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Are you looking to purchase a trail camera for hunting?
Wildlife monitoring? General surveillance?
Regardless of the reason, you may be interested in capturing footage beyond the daytime. Night vision trail cameras have been designed specifically for this purpose. Knowing how to choose a great one is important because the right features can show you whatever action you may be missing by day.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Night Vision Trail Cameras
- OUR TOP PICK: BlazeVideo 16MP 1080P Trail Cam
- RUNNER-UP: Browning Strike Force APEX
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Bushnell No Glow_119977C
Comparison of the Best Night Vision Trail Cameras
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How Does a Night Vision Camera Work?
A night vision camera incorporates great technology and works with the following principles:
1. At night time, dim light enters the front of the lens. The light is made of photons.
2. Once light enters the front lens, it hits a surface called a photocathode. It converts photons into electrons.
3. Later, photomultiplier amplifies the electrons.
4. Each electron that hits the photomultiplier is multiplied into numerous other electrons.
5. Then electrons leaving the photomultiplier hit a screen called a phosphor screen. When this happens, various flashes of lights are created.
6. As countless photons hit the front of the lens, you can see a clearer picture of the original scene.
How to Choose a Night Vision Trail Camera
To be an informed consumer, there are some essential considerations to make when choosing a night vision trail camera. The top-rated products share a few specific features in common. Customers are drawn to cameras with the popular qualities of:
- Low/No Glow
- Fast Trigger Speeds
- Long Battery Life
- Quality of Footage
Low/No Glow
The effectiveness depends on the level of glow it emits. If an animal can sense the light coming from the camera, it will likely avoid the area, therefore never appearing on the footage. Customers rely on products with low/no glow to record successfully wildlife in the dark.
Fast Trigger Speeds
Most of these products are motion-triggered, meaning that they begin recording when they sense the presence of an animal. Trigger speed refers to the amount of time it takes to start recording after sensing movement. The models with fast trigger speeds are the most effective. They are popular because they capture the most activity.
Long Battery Life
Models with long battery life are practical and popular among customers. Cameras with passive infrared sensors preserve battery when capturing footage. Some cameras are also designed to hold eight batteries at a time, while only using four, so you always have extras. When the first four are drained, the camera automatically switches to the others. Convenient qualities like these contribute to the overall ease of use.
Quality of Footage
Buying a camera that records high-quality footage is essential to capturing clear recordings at night. The resolution of images is measured in MPs; the most popular products typically range from 8-16MPs. The resolution of video recording is usually 1080P/HD. When choosing a camera, these numbers are important for ensuring quality footage.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
- Image Quality (MP)/Resolution (P): The quality of both the still images (measured in megapixels) and the video resolution (measured in pixels).
- Flash Range/Detection Range: The flash range is how far the light from the flash can illuminate, while the detection range is how far away the camera can detect movement.
- Memory Capacity: How much memory the camera has onboard or the amount that can be added (typically through SD cards).
- Trigger Time: The amount of time it takes from detection to a photo/video capture.
- Battery and Power: The number, size, and type of batteries or power source the camera requires.
- Illumination Type: The type of lighting the camera uses to capture images. Often infrared or night vision, LED, flash, etc.
- Glow Type: This indicates how visible the activation light is when motion is detected. The light on a no-glow camera does not show at all while a low-glow produces a dim light.
- Dimensions: The length, width, and height of the camera.
- Battery Life: How long the battery will last when fully charged.
Review of the Best Night Vision Cameras
Let's see which models made our list and what they have to offer!
Best No Flash Trail Camera With Night Vision:
BlazeVideo 16MP 1080P Trail Cam
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Overall, its recent buyers and users are very satisfied with its performance. At night, it can catch any animal that might be sneaking in your backyard. When set at a higher level, this camera was even able to catch the movements of leaves and spiders on webs.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This one is capable of capturing HD images & videos. The video and picture mode can easily work together at every trigger. Its stealth and energy-efficient design make it very easy to keep an eye on the wild animals. You can even set up a password and a serial number function to protect it from unauthorized parties.
Bottom Line
If you need to know who pays you nightly visits, you need to get your hands on this camera. Benefit from its stealth and energy-efficient design, time-lapse feature, secure functionality, and numerous other features. Moreover, it is also very easy to use.
Product Specs
Image Quality (MP)/Resolution (Pixels P):
24MP / 1296p
Flash Range/Detection Range:
75 ft
Memory Capacity:
32 GB
Trigger Time:
8 AA
Battery and Power:
Length: 32.5"; OD 0.295"
Glow Type:
Infrared (No Glow)
Dimensions:
7.8 x 5.1 x 4"
Runner-up:
Browning Strike Force APEX
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers have been happy with the image quality based on the price. The camera was able to capture clear images at distances up to 75-90 feet away. They also appreciated the extended battery life.
Some had issues with the motion sensors not picking up movement consistently. However, this may be a quality control issue.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We were impressed with the fast 0.22 second trigger speed. It ensures you don’t miss important action. It does take a few seconds to recognize a new motion but the Browning Strike Force APEX jumps into action as soon as it does, taking eight rapid-fire images in two seconds.
The zero-blur technology keeps images crystal clear and you can set the time-lapse mode to show the movement of resident wildlife. It also includes a 16GB SD card which can hold a decent amount of photos.
Bottom Line
This camera captures great, clear images and won’t let you down when you need it most. However, videos take a lot of space and will fill cards quickly. You can use it in inclement weather and the battery will last a good amount of time. If you need a reliable camera from a reliable brand, give this one a try.
Product Specs
Image Quality (MP)/Resolution (Pixels P):
18MP/1600 x 900P HD video
Flash Range/Detection Range:
100 ft. Infrared Flash Range/80 ft. Detection Range
Memory Capacity:
Supports up to 512GB SDXC Memory Card
Trigger Time:
0.22 sec
Battery and Power:
6 AA
Glow Type:
Adjustable IR flash
Dimensions:
4.5 x 3.25 x 2.5”
Best for the Money:
Bushnell No Glow_119977C
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers were disappointed with this camera. Limited or incorrect information in the manual makes it hard to avail yourself of all the included features. However, if you can figure out the settings, you will be rewarded with quality images both day and night. If you have issues, customer service is very poor so keep this in mind.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This stands out due to the passive infrared 100-foot detection range and dual image sensors. The no-glow technology makes sure no animals in the area have any idea the device is there, ensuring lots of opportunities to capture their movements.
The other feature we love is the ability to both see and hear recorded videos. This is beneficial in many situations and gives you a more detailed view of what is happening at any given time.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a good unit at an affordable price. It provides you with lots of great features to help you get the information you need but if you need warranty help, you may run into issues.
Product Specs
Image Quality (MP)/Resolution (Pixels P):
30 MP/1080p 60 fps Video
Flash Range/Detection Range:
80' No Glow Infrared Night Range
Trigger Time:
0.2 sec
Battery and Power:
6 AA
Glow Type:
No Glow
Honorable Mention:
Browning Strike Force Pro XD
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People who have purchased the Browning Strike Force Pro XD have loved the quality and reliability of the camera. They also appreciate that it can accommodate up to a 512 GB SD card. The camera is easy to use and great even for beginners.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We appreciate the all-steel mounting bracket which means the camera will stay put until you come to get it. The image and video quality are also top-notch to ensure you get the best visuals on whatever you’re looking at.
You can set the time-lapse to take photos over a period of time while also capturing motion-triggered images too. It also manages memory by deleting older photos so you can continue to take new images.
Bottom Line
This camera will not leave you disappointed. From the reputable Browning brand, this is a trail camera you can depend on to give you quality photos in durable housing. The red glow is faint so it won’t alert nearby animals to its presence. However, if watching human activity, it may be noticeable.
Product Specs
Image Quality (MP)/Resolution (Pixels P):
24 MP/1920 x 1080p video resolution
Flash Range/Detection Range:
80 Feet and 120' Adjustable IR Flash
Memory Capacity:
Up to 512GB SDXC Memory Card
Trigger Time:
0.15 sec
Battery and Power:
6 AA Batteries or 12V Jack
Glow Type:
Red glow IR
Dimensions:
4.25 x 3.25 x 2.5”
5. TOGUARD Trail Camera 14MP 1080P
This Product Has Been Discontinued
PROS
CONS
Review
The Toguard is another great choice. Similar to the Campark, it has a fast trigger speed of 0.3-seconds, uses three passive infrared sensors, is low glow, senses motion in a scope of 120 degrees, and records in black and white at night.
The main distinguishing factor between the two is that the Toguard takes photos at 14MP. This means a higher resolution photo quality. It is also waterproof to withstand weather damage.
Amazon reviews praise the Toguard: “The image quality is the best I've seen of the 7 brands and models of trail cameras I’ve owned. The colors are accurate in daylight and the black and white images by the infrared light at night are sharp and clear.”
Bottom Line
Despite possessing similar popular qualities as the Campark, the Toguard stands out for its high-quality images. It captures images quickly with its fast trigger speed and has an impressive motion detection system. With sustainable battery life, this camera is a customer favorite for night vision.
Product Specs
Image Quality (MP)/Resolution (Pixels P):
14MP / 1080p
6. Campark Trail Game Camera 14MP 1080P
This Product Has Been Discontinued
PROS
CONS
Review
This product is an improvement over the prior Campark model. Main enhancements to quality include 14MP photos, while the video footage remains high resolution at 1080P.
With a trigger speed of 0.3-seconds and three passive infrared sensors for battery preservation, this camera is both effective and efficient. It records in black and white at night and has a sensing range of 120 degrees. Like its competitors, this Campark is low glow.
This camera has also received high ratings and reviews on Amazon: “I am favorably impressed with this camera. Both the photos and videos have high resolution, correct colors and are bright. Night-time illumination is just right, no glare or under illumination at six yards, the only distance tested. Motion sensing seemed to work well. Functionally, I rate this camera very high.”
Bottom Line
Overall, this Campark is an improvement on the prior model. With enhanced image resolution, customers praise its quality of footage. High motion sensitivity can occasionally trigger unnecessary recordings, but this sensitivity also makes the camera reliable when animals are present. Battery life is strong, except in cases of unintended recordings by due to camera hypersensitivity.
Product Specs
Image Quality (MP)/Resolution (Pixels P):
14MP / 1080p
7. Browning Strike Force HD Camera
This Product Has Been Discontinued
PROS
CONS
Review
The Browning Strike Force Camera is popular among customers for its high-quality recording. With an image resolution of 10MP and HD video, this option is equipped with Zero Blur technology to ensure clear footage.
However, the trigger speed is 0.67-seconds (twice as long as most competitors). The Browning is a red glow infrared camera, meaning that its level of glow is detectable to creatures at night.
Reviews on Amazon praise the camera’s overall quality: “Browning has delivered a terrific product at a very reasonable price. I have not seen any other camera that will beat a Browning in performance per dollar.
If you are looking for a trail camera that takes great pictures, night and day, has trigger response and recovery times beaten only by cameras at 3x the price, reasonable battery life, is very compact, and is also affordable, you've found it.”
Bottom Line
The quality of the footage the Browning Strike Force captures is impressive. However, the slower trigger speed and red glow infrared features may impact the camera’s nighttime effectiveness. Customers appreciate the durability of battery life and overall, this product can get the job done; however, other cameras on the market may do it better.
Product Specs
Image Quality (MP)/Resolution (Pixels P):
10MP / 720p
Flash Range/Detection Range:
100 ft
Memory Capacity:
32 GB
Trigger Time:
0.67 sec
Battery and Power:
6 AA
Glow Type:
Infrared
Dimensions:
4.5 x 2.5 x 3.25"
8. Victure Trail Camera 16MP 1080 HD 2.0" LCD
This Product Has Been Discontinued
PROS
CONS
Review
Customers love the Victure option for recording at nighttime. With effective features like no glow, it is undetectable to wildlife and records extremely high-resolution footage. Images are 16MP and videos are 1080P.
This camera uses its passive infrared sensor to record motion with a 0.5-second trigger time. Waterproof features increase the Victure’s durability, but some customers experience inconvenience with the battery door.
An Amazon review describes, “Generally speaking, this is a decent product with high-quality imagery, interface and motion activation. But it has a HUGE design flaw in that you have to load the batteries from the bottom. This means you have to take it off the tree, replace the batteries, then strap it to the tree again.”
Another customer states, “This is an awesome camera for a great price. I've had it in the woods ever since I bought it and only had to change the batteries once. Takes good day time and night time pictures. Handles well in all kinds of weather.”
Bottom Line
This Victure trail camera captures recordings of incredible quality. While it does have a relatively slower trigger speed, it is easy to set up and proves durable in harsh weather conditions. With no glow and passive infrared sensing, it is a great choice for a night vision camera.
Product Specs
Image Quality (MP)/Resolution (Pixels P):
16MP / 1080p
9. Campark Trail Game Camera
This Product Has Been Discontinued
PROS
CONS
Review
The Campark Trail Game Camera is one of the most popular night vision trail cameras on the market. It records footage in color by day and in black and white at night.
With an impressive 0.3-second trigger speed, it quickly captures pictures in 8MP and video at 1080P. Recordings are motion-activated and use sensors that extend to 120 degrees. This camera is waterproof for outdoor durability.
Customers rave about the Campark’s easy setup and overall convenience of use on Amazon: “Very impressed by the video interface, battery life, ease of use and high-quality photos…. still can't believe I have something this high-quality at this price!”
Another review states, “I have purchased a lot of game cameras in my life and so far this is one of my favorites, especially for the price!”
Bottom Line
This Campark is an excellent choice if you are in the market for this product type. It is practical and durable but takes lower quality photos than its competitors. Video footage, however, is high resolution. Overall, customers report high levels of satisfaction with the night vision features of this camera.
When Would a Night Vision Trail Camera Come in Handy?
A night vision trail camera can come in handy in a couple of ways. To convince you that investing in it is not a waste of money, let us go through some ways you can easily benefit from such units.
Watch Wildlife
If you live by the forest, up in the hills, or anywhere near wildlife, you might hear some voices in the night. To keep that unknown animal out of your property, first, you need to identify it. Install a trail night vision camera, and it will be so easy for you to identify the culprit.
Catch a Thief
You can even use a night vision trail camera for security purposes. This super-efficient camera can help you keep a watch on everything that goes around your house, be it day or night. Not even the tiniest bit of the movement can go unrecorded.
Direct Sharing
In case you have to share all the images that you have captured, such cameras even have a feature where you can connect them to your phone and have access to all the evidence that you are looking for!
Aspects to Consider Before Buying a Night Vision Trail Camera
Before you head over to the store or start looking for a camera online, you should consider some of the important aspects. For your ease, we’ve mentioned them here so that you can make the right purchase.
Infrared Emitter
If you are using a night vision trail camera for security purposes, then you need to know that the IR feature comes very handy at night. You will find two types of infrared in trail cameras. It can either be in the form of a red glow flash or in the form of a “no glow” type.
If you are looking for a wildlife trailing camera, then it is wise to go with a red-glow one, and it is recommended to go with no-glow type if you are planning on using it for security purposes.
Picture Quality
Never invest in a trail camera that has a poor picture quality. The aim is to get good quality footages in the day as well as at night. It is wise to invest in a camera that offers high resolution.
BlazeVideo 16MP 1080P Trail Cam
Easy to Set
You probably want to get your hands on a camera that is very easy to set up and use. Although they are a bit tricky, don’t worry as all of them come with easy-to-understand manuals.
Conclusion
When choosing a night vision trail camera, remember to consider the qualities of:
- Low/No Glow
- Fast Trigger Speeds
- Long Battery Life
- Quality of Footage
The most popular cameras are no/low glow and are undetectable to wildlife. A camera’s effectiveness and durability depend on fast trigger speeds, long battery life, and high-quality footage. These are essential elements to consider to ensure your purchase meets your needs.
People Also Ask
The following questions are commonly asked by people in search of a night vision trail camera. These answers are intended to provide additional guidance as you make your purchase.
Do Game Cameras Flash at Night?
Yes, they may; infrared trail cameras flash depending on their level of glow. The intensity of the flash depends on whether a camera is no-glow, low-glow, or red glow infrared. When a camera does flash at night, it is typically a red light.
Will a Trail Cam Work Through a Window?
No, they do not work through windows. These products begin recording when a motion detector senses movement, but glass panes block these motion sensors. Passive infrared sensors will not work and nothing will be recorded through a window.
Does Night Vision Work Through Glass?
No, night vision is not effective through glass. Window glare results in distorted images/video due to a camera's infrared glow. Behind glass, night vision simply doesn’t work.
Do Night Vision Cameras Give Off Light?
Depending on the device’s level of glow, it may give off some light. If the camera is classified as low glow or red glow infrared, it will emit red light at varying intensities.
Do All Trail Cameras Have Night Vision?
No, not all products in this category have night vision. If you want to capture footage at night, it is important to choose a camera that specifically advertises night vision capabilities.
