If you are a hunter or property owner that uses cellular trail cameras to monitor remote areas you are looking for a reliable scouting tool that helps you stay connected and informed. However, when it comes to cellular trail cams there isn’t always a reliable cell signal from every provider in the locations you want to place them. Often the cellular carrier that has the best (or only) signal in the area where I hunt can change depending on where I place the camera.
It is a big frustration when your camera isn’t designed to work with the only network that has a signal in the area you want to monitor. Unfortunately, the majority of cellular trail cameras are designed to work with a single cellular provider’s network, requiring you to buy a camera that you know will work in your area. However, that can be a big problem when you are using the camera in an area with spotty coverage.
Tactacam has come a long way since we reviewed their REVEAL X cellular trail camera addressing this problem with the REVEAL X Gen 2.0 cellular trail camera, which is designed with the capability to be able to use either the AT&T or Verizon network. Furthermore, if you relocate the camera don’t worry, you can easily switch networks so the camera uses the carrier with the best signal in its new location.
Table of Contents
Summary of Tactacam REVEAL X Gen 2.0 Review
The Tactacam Gen 2.0 cellular trail camera, leverages cutting-edge technology and advanced features to deliver superior performance in tough environments. Its hybrid mode and dual-carrier compatibility, coupled with a host of other convenient features, make the Gen 2.0 an ideal choice for your outdoor adventurers.
Pros
- 16MP pictures
- 1080p video resolution
- Transmits HD pictures and video
- Operates on AT&T or Verizon Nationwide LTE/4G Networks (SIM card change required)
- Verizon and AT&T sim cards are included
- 96+ foot long flash range
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- IP66 weatherproof
- Easy to use and setup
- Excellent in-house customer service
- One-year warranty (this is good, but the warranty from a few other manufacturers is longer)
Cons
- Low glow flash
- Trigger speed could be a little faster
- Detection angle could be a bit wider
- Camera FOV could be a bit wider
- Lacks an LCD screen
Review of Key Features and Benefits of the Tactacam REVEAL X Gen 2.0 Trail Camera
Camera
The Tactacam REVEAL X Gen 2.0 has a high-quality camera that can take up to 16MP photos and record 1080p videos. In the settings, you have the option of downgrading the quality of the pictures and video recordings if necessary. Additionally, the camera has a 60° field of view (FOV), which is a little narrower than some other cameras out there but still works fine most every situation.
You have the option of using the camera in photo mode or switching it to photo + video mode, where the camera takes pictures before capturing a video. The photo + video mode helps to ensure that you have a diverse collection of footage and is my personal favorite.
Smartphone App and Built-In WiFi
The Tactacam Reveal app and built-in WiFi on the Tactacam REVEAL X Gen 2.0 cellular trail camera allow you to easily set up the camera, view photos and videos, as well as manage the camera’s settings remotely.
The first thing you want to do is download and install the Tactacam Reveal app on your smartphone. The app is available for free on the App Store for iOS devices and Google Play for Android devices.
After the app is installed you will want to use the app to set up your account if you don’t have one already. Once you have your account set up you will add the camera to your account.
After the camera is registered to your account you will use the app to connect to the camera’s built-in WiFi network. Once connected to the WiFi network you will be able to set up the camera and ensure that it is pointed at the exact area you want it to monitor. Below is a video Tactacam released showing how this technology works with their REVEAL X camera.
Once the camera is set up and in the field, the Reveal app allows you to do more than just view pictures and videos – you can also adjust the camera’s settings in the app. You can choose how often to send photographs, ranging from immediately to once every 12 or 24 hours; more frequent transmissions will use more battery life. The app also lets you control how often the camera checks for settings updates you’ve made through the app either immediately, daily, or in hybrid mode, which is a cross between the immediate and daily options. In hybrid mode the camera checks for settings updates and HD photo or video download requests when the camera connects to the cellular network to send you pictures, which means that you get your HD requests faster and the changes to the camera settings take effect sooner – all with less power consumption.
The Reveal experience is not just limited to smartphones or tablets- you can also log into the Web Portal on your computer and manage your account, and view pictures and videos, just as you would using the app.
We’ve found the Tactacam REVEAL app to be particularly user-friendly and has a comprehensive feature set. While certain offerings from competitors such as SPYPOINT and Moultrie may offer more sophisticated filters and the ability to search for activity patterns according to weather or time of day, the REVEAL app is an effective solution.
Data Plan
The Tactacam REVEAL X Gen 2.0 offers the flexibility of connecting to either the AT&T or Verizon networks. Included in the packaging are SIM cards for both networks, so customers can choose which one they would like to use. All that is required is to insert your desired network’s SIM card into the camera.
The camera automatically sends low-resolution images to help reduce data usage and keep data plan costs low. If you wish to receive high-resolution copies of specific images you can purchase a package of HD image downloads for a nominal additional fee. The current prices for these HD image downloads are outlined in the chart below.
When it comes to videos the camera captures, they are automatically stored on the camera’s SD card. While the ability to access the video clips is not included as a part of Tactacam’s data plans, physically going to check the camera’s memory card in order to view the videos it has recorded isn’t your only option. Like with HD photos, Tactacam also has packages of high-resolution video downloads that you can purchase for an affordable price.
The data plan options from Tactacam are very affordable and the prices are the same regardless of which network your camera is using. You have the option to select either monthly or annual plans, with the annual option offering a more economical solution for continuous monitoring. Here are the current data plan offerings for the Tactacam REVEAL X Gen 2.0.
| Plan | Number of Photos | Cost Per Month if Paid Monthly | Cost Per Month if Paid Annually |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starter Plan | 250 | $5 Add additional camera for $5 per month. | $55 Yearly $4.58 a Month (8.3% Savings) Add additional camera for $55 per year. |
| Intermediate Plan | 500 | $8 Add additional camera for $7.50 per month. | $85 Yearly $7.08 a Month (11.5% Savings) Add additional camera for $75 per year. |
| Pro Plan | Unlimited | $13 Add additional camera for $12 per month. | $120 Yearly $10 a Month (23% Savings) Add additional camera for $96 per year. |
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Motion (PIR) Sensor
The motion sensor is always one of the most important parts of a trail camera as it triggers the camera to begin taking pictures or recording video when something is detected in the detection area.
This REVEAL X Gen 2.0 trail camera has a single motion sensor with a detection range of 96 feet, which is excellent. Its 45° detection angle may not be quite as wide as some other cameras out there, but it should still work just fine for almost every situation.
The PIR sensor is adjustable with multiple sensitivity settings, which will allow you to fine-tune the camera for the environment it is working in, helping to eliminate any false triggers.
Trigger Speed
The Tactacam REVEAL X Gen 2.0 has a trigger speed of 0.5 seconds, which is about average for trail cameras overall and does just fine in most settings.
That said, with some competitors having cameras that boast trigger speeds in the 0.1 to 0.2 second range, this is one of the areas that Tactacam could improve on with the Gen 2.0. However, unless something passes by just in front of the camera at a very high rate of speed you can trust that the Gen 2.0 will be fast enough to take great photos and videos.
Flash
The REVEAL X Gen 2.0 comes with a low glow flash that has a 96+ foot flash range giving it one of the longest flash ranges currently available.
In addition to having an impressive flash range the REVEAL X Gen 2.0 also has a Night Mode setting. The ‘Max flash’ (Max Range) option is for situations where the camera is monitoring a large or expansive area and you need the brightest flash possible so the camera will increase the exposure length to let more light in, but this option can result in moving animals or people appearing blurry. The ‘Min. blur’ option has a shorter exposure time and was designed to be used in smaller areas where the subject is nearer the camera with the goal of reducing blur. ‘Balanced’ is a combination of both the ‘Max flash’ and ‘Min. Blur’ options.
The low glow flash won’t be visible to the naked eye, but it will give off a red glow if you are looking directly at the camera, which could make the camera less attractive for security or surveillance purposes.
Dimensions
The dimension of the REVEAL X Gen 2.0 trail camera is 3.62” x 4.13” x 5.47”, which is not exactly a mini camera but is still pretty compact, especially for a camera that holds so many batteries.
Hours of Operation Timer
The hours of operation timer is a handy feature that allows you to specify the camera’s running time. Going by the name ‘work timer’ on the menu of Tactacam devices, it helps conserve battery power, storage space on your memory card, and pictures on your data plan if you don’t need the camera to monitor the area where it is posted 24/7.
LCD Screen
For some people, one of the noticeable downsides of the REVEAL X Gen 2.0 is the lack of a built-in color LCD screen as you will find on some other Tactacam trail cameras like the REVEAL X Pro. This means that you must use your smartphone to get the camera set up in the field and view its settings.
Ultimately if you are buying a cellular trail camera you probably already have a smartphone and bring it with you in the field when you are putting out trail cameras anyway, and the REVEAL app is very easy to use. That said, if you don’t have a cell phone or only have a flip phone the lack of an LCD screen becomes a bigger issue for you.
Memory Card
You can use SD and SDHC memory cards in the REVEAL X Gen 2.0 with a maximum capacity of 32GB. Tactacam states that Class 10, U3 cards, with write speeds of 90MB/sec or greater are required.
Even though cellular trail cameras transmit pictures to you, the memory card is still very important. Remember that the camera automatically transmits lower-resolution versions of the images it captures to you. Unless you decide to pay the additional fees to have the high-resolution version of pictures and HD video clips sent to you, these files will be stored on the SD card until you physically retrieve them.
You may also be happy to know that the REVEAL X Gen 2.0 offers Loop Recording, which when enabled will cause the oldest files to be overwritten with new pictures and videos should the SD card become full.
Tactacam recommends using SanDisk, Lexar, and Tactacam brand cards. We recommend the SanDisk Extreme Pro 32GB SDHC memory card.
- Ideal for professionals looking to maximize post-production workflow
- Read speeds of up to 95MB/s; write speeds of up to 90MB/s
- UHS speed Class 3 (U3) and UHS video speed Class 30 (V30) for 4K UHD video
- Shock-proof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and x-ray-proof
Batteries
Given its compact size, it may surprise you that the Gen 2.0 can hold 12 AA batteries. According to Tactacam, you can expect to get 4,500 or more pictures with a set of lithium batteries, which is much better than the 2,500+ pictures you can expect with alkaline batteries.
Tactacam recommends using Energizer Lithium batteries and we agree not only for their longer life but for their superior performance in extreme conditions. If you are wondering why we recommend lithium batteries for this camera and would like to learn more about why we suggest them you can read our article about which batteries are best for trail cameras.
- 24 Pack of Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA Batteries
- Leak proof construction protects the devices you love (based on standard use)
- Powers your most critical devices ideal for your smart home devices, outdoor surveillance systems, digital cameras, and handheld games
- Holds power up to 25 years in storage for trustworthy backup energy, so you’re always prepared. Warning: Risk of fire. Battery can explode or leak and cause injury if installed backwards, disassembled, charged, crushed, mixed with used or other battery types, or exposed to fire or high temperature
- Performs in extreme temperatures, from -40F to 140° F, for year round, indoor and outdoor use
Input for External Power Supply
As we said in our article about how frequently you should check your trail camera, if you are using a trail camera to monitor deer or other game animals it is best to check your trail as infrequently as possible to help minimize the possibility of disturbing the wildlife and disrupting their behavior.
If you want to further extend the Gen 2.0’s already impressive battery life, it has an input for a 12V-2A external power supply. When you connect the camera to an external power source like the Tactacam External Solar Panel the batteries you inserted into the battery tray will act as a backup power source.
- DESIGNED TO PROVIDE POWER: Reveal by Tactacam’s 12-volt External Solar Panel with integrated rechargeable Lithium battery is designed to provide power to all brands of Trail Cameras – even if the host camera batteries are dead
- EFFICIENT: 12v Output. Get results like never before and be the hero you always wanted to be.
- INTEGRATED BATTERY: Rechargeable Lithium Battery Pack Integrated in to the Panel
- INCLUDES: Included cable fits Reveal X , XB , X Gen 2.0 and SK models Includes : Panel - Cable - DC Charger - Strap - Mount
- WARRANTY INFORMATION: We’re disappointed if you’re not completely satisfied with your Tactacam purchase. We take a lot pride in our products and service! If you are experiencing a problem with a Tactacam purchase, please take a minute to read the information below to determine if your issue is covered under the Tactacam warranty.
Image Stamp
Like other trail cameras, the Tactacam REVEAL X Gen 2.0 has the image stamp feature, which shows details about when video footage or images were captured. The information on the image stamp includes the time, date, moon phase, temperature, and the camera’s name. This feature is handy when you want to sort or study the recording. You can also turn off the image stamp on this trail camera if needed.
Included Accessories
The following items are included in the camera’s packaging.
- Instruction Manual
- Mounting Strap
- Antenna
- (1) Verizon & (1) AT&T SIM Card
Despite having two tripod mount attachments on the camera it doesn’t come with a threaded camera mount include like some other trail cameras out there. Luckily there are many inexpensive tree camera mounts or holders on Amazon should you want to have one for this camera.
Areas of Use
The Tactacam REVEAL X Gen 2.0 cellular trail camera provides a variety of settings and uses. Hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and property owners alike will appreciate being able to monitor activity in remote areas. You can even save money and use it as a regular trail cam without a data plan if there are times of the year you don’t need to have images and videos sent to you.
The camera’s compact size adds to its versatility helping to make it difficult to identify in the woods. However, the low glow flash may make it not ideal for certain uses, such as security and surveillance at night if you want to keep the camera’s location concealed. Likewise, if are want to use it for wildlife photography and want color pictures at night you might want to find one of the few cameras that use a white (visible) flash at night.
Pricing
Given its combination of features and price, the Tactacam REVEAL X Gen 2.0 is a great value for those looking for a cellular trail camera. It offers a range of features that make it an attractive option, and its price is competitive when compared to other cellular trail cameras on the market making its affordable pricing yet another key selling point for this camera.
Other Options
Tactacam REVEAL X-Pro Cellular Trail Camera
The REVEAL X Pro is a great cellular trail camera and while its price tag is slightly more expensive than the REVEAL X Gen 2.0, it offers some features that the Gen 2.0 does not such as:
- Built-in LCD screen
- No glow flash
- Built-in GPS
Ultimately, the REVEAL X-Pro is a great investment if you need those specific features, however, the REVEAL X Gen 2.0 is a cost-effective alternative if they aren’t required. You can learn more about it by reading our full REVEAL X-Pro cellular trail camera review.
Moultrie Mobile Delta Base Cellular Trail Camera
This Moultrie Mobile Delta Base cellular trail camera is a great pick if you’re looking for an affordable one with awesome features. It has a no glow flash, which is something you don’t usually get at this price point. Plus, it uses the popular Moultrie Mobile app and has several budget-friendly data plans to choose from.
Unfortunately, it lacks the GPS location and the ability to use both AT&T and Verizon networks like the REVEAL X Gen 2.0. However, the Delta Base is available in two models – one for the Verizon network and one for the AT&T Network – so it’s important to select the version best suited for the area you will be using it in before purchasing.
We did a review of the Moultrie Mobile Delta Base in case you want to read more about it.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a reliable, easy to use cellular trail camera that has your back even in remote areas, the Tactacam REVEAL X Gen 2.0 is a great choice for hunters or property owners. It allows you to stay connected and informed with its capability to use either the AT&T or Verizon network, making it easier to monitor areas with spotty coverage. Plus, it comes with a long list of high-end and customizable features, all at an amazingly affordable price.
Last update on 2024-04-24 at 12:06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
