The 5 Best Trail & Game Cameras For Home Security (2023 Reviews)

Past trail and game cameras have always been expensive, primarily since they exist mainly for a niche market of hikers, hunters, and other forest lovers. Over the past few decades, however, they’ve become a solid part of home security. Today, they are now enjoyed as convenient consumer products that not only benefit hunters and hikers but homeowners across the country.

Because they’re easy to use and install, you now have the means to finally uncover what goes on in your backyard. From figuring out why your vegetables won’t grow to catching intruders, the right trail or gamer camera brand is out there waiting for you.

However, this can be easier said than done, especially if you want to focus on the security aspect of the camera. The right trail camera will depend on several factors, but fret not—this guide has been written to address any concerns you might have.

We’ve researched the best camera trails on the market in 2023 that are perfect for securing your home. Let’s begin!

Best Trail Camera For Long-Distance Capture

If you have a large property, it can be rather difficult to find one that can suit your long-distance recording needs. Think again—the Alpha Cam Trail Camera offers you the perfect solution! You can use this camera both day and night, with 100 feet IR flash distance and an impressive 90 feet motion sensor. More importantly, it comes with a strong waterproof case design!

Best Trail Camera For The Money

Looking for a camera worth the investment? The BlazeVideo 2-Pack Trail Camera offers you the best of the best, including high-quality video outputs and seamless integration with YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. It’s also energy-efficient, outfitted in a camo design that will blend well with its surroundings. 

You can also prevent your data from being compromised as it allows you to set a password, effectively protecting you from unauthorized users. It’s not the highest rated camera for nothing!

Best Quality Wi-Fi Trail Camera

If you want seamless Wi-Fi connectivity, the GardePro E8 Trail Camera has you covered. Apart from a low-power connection, this field camera comes with a user-friendly app called GardePro Mobile, free of charge! You’ll be able to operate your cameras through your device and download the footage on your mobile phone, anytime and anywhere!

Best Compact Trail Camera Set Under $200

If you’re looking for a comprehensive yet portable camera, the Auligi Mini Trail Camera should be your top choice. Compared to other cameras, this one is compact and lightweight without compromising quality. You can still enjoy amazing features like IR night vision and 1080p video resolution.

Best Durable Game Camera With 4K Video Resolution

Are you a fan of 4K? Well, look no further than the ZIVASA Game Camera. It offers you 24MP picture definition and 4K HD video recordings, built with an 8 MP color CMOS sensor. You can take clear photos and videos with audio, ensuring that your home is protected all day long. With only top ratings behind it, you never have to purchase another surveillance camera ever again!

The Difference Between A Cellular and Wi-Fi Connected Trail Camera

Some trail cameras allow you to send images to your mobile phone or email via a cellular or Wi-Fi connection. 

Cellular trail cameras generally have an advantage on the field because they use cell signals to transmit data, allowing them to operate at remote places. However, when it comes to home surveillance, trail cameras with Wi-Fi connectivity have the edge. 

Just like mobile phones, cellular trail cameras can use radio signals from cell towers to transmit data and send their footage to you remotely via email or text message. However, this function does not come free. You will have to pay monthly cellular plans to use this feature, and you may not find much use of it when you’re just setting your device up at home. 

On the other hand, Wi-Fi cameras do not require any paid plans. They may transmit data in shorter ranges, but since you will be at home with a Wi-Fi connection, this is convenient enough for the typical homeowner. Moreover, these models usually are compatible with mobile apps that allow remote access.

How Do Trail Cameras Work?

Trail or game cameras are essentially cameras that are placed strategically around your property. They were originally designed to take photographs and videos of wildlife, triggered by built-in motion detectors. The recordings are stored locally so that you can view them later on.

As camera technology evolved, however, trail cameras have become more affordable. As a result, they’ve become consumer goods now used as an added layer of security for many homes across America. 

What’s The Best Location To Hide And Set Up A Trail Camera At Home?

Trail cameras need to be set up within a general location, meaning that this should fall within the area you want to keep an eye on. Here are some of the best ways areas to place your cameras in:

• Trees: This is perfect for when you want to place the cameras higher, with angles slightly tilted downwards. This will increase the visibility without compromising the chances of being seen by either a wild animal or an intruder. You can also consider mounting it over a strap to ensure stability.

• Bushes: If you want your cameras close to the ground, it’s best to place them in your garden under the bushes. However, make sure to clear the ground of large shrubs, leaves, and branches, as these can compromise visibility. Doing so will also minimize the chances of false motion detections. 

• Security Boxes: If you’re truly worried about your camera being stolen, it’s best to keep it out in the open. You can protect it by purchasing a security box, labeling it with your contact details, including your name and address. File the camera’s serial number away, as should the camera get stolen, you help authorities track it down.

Can Game Cameras Be Used For Home Security?

To put it simply, yes! From what we’ve discussed, game cameras offer comprehensive protection. Their functions go beyond just the normal surveillance camera, especially since certain cameras offer a wide-angle vision to cover more ground. They’ve also been around for decades, so you can rest assured that the technology behind them will never fail you.

Is A Trail Camera Or Security Camera Better For Home Security?

Both trail cameras and security cameras can provide your home with adequate protection, as they both allow you to record footage on your property. Both devices have their own set of advantages, and the better option will depend on your needs and preferences. 

Trail cameras are more portable options that you can use outside of your home. They also usually have a stealthy design that allows you to monitor your property without people being aware of the camera. In addition, their infrared LEDs generally do not glow, making them easy to conceal at night.

Home security cameras, on the other hand, are more dedicated devices that usually have longer battery life. You can also hard-wire them for continuous operation. Moreover, they may have features that trail cameras usually lack, such as smart home integration.

Conclusion

Trail cameras are great for observing wildlife out in the field, but they can also double as home security devices. They are perfect for monitoring your home while remaining relatively concealed, and they’re also built to withstand the weather outdoors. There are a lot of things to consider before buying one, and we hope this guide has helped you know what to look for!

Here’s a recap of our top picks in this article:

• Best Trail Camera For Long-Distance Capture: Alpha Cam Trail Camera 
• Best Trail Camera For The Money: BlazeVideo 2-Pack Trail Camera
• Best Quality Wi-Fi Trail Camera: GardePro E8 Trail Camera
• Best Compact Trail Camera Set Under $200: Auligi Mini Trail Camera

Best Durable Game Camera With 4K Video Resolution: ZIVASA Game Camera