15 Best Trail Camera Under 100$ in 2023
We have taken a look at 15 best trail cameras that are sold for less than $100.
If you are looking for the best trail camera for under 100$, you have arrived at the right destination. We have looked at the 15 best trail cameras sold for less than $100. You may wonder if a trail camera under 100$ is any good, and the fact is, they are. They have many functions and features, ensuring you get excellent photos and videos.
Here are the trail camera reviews, read through them carefully and decide which one will fit you the best. If you are looking for the best, I recommend you take a closer look at the Campark Trail game or Meidase Trail Camera 16MP 1080P; enjoy!
1. Campark Trail Game Camera – Best Overall
- 【2 Pack Mini Trail Camera & 2' LCD Color Screen】This is...
- 【More Concealed Mini Trail Camera】The hunting trail...
- 【HD 1080P Video & Photo Images】 High-quality photos and...
Campark Trail Game Camera is a rugged-looking camera with 14 megapixels and 1080p for better image and video quality. It also has three infrared sensors, which can save battery power. The sensors also increase sensitivity which means it’s likely to be triggered in a shorter time.
The super infrared night vision is pretty impressive and gives you a clear view of wildlife, even at night. The good news is there isn’t a bright flash, so animals will not be scared off.
With a distance detection of around 20 meters (65 feet), the Campark Trail Game Camera is impressive. The camera comes with a belt, tree mount, USB cable, three screws, and a user manual.
The short trigger time ensures you get all the action on film, and with high-quality footage, you can see everything that is recorded.
I use this trail camera for every hunt; since I know this is a trail camera that delivers each time, I can confidently recommend this one to all of my readers.
However, if you want to save yourself 20$ and still get an excellent camera, I would advise you to check out the Meidase Trail Camera. I have not tested the Meidase, but I have heard many good things about it. If you want the best bang for your buck, the Meidase should be a good fit.
2. Meidase Trail Camera 16MP 1080P – Best Trail Camera for the Money
- HD Video and Image: The P60 is equipped with a more powerful...
- Mainstream H.264 Video: Featuring very popular H.264 video...
- Improved Night Vision: Featuring greater f/1.6 aperture...
The Meidase Trail Camera could be the best cheap no, glow trail camera out there. It’s available in 3 different colors and 16 megapixels, so you’ll likely get some great videos and photos.
It takes photographs much quicker with a 0.2-second trigger time than older cameras. This means you’re likely to see more action than you would have otherwise. The 2.4-inch color screen is built-in and helps you to see exactly what you’ve captured afterward.
The Meidase Trail Camera’s night vision can see up to 20 meters (65 feet), even in complete darkness. That’s pretty impressive and is one of my favorite features on this camera. Easy to operate and with a sturdy design, this camera is also waterproof (IP66), which is never bad.
Lastly, this camera has three modes to choose from: Photo and video, photo only, and video only, so you can capture more. If you’re looking for an easy-to-use camera under 100$ with high photo quality, this is the one you need.
3. Bushnell Trophy Cam HD
- Accepts up to a 32GB SD card (not included) and operates on...
- 0.3 second trigger speed; 16MP maximum image resolution;...
- 100 detection and illumination range; Low glow LED night...
The Bushnell Trophy Cam HD is one of the more expensive cameras we have seen. However, it’s still under $100. with a 0.3-second trigger speed, it will take photographs very quickly.
This camera also comes with a multi-image mode. This means it can take from 1 to 3 images every time it is triggered. This is impressive, as it means you’ll see so much more. If that wasn’t impressive enough, the camera also comes with ‘Field scan 2x’. This feature allows the camera to take photographs at pre-set intervals. So let’s imagine you want to take photographs every 2-3 minutes; this camera will let you do this.
The day/night auto sensor with the camera has an adjustable PIR activated by something up to 80 feet away. This is impressive, and most of the cameras we’ve seen so far only work up to 65 feet. The Bushnell Trophy Cam HD could be the best long-range trail camera.
Another feature that I particularly like is the programmable video length. You can video the scene from 5 seconds up to 60 seconds. This means you can potentially see even more than you can with other cameras.
Finally, another impressive feature of this camera is the 1-year battery. It does need eight aa batteries, but if they last a whole year, it’s worth it. This makes the Bushnell Trophy Cam one well worth considering.
4. Moultrie A-40 Game Camera
- STOP GUESSING. TAG YOUR TARGET BUCK with the ultra-reliable...
- BEST-IN-CLASS IMAGE SENSOR for sharp 24MP photos and crisp...
- DON’T MISS ACTION in the field with BASE’s motion...
The Moultrie A-40 Game Camera comes with 14 megapixels, and an illume night sensor that gives bright and clear night images. The 0.7-second trigger speed is a little slower than the speeds we have seen.
With the ability to take up to 17,000 images, the camera comes with backlit controls, making it easier to see in the dark. The intuitive interface is supposed to be good when setting the camera up with low light.
The 720 HD video quality is not as good as the quality in other cameras, but it could be good enough. One of the good things about this camera is that it’s compatible with Moultrie Mobile. This is an app that allows you to view images from the camera on your smartphone. This is a pretty good feature as it means you won’t have to collect the SD card to view them.
The Moultrie-A-40 is good enough and ideal for those who want a good camera that works well.
5. Stealth Cam 8MP 30IR Game Camera
- TRIAD: 8.0 Megapixel (3 resolutions) 8MP/4MP/2.0MP, HD Video...
- 30 IR Emitters/80ft range with Reflex Trigger - .5 seconds,...
- New Intuitive backlit menu programming; Low Battery...
The Stealth Cam 8MP 30IR Game Camera is quite an unusual camera in terms of the way it looks. It almost reminds you of those old projectors that used to be found in movie theaters. This game camera has 8 megapixels which aren’t the best we’ve seen, but it may have some impressive features.
With the ability to record videos from 5 seconds to 180 seconds (3 minutes) long, you can capture animals behaving naturally. This camera offers an 80-foot range, which is much better than the other cameras we have seen. Perhaps this feature makes this camera more attractive to prospective buyers.
The intuitive backlit menu programming option allows you to set the camera up even when the light is low. This is ideal for those who use their cameras in the winter months or like to set them up in the evenings.
The manual shot capability is ideal if you’re camping out and want to photograph wildlife while you’re there. I don’t think many other cameras offer this option.
The 0.75-second trigger is slower than other cameras we’ve already seen, but it’s still quite good. It means you’re likely to get those pictures of anyone or anything that walks into the shot.
The Stealth Cam is not bad, but you can get higher-quality photographs from other cameras. However, if you want to be able to record videos from 5 seconds to 180 seconds, this might be the camera you need.
6. Moultrie A-25 Game Camera
- STOP GUESSING. TAG YOUR TARGET BUCK with the ultra-reliable...
- BEST-IN-CLASS IMAGE SENSOR for sharp 24MP photos and crisp...
- DON’T MISS ACTION in the field with BASE’s motion...
The Moultrie A-25 Game Camera has a 0.9-second trigger speed and 720p video. Completely compatible with Moultrie Mobile, you can view images from your camera on your smartphone. This means you won’t have to get your camera and upload the images before you can see them. Although this camera is considered to be an entry-level one, it does have some good features.
The long-range infrared flash can reach up to 60 feet which is pretty good. This means you should get some good pictures with this camera. Although 60 feet isn’t as much as other cameras offer, it’s still good.
The 12-megapixel camera ensures that the images are crisp, and you get better-quality pictures every time. With the ability to take up to 17,000 photographs before the batteries (8 aa) need changing, this camera keeps on going. This is good because you could potentially wait weeks or months before changing the batteries.
The Moultrie A-25 Game Camera has an infrared flash that animals will only spot if they look at the camera when it flashes. This means the animals in your camera’s range are unlikely to see the flash and be scared off by it.
If you’re about to photograph wildlife for the first time, this camera could be the one you need. It’s not too complicated to use, and it’s quite rugged too.
7. Stealth Cam G42
- 32MP Resolution (32mp / 16mp / 8mp / 4mp)
- 1080P & 720P Video Resolutions
- 5-180 second video length
The Stealth Cam G42 camera looks like it means business. Available in 2 colors, this camera has excellent low-light performance, which means it has a better nighttime range. With 42 infrared emitters, the camera has a 100-foot range which is nothing short of impressive. This is the best range that we have seen so far.
The intuitive backlit menu programming means you can use the camera when the light is low. This is good as it means you won’t struggle to use and torch while trying to program the camera simultaneously. With the ability to take from 1 to 9 images each time the camera is triggered, you’re likely to get a lot of great shots.
Complete with password protection, you won’t have to worry about anyone getting into your camera and taking the 32GB SD card. Complete with a temperature and time stamp, you will have a better idea of how and when the wildlife you photograph is more active. This can help you get even more pictures in the future.
This camera also comes with a time-lapse function and four resolutions which means you can have very sharp or not as-sharp images. This is quite a good camera and offers you many different options. If you want something from a camera, this could be the one you need.
8. Stealth Cam PX12
- 8 Megapixel
- 12 infrared emitters behind FX no glow shielding
- EZ Dial programming with with quickset
The Stealth Cam PX12 has a modern light green finish and 12 infrared emitters. The 8-megapixel camera will take some good-quality photographs during the day and night. The EZ dial programming function with ‘Quickset’ means you can set the camera up quickly and easily.
Offering approximately 6 to 12 months of battery life, this camera will pick up all kinds of animals within its range. A red light will flash when a picture is taken, but animals are only likely to see it if they look at the camera. With a 30-foot range, this camera doesn’t offer the same as many of the cameras we’ve already looked at, but it is a good ‘Starter’ camera.
The Stealth Cam PX12 might not offer you great quality photographs, but it’s easy to use and ideal if you’re new to trail cameras.
9. REXING Woodlens H1 HD
- Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant...
The RACING Woodlands is a very impressive-looking camera and offers 16 megapixels. This means you will be getting very high-quality photographs every single time. With ultra-fast motion detection, the camera comes with a 0.2-second trigger speed. This will mean it will likely capture much more than many other cameras. Couple this with the 16 megapixels, and you’re onto a winner.
With 1080p video that also comes with audio, you can see how wildlife behaves in real time. With a range of 65 feet (20 meters), the LED flash will illuminate almost everything nearby. This means you will get a clear image during the day and the night.
If that wasn’t enough, the RACING Woodlens comes with up to 16 months of surveillance. Taking eight aa batteries, you will only have to change the batteries once or twice a year, depending on the frequency of use. With the ability to operate from -4 Fahrenheit to 140 Fahrenheit, you won’t have to worry about this camera getting too cold or too hold. This means you can carry on taking photographs no matter what the weather is doing.
This camera also offers you the chance to change the resolution. You can switch between 3, 5, 8, 12, and 16 megapixels. What’s more, you can record video and sound or video or sound; the choice is yours. Ultimately, if you want a good camera that performs well, the RACING Woodlands could be your need.
10. Wildgame Innovations Mirage 16
- Ready to Use out of the box 16 Megapixel IR trail camera...
The Wildgame Innovations Mirage 16 camera looks solid and could be straight out of a movie. It looks rugged, and it looks like it means serious business. With 16 megapixels, this camera offers some of the best photographs around. Concealed by camouflage, animals of all shapes and sizes are less likely to spot it.
The trigger speed on this camera is less than ½ a second which means it’s very fast and likely to capture quite a lot. With a 720 HD video capability and the ability to take 30-second videos, this camera could be exactly what you need. The camera has an 8 GB SDHC card, but it can take up to 32 GB. This means you can take thousands of photographs should you wish to.
Complete with 36 infrared LEDs and an 80-foot detection range, this could be the camera you need. It’s quite a good camera and is certainly quite fast. It’s also rugged, which might be ideal for those placing it in rough terrain.
My favorite hunting setup
When I go out hunting, there are a few essentials that need to be in my arsenal: a pair of great crossbow broadheads or crossbow bolts, an awesome trail camera, of course, my crossbow, and a sweet single-pin bow sight if I bring my recurve bow. You can find all my favorite picks for each item on the links.
Now enough about me and my picks; let’s move on to how to use the trail camera.
When it comes to using a trail camera, there are many different options for you. You can use them for:
Wildlife monitoring – See which animals come close to your home during the day or night. Alternatively, you can see which animals live on or near a trail or anywhere.
Hunting – Trail cameras are very good at spotting even the slightest movement. This can make them ideal for use when you’re out hunting. If you like to hunt at night, these cameras can help you see animals you would have missed.
Home security – Would you like to see who or what is breaking into your barn? Use a trail camera to help you spot those potential thieves. The great thing about some of these cameras is the quality of the video or photographs is usually very good. This means you should get a clear image of what is happening.
Farm monitoring – A trail camera can help you to see which animals are coming onto your land. This can help you determine whether you need to improve the fencing around your land or animal enclosures.
When setting up a trail camera, you must ensure you do it properly. The good news is that setting up the camera is pretty easy. Here’s how to do it:
1. Remove all items from the box and make sure nothing is missing. Check the item list in the box to ensure everything is there.
2. Work out where you’re going to place your camera. Make sure you place it in an area with at least 2-3 feet of clearance so it’s more likely to capture something.
3. Install fully-charged batteries into the camera and make sure you also put an SD card. This will ensure that your camera is ready to go and can be used immediately.
4. Ensure the trigger frequency and speed settings are ok, along with the flash and timer settings. This will mean you’re more likely to get the photographs you want and when you want them.
5. Mount your camera using a strap or a bungee cord. If you wish, you can also use a camera mount. Make sure your camera is secure. This will help to prevent it from falling off the tree or wherever you wish to place it.
6. Ensure your camera can take a clear shot of the field of vision. It will be a shame if flora or fauna blocks the way.
7. Conceal the camera, making sure the lens is kept clear. Animals should ideally not be able to see the camera very well, if at all.
8. Use a secure box if you wish. This can help to protect your camera from thieves. Some cameras come with a password-protected lock, which means they cannot be removed from their case. It also prevents the SD card from being stolen.
9. Test the camera by activating it. Check the photograph to make sure it has turned out ok. If you need to adjust, now is the time to do it. Continue to make adjustments until you’re satisfied with the quality of the photographs.
10. Get ready to enjoy watching wildlife in their natural environment.
How do wireless trail cameras work?
Wireless trail cameras work by using a WiFi signal. This does mean you’ll have to have a WiFi connection somewhere on the trail, but this isn’t always an issue. You’ll typically find wireless trail cameras added to the side of a building with WiFi connectivity.
However, some trail cameras are mounted on trees or signs within the WiFi range. This helps them stay connected so that you can continue animal spotting.
Do trail cameras flash at night?
Some trail cameras flash at night, but those that do flash aren’t always ideal. The flash can potentially scare off any animals that you wish to photograph. However, infrared trail cameras let off very little light, providing enough light for exposure.
Are trail cameras good for home security?
They can be. As we’ve already seen, some trail cameras emit a flash when they take a picture. The flash can scare potential burglars away so that they may be useful. If you don’t want your trail camera to emit a flash, I suggest you use an infrared camera instead.
The pictures that trail cameras take can be the pretty good quality which means you could potentially catch that thief in action.
What is the best trail camera for night pictures?
The TEC.BEAN Trail camera offers 12 megapixels and 1080p video. This camera stands out in terms of its night vision. With the ability to take photographs of animals up to 75 feet away, this camera is impressive.
This means the camera will take higher-quality photographs during the night. The trigger’s speed is less than 0.8 seconds of trigger speed that is activated by almost any movement. So no matter what happens during the night, this is the best trail camera you can find.
What’s the best wildlife camera?
This all depends on what you’re looking for. You may want a camera that’s under $100, but you may also want it to have specific features. If, for example, you want the camera to have as many megapixels as possible, you may want to opt for the RACING Woodlens H1 HD. This camera has 16 megapixels and will take great-quality photographs. What’s more, it also allows you to switch between 3, 5, 8, 12, and 16 megapixels should you wish to.
However, if you’re looking for a camera that takes videos, then the DIGITNOW Trail camera
could be the best for you. This camera comes with 1080p, and a no-glow LED, meaning animals will not be frightened off by it.
It’s also likely that you want a camera to be very waterproof. Here’s where the Campark Trail Camera could come in. It comes with IP66 waterproof, meaning dust will not get in, and neither will powerful water jets. This is very impressive. It could also mean that it is the best wildlife camera as it’s unlikely to get wet even when the rain is coming down hard. This potentially means you can still get those all-important photographs.
If you are looking for the cheapest trail camera, then the Meidase Trail Camera 16MP 1080P could be the one you want to opt for. However, cheaper cameras are unlikely to come with the same features as some more expensive models. You might need to compromise between great-quality photographs and a lower-priced camera.
If you are in the market for an impressive range, you may opt for the Wildgame Innovations Mirage 16 camera, which has an impressive 80-foot range. However, the Stealth Cam G42 has a 100-foot range but fewer video capabilities, so you might have to compromise.
How do trail cameras detect motion?
Trail cameras have what is known as a PIR Sensor built into them. PIR stands for Passive infrared. This sensor recognizes heat and motion that is either reflected or emitted by an object (Such as an animal).
The sensor is in a metallic case and added to the camera’s circuit board. When the sensor detects a slight change in the amount of infrared outside the camera, it tells the camera to take a picture.
Some trail cameras are also capable of taking videos. This means you can watch those deer, for example, in real-time. A PIR sensor also activates the video function found on trail cameras, typically the same sensor used to capture photographs.
A PIR sensor is also able to detect motion during the night. It works in the same way as it does during the day. The only difference is the outcome of the photograph. Photographs taken at night are typically black and white.
How do you find trail cameras in the woods?
Trail cameras can be notoriously difficult to spot. This is because they are often placed on trees or even hidden in what looks like a bird box. To spot a trail camera, you must look carefully at any treat or area where a camera could be installed.
You may also want to look for a strap that keeps the camera tied to the tree. Straps can be camouflaged, but they can still be quite easy to spot.
You may also want to look out for the camera’s lens. The lens is usually a circular shape and can be seen if you look very carefully. However, you’re more likely to spot the real camera before you see the lens.
If you set up the cameras yourself, it’s a good idea to have already noted where the cameras are. As we have already established, they can be very difficult to spot. Making a note of where the cameras are will mean you’re less likely to miss them.
As you can see, there are some very impressive trail cameras. However, you may feel a little overwhelmed by the sheer number of trail cameras. Do not worry; we can make your choice even easier.
When shopping for the best trail camera under 100, you may want to consider the following:
- Your budget: some cameras cost more than others. If you’re on a tight budget, you may opt for a camera that costs around $60 rather than $100. However, some cheaper models might not offer the same functions and features as those a little more costly.
- How often you’ll use it: If you plan to use your camera for at least a few days/nights a week, you’ll need a rugged camera built to last. You’ll need to opt for a reliable camera with a good reputation.
- Whether you want a video option: Some cameras come with a video option, and some don’t. If you want to take videos, try to find a camera that comes with 1080p so you have high-quality videos to watch.
- Whether you need high-quality photographs or videos: if you don’t need fantastic-looking photographs or videos, a camera with just 8 megapixels may be sufficient. Some ‘starter’ cameras offer 720P video quality, and although the quality isn’t as good as 1080p, it’s still not bad.
Once you’ve considered your budget, the frequency of use, and the other options, you’ll be much closer to buying the right trail camera and possibly the best trail camera under 100$.
