Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera Review

First Impressions of Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera

The Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera promises a lot for a budget-friendly price. Featuring an 18MP resolution, rapid trigger speed, and invisible black LEDs, it aims to deliver quality imagery and video without spooking game. I’ve spent years relying on trail cameras to scout hunting locations and monitor wildlife activity, so I was eager to see how this offering from Wildgame Innovations stacks up against more expensive models I’ve used.

I needed a reliable, yet affordable camera to monitor a new section of my hunting property. I was hoping to get a better understanding of deer movement patterns, without breaking the bank.

Upon unboxing the Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera, I was immediately struck by its lightweight, compact design. The brown plastic housing felt sturdy enough for basic outdoor use, although I wouldn’t expect it to withstand extreme abuse. It felt considerably lighter than my older Browning trail cameras, which could be an advantage when deploying multiple units.

Compared to the Reconyx HyperFire 2 I usually rely on, the Kicker 2.0 certainly felt less robust. The Reconyx is built like a tank and comes with a hefty price tag. Ultimately, I chose the Kicker 2.0 for its affordability and the promise of comparable performance at a fraction of the cost.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera certainly looked the part and had a feature set that piqued my interest, but I reserved final judgement until I could put it through its paces in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera to the Test

First Use Experience

I deployed the Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera along a well-used deer trail in a wooded area of my property. The location offered a mix of open areas and dense cover, providing a good test of the camera’s detection range and image quality. Installation was simple thanks to the included adjustable tree strap.

The weather during the initial testing period was typical for late fall: cool, damp, and occasionally rainy. The camera seemed to function normally in these conditions, capturing images and videos as expected. One initial surprise was the lack of audio recording in video mode, something I had overlooked in the specifications.

The Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera was straightforward to set up, although navigating the menu using the small LCD screen felt a bit clunky compared to cameras with more intuitive interfaces. After a little experimentation, I quickly got the hang of it. The alligator-style clips on the strap were a nice touch.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of continuous use, the Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera proved to be reasonably reliable. The battery life was acceptable, lasting about a month with moderate activity before requiring replacement. There were no major malfunctions or failures during this period.

The plastic housing showed some minor scratches and scuffs from exposure to the elements, but no significant damage. The camera remained functional despite occasional rain and temperature fluctuations. Cleaning was as simple as wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth.

My older Bushnell trail camera consistently delivered slightly clearer daytime images. The Kicker 2.0 held its own in nighttime shots, thanks to the invisible black LEDs. Overall, the Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera provided solid performance for its price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera

Specifications

• The Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera boasts an 18-megapixel resolution, allowing for detailed images. This resolution provides sufficient clarity for identifying game and assessing their size and antler development.
• It captures 720p HD videos up to 15 seconds long. The lack of audio recording is a notable limitation, though.
• The camera features 36 invisible black LEDs with a 60-foot detection range. The invisible LEDs are crucial for minimizing disturbance to wildlife.
• It operates on 8 AA batteries. This is a standard power source for trail cameras, offering decent longevity.
• The Kicker 2.0 includes time, date, and moon phase stamp selections. This information is invaluable for analyzing patterns in animal behavior.

Performance & Functionality

The Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera performs adequately for its intended purpose of monitoring wildlife. The trigger speed, advertised as under one second, felt a bit sluggish at times. I occasionally missed capturing images of fast-moving animals.

The nighttime image quality was surprisingly good, thanks to the invisible black LEDs. These LEDs provided ample illumination without visibly alerting game. The 720p video resolution is acceptable for basic monitoring, but the absence of audio is a significant drawback.

The camera’s strengths lie in its affordability and ease of use. However, improvements could be made to trigger speed and video recording capabilities. For the price, it meets expectations, but don’t expect top-tier performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera features a compact, lightweight design that makes it easy to deploy and conceal. The brown plastic housing blends well with natural surroundings. The weight is minimal, making it easy to carry multiple cameras in the field.

The build quality is adequate for basic outdoor use, although the plastic feels somewhat flimsy. It may not withstand significant impacts or harsh weather conditions. The user interface is simple to navigate, but the small LCD screen can be challenging to read in bright sunlight.

Overall, the design is functional but lacks the premium feel of more expensive models. The ergonomics are acceptable, with easy access to the battery compartment and SD card slot. A more robust housing would significantly improve the overall impression.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera should last for several seasons of moderate use. The plastic housing is susceptible to scratches and cracks if subjected to rough handling. Regular cleaning and inspection are essential for maintaining optimal performance.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and battery replacement. There are no user-serviceable internal components. If a major failure occurs, replacement is likely more cost-effective than repair.

The Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera is not designed for extreme durability, but reasonable care should ensure a decent lifespan. Investing in a protective case could extend its longevity in harsh environments.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera comes with an adjustable tree strap featuring alligator-style clips. This strap provides a secure and convenient mounting solution. The camera also features a cable-lock ready latch for added security.

There are no officially supported customization options, such as interchangeable lenses or external power sources. However, the camera is compatible with standard SD cards for storing images and videos. Aftermarket security boxes are available from various manufacturers to protect the camera from theft and damage.

The lack of customization options is a limitation. However, the included tree strap and cable-lock compatibility provide basic functionality. Consider investing in a security box if deploying the camera in an area prone to theft.

Pros and Cons of Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera

Who Should Buy Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera?

The Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera is perfect for budget-conscious hunters, landowners seeking basic wildlife monitoring, and beginners looking for an easy-to-use trail camera. It’s also suitable for supplementing existing camera setups without significant investment.

Hunters needing high-resolution images, fast trigger speeds, or audio recording should skip this product. Those requiring rugged durability for harsh environments might also want to consider more expensive options. Must-have accessories include high-capacity SD cards and a sturdy security box, especially in areas with potential theft.

Conclusion on Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera

The Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera offers a solid value proposition for its price point. While it has limitations, such as a slow trigger speed and lack of audio, its affordability, ease of use, and invisible LEDs make it a viable option for basic wildlife monitoring. The price is definitely justified.

I would recommend this camera to anyone starting with trail cameras or needing additional units on a budget. However, be aware of its limitations and consider investing in essential accessories like a security box and reliable SD cards. If you’re looking for an affordable way to scout your hunting property or monitor wildlife activity, the Wildgame Innovations Kicker 2.0 Lightsout 18MP Trail Camera is worth considering. Go give it a try!