One of the most challenging aspects of utilizing trail cameras is the inability to access real-time footage. This often leads to missed opportunities to monitor and capture wildlife behavior as it happens, leading to frustration among users. The Spartan GoLive M 4G LTE Trail Camera solves this problem with its unique feature of live streaming. This enables users to view live video from the camera on demand, a feature that is not common with many cellular trail cameras.
In this Spartan GoLive M 4G LTE Review, we will explore how this trail camera challenges the norm and offers a refreshing solution to the aforementioned problem. By providing real-time streaming, this trail camera offers users the chance to view wildlife as it happens, improving their monitoring and enhancing their overall trail camera experience.
- Innovative live stream feature: First in the industry. Simply click “Live” in the app to activate. Up to 30 FPS. Excellent HD Photo and HD Video. Sends high-quality images and videos directly to the Spartan Camera Management App or web portal. No extra fees for HD photos or videos. No other hidden fees. On-demand image and video capture: you will see what is happening in front of your camera in real-time
- Carrier Flexibility. Plus, the Strongest Signal Guaranteed: All Spartan Camera models are certified to work on the Verizon and AT&T 4G/LTE networks. However, when you want to be sure you get the best signal, we also offer smart-carrier switching on our new GoCam M. It can automatically connect to the stongest signal wherever you go in the USA. Simply pick your data options through the Spartan Camera website and never worry about connectivity again.
- Anti-Theft GPS & Easy solar connection: Spartan anti-theft GPS lets you track your camera if it is moved or stolen. Our industry-leading system works even if the antenna is broken off or batteries are removed. Internal battery allows you to connect a solar panel directly to the camera: no battery box needed. Can power your camera indefinitely under the correct conditions.
- Ultimate control at the touch of a button:Remotely update your camera settings with free Spartan app. Real-time camera setting updates happen immediately. No waiting for the camera to communicate with the server to update. Share camera access with as many friends as you want through the Spartan App. Take advantage of simultaneous capture and sending to receive your pictures and videos faster than ever.
- All data stored in the US. Privacy protection Guaranteed and more: Two-year warranty with easy registration. Sends high-quality images and videos directly to the Spartan Camera Management App or web portal. No extra fees for HD photos or videos. No other hidden fees. Improved trigger time with photo burst mode for more control over how you receive pictures. SIM card and nylon mounting strap included making set-up easy. 2” LCD screen allows for easy settings changes and photo viewing
Table of Contents
Introducing the Spartan GoLive M 4G LTE Cellular Trail Camera
The Spartan GoLive M 4G LTE Cellular Trail Camera offers a game-changing solution to a common challenge faced by trail camera users. Traditional trail cameras lack real-time access to footage, but the GoLive M’s unique live-streaming feature allows users to view wildlife activity as it happens, revolutionizing monitoring experiences. Plus, its ability to switch between AT&T and Verizon networks makes it a compelling choice for those seeking top-notch performance and versatility in their trail camera.
Pros
Now, let’s delve into more of the strong points of this innovative trail camera. The ability to live stream allows for real-time wildlife observations, a feature that sets it apart from many competitors. The no-glow flash ensures your camera goes unnoticed in the wild, while the GPS location feature enables accurate tracking of the camera’s placement.
Here are some additional advantages:
- Excellent Battery Life
- Data plans that allow sharing between cameras
- Easy to setup and use for both beginners and experts.
- 2-year warranty
Cons
Despite the remarkable features of this trail camera, it’s crucial to note a few drawbacks that may affect your decision. For starters, the product comes at a high price, which might deter those on a budget. Here are a few more concerning aspects:
- Some competitors offer flash ranges that are a bit longer.
- While there is an option to share data plans among multiple cameras, the plans themselves can be costlier than those offered by other trail camera brands depending on your usage needs.
Review of Key Features and Benefits of the Spartan GoLive M 4G LTE Cellular Trail Camera
Camera
The camera has a 56° field of view with a 16:9 image aspect ratio. Users have the option to choose between 4MP or 8MP picture resolution, and the photo burst setting allows the camera to capture 1 to 3 images each time it’s triggered. The device also provides 1080p video resolution at 30fps, complete with audio. The video recording duration can be adjusted between 5 to 30 seconds. In addition to its photo and video modes, its photo+video mode is an added bonus, capturing a picture prior to initiating video recording.
Smartphone App
Let’s take a moment to dive into the software side of things with the free Spartan Camera Management App that can be downloaded from both Google Play and the Apple Store. This user-friendly app simplifies the activation of your camera and data plan setup. It offers you the luxury of viewing photos and videos captured by the camera including the ability to request easily request and download unlimited high-definition photos and videos, view a live stream, check status reports, and manage your device’s settings.
In addition to controlling the resolution that the camera captures pictures and videos from the app, you can also select the sizes of the thumbnails the camera sends to you which can help you control your data plan expenses.
Data Plan
Speaking about data plans, when I first looked at the data plans offered for the GoLive M 4G LTE cellular trail camera my first impression was that they looked to be more expensive than the plans offered by some competitors. However, when you take a closer look at the plans you will notice that instead of offering plans with a predetermined monthly allotment of picture and video downloads, Spartan provides plans that have a fixed data quota rather than a limited monthly quota for downloads of pictures and videos. This is a clear advantage for users who wish to send high-resolution images or videos as additional costs are not incurred whereas the plans from some other trail camera manufacturers require you to pay extra fees for the camera to transmit HD images or video. In addition, Spartan’s data plans can be shared between multiple cameras, making it cost-effective for users who own more than one device. Another great feature is that you can have both AT&T and Verizon cameras on a single shared data plan. Thus, the data plans are designed to give users flexibility and value for their money, aligning well with their needs and usage patterns.
Plan Data Amount | Length of Plan | Price | Total Number of Cameras |
---|---|---|---|
500MB | 1 Month | $15.99 | 3 |
1GB | 1 Month | $22.99 | 5 |
2GB | 1 Month | $32.99 | 10 |
1GB | 3 Months | $35.99 | 3 |
3GB | 3 Months | $64.99 | 5 |
6GB | 6 Months | $109.99 | 10 |
12GB | 1 Year | $199.99 | 10 |
|
GPS
This camera comes furnished with a GPS location feature, markedly enhancing its utility for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers. This feature is particularly beneficial for those wanting to keep tabs on the camera’s exact whereabouts if it’s stolen or moved from its intended location. Plus, thanks to the GoLive M’s built-in battery ensures the GPS is operational even when the camera is turned off, adding an extra layer of security and tracking.
Motion (PIR) Sensor
The Motion (PIR) Sensor of this trail camera has an expansive detection range of up to 80 feet. Its sensitivity is adjustable, with settings ranging from Low, Normal, High, and even an Off option. This is a particularly useful feature for those times when the camera is positioned in an area prone to giving you false triggers.
Trigger Speed
The Spartan GoLive M offers a 0.45-second trigger speed for images and a faster 0.4-second trigger speed for video recordings. While it is fair to point out that some competitors boast faster trigger speeds this Spartan trail camera is fast enough for pretty much every environment you want to put it in. So unless you plan on putting the trail camera in a setting where animals will be running at top speed immediately in front of the camera, the trigger speed on the GoLive M will serve you just fine.
Flash
Let’s shed some light on the flash feature of this trail camera, no pun intended. It is equipped with a no-glow flash that is capable of reaching up to a distance of 60 feet. This kind of flash is invisible to both game and humans, ensuring that the camera’s presence is not detected, thus preserving the natural behavior of the wildlife you’re observing.
While a 60-foot flash range will serve most people just fine you should know that there are other cameras out there that can illuminate subjects that are further away. However, many of these trail cameras with longer flash ranges may have low-glow flashes, which can give away the location of the camera at night.
Dimensions
Compact yet robust, the camera measures 5.29’’ in height, 4.5’’ in width, and 2.5’’ in depth, or 13.44×11.43×6.35 cm., which is pretty amazing considering how many batteries the camera can hold, which we will talk about later in our review.
This compact size allows for easy transportation and installation in remote locations. Despite its small size, it does not compromise on functionality or features. It’s small enough to be unnoticeable in the wilderness yet packed with all the necessary features. Its dimensions make it an option for both wildlife enthusiasts and property owners who need a reliable, unobtrusive surveillance solution.
Time-Lapse Feature
The inclusion of a time-lapse feature adds a layer of versatility to the device, allowing you to select time intervals ranging from 30 seconds to a full 24 hours. A time-lapse can be an incredibly useful tool for observing changes in the environment over a prolonged period or if you want to monitor an area that is beyond the reach of the motion sensor. Whether you’re monitoring wildlife patterns or tracking weather conditions, this feature brings a new dimension to your surveillance needs.
Hours of Operation Timer
The feature aptly known as the Hours of Operation Timer or Start-Stop feature as Spartan calls it, is worth mentioning. This feature allows users to customize the operating hours of the camera according to their specific needs. This is particularly beneficial for those who do not require round-the-clock surveillance, enabling them to save on battery life, data consumption, and memory storage by setting a specified window of operation for each day.
LCD Screen
While many cellular trail cameras in the market lack an inbuilt LCD screen, this is not the case here. The Spartan GoLive M boasts a 2.0-inch IPS color LCD screen. IPS panels are renowned for their superior color reproduction and wide viewing angles. The screen helps you do the initial camera setup with ease and quickly make adjustments when you check the camera in the field.
Memory Card
The Spartan GoLive M 4G LTE accommodates SDXC memory cards with a maximum capacity of 128GB. This vast storage space ensures that you can capture and store a substantial number of high-resolution images and videos without worrying about running out of space. Having a large capacity memory card like the SanDisk Extreme Pro 128GB SDXC is a great option if you want to eventually view the high-definition pictures and videos the camera captures, but don’t want to transmit them all in order to save on cellular data costs.
It should be noted that Class 10 cards are recommended for this device. These cards offer higher speed and performance, making them ideal for a trail camera that needs to write large amounts of data quickly. This characteristic is particularly useful when capturing high-quality images or when recording video.
- This version has been discontinued by manufacturer
- Shot speeds up to 90MB/s, transfer speeds up to 170MB/s [requires a compatible device capable of reaching such speeds, such as the SanDisk SD UHS I card reader (sold separately)].
- Based on internal testing; Performance may be lower depending upon host device, interface, usage conditions and other factors 1MB=1,000,000 bytes; X = 150KB/sec
- Perfect for shooting 4K UHD video and sequential burst mode photography, Full HD (1920x1080) and 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) video support may vary based upon host device, file attributes and other factors
- Capture uninterrupted video with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and video Speed Class 30 (V30)(2) | (2) V30, sustained video capture rate of 30MB/s, & U3 designate a performance option designed to support real-time video recording w/ UHS enabled host devices.
Password Protection
This trail camera affords users an additional layer of security with an optional password protection feature, which can provide much-needed peace of mind, especially when the camera is left in remote, unsupervised locations as is the case with many cellular trail cameras.
Batteries
Transitioning from the security feature, let’s delve into the power source that keeps this trail camera running. Equipped with a built-in 5300mAh Lithium-ion cell, the trail camera is designed to be durable and long-lasting. If you need additional power, you have the option to insert 12AA batteries into the camera which will serve to charge the internal battery. This effectively extends the usage time of the device, giving you even more time to capture wildlife in action.
If you want to maximize how long the 12AA batteries you install in the Spartan GoLive M 4G LTE will extend the time you can leave the camera in the field you will want to buy high-quality lithium batteries like the Energizer AA Ultimate Lithium batteries, as we discussed in our article about the best batteries for trail cameras.
Input for External Power Supply
The Spartan GoLive M camera incorporates a 12V DC external power supply input, which will allow you to connect it to an external battery or solar panel. This feature is particularly beneficial for those looking to extend the camera’s operation time in the wild, especially in remote locations where frequent visits may not be feasible.
Image Stamp
Over the years the image stamp feature has become standard fare among trail cameras, and this device is no exception. It offers a comprehensive timestamp that includes the date, time, temperature, moon phase, and a customizable camera name.
Utilizing the time stamp can provide critical context to each image, enabling users to understand the environmental conditions and specific timing of the wildlife activity captured. This feature is particularly useful for tracking patterns over time and can give valuable insights into animal behavior.
Included Accessories
In addition to the camera itself, each package includes the following items allowing you to get the most out of your trail camera right from the start:
- 1 – 4G Omni-directional Antenna to ensure optimal signal strength
- 1 – Nylon mounting strap for easy installation
- Set-up booklet to guide you through the initial steps
- An internal 4G micro sim card has been embedded into the GoLive camera. (You don’t need to buy or install a SIM card into the camera.)
Areas of Use
Transitioning from the feature-specific discussion, let’s delve into the ideal circumstances for utilizing this trail camera. The Spartan GoLive M is a versatile piece of technology, perfectly suited for a variety of environments and uses. Its robust design and advanced features allow it to excel in wildlife monitoring, game tracking, and property surveillance. Whether it’s capturing the nocturnal habits of elusive woodland creatures or overseeing a secluded cabin in the woods, this camera’s capabilities shine. Additionally, its 4G LTE connectivity and ability to seamlessly utilize and switch between both AT&T and Verizon networks makes it a valuable tool for remote areas, where cellular signal strength and swift information transmission are key.
Pricing
There is no arguing that the price of Spartan GoLive M 4G LTE is on the expensive side. However, when you consider its ability to use multiple cellular networks, live streaming capabilities, no glow flash, GPS capabilities, built-in battery, and 2-year warranty combined with flexible data plans, it is plain to see why so many users consider it well worth the money.
Other Options
Do you want to look at what other options are available? If so, you might want to check out our free Find Your Perfect Trail Camera Tool, which shows you trail camera options based on the criteria you select. Otherwise, if you like the Spartan GoLive M 4G LTE cellular trail camera, but are just wondering about what other good trail camera options might be out there, we have identified some other great alternatives for you, which are shown below.
SPYPOINT Flex Dual-Sim Cellular Trail Camera
The SPYPOINT Flex Cellular Trail Camera is equipped with a Dual-Sim LTE, allowing it to operate on the strongest cellular network available. The Flex offers four capture modes: Photo, Video, Time-Lapse, and Time-Lapse+. Its’ high-performance camera captures 33MP photos and transmits 15-second 1080p videos with sound to the SPYPOINT app. This camera also boasts a low glow infrared LEDs with a 100-foot flash range, a 100-foot detection range, and a swift 0.3 second trigger speed. Furthermore, it is GPS enabled, enhancing the functionality and accuracy of the customizable maps feature of the SPYPOINT app.
If you need a camera with a faster trigger speed, and a longer detection range, and are OK not having the live streaming and no glow flash found on the Spartan GoLive M 4G LTE, the lower-priced SPYPOINT Flex Dual-Sim cellular trail camera might be for you. You can read our SPYPOINT Flex review if you want to learn more.
- DUAL SIM: SPYPOINT Flex Dual-Sim Cellular Trail Camera Automatically connects to the best possible cellular network, regardless of providers. No more worrying about carrier models or if your cell camera will work when moved to a new area.
- Trail Cameras come with 33MP photos and 1080p videos with sound that give you that extra edge when reviewing what is going on in the woods.
- EASY SETUP DEER CAMERA: The dual-sim and optimised antenna make cellular trail cameras getting setup quick and easy, as does the addition of the format and test buttons. Know your camera is working when you get it mounted. This trail Camera sends picture to cell phone.
- OVER-THE-AIR FIRMWARE UPDATES: The FLEX will notify you of available firmware updates in the SPYPOINT app so you can request the update is made without visiting the cellular camera.
- COMPLETE PACKAGE: This Cellular game camera includes FLEX Camera, Quick Start Guide, Sim Cards, and Mounting Strap.Cellular game camera includes FLEX Camera, Quick Start Guide, Sim Cards, and Mounting Strap.
Moultrie Mobile Edge Cellular Trail Camera
The affordably priced Moultrie Mobile Edge Cellular Trail Camera captures 33MP resolution photos but has a slightly slower 0.85-second trigger speed. Unlike the Spartan GoLive M 4G LTE, the Moultrie Edge does not require an SD card as it comes with 16GB of built-in memory. It has an 80-foot detection range and a 40-degree field of view. This Edge uses multiple national networks, switching between them as needed without requiring a change of SIM cards, adding to its ease of use, and performance, providing excellent value for money.
If you don’t need live streaming or no-glow flash, but instead would prefer a cellular trail camera that offers built-in memory, a longer flash range, and a more affordable price, while still providing the flexibility to switch between multiple national networks seamlessly, then the Moultrie Mobile Edge cellular trail camera might be a good option for you. You can read our Moultrie Mobile Edge review if you want to learn more.
Final Thoughts
The Spartan GoLive M 4G LTE cellular trail camera presents a groundbreaking solution to a common frustration among trail camera users. Its real-time live-streaming feature sets it apart from the competition, allowing users to observe wildlife as it unfolds, enhancing their monitoring experience. The camera offers an array of impressive features, including a no-glow flash, GPS location tracking, and a user-friendly smartphone app. While it comes with a higher price tag and some competitors boast longer flash ranges, its flexible data plans, 2-year warranty, and the ability to switch between AT&T and Verizon networks make it a valuable investment for those who value top-notch performance and versatility.
- Innovative live stream feature: First in the industry. Simply click “Live” in the app to activate. Up to 30 FPS. Excellent HD Photo and HD Video. Sends high-quality images and videos directly to the Spartan Camera Management App or web portal. No extra fees for HD photos or videos. No other hidden fees. On-demand image and video capture: you will see what is happening in front of your camera in real-time
- Carrier Flexibility. Plus, the Strongest Signal Guaranteed: All Spartan Camera models are certified to work on the Verizon and AT&T 4G/LTE networks. However, when you want to be sure you get the best signal, we also offer smart-carrier switching on our new GoCam M. It can automatically connect to the stongest signal wherever you go in the USA. Simply pick your data options through the Spartan Camera website and never worry about connectivity again.
- Anti-Theft GPS & Easy solar connection: Spartan anti-theft GPS lets you track your camera if it is moved or stolen. Our industry-leading system works even if the antenna is broken off or batteries are removed. Internal battery allows you to connect a solar panel directly to the camera: no battery box needed. Can power your camera indefinitely under the correct conditions.
- Ultimate control at the touch of a button:Remotely update your camera settings with free Spartan app. Real-time camera setting updates happen immediately. No waiting for the camera to communicate with the server to update. Share camera access with as many friends as you want through the Spartan App. Take advantage of simultaneous capture and sending to receive your pictures and videos faster than ever.
- All data stored in the US. Privacy protection Guaranteed and more: Two-year warranty with easy registration. Sends high-quality images and videos directly to the Spartan Camera Management App or web portal. No extra fees for HD photos or videos. No other hidden fees. Improved trigger time with photo burst mode for more control over how you receive pictures. SIM card and nylon mounting strap included making set-up easy. 2” LCD screen allows for easy settings changes and photo viewing
Last update on 2024-12-10 at 07:16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API