The best trail camera in 2024: for wildlife photography and nature watching

Best trail camera - camera trap at the Land of the Leopard national park in the Russia.
(Image credit: Getty Images)

After trying and testing many trail cameras – also sometimes known as a camera traps – we've picked the top choices that will suit anyone on any budget. These cameras use motion or heat detectors and can be placed in a natural environment and left to trigger themselves the moment an animal crosses nearby, working night or day to capture animals shy of human disturbance.

The best trail camera is hardy and weatherproof, something we test, with a rugged build that can handle water, snowfall, and extreme temperatures. They're also camouflaged to fit in with their surroundings. Incidentally, if you're more of a hunter, there is a good chance you'll use the term 'game cameras,' but the devices are the same.

Adam Juniper headshot
Adam Juniper

With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones.

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

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FeaturesGreat to have dual cameras, and a built-in screen (however small) for setup is handy★★★★
DesignSeparate cover for controls and 6 batteries, striking camo★★★★★
PerformanceImages look like video grabs, but video is good★★★★
ValueNot the cheapest, but capturing true 30fps video is good★★★★
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Features4K clip recording/30MP pics, grayscale LCD menu. Videos can features phases of moon.★★★
DesignSturdy, with simple buttons and LCD inside water resistant closing door.★★★★★
PerformanceVery good image quality in light and dark.★★★★★
ValueYou can get solar-charging for the same money, but the image quality is high.★★★★
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Features1.5-inch LCD and 48-LED illumination★★★★
DesignStraightforward cammo color blends into trees and woody environments★★★★★
PerformanceVideo resoltuon at 720P is a bit of a disappointment, but stills are a good 20MP★★★
ValueIf you don't mind the limited resolution, the setup features make this good value★★★★
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FeaturesDecent controls with a simply but clear matrix display make getting the camera going easy for first timers★★★★
DesignLove it or hate it casing, but good sturdy weatherproof seal survived our tests★★★★
PerformanceNo arguments with the resolution, though perhaps 'Ultimate' is a claim too far!★★★★
ValueGreat for beginners, with tripod thread and tree strap covering all bases★★★★
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FeaturesRange of options for clip size and the like – limits to be expected at this budget★★★
DesignRubbery buttons a little small, but very practical★★★★
PerformanceAt half a second, the response time is 'Meh'★★★
ValueSensible price and bundles make this good for multi-cam deployments★★★★
Adam Juniper
Managing Editor

With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones. 

Adam is our resident expert on all aspects of camera drones and drone photography, from buying guides on the best choices for aerial photographers of all ability levels to the latest rules and regulations on piloting drones. 

He is the author of a number of books including The Complete Guide to Drones, The Smart Smart Home Handbook, 101 Tips for DSLR Video and The Drone Pilot's Handbook

With contributions from
  • Pro Travel and Adventure Photographer, Educator and Author