Place |
Name |
Characteristic in the rating |
1 | Photo-Hunter JET | Good level of moisture protection |
2 | Balever BL480A | Simple but reliable model |
3 | "OWL" | Most popular model |
4 | "FALCON" | Long service life |
5 | SITITEK iHunt E | Best price |
1 | Seelock S358 | The most inconspicuous design |
2 | BolyGuard MG984G-36M LTE 4G MMS/GPRS | Best Picture Resolution |
3 | Acorn Ltl-6511MG | Quality camera trap at a reasonable price |
4 | Bushnell Trophy Cam HD Aggressor 20MP No-Glow | Best shutter speed |
5 | Veber SG - 8.0mmS | The highest quality production |
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A camera trap is one of the types of cameras designed to take pictures in automatic mode when a motion sensor installed in them is triggered. The first samples of this device were film, and were used only for hunting (for tracking down animals), ecologists and fauna researchers (for purely scientific purposes). With the gradual development of technology, more and more advanced devices appeared, and full-fledged digital analogues replaced film camera traps.
Types of camera traps
Old-style camera traps were made on the basis of conventional film cameras, modifying their design with various devices. Modern devices are available in three types:
Standard. The simplest and most affordable models based on a digital camera. They automatically record videos, take photos, saving all data to a memory card. Its capacity can reach 32 GB.
Models with GSM module. More advanced devices, especially popular among buyers. They not only take pictures and record videos, but also send them to the user by e-mail.
Camera traps with 3G. The most functional models that send material not only to a smartphone, but also to the user's e-mail in real time. Some camera traps can be controlled remotely by downloading a dedicated app.
In addition to fundamentally different conditions for preserving the footage, camera traps can be equipped with additional elements: a video camera, a laser target designator, pulsed illumination, infrared illumination, or sound calls.
How to choose a camera trap?
Since the camera trap is a rather complex device, many technical characteristics can be seen in the description of any model. Some of them are of no fundamental importance. When choosing a camera trap for hunting, it is important to consider the following parameters.
Number of pixels. Of course, it is better to choose a camera trap with a good resolution, but you should not chase too high indicators. Usually 5-8 megapixels is enough. Then there is an unjustified increase in price, since with an excessive increase in resolution, the sensitivity of the device decreases and the battery discharges faster.
Effective range. This is the distance from the camera trap to the object at which really high-quality pictures are obtained. The characteristics usually indicate the detection distance. If it is 30 meters, a good clear shot will be obtained at a distance of 10-15 meters, no further.
Viewing angle. It all depends on the tasks of the hunter. Camera trap lens can be standard or wide angle. The first takes pictures at a distance of 9-10 meters, the second - 3-4 meters, but has a greater coverage.
Backlight type. Camera traps use infrared illumination. The main difference in different models is the wavelength. Devices with a range of 850 HM are visible to animals, but they have a lot of brightness, which is good for high resolution shots. The 940 HM wavelength wins because it is invisible to animals and does not scare them away.
Inexpensive camera traps: budget up to 15,000 rubles
For amateur purposes, it is not necessary to choose the most expensive camera traps - it is quite possible to choose an excellent model within 15,000 rubles. At the same time, it will have all the necessary options, take high-quality pictures and videos. Relatively inexpensive models are equally well suited for hunting and private video filming for security purposes.
5 SITITEK iHunt E
Country: Hong Kong
Average price: 6490 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.5
The most inexpensive and simple model takes pictures with a resolution of 8 megapixels, has 26 LEDs that provide illumination for 10 meters. Suitable for both hunting and observation in private estates. The range of the motion sensor can be adjusted, set the schedule for switching on and off. For example, to make the device work only at night.The device consumes little energy - four AA batteries will last for six months of battery life.
All footage is stored on the memory card. The motion sensor is quite sensitive, the camera trap instantly reacts to the appearance of animals or people. This is a good option for those who need a device for amateur purposes, when it is not practical to purchase expensive functional models.
4 "FALCON"
Country: Russia (produced in China)
Average price: 8000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.6
The camera trap jointly produced by China and Russia is popular among hunters. It is based on the principle of instantaneous sending of the frame taken via MMS (thanks to the built-in GSM module) to the specified user's phone, thanks to which the latter always has up-to-date information.
According to consumer reviews, during operation, the device behaves very stably, which is reflected in the timely operation of motion sensors and the automatic start of shooting. There are minor complaints about the quality of body parts - some users point out that chips on the surfaces occur even with minor mechanical shocks. But the undoubted advantage of the Sokol is worthy infrared illumination, the range of which is 20 meters, as well as the presence of a remote control, which is rare even for premium models.
3 "OWL"
Country: Russia (produced in China)
Average price: 8500 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.7
Almost complete analogue of the Sokol system – inexpensive camera trap "Filin" from the same group of manufacturers.The reason for its inclusion in the rating was its huge popularity among domestic amateur hunters, largely due to its low price and good working parameters.
Similar to Sokol, Owl has a system for sending footage via MMS to the current subscriber number. Tracking occurs automatically without human intervention through the installed GSM-module. The key difference between the two systems is the equipment with motion sensors. In this model, he is alone, but, judging by the feedback from consumers, in almost all situations it works properly. Problems arise in the dark: despite the fact that the backlight provides visibility at a distance of up to 20 meters from the camera trap, the sensor is not always able to detect movement at the edges of this range. The kit comes standard with a remote control, which makes it much easier to control the device.
2 Balever BL480A
Country: China
Average price: 9500 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
Although a simple, but interesting and high-quality camera trap, capable of uninterrupted operation from a fresh set of batteries for up to 8 months. Can be used by hunters, photographers, forestry workers. It does not transfer pictures and videos to a smartphone and mail, saves all data to a memory card, but has a good resolution of 12 megapixels, which is comparable to the characteristics of professional cameras.
The camera trap has an excellent level of protection against moisture, so the installation of the device comes down to fixing it on a pole or tree using a fastening strap. The high-sensitivity sensor picks up motion at a distance of 20 meters, taking high-quality pictures. It also features video recording with sound.The disadvantage of the model is the lack of the ability to remotely receive images in real time.
1 Photo-Hunter JET
Country: China
Average price: 6850 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
Inexpensive and simple, but popular camera trap model. It does not have a communication module, but it is reliable and has excellent characteristics. The device is not afraid of heat, cold and bad weather thanks to the waterproof case, it can be left in the rain and snow. Eight batteries are enough for about six months of battery life. When shooting at night, the camera trap takes good pictures at a distance of up to 25 meters.
The camera resolution is 16 megapixels, and 44 infrared sensors provide a clear image even in the dark. This is an inexpensive and simple option with a sensitive motion sensor, fast response. It will appeal to those who need to record what is happening on a memory card, do not need to receive messages by mail or smartphone.
Premium professional camera traps
If funds allow and the buyer has more serious goals than amateur hunting, it is worth considering more expensive models. They have advanced functionality, designed for long-term and active operation.
5 Veber SG - 8.0mmS
Country: Russia
Average price: 23465 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.7
Sadly, most camera traps on the market are made in China. But there is also a Russian-made version - Veber SG - 8.0 mmS. This camera trap costs, of course, not cheap, but it has excellent characteristics and good quality.The manufacturer claims almost instant response - 1 second, the range of the motion controller is up to 15 meters. The quality of shooting and video recording is not the best, but quite acceptable. The footage is quickly sent to your phone or email.
Of the advantages, users note a simple and convenient interface, really good workmanship, but note that for such a price the device could be more functional. Therefore, the model is more popular among those who prefer domestic-made equipment to Chinese electronics.
4 Bushnell Trophy Cam HD Aggressor 20MP No-Glow
Country: USA (made in China)
Average price: 25000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
This model features the fastest shutter speed of 0.2 seconds. This ensures the highest quality tracking. Of the characteristics, the unpretentiousness of the device is also pleasing. In offline mode, it can work up to one year at temperatures from -20 to +60 degrees. It works equally effectively at night and daytime, the clarity of the picture is provided by an excellent 20 megapixel camera. The motion sensor works at an impressive distance - up to 30 meters.
In addition to the characteristics already described, users are pleased with the possibility of simultaneously taking pictures and recording video. The undoubted advantage is the very low weight of the device - only 290 grams. Some hunters note that it is not so easy to find an analogue of a camera trap with the same characteristics and functionality, and they definitely recommend it for purchase.
3 Acorn Ltl-6511MG
Country: China
Average price: 24490 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
A small but functional camera trap suitable for hunting, animal watching or home security. It has quite good characteristics - detects movement at a distance of up to 15 meters, works in day and night mode, withstands the most severe operating conditions from -30 to +70 degrees. The camera has 15 megapixels, which is quite good compared to most budget camera traps. The video quality is 1440x1080 - the picture is crisp and clear. Infrared illumination has 44 LEDs, so it hits a solid distance - up to 25 meters.
As in most models, instant transfer of photos and videos to a smartphone or email is provided. Customers who have already tested the camera trap in action leave the best reviews about it. They consider the devices of the Acorn brand to be one of the best and best in terms of price and quality.
2 BolyGuard MG984G-36M LTE 4G MMS/GPRS
Country: China
Average price: 19000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
Compact and functional camera trap with a 4G module, two-way communication, support for wireless sensors. The presence of a modern shooting module allows you to receive photos of excellent resolution of 30 megapixels in real time on your smartphone. The model uses an invisible LED backlight that does not scare away animals and allows you to get maximum results from photo hunting.
The advantages also include triggering a motion sensor at a distance of up to 20 meters, work according to a given schedule, the ability to simultaneously record video and take pictures. At the same time, the price for a device of this level is quite democratic compared to models of similar functionality.
1 Seelock S358
Country: China
Average price: 23700 rub.
Rating (2022): 5.0
A good model for avid hunters. The colors and design are chosen so that the camera trap does not attract attention at all. The device works equally well day and night, detects movement from 25 meters, can take both high-quality photos and record FullHD video with sound. The 12 megapixel camera can take snapshots in less than a second - nothing goes unnoticed. Subject to 3G coverage, the camera trap will send up to 4 pictures per minute to a smartphone or email. Thanks to the new algorithm for processing night shots, photos are extremely clear and of high quality.
Despite the fact that the Seelock camera trap is quite expensive and is made in China, it is popular among hunters. They like the reliability of the device, its discreet design, sharp pictures and high quality video. In addition, sometimes users write about understandable instructions in Russian.