Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack Review

First Thoughts on the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack

The Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack promises to be a game-changer for anyone serious about wildlife monitoring or property surveillance. Moultrie, a well-known name in the hunting and outdoor industry, aims to deliver reliable performance and seamless connectivity with this updated model. Boasting instant image and video capture via the Moultrie Mobile app, 36MP images, 720p HD video, and a quick trigger speed, these cameras present a compelling package at a competitive price point. This review delves deep into my experiences with the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses after extensive field testing.

My need for these cameras stemmed from a recurring problem: trespassers on my rural property and the desire to monitor deer movement patterns on my hunting lease. I needed a reliable and discreet solution that could provide high-quality images and videos without requiring constant SD card swaps. The promise of built-in memory, cellular connectivity, and easy setup was particularly appealing.

Unboxing the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack revealed a compact and seemingly robust design. The cameras feel solid, though not overly heavy, with a practical camo finish that blends well with natural environments. Initial inspection suggests decent weather resistance, but only time in the field would truly tell. The QR code activation system also immediately caught my eye as a potential time-saver compared to older setup methods.

I considered the Browning Defender Wireless Pro Scout and the Spartan GoCam before deciding on the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack. The Browning offered similar image quality but lacked built-in memory, requiring me to purchase and manage SD cards. The Spartan had a more robust build, but came at a significantly higher price point, making the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack the most attractive option in terms of balancing features and cost.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The specifications looked good on paper, and the design seemed practical. However, the true test would be in the field, determining whether the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack could live up to its promises of seamless connectivity and reliable performance. I was particularly excited to see if the built-in memory and QR code setup would truly simplify the process, and I was eager to evaluate the camera’s nighttime performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack was my hunting lease in central Texas. I deployed one camera near a frequently used game trail and the other overlooking a small food plot. The weather during the first week was varied, with periods of heavy rain, followed by hot, dry conditions.

The cameras proved easy to set up, thanks to the QR code activation system. A quick scan with my smartphone and a few taps on the Moultrie Mobile app had them up and running in minutes. The initial image quality was impressive, capturing clear daytime photos of deer and other wildlife. However, the nighttime photos were somewhat grainy, though still usable for identifying animals.

The 0.4-second trigger speed seemed accurate, as the cameras consistently captured animals moving at a brisk pace. However, I did experience a few instances where the camera was triggered by vegetation swaying in the wind, leading to some false positives.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of continuous use, the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack has proven to be generally reliable, though not without some minor issues. The cameras have withstood several heavy rainstorms and extreme temperature fluctuations without any signs of water damage or malfunction. The battery life, using standard alkaline batteries, has been acceptable, lasting approximately six weeks with moderate activity.

I did notice some wear and tear on the camera housing, particularly around the mounting strap slots. This suggests that the plastic may not be as durable as some higher-end models. Maintaining the cameras has been relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens and housing with a damp cloth.

Compared to my previous experience with non-cellular trail cameras, the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack offers a significant advantage in terms of convenience and real-time monitoring. However, the image quality, particularly at night, is not as sharp as some premium cameras I have used in the past. Overall, the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack has met my expectations as a reliable and affordable cellular trail camera solution.

Breaking Down the Features of Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack

Specifications

The Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack comes packed with features designed to improve the user experience:

• Image Resolution: 36MP. This allows for high-resolution images, providing clear detail for identifying wildlife and assessing their condition.
• Video Resolution: 720p HD video with audio. While not full 1080p HD, 720p is adequate for capturing video of animal behavior and movements.
• Trigger Speed: 0.4 seconds. This is a critical specification, as it determines how quickly the camera can capture an image after detecting motion.
• Detection Range: 80ft. A longer detection range means the camera can monitor a larger area.
• Field of View: 50 degrees. This wide field of view captures a broader scene, increasing the likelihood of detecting animals that might otherwise be missed.
• IR Flash Range: Not explicitly stated, but described as having an “enhanced IR LED array.” This is crucial for capturing clear nighttime images.
• Memory: Built-in memory eliminates the need for an SD card. This is a huge convenience, reducing the risk of card failure or theft.
• Connectivity: Cellular connectivity allows for instant image and video capture through the Moultrie Mobile app. This provides real-time monitoring and eliminates the need to physically check the cameras.
• Power: Compatible with solar power and various battery options. This offers flexibility in terms of power source and extends the camera’s operational lifespan.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the camera’s ability to capture high-quality images and videos, its reliability in the field, and its ease of use. The 0.4-second trigger speed, 80ft detection range, and cellular connectivity are particularly important for effectively monitoring wildlife or property.

Performance & Functionality

The Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack generally performs its job well, providing reliable cellular connectivity, decent image quality, and a quick trigger speed. The instant image capture feature is particularly useful for monitoring activity in real-time. However, the nighttime image quality could be improved.

Strengths: Reliable cellular connectivity, easy setup, quick trigger speed, built-in memory, and free unlimited cloud storage.
Weaknesses: Nighttime image quality, potential for false triggers due to vegetation, and limited video resolution (720p).

Overall, the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack meets my expectations as a mid-range cellular trail camera, but falls short of exceeding them due to the limitations in nighttime image quality.

Design & Ergonomics

The Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack features a compact and practical design with a camo finish that blends well with natural environments. The cameras feel relatively lightweight, making them easy to carry and deploy.

Build Quality: The materials used appear to be durable, but the plastic housing may be susceptible to wear and tear over time.
User-Friendly? The QR code activation system and the Moultrie Mobile app make the setup process incredibly easy, even for those with limited technical knowledge. There is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack should last for several years. Regular cleaning of the lens and housing, as well as occasional battery replacements, are all that’s required to maintain the cameras.

How Long Will It Last? Expect several years of reliable service with proper maintenance.
Easy to Maintain & Repair? Maintenance is straightforward, but repairs may require sending the camera back to Moultrie.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack comes with mounting straps for attaching the cameras to trees or posts. It is also compatible with a variety of aftermarket accessories, such as:

• Solar Panels: For extended battery life.
• Security Boxes: To protect the cameras from theft or damage.
• External Antennas: For improved cellular connectivity in areas with weak signal strength.

Compatibility: The Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack is compatible with standard mounting systems and power accessories, making it easy to customize the cameras to fit specific needs. Using a solar panel is highly recommended for long-term deployments.

Pros and Cons of Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack

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Who Should Buy Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack?

Perfect for: Hunters, property owners, and wildlife enthusiasts who want a reliable and affordable cellular trail camera solution for monitoring activity in real-time.
Who should skip this product? Users who require extremely high-quality nighttime images or video and are willing to pay a premium for it may want to consider higher-end models.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A solar panel is highly recommended for extending battery life, and a security box can provide added protection against theft or damage.

Conclusion on Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack

The Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack is a solid mid-range cellular trail camera that offers a compelling balance of features and affordability. While the nighttime image quality could be improved, the cameras provide reliable cellular connectivity, easy setup, and a quick trigger speed, making them a valuable tool for monitoring wildlife or property.

The price of $136.99 for a two-pack is justified by the convenience and real-time monitoring capabilities that the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack provides. The built-in memory and free unlimited cloud storage are significant advantages that set it apart from many competitors.

I would personally recommend the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable cellular trail camera solution. It’s a great entry point into the world of cellular monitoring, and its ease of use makes it accessible to users of all technical skill levels. Take the plunge and experience the convenience of instant image capture with the Moultrie Edge 2 – 2/pack!

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