10 Best Cheap Trail Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Meidase P70 Trail Camera is a cost-effective option with several impressive features. It offers high image quality with a 64MP resolution and 1296p HD video capability, ensuring clear and detailed captures. The advanced H.264 video technology helps in reducing file sizes, which is beneficial for storage and quick downloads. The camera is equipped with no-glow infrared LEDs, allowing for bright night vision up to 100 feet, making it suitable for nocturnal wildlife observation without disturbing the animals. The rapid 0.1-second trigger speed is a significant advantage, ensuring that you capture fast-moving animals quickly and efficiently.

Additionally, the camera includes a 2.4-inch color display and an intuitive menu, contributing to ease of use. It supports up to 512GB SD cards, providing ample storage capacity for extended use. The IP66 rating ensures that the camera is waterproof and durable in various weather conditions, suitable for outdoor use. However, the camera requires 8 AA batteries (sold separately), which could lead to recurring costs and the need for frequent replacements. Alternatively, it can be powered using a compatible solar panel (sold separately), which could be a more sustainable option in the long run.

On the downside, the camera lacks wireless connectivity, which means you need to manually retrieve the SD card to access the footage. This might be slightly inconvenient for some users. In spite of these minor drawbacks, the Meidase P70 is a highly capable and versatile trail camera, ideal for both game monitoring and outdoor security.

The Moultrie Edge Cellular Trail Camera offers a range of impressive features for a budget-friendly trail camera. Its standout strength is its connectivity; the auto-connect technology ensures you always have the strongest signal, making it highly reliable in various locations. Additionally, it eliminates the need for SD cards with its built-in and unlimited cloud storage, automatically managing space so you never miss a shot.

The 33MP photo resolution and 720p video capture provide clear and detailed images, both day and night, which is bolstered by its 80-foot low-glow IR LED flash for effective night vision. The camera is easy to set up, requiring just a QR code scan, and the Moultrie Mobile App enhances user convenience by allowing remote access, real-time alerts, and property mapping.

There are some limitations. The video resolution is only 720p, which might not be sufficient for users looking for higher definition. Also, while the camera boasts an IP54 rating, providing some weather resistance, it may not be as durable in extremely harsh conditions compared to higher-rated models. The battery life isn't specified, which is a crucial consideration for trail cameras used in remote areas. The Moultrie Edge is a strong contender for those seeking a dependable and easy-to-use trail camera with excellent connectivity and storage solutions.

The Bushnell Trail Camera CORE S-4K is a solid choice for those seeking a budget-friendly trail camera with high-end features. One of its standout aspects is the impressive 4K video resolution, which ensures clear and detailed footage. The camera has a very fast trigger speed of 0.2 seconds and a 1-second recovery rate, making it great for capturing quick movements without missing any action. Additionally, the night vision range extends up to 110 feet with No-Glow technology, ensuring that wildlife isn't disturbed by visible flashes at night, which makes it excellent for nocturnal surveillance.

The camera also includes a 1.5” color viewscreen for easy on-site viewing and settings adjustments. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The recommended 6 AA lithium batteries aren't included, which adds to the cost, and the camera's battery life might not be as long-lasting as some other models in its category. The storage capacity is quite generous, supporting up to 512 GB, but the SD card is not included in the package. Weather resistance is rated at IP54, which means it can handle some exposure to dust and water, but it might not be the best choice for extremely harsh conditions.

At a weight of 1.1 pounds and compact dimensions, it's easy to install and move around as needed. The camera's wireless capabilities and remote control make it convenient for users who want to access their footage without physically retrieving the SD card. This trail camera is particularly suited for wildlife enthusiasts and hunters who need a reliable and high-resolution option without breaking the bank.