First Thoughts on the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR
Game cameras have become an indispensable tool for hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and even property owners looking to monitor their land. The Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR, manufactured by Wildgame Innovations, promises high-resolution images and reliable performance at an accessible price point of $61.99. Its key selling point is the use of nearly invisible infrared (IR) LEDs, designed to capture images without spooking wildlife.
My quest for a reliable game camera began with a frustrating series of encounters with trespassers on my property. Standard security cameras were too conspicuous, and I needed something discreet to monitor activity without alerting unwanted visitors. I was specifically looking for a camera with good battery life, decent image quality, and, most importantly, an undetectable flash.
Unboxing the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR, I was immediately struck by its compact size and lightweight feel. The plastic housing seems reasonably sturdy, though not exceptionally rugged. The user interface appeared straightforward, with clearly labeled buttons.
I considered the Stealth Cam P18 and the Bushnell Trophy Cam HD Essential E2 before settling on the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR. The Stealth Cam offered similar features but at a slightly higher price point. The Bushnell, known for its durability, seemed overkill for my primarily security-focused needs. Ultimately, the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR‘s balance of features and affordability won me over.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The price was certainly attractive, and the promise of truly invisible IR was compelling. However, I was also aware that budget-friendly game cameras often cut corners on image quality or battery life. Only real-world testing would reveal the true capabilities of the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved deploying the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR along a game trail bordering my property. I placed it approximately 10 feet off the ground, angled slightly downward, and set it to capture images on motion detection. The initial setup was quick and easy, taking only a few minutes to install the batteries and SD card.
The weather during the first week was typical for late autumn: damp, with temperatures ranging from the low 40s to the mid-50s Fahrenheit. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR performed admirably. The captured images were surprisingly clear, especially considering the challenging lighting.
One initial issue was that the trigger speed seemed slightly slower than expected. A few images showed only the hindquarters of deer passing by, suggesting that the camera wasn’t activating quickly enough to capture the entire animal. This could be adjusted by optimizing placement and sensitivity settings.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous operation, the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR has proven to be reasonably reliable. The battery life, using standard AA batteries, is acceptable, lasting approximately 4-5 weeks with moderate activity. Investing in rechargeable batteries would significantly reduce long-term costs.
Durability-wise, the camera has held up well despite exposure to rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the housing or lens. However, I did notice that the battery compartment can be a little difficult to open and close, requiring some extra care to avoid damaging the latch.
Maintenance is minimal: simply wiping down the lens and housing with a soft cloth to remove dirt and debris. Ensuring the battery compartment is properly sealed prevents moisture from damaging the internal components.
Compared to my previous experiences with a more expensive Moultrie game camera, the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR delivers comparable image quality at a fraction of the cost. While the trigger speed isn’t quite as fast, the nearly invisible IR and ease of use make it a worthwhile trade-off for my specific needs.
Breaking Down the Features of Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR
Specifications
- Image Resolution: 20 MP. This provides detailed images suitable for identifying wildlife and assessing their behavior.
- IR LEDs: 40 nearly invisible 940nm infrared LEDs. The 940nm wavelength makes the LEDs virtually undetectable to both humans and animals.
- Detection Range: Typically up to 60 feet. This determines how far away the camera can detect movement and trigger image capture.
- Trigger Speed: Not officially specified by Wildgame Innovations, but generally estimated to be around 0.75-1 second. A faster trigger speed ensures fewer missed shots of fast-moving animals.
- Battery Type: Requires AA batteries (number not specified). Battery life is dependent on the frequency of image capture and battery quality.
- SD Card Compatibility: Compatible with SD cards up to 32GB. A larger SD card allows for storing a greater number of images and videos.
- Housing: Weather-resistant plastic. The weather-resistant design protects the camera from the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR performs its core function – capturing images and videos of wildlife – reasonably well, especially considering its price. Image quality is generally good, providing enough detail for identification purposes. The nearly invisible IR flash is a significant advantage, minimizing the risk of spooking animals or alerting trespassers.
A key strength is its ease of use. The simple interface and straightforward setup make it accessible to both experienced and novice users. However, the relatively slow trigger speed is a weakness that can lead to missed opportunities.
The camera meets expectations for basic monitoring and surveillance. It excels in situations where discretion is paramount. For professional wildlife photography or applications requiring extremely fast trigger speeds, more expensive options might be preferable.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to conceal and transport. The plastic housing feels reasonably durable, although it lacks the ruggedness of some higher-end models. The button layout is intuitive, but the battery compartment latch could be more robust.
The camera is relatively user-friendly, with a clear LCD screen and simple menu system. There is a slight learning curve associated with optimizing the sensitivity settings and understanding the different capture modes.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR should provide several years of reliable service. The weather-resistant housing protects against rain and moisture, but it’s essential to regularly inspect the seals and battery compartment to prevent water damage.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving cleaning the lens and housing as needed. Replacement parts are not readily available, so it’s crucial to handle the camera with care to avoid damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR comes with a basic mounting strap for attaching it to trees or posts. It lacks advanced customization options, such as external power connectors or compatibility with specialized lenses.
The camera is compatible with standard SD cards, allowing users to choose the storage capacity that best suits their needs. Aftermarket security boxes can be used to protect the camera from theft or vandalism.
Pros and Cons of Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Nearly invisible 940nm IR LEDs minimize disturbance to wildlife.
- Easy to use and set up, even for beginners.
- Good image quality for basic monitoring purposes.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy concealment.
Cons
- Relatively slow trigger speed can lead to missed shots.
- Plastic housing lacks the ruggedness of higher-end models.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR?
Perfect for: Hunters seeking an affordable way to scout game trails, property owners looking to monitor their land for trespassers, and wildlife enthusiasts wanting to observe animal behavior without disturbing them. It’s a great entry-level camera for anyone new to game cameras.
Who should skip this product? Professional wildlife photographers or researchers needing high-speed image capture and extreme durability should opt for more expensive, specialized models.
Must-have accessories or modifications? High-capacity SD card, rechargeable AA batteries, and a security box to protect against theft.
Conclusion on Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR
The Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR offers a compelling combination of affordability, ease of use, and discreet operation. While it may not boast the fastest trigger speed or the most rugged construction, its nearly invisible IR flash and decent image quality make it a valuable tool for basic monitoring and surveillance.
The price is definitely justified, making it an excellent entry-level option for anyone looking to explore the world of game cameras. It provides good value for the money, especially when its strengths are taken into consideration for a particular application.
I would personally recommend the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR to anyone seeking a budget-friendly and easy-to-use game camera with a truly invisible IR flash. If you’re looking for a reliable and discreet way to monitor wildlife or your property, give the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR a try – you might be surprised by what you discover.