Last updated on February 8th, 2024 at 02:31 pm
Best Trail Cam Under $50: A Top-Pick Budget Trail Camera List
Scouting out the best trail cam under 50$ ? Dive in as we unravel our top picks for budget trail cameras that don’t skimp on quality. Discover why our suggestions stand out from the crowd and why this article is a must-read for any trail or game camera enthusiast.
Disclaimer: As part of our commitment to transparency, we want to let you know that this post has affiliate links. If you make a purchase using an affiliate link I may get a few bucks, an no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Top 8 Picks for The Best Trail Cameras Under $50 in 2024
1) Gardepro E5 Trail Camera (Our Top Pick)
The GardePro E5 Trail Camera is a 24MP 1296p game camera that offers excellent features at an affordable price.
Key Features:
- 24MP image quality with starlight lens and sensor
- 1296P or 1080P video with sound
- 0.1s trigger speed and 0.5s recovery time
- 90ft night vision range
- User-friendly design with color screen
- Additional features like timelapse, password protection
It offers excellent value for those looking for good image quality, detection speeds, and usability in an budget-friendly trail camera. It’s a great choice for wildlife watching, hunting, or home security without spending a lot.
2) Tasco 8MP Game Trail Camera
The Tasco 8 MP Trail Camera is an affordable, entry-level game camera with decent image quality and battery life.
Key Features:
- 8MP image resolution
- 50 ft flash range
- Day and night operation
- Compatible with SD cards up to 32GB
- Runs on 8AA batteries (not included)
- Low glow flash
- Slim, compact size
This budget trail camera is well-suited for amateur wildlife enthusiasts and hunters. Its slim profile and low glow flash allow for discreet placement when capturing wild game. Despite the low price point, the 8MP sensor provides good enough image detail for basic scouting and security purposes. Overall, the Tasco Trail Camera gives you reliable performance without breaking the bank.
3) Vikeri Mini Trail Camera 20MP
The Vikeri M9 Mini offers decent image quality and detection features at an affordable price point.
Key Features:
- 20MP image resolution
- 1080P video recording
- 65ft detection range
- 0.2s trigger speed
- IP66 weatherproof rating
- Low glow IR flash
This mini trail camera is a good option for beginner wildlife enthusiasts on a budget. Despite the low cost, it captures high resolution photos and video. The fast trigger, long detection range, and weather resistance allow you to reliably monitor backyard wildlife activity. For under $50, the Vikeri M9 is a versatile and functional trail cam.
4) Wildgame Innovations Terra Extreme
The Wildgame Innovations Terra Extreme offers good image quality and detection features for a budget trail camera.
Key Features:
- 14MP image resolution
- 21 infrared LEDs
- 65ft detection range
- Video capability
- Long battery life
- Trubark Camo
- Comes with Bungee chords
This trail camera is suitable for hunters or wildlife enthusiasts looking for an affordable, easy to use option for covering large areas or property. The water-resistant housing and bungee chords are big plus if it rains where you’re planning to deploy it. For under $50, the Terra Extreme is a good value trail camera.
5) WOSPORTS Mini Trail Camera
The WOSPORTS Mini Trail Camera packs impressive specs into a compact, budget-friendly package.
Key Features:
- 24MP image resolution
- 1080P video recording
- 65ft detection range
- 0.2s trigger speed
- Low glow infrared flash
- Runs on 4 AA Batteries
This trail camera is suitable for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and wildlife researchers who are looking for a cost-effective option. It is ideal for monitoring wildlife activity, tracking game movements, and conducting research. Despite its affordable price under $50, it delivers reliable performance and quality results.
6) Hawkray Trail Camera
The Hawkray Trail Camera 20MP 1080P is a reliable and budget-friendly option for capturing wildlife activity and monitoring outdoor areas. It offers high-resolution image capture and video recording capabilities, along with a wide detection range and fast trigger speed.
Key Features:
- 20MP image resolution
- 1080P video recording
- 120° wide-angle lens
- IP65 waterproof rating
- Comes with a 16GB SD card and 4 batteries
This trail camera is suitable for hunters, nature enthusiasts, and anyone on a budget who wants to explore wildlife photography or enhance their outdoor security. It provides excellent value for money with its affordable price under $50, without compromising on performance and quality.
7) Stealth Cam Wildview 12MP
The Stealth Cam Wildview is a budget-friendly trail camera that offers impressive features for its price.
Key Features:
- 16MP image resolution
- 480P video
- 0.7s trigger speed
- 60ft detection range
This trail camera is suitable for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and landowners who want to capture wildlife activities or enhance their security. It provides great value for money with its affordable price under $50.
8) iZEEKER iG200 Trail Camera
The iZEEKER iG200 Trail Camera is a high-quality trail camera that offers a 32MP resolution and 1080P video recording capabilities.
Key Features:
- 32MP image resolution
- 1080P video
- 36pc no-glow LEDs
- 0.2s trigger speed
This trail camera is suitable for wildlife enthusiasts, hunters, and security purposes. It is a great option for those on a budget as it offers excellent performance and features for under $50
Why Use Budget Trail Cameras?
Often, it’s believed that a higher price tag trail cameras equals superior performance, but that’s not always the case. There are plenty of advantages using budget trail cameras, like:
- Affordable prices and straightforward operation make budget trail cams a sensible way to get started with trail camera use before investing in more advanced equipment.
- Budget trail cameras provide decent functionality at a fraction of the cost of premium models. This allows you to purchase multiple cameras or refresh models more frequently.
- If you just need to monitor a property entrance or perimeter, capture visitor images etc., a budget trail cam will likely meet your needs.
- Supplementing premium trail cams – Use affordable cams to increase coverage by adding cameras in secondary locations to complement key areas covered by pricier trail cams.
Trigger Speed & Its Significance in Budget Trail Cameras
Trigger speed is crucial, determining how quickly a camera captures images upon detecting motion. In budget trail cams, a swift trigger speed is gold.
It ensures that even at a lower price point, you don’t miss fleeting wildlife moments. Rapid triggers capture clear, timely shots, from darting deer to swift birds, proving that budget cams can compete effectively with their pricier counterparts.
It’s not just about saving money; it’s about ensuring no precious moment slips away.
HD vs. 1080p: Quality in Budget Trail Cams
When delving into budget trail cams, understanding the difference between HD and 1080p can be a game-changer. While both indicate high resolution, 1080p stands out with its enhanced clarity.
I recall squinting at an indistinct bird shot from a simple HD cam – a moment that 1080p would’ve captured in crisp detail.
For those on a budget, prioritizing 1080p ensures that, despite saving pennies, the quality of memories isn’t compromised. Investing in 1080p within budget trail cams offers both value and impeccable image clarity.
Budget Trail Cameras: Comparing Expensive Camera Features
Just because it’s labeled “cheap trail cams” doesn’t mean it lacks advanced features. Some budget trail cameras rival expensive game cameras. Ever heard of the phrase “more bucks vs. bang”? This segment’s all about that!
Wildgame Innovations, Vikeri & More: Brands that Shine Under $50
Wildgame Innovations, Vikeri and others offer quality cameras without burning a hole in your pocket. From my experience, brands like these ensure your camera is still snapping even after a season of use.
SD Card, Micro SD, and Storage Solutions
Navigating the world of trail camera storage can be tricky, especially when sticking to a budget. The distinction between SD and micro SD cards isn’t just size; it’s about storage capacity and compatibility.
Having faced the dreaded “memory full” alert during a pivotal wildlife moment, I can’t emphasize enough the value of ample and efficient storage.
The silver lining? Even budget trail cams are evolving, with many now offering Wi-Fi support, enabling seamless data transfers.
Infrared, LEDs, & Night Vision Motion Activated Functions
The enchantment of the nocturnal wilderness often lies in its mystery. To truly unveil this, budget trail cams come equipped with tools like LEDs, infrared, and night vision motion-activated functionalities.
I still reminisce about the time I was perplexed by an elusive night creature’s antics. If not for the night vision capability of my trail cam, it would’ve remained a puzzle.
Sensor and Detection Range: A Crucial Factor
Every nature enthusiast knows the frustration of missing a golden shot due to a camera’s limited detection range. The sensor’s reach in trail cams is paramount.
Within budget options, prioritizing a robust detection range means you’re less likely to miss out, whether it’s a nimble bunny or a regal elk crossing paths.
My personal mishap of overlooking a swift fox because of a constrained sensor was a wake-up call! Investing wisely in budget trail cams with a formidable sensor range ensures that every magical moment gets its deserved spotlight.
Battery Life: AA Batteries vs. Alternatives
In the wilderness, reliability is king. And a trail camera’s battery life epitomizes this reliability. Whether it’s powered by trusty AA batteries or modern alternatives, enduring battery life is a boon for any trail cam enthusiast.
Opting for budget trail cams with a strong battery performance not only ensures continuous captures but also provides peace of mind. The goal? More time observing nature, less time babysitting the camera.
Closing Thoughts: Investing in a Trail Cam without Breaking the Bank
Wrapping up our dive into budget trail cams, it’s imperative to recognize the power these devices can offer without burning a hole in your pocket.
From lightning-fast trigger time, capturing sharp 12mp images, to the broad 120° detection range, these cheap trail cams are no less than their pricier counterparts.
Perhaps you’re pondering over the Tasco Trail Cam or maybe the Wosports with its impeccable 65ft motion sensor range.
Before investing those hard-earned 50.00 bucks, don’t miss our top picks and critical reviews. And speaking of reviews, have you wondered about the hype around the Tasco Trail Camera? Dive into our detailed analysis: “Is the Tasco Trail Camera Worth the Hype? A Critical Review.”
From the latest game camera tech, cellular connectivity benefits, to the robust Wild Game Innovations offerings, let our insights guide your next trail camera purchase. Happy hunting!
FAQs
Q: What is the best trail camera under $50 currently on the market?
A: The best budget trail camera that stands out from the crowd for being under $50 is the Wildgame Innovations Terra Extreme. It’s known for its hunting game camera features, high-quality images and videos, and its easy-to-set-up process.
Q: What are some good features of a cheap trail game camera like the Foxelli trail?
A: Even for a cheaper price range, the Foxelli Trail Camera still offers excellent features, including an impressive 14mp photo and video quality, IR night vision capabilities, and a fast trigger speed, ensuring you won’t miss any important moments in the wild. Although its not currently available, you would find similar features in the Wildgame Innovations Terra Extreme.
Q: Can the Spypoint game camera be used for home security as well?
A: Yes, the Spypoint game camera can be a versatile tool and can be used for home security. The motion sensor technology and night time capabilities make it suitable for monitoring your property. Check our article on “Exploring the 12 Best Trail Cameras for Security in 2023” which covers this trail cam.
Q: How user-friendly is the Primo Hunting Camera?
A: The Primo Hunting camera is easy to set up, with a clear LCD screen for seamless navigation through the settings. Additionally, it supports a micro SD card for easy data transfer and storage. However now the pricing for this trail cam is beyond $50 hence we didn’t include it in this list.
Q: How is the photo and video quality of the Wosports game camera in its price range?
A: The Wosports game camera offers surprising quality for its price range. With a 12mp megapixel camera, it provides crisp images and 720p video, making it one of the best cheap cameras in the market.
Q: What features does the best budget trail camera have?
A: The best budget trail cameras, like the Stealth Cam and Terra Extreme, are equipped with high megapixel lenses for clear daytime photos, IR technology for night time images, and a quick motion sensor function to capture every movement. They also generally have an IP66 waterproof rating and a 60 feet detection range.
Q: How does a cellular trail camera like the Spypoint differ from a standard trail camera?
A: A cellular trail camera like Spypoint can send images directly to your phone, so there’s no need for manual retrieval. This feature is not usually found in standard trail cameras, making the Spypoint a tool of convenience for hunters and nature enthusiasts.
Q: How significant is the trigger time in a game cam?
A: Trigger time is incredibly important in a game cam. The faster the trigger speed, the less likely you are to miss any action. A 0.2s trigger time, like in many models on Amazon.com, is considered very good.
Q: Does the LCD screen on a hunting game camera like the Stealth Cam make a big difference?
A: Absolutely, the LCD screen on a hunting game camera like the Stealth Cam makes navigating the settings and viewing recorded content much easier. It adds to the user experience and the usability of the camera. Our list has similar trail cam under $50 – MAXDONE Trail Camera which has 2.0″ LCD screen.
Q: Is the 720p video quality sufficient for a mini trail camera used for wildlife observation?
A: Yes, a 720p video quality provides clear and detailed footage, especially from a mini trail camera used for wildlife observation. Combined with a decent megapixel count for photos, this will provide a satisfying viewing experience.
Related Posts
Rohan, the founder and driving force behind Trail Cam Rookies, first discovered his passion for trail cameras during an expedition in Central Europe. Fascinated by how these devices bridge the gap between humans and wildlife, he has since dedicated himself to exploring and sharing the intricacies of trail camera technology. Through Trail Cam Rookies, he offers beginner-friendly guides, comprehensive product reviews, and practical tips to help enthusiasts connect more deeply with the natural world.