Hunting game is an extremely challenging sport. We need a range of equipment to enjoy the hunting experience and make it memorable. However, to capture rare moments in the wild, a trail camera is necessary.
Trail cameras are available in various sizes, with several different features and functions. They help you capture images of objects and animals from afar, and are invaluable in creating an effective hunting strategy.
With that said, if you have a limited budget, it can difficult to find a camera that gives you all the features you need. Fortunately, we have researched various resources and evaluated important factors to find the best game camera under $100. In this article, we will explore the best trail camera for under $100.
Best Game Camera under $100 Comparison Chart
| Key Features | Rating | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
  | 14MP 1080p 0.3Sec trigger speed fair price | 4.4 out of 5 | $$ | |
 | 14MP 1080p 0.3Sec trigger speed Amazon Best Seller | 4.4 out of 5 | $$ | |
 | 16MP 1080p 0.5Sec trigger speed | 4.3 out of 5 | $$ | |
 | 16MP 1080p 0.2Sec trigger speed | 3.6 out of 5 | $$ | |
 | 12MP 1080p 100ft range | 3.8 out of 5 | $$ |
1. TOGUARD 1080P Trail Camera Review
The TOGUARD 14MP is a rugged camera optimized for protection against extreme conditions and extensive wear and tear. The camera is waterproof and keeps capturing amazing wildlife images even when it’s raining.
Despite costing less than most trail cameras, TOGUARD 1080P Trail Camera offers several advanced features. The wide-angle lens of the camera lets you capture high-quality 1080p images at the slightest movement in its range.
Pros
- Affordable
- Wide-angle lens
- Easy to use
- Rugged
- Fast sensors
Cons
- Overly sensitive sensors
2. Campark T45 1080P Trail Camera Review
The Campark T45’s 1080p trail camera has a fast-acting motion detector that enables it to capture high-quality images within 0.3 seconds of detecting motion. With the help of its advanced night vision, you can click images amazing in the dark.
At the same time, the low consumption power mode helps to run for months without needing a new charge. Lastly, it’s rugged nature helps it bear the harsh conditions of the wilderness and protects it from damage caused by moisture, dust, and accidental drops.
Pros
- Fast sensors
- Dustproof/drop-proof/moisture-proof
- Easy to use
Cons
- Fragile straps
3. Victure Night Vision Motion Activated Trail Camera with 1080p Resolution
If you are looking for a trail camera that offers the most value at the least price, then the Victure Motion Activated 1080P trail camera is the best option out there. The camera clicks full HD 1080p resolution and automatically switches between day and night mode with the help of its advanced sensor
Considering its price, the camera has decent trigger sensitivity. It can capture images of quickly moving wildlife with a trigger speed of 0.5 seconds. The 3 continuous shot feature allows you to observe a frame-by-frame illustration of the game’s movement.
Pros
- Affordable
- Decent sensors
- High resolution 1080p images
- 12 months warranty
Cons
- Doesn’t contain batteries or an SD card
4. Trail Hunting Game Wansview Camera
In terms of price, the Trail Hunting Game Wansview Camera is one of the most cost-efficient options out there. It lets you capture 120-degree shots with a high resolution 1080 video and 16MP clear images.
At the same time, the camera has 3 PIR Sensors, as well as a 0.2-second trigger speed, the highest among all other options. The 70ft detection range allows you to capture images in a considerably wide range. Lastly, 46pcs 850nm IR LEDs allow you to capture clear images under pitch dark.
Pros
- 1080P FHD resolution
- 46PCs Infrared IR LED light
- Waterproof (IP56) feature
- Fast trigger speed
Cons
- Lacks an add-on zoom lens
- Motion detection not up to par
5. Stealth Cam G42 Trail Camera STC-G42NG
Stealth Cam STC-G42NG trail camera is a viable trail camera suited for all situations, conditions, and weather. Although the camera is priced higher than other options on this list, it offers many advanced features.
First off, the camera is extremely intuitive and can capture 9 continuous HD images in burst mode. The faster recovery time and decent trigger speed coupled with continuous image sequence ensure you have a frame-by-frame image sequence. Lastly, the enhanced storage capacity of 32 GB memory, helps you capture an extensive amount of images and videos.
Pros
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- Fast trigger speed
- Large memory card storage
- Good battery life
- Ideal both for expert and intermediate users
Cons
- Less pricey cameras offer greater recovery time
Game Camera Buying Guide
Since every trail camera has its own set of unique features, it can be difficult to find the one that fits your needs the best. Here are some key features that can help you decide:
Image Quality
The image quality is perhaps the most important feature in any camera. If you are using a trail camera, you need to capture high-quality images to make your hunting expedition memorable. If the camera does not provide you with crystal clear images, there’s no reason for you to buy it.
Most trail camera models offer an image quality of 7 to 10 megapixels. However, plenty of options that offer exceptional image quality even exceeding 10 megapixels. If you want to capture HD images of the game, it’s best to throw in a few extra bucks.
Power Options
Since trail cameras have to be mounted on remote places and constantly stay on, power is a key factor in letting you choose the best game camera under $100. These cameras come in more than one power option.
Some cameras contain a solar power plate that keeps them powered for months without having to change the batteries. However, these cameras always need sunlight and aren’t useful where the weather mostly remains overcast or where dense vegetation prevents sunlight from reaching the camera.
On the other hand, a number of trail cameras come with standard AA batteries that you can reliably use. However, the major downside of these batteries is that you need to replace them personally whenever they run out.
Trigger and Recovery Time
The trigger time is the duration a camera takes between detecting motion and capturing an image or video. The trigger time needs to be as fast as possible to capture the fast-moving animals. There are some options with a trigger time as low as 0.2 seconds, while some trail cameras can take as long as 0.7 seconds. The recovery time is the time a camera takes to be ready for the next image/video after taking the first one.
Mounting
The majority of trail cameras require a bracket or a strap to mount on a tree. However, some cameras also come with ¼ inch-20 threaded tripod-style sockets for additional support. At the same time, many trail cameras under 100 feature holes or channels optimized with Python-style locking security cables, which help you secure these cameras from theft.
Best Trail Camera Under 100 – Frequently Asked Questions
What is a trail camera mount?
Every camera has its unique strap for basic mounting. The strap can wrap around the tree and you can latch it in the back. However, to lock the trail camera for preventing theft, you need to use various security devices. You can also use angle mounting brackets to mount your trail camera easily to almost anything.
Game Camera and Trail Camera – Are they different?
Game camera and trail camera are basically two different names of the same thing. These devices are designed to capture the picture and location of the target accurately. Since taking accurate images is difficult in the wilderness, these cameras have a detection field ranging mostly from 50 ft to 100 ft. After installation, trails cameras can sense any movement to capture within their range.
Can I connect my digital camera to view pictures from the trail camera?
No. Most cameras don’t come with these options. Even if cameras have the option to connect to digital cameras, manufacturers discourage users from using a digital camera to view trail camera results over a long period of time. You will need a trail camera viewer to see results from a trail camera.
How can I format a memory card?
Trail camera vendors recommend formatting the SD card every time you download images from it. The method of formatting SD cards is fairly straightforward. Insert the memory card into a card reader and plug it into your computer.
Following that, go to “My PC” where you will notice a file dedicated to the portable devices. Make sure that there is no additional USB device attached to the PC besides the memory card. After that, right-click on the portable file, where you’ll find a “Formatting” option. Once you click it, you will navigate to a formatting screen. Choose the normal formatting option (FAT32), and click ok.
Why are most of the nighttime images over/under exposed?
Over/under exposed night time photos usually occur when the camera hasn’t been set up correctly. You can adjust the LED Control settings and Night Vision (NV) Shutter to improve the brightness of a nighttime image.
Conclusion
Trail cameras are exciting tools that make your hunting experience. However, these cameras have multiple uses and can also be used for monitoring remote property or an organizational job site.
While there are countless excellent options available, you can find the best trail camera under $100 on this list. To learn more about the best available trail cameras in the market visit detailed review here.