Trail Camera HikMicro M15

For monitoring wildlife in a hunting area, the HikMicro M15 wildlife camera is a solid choice. Photos are captured at a maximum resolution of ten megapixels. The camera offers video with audio in three lengths: ten seconds at 1080P, twenty seconds at 720P and thirty seconds at Wide Video Graphics Array (WVGA). Want multiple images per detection? In burst mode, the camera captures one, two or three photos in quick succession. During the day, this delivers sharp colour images; at night, the camera switches to black and white, supported by twelve infrared LEDs.

Images are sent directly to the free HikMicro Sight app on your smartphone via the 4G antenna. From that app, you manage the camera fully: set time windows, choose the desired resolution for photos or videos and adjust other settings to your preference. Despite the extensive range of options, operation remains straightforward.

Setting up is straightforward. The battery compartment on the underside accommodates six to twelve AA batteries. With twelve AA batteries, the camera achieves a battery life of six months in standby. You can mount it on a tree or tripod using the 1/4'' - 20 UNC thread on the underside and back. Then open the front flap: on the left side is the slot for a SIM card, on the right side the slot for an SD card up to 32 GB maximum.

Behind the same flap you'll find a slide button to operate the camera. First set it to setup mode and check the four indicators — they must all be green before you proceed to on mode. The indicators show, among other things, the SD card status and network coverage. With the sync button, you take a test photo to verify everything. Are all indicators green and do you set the slide button to on? Then you close the flap and the camera starts operating within the time windows you've set.

Motion is detected by a passive infrared sensor with a maximum range of 25 metres, a diagonal angle of 60 degrees and a horizontal angle of 45 degrees. The activation time is half a second, so even fast-moving animals are captured. Images are only taken when there is actual motion, which benefits battery life. With dimensions of 112x86.4x143 mm, a weight of 440 grams and a camouflage print, the M15 blends effortlessly into its surroundings.