A wildlife camera is a unique product that allows you to photograph animals in your garden or forest without any technological knowledge. The wildlife cameras are used for both hunting and hobby (photography). But also for natural research by forest rangers and biologists.

Why buy a wildlife camera?

Why would you buy a wildlife camera if you can take photos of wildlife with a professional camera or even with a mobile phone?

Ease

A wildlife camera works simply , after inserting the batteries you can often photograph wildlife fully automatically at the touch of a button . Hang the wildlife camera on a tree and turn the camera 'on'. The sensors (both motion sensors and night sensors) now work 24 hours a day. Because the wildlife camera is on standby until movement occurs, it also requires little energy. In fact, you have an 'extra pair of eyes' at a location 24 hours a day that keeps an eye on which animals (or people) are sniffing around and when.

Unique images

Wildlife cameras are camouflaged and often completely invisible at night (the no glow devices). This means wild animals are never disturbed while you take photos or videos of them. Animals will therefore never feel 'watched' by a photographer with their instincts and will often show activities that they would not otherwise do. It also happens at some point that animals notice the camera, sniff it and move on. This also makes for nice pictures.

Relatively cheap

Compared to professional cameras , wildlife cameras are not expensive to purchase. However, there are major differences between the devices. We often see that realbudget game cameras do not meet the quality standard (the standard for shooting 'okay' photos). Yet there are many devices that can shoot beautiful images, for example in 4K video quality, for a reasonable price.

Should you buy a wildlife camera from Aldi or not?

People often start their search for a wildlife camera at Aldi or Lidl. This is because they are quite well-known stores that are also known to offer cheap wildlife cameras. The pros and cons of Aldi's wildlife camera are explained below.

Advantages of Aldi Wildcamera

• Cheap device
• Can be purchased physically in the store

Disadvantages of Aldi Wildcamera

• Bad camera (photo and video)
• Often does not accept animals
• Not waterproof so will break

Should you buy a wildlife camera from Lidl or not?

People often start their search for a wildlife camera at Aldi or Lidl. This is because they are quite well-known stores that are also known to offer cheap wildlife cameras. The advantages and disadvantages of Lidl's wildlife camera are explained below.

Advantages of Lidl Wildcamera

• Various devices available
• Can be purchased in a physical store
• Low purchasing price

Disadvantages of Lidl Wildcamera

• Poor night vision
• Poor quality lens/camera
• Not completely waterproof
  
  

Best Alternative Lidl and Aldi wildlife camera:

When we look at the price/quality of the Aldi wildlife camera or the Lidl wildlife camera, it is not very good. We have listed a number of alternatives for you below.

Premium wildlife camera

If you don't mind making a good investment right away, then a premium device might be something for you. Think of American brands such as Bushnell (€400+ euros for the really good ones). You are then assured of good quality. Although we understand that not everyone wants to invest so much for a (first) device.

Entry-level wildlife camera, best price/quality

Would you like to use a high-quality wildlife camera for a competitive price? Of the more than 50 wildlife cameras we tested, a few remain. These are included in our range. When we look for an affordable entry-level model that scores almost twice as high on performance , we have found the alternative SM4-PRO . The SM4-PRO temporarily costs only €119.95 instead of €160 and scores very well, as can be seen on our quality score list.

Expert advice

If you need a wildlife camera for important natural research or studies, a more expensive device is recommended. Do not buy a wildlife camera from Aldi or Lidl, not even for private use. These break quickly and unfortunately do not have such good specifications. Are you looking for an entry-level model? Then check out the SM4-PRO or if you prefer a wildlife camera with WiFi , the EZ45.