The takeaway: Think a cheap trail cam is just as good as a pricier one? Not so. These are the features you should never compromise on if you’re serious about scouting.

There are plenty of ultra-cheap trail cams on the market today, with more seeming to arrive every week. While it can be tempting to save a few bucks, when it comes to performance and features in a good trail cam, you definitely get what you pay for.

Here are seven of the best trail cam features you should not skimp on.

  • Why it matters: If your trail cam detects movement too late or too close, you’ll get blurry photos or images of tails or nothing at all.

  • Look for: Trigger speed of a half-second or less and detection range of 90 feet or more

  1. Infrared Flash and Night Vision Quality

  • Why it matters: Most animal activity happens at night, and a poor IR flash will spook animals or return blurry or underexposed images

  • Look for: No-glow (for longer range) or low-glow (for better illumination) flash; the ultimate setup has in-app switchable flash ability.

  1. Image and Video Quality

  • Why it matters: You want clear, detailed images in order to identify animals and their traits and behaviors. High-quality images are also helpful for sharing with friends or on social media.

  • Look for: 4K image quality and 1080p FHD video, with adjustable photo burst settings of at least three photos.

  1. Long Battery Life and Multiple Power Options

  • Why it matters: Visiting trail cams is time-consuming and leaves scent behind. AA batteries are expensive and laborious to buy and replace.

  • Look for: Long-lasting lithium rechargeable battery with solar panel backup and battery belt options.

  1. Weatherproofing and Durability

  • Why it matters: These cameras will live outdoors 24/7 and be exposed to everything from rain and sun to winds, ice, and curious wildlife.

  • Look for: IP 65 weatherproof rating, providing protection against dust and even jets of water. You may even need protection against wildfires. Also check for a rugged housing with a tight seal and latch quality so the door or battery access button doesn’t break.

  1. Automatic Cellular Carrier Selection

  • Why it matters: Cell plans and carrier coverage can be complicated, especially if you plan to move your camera between sites.

  • Look for: Auto carrier select, so all you need to do is activate your camera and choose a data plan.

  1. Ease of Use and Simple Mounting

  • Why it matters: No one wants to waste time activating cameras or struggling to find a way to mount it.

  • Look for: A simple, powerful do-it-all app that makes setup and deployment a breeze. An integrated LED screen on the camera allows for easy aiming. Multiple mounting options, including poles, straps, and mounts, mean you can place your camera almost anywhere in seconds.

Extra features to look for: More advanced cameras like the new REVEAL Ultra have built-in GPS for precise camera location using your app, ample internal memory, and active GPS with battery backup so you can find your camera even if it is stolen or lost and the battery is removed or dies.

Tactacam has REVEAL cameras that range from beginner-friendly to professional grade, but all feature exceptional image range and flash speed, stealthy IR flash, superior image and video quality, long battery life with multiple solar and battery belt options, rock-solid construction and weatherproofing, automatic carrier selection, and easy setup and mounting. Learn more about Tactacam REVEAL cameras here.