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We've been running Moultrie trail cameras on our property for years. It started with the Edge, then the Edge 2, and now, the Edge 3. The newest cam in the family, the Edge 3 is packed with a bunch of cool (and practical) features that are a real game-changer for scouting. Live Aim, offline capabilities, built-in GPS, improved AI technology—you name it, it's got it. Even better, it costs less than under $100. I've been testing the cellular trail camera for almost a month, evaluating everything from how easy it is to set up to how it compares to previous models in terms of image clarity, battery life, and more. After putting it through the paces, here's what stood out.
Quick Overview
Specs
Trigger Speed: 0.50 seconds
Image Resolution: 40MP
Video Resolution: 1080p
Max Detection Range: 100 feet
Flash Type: Low-glow
Pros
Very user friendly
Easy to set up thanks to Live Aim feature
Clear images and videos
On Demand photos when you want them
Long battery life
Built-in GPS
Fast trigger speed
Can connect with Moultrie feeders
Cons
Requires subscription to monthly plan—additional $12.99 per month if you want unlimited images
Testing & Analysis
Setup and Ease of Use
I'd consider myself somewhat of an expert at installing trail cameras at this point. But even someone with zero experience would easily be able to set up the Edge 3. The instructions for the installation process are clear and easy to follow along. I had it up and running in minutes. The new Live Aim setting lets you get your camera running in real-time without having to wait to test it. This in and of itself is a game-changer.
As easy as the Edge 3 is to set up, it's equally as easy to use—something my not-so-techy brain appreciates. The Moultrie app is very intuitive to navigate around, with a user-friendly interface that lets you effortlessly manage and monitor your camera from your phone.
Images and Video
I've always been impressed at the clarity of images and videos Moultrie trail cameras deliver, and the Edge 3 is no exception. With a fast trigger speed and full high definition recording (FHD), the high-resolution pictures are crisp and clear, and the videos just as much so. It's easy to see every single detail.
I also really like the On Demand feature that lets you request a photo anytime, from anywhere. You don't have to wait for the camera to pick something up—you can see what's going on at your spot in real-time. It feels almost like having eyes in the woods whenever you want, which I found to be pretty addictive once you start using it.
Additional Features
As mentioned, what sets the Edge 3 apart from the Edge 2 (aside from some technical upgrades), is all of the smart new features it has. One of the biggest highlights is the Moultrie AI technology. The enhanced system can now automatically distinguish between species, which reduces false triggers from things like squirrels or blowing grass. Even better for whitetail hunters, when a buck is detected, the camera can instantly switch to video mode and upload the clip right away. No more missing out.
Another cool feature is the built-in GPS, especially if you're someone who's running a bunch of cameras. It lets you see exactly where your camera is on a map. Additionally, with the new offline controls, you can make adjustments and tweak your camera's settings even without any cell signal.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery life is a big factor when choosing a trail camera—and the Edge 3 excels in that arena. We've had the camera out for weeks and it's still going strong. I'd attribute that to the fact that you can customize the settings to upload select pictures immediately, and others later on (a.k.a. buck pics ASAP, anything else can wait). This helps preserve some of that battery life so it lasts longer. You can also power the camera with a solar panel for extended run time.
As for connectivity, we've had zero issues with service (and even if we did, the new offline settings would be a good workaround!). The Edge 3 is compatible with all the major cellular networks in the U.S. and automatically connects to whichever has the strongest signal in your area. And speaking of connecting, thanks to the Moultrie Connect feature, you can connect your trail camera to your Moultrie feeder to seamlessly tie everything together and allow you to control your feeder remotely, too.
Verdict
The most affordable model in the Edge lineup at $99, the Moultrie Edge 3 is a solid trail camera for the budget-minded hunter. It's extremely user-friendly, and though it may not have every bell and whistle of premium cameras, it covers the essentials you actually need at a price that’s hard to beat. Overall, the Edge 3 strikes a balance between affordability and performance, making it the best value camera Moultrie has to offer right now.
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