 60 minutes

Price/Value

When comparing it to the wireless Bushnell model, the Trophy Cam HD Essential E2 stands on its own quite well. The only thing missing is wireless functionality, with every other major feature seeming identical. This is a low priced Bushnell model that really glides by the competition when matching power specs.

Decision Time

Buyers that aren’t interested in wireless functionality will find that this is the best Bushnell model to purchase. It’s fast, low priced and gets the job done day or night.

4. Browning Strike Force

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Browning Strike Force
Amazon Link

This hunting camera is a smart option if you want to get the best out of your hunting experience. The 24 MP Browning Strike Force trail camera works really well not only in the daytime, but takes great night time images as well. Therefore, you can take clear pictures no matter the degree of brightness. Moreover, it is compatible with up to 512GB SDXC memory cards, allowing you to store more images than ever!

Long Flash Range

This model from Browning features an amazing 80 ft. the adjustable flash range for long-range detection. The power save design ensures that the battery doesn’t get drained quickly.

Full HD

This item is equipped with a new video processor in order to provide you with the best picture and video. You can record 1920x1080 Full HD videos with sound for up to 2 minutes.

Cost and Value

Taking into consideration the advanced technology used in this device, it is a good investment for those looking for the best. One of these features includes Zero Blur technology for the clearest night shots.

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5. Bushnell Trophy Aggressor

Where to buy
Bushnell Trophy Aggressor
Amazon Link

As the first high priced hunting camera on the list, the Bushnell Trophy Cam HD Aggressor is the choice of millions worldwide. This is the brand that changed multiple industries and continues to redefine hunting cameras.

Wireless Connectivity without a Hassle

Straight out of the box the HD Aggressor is 3g capable. With wireless functionality already built-in, the need to buy bulky or expensive wireless adapters is a thing of the past. The revolutionary wireless feature is only available in the US, so be wary if you’re an international user.

Features and Specifications

  • 14MP with 720p video
  • 48 No-Glow Black LEDs
  • 60 ft. invisible flash range
  • Auto senses day and night cycles
  • 3-second trigger speed
  • Free iOS or Android app
  • The case has a built on the metal buckle

Price/Value

The wireless functionality out of the box is the seller, high price and all. Convenience wins in this instance for Bushnell as they are still the best choice for an easy to use wireless hunting camera.

Decision Time

With a high price tag it may turn off some viewers, but those that can’t live without wireless functionality will be satisfied with this option. Every other brand is still playing catch up with the wireless feature, and Bushnell is king.

6. Primos Truth Cam 35

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Primos Truth Cam 35
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Truth cams really can’t get any simpler than this. The Truth Cam 35 is possibly one of the easiest cameras to operate without reducing its quality. Think of this camera as your eyes in the woods; 35 infrared LED lights make the darkest of environments crystal clear with night vision. One thing about this camera is that you can customize nearly everything about it, setting it to your specific needs and special circumstances.

Trigger speed

The Truth Cam 35 features a trigger speed that reaches 1.5 seconds straight out of sleep mode. The reaction time stays true to its advertisement, initializing in a second a half and taking one picture every 0.3 seconds when active. But it doesn’t stop there, the triggering can be adjusted to take multi-shots from 1 to 9 images in odd numbers. All images save time, date, information about the climate and the moon.

Designed for concealment

The thin and low profile of the Truth Cam 35 makes it extremely hard to spot – you may even forget where you installed it. Furthermore, the case counts with the traditional Matrix camo finish. Being extremely easy to install, this camera can be placed in difficult positions to provide even more enclosement. The night vision LEDs emit invisible light, ensuring concealment during nighttime as well.

Cost

The Truth Cam 35 by Primos sits just around the average value of the items on this list. For its trigger speed, 35 IR lights, multi-shot feature and the resistance of its components, this camera is a good deal. While it’s not the highest end of hunting camera technology, it’s got quite a bit of quality to offer while assisting you on the hunt.

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7. Moultrie M-888

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Moultrie M-888
Amazon Link

Usually, Moultrie cameras are known for a low price and they are tough but don’t blow away the customers with specifications. The M-888 Mini turns that rumor on its head since this model packs a lot of heat. The black sheep of the Moultrie family is one of their better models with some unique flagship features.

14 Megapixel Quality

This is probably the strongest Moultrie camera available, with a blazingly powerful 14MP resolution. The highlight isn’t just about how powerful it is but should be focused on the power saving features. Even when using the full 14MP resolution, the M-888 mini uses less power than comparable models with lower resolution cameras.

Features and Specifications

  • 100 ft. IR flash range
  • 7-second trigger speed
  • Moultrie Mobile capable
  • 2-year warranty
  • Infrared flash illumination
  • Requires 8AA batteries

Price/Value

The really interesting part about the M-888 Mini is that by itself it ranks as #8 on the list, but if they included the wireless accessory and bumped up the video to 1080p it would run away with the #1 spot. In its current state, the price is one of the lowest on the list, so the base unit is worth it as is.

Decision Time

Buyers that are willing to build on this model with Moultrie game camera accessories will be really happy at the outcome. And even for customers that want to buy the unit only, they will end up with years of great pictures.

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8. Primos 12MP

Where to buy
Primos 12MP
Amazon Link

Primos is a really good brand that surprises a lot of customers with great hardware. Inside each Primos camera is top-notch materials made to make any hunting experience painless. This particular model is a bit of a sneaky favorite because of price and camera quality.

Incredible Pictures

There is no escaping the fantastic quality of this model, and for it to be #9 speaks a lot about the camera quality. Besides sporting 12MP it also uses no glow flash at night for capturing photos. Even when compared to the top 3 cameras on this list, it’s debatable if they beat out this Primos model.

Features and Specifications

  • 720p with audio up to 60 seconds
  • No Glow infrared
  • 1-5 multi-shot
  • Python lock compatible
  • Time-lapse up to 60 minutes

Price/Value

Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is how unbeatable the camera quality is coupled with the price. But beyond a beastly camera, everything else is average. Even at its current low price, this is a hard deal to pass up if you don’t want to spend double for a hunting camera with similar photo qualities.

Decision Time

If Primos made the case more appealing and added in better power-saving features, well then this would have shot up to the top 3 spots. Even with some slight cons in other areas, there is no denying the quality of the camera in this unit.

9. XIKEZAN Waterproof

Where to buy
Amazon Link
XIKEZAN Waterproof
Amazon Link

Xikezan and its camo colored camera is a surprising addition to any list. A lot of customers have spoken out about the quality of the product, and it is slowly turning into something special. What makes it such a good buy isn’t just based on durability and price, but a lot of untapped power underneath the hood.

Trusting Xikezan as a Company

The warranty needs to be highlighted for the company since they are offering a 1-year manufacturer warranty. Xikezan is not a known brand by many, and yet over the course of their company's time has done a fantastic job with customer service. So if there is any reason you have a problem with the product, they have a good track record of being very customer friendly.

Features and Specifications

  • The trigger speed of 0.8 seconds
  • Programmable trigger interval
  • 5 picture multi-shot feature
  • 8 MP camera
  • 720 HD video with sound
  • 50 ft. motion detection
  • Uses 4 or 12 AA batteries

Price/Value

This is one of the lowest-priced cameras on the list. Usually, Moultrie game cameras would fill the low-cost niche, but this Xikezan offers some serious value for both hunting and home security. The factor that in with the warranty and this turns out to be a surprisingly good deal.

Decision Time

There is nothing to be afraid of for new customers purchasing a Xikezan hunting camera. The company has proven they have what it takes to compete, creating a great camera with a lot of advanced features.

Amazon Link

10. Amcrest ATC 1201

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Amcrest ATC 1201
Amazon Link

The ATC 1201 by Amcrest is extremely easy to use; it includes a remote controller with 12 buttons that works up to 9m away from the device, including a built-in laser pointer. This camera supports a set of 4 or 8 AA batteries and allows you to customize the settings. Its resistant case design provides the right environment for the camera under nearly any circumstances the weather may create.

High-Quality Images & Video

A proper camera can’t work with low resolution, which is why the ATC 1201 captures the still images at 12MP and records in 1080p video. The result of a truly professional-grade hunting camera is HD images and video unmatched by other private platforms. The colors are captured vividly so you can appreciate each detail of the surveilled area. Moving bodies pose no challenge to the resolution and focus of this camera.

Reliable durability

The ATC 1201 includes a 2-inch LCD sporting a user-friendly interface along with a tough case with weatherproofing equipment. This particular model meets the weatherproofing IP54 standard for resistance. Enjoy the experience of hunting in almost any climatic circumstance where traditional cameras would normally not be suitable. Additionally, the snug fit prevents the camera from hitting the case upon any sort of impact.

Cost

This camera is one of the best values of the list. Its cost can only be beaten by the 12MP camera by TEC.BEAN. The Amcrest ATC 1201 has been tested for harsh outdoor circumstances, passing the weatherproofing IP54 standard for resistance. The image quality and durability of this product alone are enough reason to buy it for such a low cost. It’s hard to get a deal that beats this one.

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