Tactacam Reveal X Cellular Game Camera Review: Pros and Cons

Cellular game cameras have many advantages over traditional old-fashioned cameras where you have to physically access the device to pull photos from the SD card. A friend turned me on to the Tactacam Reveal cellular cameras and they are a game-changer. I’m running the Reveal X 2.0 model cameras which I believe are a bargain at $99 each.

See current street prices here.

The only real negative is having to pay for a subscription service to deliver the photos. Tactacam’s subscriptions are reasonably priced with different tiers available: Starter, Intermediate, and Pro. There is a basic plan cost for one camera with each additional camera adding an incremental fee. Video and HD photos cost extra. See plans here.

Personally, I choose to pay monthly (rather than annually) and only run the cameras during hunting season.

There are two primary advantages to cellular game cameras. First is convenience. Our hunting lease is a six hour round trip for me. A cellular plan flat-out eliminates that as the photos are available in near real time right on my phone. The second big advantage is that you greatly reduce hunting pressure because you aren’t disturbing the area just to go pull the SD card.

The Tactacam Reveal X game cameras stands out in a crowded market of trail cameras, offering a compelling mix of features, performance, and ease of use for outdoor enthusiasts. This review delves into the key aspects of the Reveal X 2.0, evaluating its strengths and areas for improvement.

Design and Build Quality

The Reveal X 2.0 impresses with its compact and rugged design, making it suitable for various weather conditions. The camera’s finish helps it blend seamlessly into natural environments, reducing the chance of detection by wildlife. Its sturdy casing and weather-sealed construction ensure durability and longevity, which is essential for game cameras frequently exposed to the elements.

Image and Video Quality

Equipped with an 16-megapixel camera, the Reveal X 2.0 captures clear and detailed still images. The 720p video recording capability offers a decent level of quality for those who prefer motion footage. However, in low-light conditions, the image quality can suffer, with some noticeable graininess. The camera’s infrared flash range is sufficient for capturing game fairly close to the camera but quality falls off quickly the further out the target is.

Requires Class 10, U3 SD Card, 32GB SD card. A lesser performance card may not work well. Remember, the camera has to take the photo, write it to the SD card, and then transmit the image. That requires a high-quality SD card.

Trigger Speed and Detection Range

One of the standout features of the Reveal X 2.0 is its impressive trigger speed. As with most game cameras, you can get some blurry shots. On the other hand, I have received crystal clear photos of birds flying. The detection range is also commendable, reaching up to 80 feet, which is beneficial for monitoring larger areas or distant wildlife. In face, I have had to reduce sensitivity to the 5-7 range.

Connectivity and Battery Life

The Tactacam Reveal X 2.0 offers cellular connectivity, which is a significant advantage for real-time updates and remote monitoring. Users can receive image and video alerts directly to their smartphones via the Reveal app, providing convenience and immediate access to captured content. The camera supports a range of cellular networks, enhancing its versatility.

Battery life is another highlight, with the Reveal X 2.0 running efficiently on AA batteries. Depending on usage and environmental conditions, the camera can last several months on a single set of batteries, reducing the need for frequent maintenance. Alkaline batteries don’t last very long. Lithium are far superior.

Even better, hook up a solar charger or external battery pack. I built several battery packs using a $5 small ammo box, 12v batteries purchased off Amazon, and the cable. This setup runs the camera for months and thousands of photos!

User Experience and Setup

Setting up the Tactacam Reveal X is straightforward, thanks to its intuitive interface and clear instructions. The Reveal app is user-friendly, allowing for easy camera management and customization of settings. However, the camera’s performance can be affected by signal strength and network coverage, which are critical for optimal functionality. I’m not going to cover all of the settings and functionality here as that is available elsewhere. Suffice it to say, the cameras have a robust set of options, including video.

AT&T versus Verizon

It doesn’t matter. By that, I mean it doesn’t matter which cell carrier your phone is on. Just choose whichever carrier has best reception where the cameras are being used. The photos are sent to Tactacam’s servers, not to your phone. You then use the Reveal App on your phone to view your photos.

Security

Tactacam Reveal cellular cameras make fantastic security devices. Set one up on your deer camp or at your weekend place. In Settings > Send Type choose Timely and you will normally receive the photo within a few minutes. Catch the thief, trespasser, or poacher in the act with photo proof!

Conclusion

The Tactacam Reveal X game camera is a solid choice for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts seeking a reliable, high-performance trail camera. Its robust design, rapid trigger speed, and cellular connectivity make it a valuable tool for capturing and monitoring wildlife. While it has some limitations in low-light performance, its overall features and ease of use make it a commendable option in its price range.

Highly recommended.