Trail camera for security

A trail camera is one of the most affordable advanced camera technology for security today. And it’s growing its popularity for its availability and ease of use of the other available security camera day by day.

According to brands and models, trail camera offers much more features on a lower budget. Those will help you to get a birds-eye view of your property.

In contrast to a regular security camera, it just gives you a plug-and-play security solution.

Why should I use a trail camera for security?

A professional security camera can access nighttime photos, videos, and remote data. But that’ll cost you much more money and power than a trail camera. And you’ll also need extra installation and maintenance charges.

On the other hand, the Trail camera is easy to set up and automatically wakes up when needed with its enhanced Thermal detection. So it uses less power than a regular security camera. 

You can explore: How Trail Camera Works?

Throughout this write-up, I’ll share all the possibilities and drawbacks of using a trail camera for security.

Benefits of Trail Camera over Other Security Cameras

Price

In contrast to features, is the most significant difference between trail and other security cameras. Generally, both come with the same price bracket, ranging from $50 to $200 (or more).

But the stacking value of a security camera (installation, maintenance, power consumption, etc.) is much larger than any trail camera. A trail camera is a compact and hassle-free home security solution.

You can explore Our Best Affordable picks for Trail cameras.

Installation

Camera installation is another considerable factor if you contrast CCTV and Trail cameras. First, you need the Camera, Power adapter, Power cables, Cables, Monitor, DVR/NVR, and Storage to set up CCTV. And this stuff needs to be handled by a professional hand. On the other hand, there is nothing to setting up a trail camera after purchasing the camera and battery according to your need. Just insert the battery and SD Card, then place the camera. And you’re ready to go.

Maintenance Charge

Maintainance charge is always different as they are different in operation. In day-to-day cost, CCTV consumes electricity to power up the camera, monitor, mouse, and keyboard to navigate through camera footage or functions. In some cases, a dedicated external control system is also used for PTZ cameras. On the other hand, I don’t need to set up any extra devices to control the trail camera. Everything is built in a compact form factor.

Power Consumption

Another vital aspect is power consumption. Because trail camera usually only uses AA battery. You can get a good life span if you get the right battery for your trail camera. In contrast, CCTV needs power in 2 ways. The first is powering up the camera, and the Second is the control unit (DVR/NVR) along with the monitor.

Features

Trail camera for home security

Before placing the trail camera for home security, you should know the PRI range. Then find the sweetest spot for your camera. Try to use the maximum potentiality. Like the CamPicker technical guide,

• Try to utilize the maximum PIR range;
• Place the camera in front of the entry point;
• You can camouflage to hide your camera;
• Multiple cameras can serve you well;

Trail camera for backyard

For backyard security, it is ideal for people who want to keep track of their pets or watch the movements of wild animals in their yards. Or you no longer have to check your backyard or worry about unwanted intruders manually.

You can observe the behavior of nocturnal animals you would not usually see during the day. You can install the camera in areas such as trees or shrubs with animal activity and then check the footage later. So you can understand what animals visit your yard and how often they come around.

Trail Camera for Office Security

investing in a trail camera could be an essential office security system. Trail cameras are an effective way to monitor and record activity areas vulnerable to security breaches. 

We’ve also set up a few trail cameras in our office in fewer passerby spaces, like a store room. These run smoothly with our regular CCTV. We can also monitor the footage remotely from our phones or computers, allowing us to monitor our office security closely. 

No-glow & Low-glow Trail Camera for Security

No-glow or Low-glow, which one is the best option for a security camera? This question may call for a long debate. This technical factor is significant for trail cameras, notably when used in a sensitive case like a security camera.

• No-glow trail cameras are like night-vision goggles. They emit a very faint beam of infrared light that is invisible to the naked eye but allows the camera to see in the dark. This makes them ideal for capturing photos and videos, but intruders can't see the camera in a dark environment.
• On the other hand, Low-glow trail cameras are like flashlights. They emit a brighter beam of infrared light visible to the naked eye. Though still not as bright as a traditional flashlight. For this, it can be easy to mark in a dark area.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between no-glow and low-glow trail cameras:

No-glow trail cameras are the best choice for security cameras. However, they can be more expensive than low-glow cameras. You can see our editor picks Low-glow trail cameras in different price brackets. 

How to Place Trail Camera For Security

Sure, here are some precise points about how to place a trail camera for security:

1. Place the camera at an angle above or below the line of sight. This will make it more difficult for potential intruders to spot the camera.
2. Camouflage the camera. You can hide it in greenery, in a birdhouse, or use a camouflage cover.
3. Don't face the camera toward a direct light source. This will help prevent the camera from being blinded by the light and improve the quality of the images and videos it captures.
4. Keep the camera secure. You can use a security case or mount the camera to a sturdy object.
5. Consider where your intruders may enter. Place the camera in a location where it can capture images or videos of anyone who enters your property.

Here are some additional tips:

• Choose the right camera. Not all trail cameras are created equal. When choosing a camera for security, you'll want to look for one with a high-quality image sensor, a long battery life, and a weatherproof design.
• Test the camera before you install it. Once you've chosen a camera, take some time to test it out in the location where you plan to install it. This will help you ensure the camera works correctly and captures clear images and videos.
• Check the camera regularly. Trail cameras can be a great way to deter crime and catch criminals. However, they're only effective if you check them regularly. Check your camera at least once a week to download any new images or videos.

By following these tips, you can place your trail camera in a way that will help deter crime and catch criminals in the act.

FAQs

Is Trail Camera Worth for Security?

Trail cameras can be a valuable tool for security, but they are different from a traditional security system. Trail cameras can deter crime by making potential intruders aware they are being watched. They can also gather evidence after a crime has been committed.

Here are some of the benefits of using trail cameras for security:

• They can be used to deter crime. Trail cameras can inform potential intruders that they are being watched, deterring them from committing a crime.
• They can be used to gather evidence. Trail cameras can capture images or videos of potential intruders, which can be used as evidence in a criminal case.
• They are relatively inexpensive. Trail cameras are much less expensive than traditional security systems.

What are the benefits of using a trail camera for security?

Trail cameras are designed to be used outdoors and are often used by hunters to track game animals. However, trail cameras can also be used for security purposes. Here are some of the benefits of using a trail camera for security:

• Low-cost: Trail cameras are inexpensive, making them a cost-effective way to improve security.
• Flexibility: Trail cameras can be placed in various locations and monitor large and small areas.
• Remote monitoring: Some trail cameras can be connected to a smartphone or computer, allowing you to monitor your property remotely.

What types of cameras are available?

How do I set up a trail camera for security?

1. Choose the right location. Consider the following factors when choosing a location for your trail camera:
   • Visibility: The camera should clearly view the area you want to monitor.
   • Security: The camera should be in a secure location that is not easily accessible to unauthorized people.
   • Power: The camera may need to be powered by batteries or by a solar panel.
   • Weatherproofing: The camera should be weatherproof to protect it from the elements.
2. Mount the camera. Once you have chosen a location, you must mount the camera. There are various ways to mount a trail camera, including using a tree, wall, or ground mount.
3. Configure the camera. Once the camera is mounted, you will need to configure it. This includes setting the camera's resolution, photo/video mode, trigger sensitivity, and other settings.
4. Test the camera. Once the camera is configured, you should test it to ensure it works properly. You can do this by taking a few test photos and videos.