The Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP Made a Bold First Impression
Trail cameras have evolved from simple scouting tools to essential gear for hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and even security applications. The Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP, promises to deliver high-quality images and videos with the convenience of cellular connectivity. This means instant image and video capture via Moultrie Mobile, removing the hassle of manually retrieving SD cards. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype.
For years, I’ve relied on older, non-cellular trail cameras, which meant regular trips into the woods to swap out SD cards – time-consuming and disruptive to the wildlife I was trying to observe. I needed a reliable camera that could send images directly to my phone, allowing me to monitor activity remotely and efficiently. The Moultrie EDGE 2’s cellular capabilities were the primary draw.
Upon unboxing, the Moultrie EDGE 2 felt solid and well-built, not overly bulky. The materials felt durable, and the overall design was streamlined and functional. It was lighter than I anticipated, which is a definite plus for portability.
Compared to my older Bushnell Trophy Cam and a budget-friendly Stealth Cam, the Moultrie EDGE 2 stood out with its QR code setup and promised cellular connectivity. I chose the Moultrie EDGE 2 for its balance of image quality, cellular features, and ease of use. The instant image delivery via Moultrie Mobile seemed far more convenient than frequent SD card swaps.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. I was eager to put the Moultrie EDGE 2 to the test and see if its performance matched the promises. The rapid setup process was encouraging, and I was hoping this translated to great images and reliable cellular connection in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP to the Test
First Use Experience
I deployed the Moultrie EDGE 2 on a remote section of my hunting property, known for heavy deer traffic. It was mounted on a tree overlooking a well-used game trail. The area experiences varied weather conditions, from intense summer heat to heavy rain and occasional frost in the early fall.
The camera performed admirably, even during a week of heavy rain. The housing remained watertight, and the image quality was surprisingly clear, even in low-light conditions. I was especially impressed with the 0.4-second trigger speed; it captured deer moving quickly across the frame.
The setup was incredibly straightforward. Scanning the QR code connected the camera almost instantly to the Moultrie Mobile app. I did not need much time to get used to the device; navigating the app and adjusting the settings was intuitive and easy.
The only minor issue was the initial cellular signal strength in the remote location. It took a bit of repositioning to achieve a consistent connection, but after that, image uploads were smooth and reliable. The initial hurdle confirmed the need for careful placement for optimal cellular performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of continuous use, the Moultrie EDGE 2 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. Battery life is impressive. With lithium batteries, I haven’t needed to replace them yet.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The camera housing has held up well against the elements, showing no cracks or damage. The camera’s rugged construction instilled confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dirt and debris. The intuitive design makes accessing the battery compartment and built-in memory easy.
Compared to my previous trail camera experiences, the Moultrie EDGE 2 significantly outperforms them in terms of image quality, cellular connectivity, and ease of use. The instant image delivery has saved me countless hours and provided valuable insights into wildlife activity. It’s a substantial upgrade, making scouting and monitoring more efficient and enjoyable.
Breaking Down the Features of Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP
Specifications
- The Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP boasts a 36MP image resolution, capturing stunningly detailed photographs of wildlife. This high resolution allows for clear identification of animals and their behavior.
- It records video in 720p HD resolution, providing high-quality footage with audio. The clear videos make it easy to study animal behavior in detail.
- The camera features a rapid 0.4-second trigger speed, ensuring that fast-moving subjects are captured. This quick trigger speed eliminates the possibility of missing critical action.
- It has an 80ft detection range, covering a wide area for comprehensive monitoring. The generous detection range minimizes blind spots, maximizing the effectiveness of the camera.
- The Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP features an expanded 50-degree field of view, allowing for greater coverage of the surrounding area. This wide field of view enables capturing a wider scene, offering a more complete picture of the environment.
- The camera’s low-glow infrared (IR) flash extends the night vision range while minimizing disturbance to wildlife. This balance between visibility and discretion is crucial for ethical wildlife observation.
- It has built-in memory and flexible power options. This offers convenience and adaptability in various field conditions.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the quality of the images and videos, the reliability of the camera in the field, and the overall user experience. The high resolution and fast trigger speed ensure that important moments are captured with clarity and precision. The infrared flash provides excellent night vision, while minimizing the impact on wildlife.
Performance & Functionality
The Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP performs its job exceptionally well. It captures high-quality images and videos, reliably transmits them via cellular network, and is easy to set up and use. The instant delivery of images to the Moultrie Mobile app is a standout feature that significantly enhances the scouting process.
The strengths of the Moultrie EDGE 2 lie in its image quality, fast trigger speed, reliable cellular connectivity, and user-friendly interface. One potential improvement would be to enhance the cellular signal strength for more consistent uploads in remote areas. The initial setup experience could be improved by providing more detailed instructions.
The Moultrie EDGE 2 exceeds expectations in terms of image quality and cellular reliability. It offers a significant upgrade compared to traditional trail cameras, making remote monitoring more efficient and convenient.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is robust, with durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions. The Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP feels solid and well-constructed. Its compact design makes it easy to mount and conceal in various environments.
The camera is user-friendly with an intuitive interface. The setup process is straightforward, thanks to the QR code and Moultrie Mobile app integration.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Moultrie EDGE 2 should last for many years. The durable housing and high-quality components are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and battery replacement. The rugged construction and weather-resistant design ensures it holds up against tough conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP comes with a mounting strap for easy attachment to trees or posts. It also includes access to the Moultrie Mobile app for remote monitoring and camera settings adjustments.
While there are limited customization options for the camera itself, the Moultrie Mobile app allows users to customize settings such as image resolution, trigger sensitivity, and upload frequency. The camera is compatible with standard SD cards for expanded memory capacity.
Pros and Cons of Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP
Pros
- High-resolution 36MP images capture stunning details for clear animal identification.
- Rapid 0.4-second trigger speed ensures that no action is missed, even with fast-moving subjects.
- Reliable cellular connectivity via Moultrie Mobile provides instant image delivery and remote monitoring.
- Easy QR code setup streamlines the installation process and gets you started quickly.
- Expanded 50-degree field of view offers greater coverage for comprehensive monitoring.
Cons
- Cellular signal strength can be inconsistent in very remote areas.
- Initial setup instructions could be more detailed for novice users.
Who Should Buy Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP?
The Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP is perfect for hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and property owners who want to monitor remote locations without frequent visits. It’s ideal for those who value high-quality images, reliable cellular connectivity, and ease of use.
This product may not be the best choice for users who require extremely long battery life or operate in areas with virtually no cellular coverage. Those on a very tight budget might also explore non-cellular options.
A must-have accessory is a high-capacity SD card for storing images and videos. Lithium batteries are also highly recommended for extended battery life in cold weather.
Conclusion on Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP
The Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP is a powerful and reliable tool for remote monitoring. Its high-resolution images, fast trigger speed, and seamless cellular connectivity make it a standout performer in its class.
The price is justified by the convenience and efficiency it offers, saving users valuable time and effort. The ability to instantly receive images on your phone is a game-changer, allowing for real-time insights into wildlife activity or property security.
I would definitely recommend the Moultrie EDGE 2 Cellular Trail Camera 36MP to anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable, and easy-to-use trail camera. If you want to take your scouting and monitoring efforts to the next level, this camera is a worthy investment. Upgrade your scouting game today!