The flex for a significant firmware update yesterday. Big improvement in image quality in my opinion. I wasn’t a big fan pre upgrade but now are pretty solid.
Here’s my personal opinion for both; and yes I’ve owned both brands. I’ve had to deal with customer service for both Reveal and Spypoint. I invested into spypoint a few years ago and in 2 months one camera stopped sending pics; the other cameras no glo flash quit working. Customer service was a nightmare. My call got picked up in India, and the first guy barely spoke English. Got second guy on phone and English was barely discernible. He assured me, after being on the phone for nearly an hour and a half that he had fixed the first camera. He was sadly mistaken. Second phone call a month later for second camera was for no flash working. All night pics were solid black pics. Spent over 2 hours with same heavy Indian accented reps. Cameras were garbage and customer service was even worse. Fast forward to last month. Bought my first reveal and for some reason the SIM card did not activate. Got to speak to a very nice lady right here in the good ol USA! Spoke very good English, probably better than I do. Total time on the phone less than 20 minutes and had a brand new SIM card on the way at no cost!! Moral of the story, I’m planning on having about 5 tactacam reveals by hunting season 2023!!
Hey Charles! Thanks so much for sharing your experience! It’s always great when you can get the help you need quickly and from solid people. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
i recently bought the XB and id have to say its the best camera I've ever used or seen personally. I've had spy point and had nothing but problems between connection and not receiving the photos or just straight up not working at all. i haven't had a single problem with the XB yet and it's in the same spot I've had my spy points. The app is way better and easier to use on the XB, also haven't had any issues with payment like i did with spy point. I had to deal with support for spy point a couple times and that just sucked. In my opinion tactacam is 10x better than spy point for pretty much the same price. I also purchased the antenna extender and solar panel few weeks afterwards which makes a big difference.
Hey RidinMoose4Days! Good to hear from you! I'm a huge fan of the XB and the Reveal app and system. Tactacam is definitely leading the way with a lot of innovation. I'm really liking the LCD screen on their new X-Pro. Check it out if you have some time! th-cam.com/video/PB9wxU3mWmA/w-d-xo.html
What is, “quite some time “? You referred to that multiple times when discussing battery life on one unit versus the other unit vs Instant photo drops versus delayed photo drops. I was really eager to hear you compare how long batteries lasted specifically. I’m done using spypoint and I’ve been running their solar package which has been very nice not having to buy any batteries for the last year, but I’m just finished with the terrible service.
Hey The Tree Amigos! Thanks for checking out my channel! I've had the XB only drop 10% battery after about a full month of taking photos. If you check out my FLEX review, you'll see that I had it configured in a way that really drained the battery. I was able to refine the settings so that the battery didn't drain nearly as fast, but in my opinion after using both cameras is that the XB (and all newer Reveal cameras) have better battery life. I don't have extended battery life reviews as that would take quite some time and I'd also have to pay for simultaneous photo plans (these reviews can really start adding up haha - subscription plans, HD photo and video requests). I am doing a full season review of the Tactacam Reveal Solar Panel (I'm very interested if it will last the entire season without the need for new batteries). I think you'll like Tactacam if you give them a try. Best of luck this season! 👍
The Spypoint Flex also has a very performant solar pannel that can enable you to keep your camera going for months . For about 5 months now, I have not bothered about going to change the batteries of my flex. I am so greatful for that.
Hey felsisulem! Those solar panels definitely help out a ton with battery costs. Spypoint has the new FLEX-S coming out this summer that has an integrated solar panel. I did a preview video on it and I’ll be testing it out for sure when it comes out. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
@@timothybird5565 oh sweet!!! How do you like it? I’m guessing that battery life isn’t an issue with that integrated solar panel. I’m very excited to test it out! Hopefully I can get my hands on it soon 👍🏻
Great video guy. Some good info. Kinda makes me want to try a flex out since we do have problems with service in our area. I am just worried about the longevity of the spypoints quality…. Have you used the moultrie edge yet? Review upcoming? Maybe another head to head? 😁
At about 2:40 in the video is your feeder. I have one just like it and the cage looks like the one I use. I made my cage out of a safety cage that goes around the big round kerosene heater. Works great. This was a good comparison of the cameras. Im still on the fence between the two. I've been running 2 spy point micros and 2 cell links for the past 2 years with no issues as long as I use good micro sd cards and keep the firmware updated. I have 6 regular SD card cameras that take video but I'm wanting to try video with a cell camera. Maybe I will do like you and purchase 1 of each and compare them. Thanks for the information.
Hey Basic info! Thanks for checking out my channel! If you do end up comparing them, let me know which one you like best. Did you see the new Reveal X-Pro? It’s got some cool new features (like the LCD screen). th-cam.com/video/PB9wxU3mWmA/w-d-xo.html
@@mountainbuck I haven't checked it out yet. I try to stay within a lower price range because of theft. Seems to be on the rise the past couple years. I even had someone cut a tree down to get a $100 spy point. I was thinking maybe the GPS would help track down a thief. I will take a look and see what it has to offer. Thanks
@@mountainbuck Yes, it was on my own property. Im sure it was someone I knew but I cant prove it. They never got in front of any of my camera's. They knew where the cameras were and approached them from the back. They only took the 1 cell cam but they cut down the tree and messed up my hunting area for the season. $100 Spypoint and $15 worth of batteries. Thats why I have to go with inexpensive cameras. I have more stuff stolen here in Tennessee than my Dad does in Michigan. He has never had a camera stolen in over 60 years
@@basicinfo.9315 A rag wool mitten, paracord & a climbing rope. 3 things u can do to protect your 📷 investment & not have animals know they're being watched. I use it on public & private. Fold-over rag-wool glove & place behind the top of your camera to angle it downward. Also keeps 📷 warmer cuz the whole back isn't up against the cold tree. U could use 1 stick but I like paracord up in the tree to pull my climbing line up with. All these things along with the fact that u now have another video device in your 🌳. This one doesn't need to be turned on or off. All things r a benefit.
The free plan is a huge selling point for me. I have three Spypoints now. I will not even consider Tactacam until they come out with a free plan of some sort.
Hey Dusty, thanks for checking out my channel! That is definitely a great selling point and if you can manage your photos down to a 100/ months it’s even better. Best of luck this season 👍🏻
Glad to see someone finally do a well constructed review. Great video to the point and editing was perfect. What’s your opinion on the reveal SK? I know it’s basically the same as XB except with solar, battery pack and mounting plate. I have 2 XB’s with after market solar panels and 2 SK’s. For $30 more it seems the SK is worth it to me. Thanks again 👍🏻
Hey Travis! Thanks so much for the kind words. I put a lot into these videos and it’s nice to hear someone appreciates the hard work. I haven’t tested the SK personally, but I really like the concept. In my opinion, the whole point of these cellular trail cams is to not have to go pull the SD card or change the batteries. So the SK makes a lot of sense. I have the solar panel and appreciate that it’ll get me through the entire season. How do you like your SKs? Thanks again for the positive feedback. I really appreciate it 👍🏻
@@mountainbuck Personally i would spend the extra money for the XB/panel combo over the SK. The remote panel is larger (better charge?) than the integrated panel on the SK... and it allows you to always mount the panel on the south face of the tree, which helps during those short winter days in the northern states. Now, if the SK can run all winter in the north with no battery swaps.... all my points go right out the window. Please do let us know if the SK is truly a maintenance-free 24/7/365 rig.
@@dgott7726 Hey dgott7726! I agree with your points about the external solar panel. It's a much bigger surface area to capture energy. I'd still like to check out the SK to see how it performs, but it doesn't look like I'll get to it any time soon. Best of luck this season!
I believe they discontinued the SK. IMO the battery/solar capacity is too small for a camera that triggers regularly. Especially since cams take the best pics when pointed north and not into the sun.
@@brodychapman8348 I’ve had my camera out since January 2022 and have yet to have to mess with it. It has yet to come below 50% battery. It looks like you can still buy it from websites but not available from tactacam website. So I would agree it has been discontinued.
I just ordered the new $99 Moultrie Mobile Edge. No SD card which is interesting. It has internal memory. It automatically picks up the best signal. You don't have to switch SIM cards or have dual SIM cards. It operates on any cell carrier. AT&T, T Mobile, Verizon, etc. All of them not just AT&T or Verizon.
@@bowhuntingforlife Good point. I also thought about that before buying the Moultrie Mobile Edge but I never request a high resolution picture from my Reveal X or look at one on the card.
Dwane..Nice to see your cell comparison.. Being a retired Pro photographer, my conclusion might be to use the Flex in video mode and considering it’s a little clearer by (9 mp)..than the XB . To take a series of screen shots as the buck rotates it’s head ..Their both winners. Nice comparison.. It’s the FLEX for me!
I like the XB but its far from the perfect cam (which I don't believe exists at that price point). I use an XB and several Gen 1 and Gen 2 Reveal X cams...along with 4 Moultrie Deltas. I went with with the XB and Gen 2s because the video-to-app feature is appealing. However, I have noticed a significant time lapse between the moment a pic is captured and when the video starts. For example, last week I had pics of a doe standing on her back legs to get to a licking branch which means she spent significant time in front of the camera....I then requested the video and there was nothing there...already gone. That is a significant time gap and sucks to be charged for videos that are likely to not have what you expect. Happened again later in the week when a bobcat strolled by with something in its mouth....nothing in the video. Also I have noticed a significant difference in the trigger range between both generations of Reveal Xs and the XB. I believe the XB is 80ft and both Reveal X's are 96+ ft. I can moonwalk in front of my XB at about 30 yds and it will not take a pic....so if my cam is on an ag field taking inventory, the difference in trigger range between the XB and the Gen 1 and 2 is significant. I prefer the Reveal Xs in general....if I had my cams on a feeder or a tight pinch point or funnel, I may prefer the XB. Also, the Reveal X Gen 2 has the video-to-app feature but it also has the same issue as the XB with the time lapse between pic and video....that being said, I continue to buy Gen 2s over Gen 1s because the SIM card flexibility makes more sense for me because I never know what carrier I will need from one year to the next. If the Gen 1s allowed for SIM card swaps I would be staying with them because the video-to-app has been so disappointing with the Gen 2. Thanks for the content!
Some comments/critiques: 1. You say the Xb has no flash or lights. It absolutely does they are just much less visible to the human eye. I can visibly see the glow from the flash on the Xb/SK models, it's just not as bright. That is the case with many cams classified as "no glow". 2. Instant transmit mode burns the batteries faster in all cell cams. The more times it transmits data=more battery use. Spypoint pointing that out to educate their customers doesn't make it a negative! 2a. Cell cams recover slower when in instant mode than in scheduled upload mode. I.E. they are unable to detect and trigger after the prior pic/video as quickly when they are transmitting pictures immediately. 30 seconds recovery time is not uncommon thus when you run a cam in instant mode you're probably missing a lot of stuff that happened after the initial triggering event. That's why it makes more sense to run them in scheduled upload mode, which is limited to only twice a day on tactacam.
Hey Brody! Thanks for checking out my channel and for the feedback. Lots of good information there. What are your thoughts on the newer Reveal cameras (X Gen 2.0 and the X-Pro) and their new hybrid transmission mode?
@@mountainbuck I don't have a 2.0 or x-pro so my comments will be purely theoretical based on how all the cell cams I'm familiar with operate. Hybrid transmission mode - It sounds convenient to be able to change settings more frequently (24 hrs was a drawback with reveals compared to competitors) and will be easier on batteries than pure instant mode, to me the primary drawback to instant mode is that it takes longer to recover and trigger again when it's constantly pinging the cell tower. I assume that negative exists within the 5 minute window after triggering on hybrid mode. So it should be easier on batteries than full instant mode, harder on batteries than scheduled upload, and still have more missed photos while recovering (which is my primary dislike) The biggest issue I have with tactacam is that they only transmit the first photo of a multiphoto burst! Using a 2 or 3 shot burst with short time duration between photos helps combat the issue of 16ish second recovery time to trigger again (in scheduled upload mode, longer in instant) and gives you a better likelihood of catching following deer you may miss while sensor is recovering or getting different/better angles. Also worth noting is that recovery times can vary greatly depending on strength of cell service. I have mediocre service in most of my locations. I will say the reveal SK gets great reception. I have not used the photo/vid combo mode because i'm annoyed by paying extra for video but that sounds like a valid solution to cell cam shortcomings. I primarily use Ridgetec cell cams on video mode. Even on video mode, my monthly costs per cam is less than the 500 photo plan from tactacam. Last thing on the reveals - they have that aiming line/wifi setup deal because the sensors detect very poorly above or below that line. That is a negative compared to other cams with a sensing zone that covers much more vertically. When you hang a tactacam high and angle it down (preferred to get above deer eye level) it reduces the length of the detection zone compared to some competitors. For the price point they take impressive pictures and the transmitted thumbnail quality is better than most cell cams. The inability to transmit bursts is what kills them for me. I know i miss more deer (on transmitted photos) with them than competitors. That is the most important thing to me, capture pics of the deer that are there. The vertically short detection zone and max of only twice daily scheduled uploads drives the nail in the coffin.
@@brodychapman8348 Thanks for the additional information, Brody! Interesting stuff for sure! I never use burst mode on my Tactacams and just stick with the Photo + Video feature as that is my go-to. Pretty crazy... I just had a bear show show up and try to rip off another camera I was testing (video coming out later today!). I was able to get some additional video from the reveal XB (due to the photo + video mode) that I had mounted below the new camera. I haven't heard of Ridgetec cell cams. I'll have to check them out sometime. Thanks again for your contribution and best of luck this season 👍.
Hey Jacob! Thanks for watching. Sorry, but I didn’t do an extended battery comparison. I will say that I really like my Reveal Solar Panel and it kept my camera at 100% battery life for well over 3 months.
Have you tried putting the XB up high? I've read comments on your videos and others that they don't work very well high and pointed down compared to other cameras. I know setting any camera high is not ideal but where I am we have bears that literally destroy them waist high. I have some spypoint micros set high and they do ok. Going to put my XB above one of them to see if there's any difference. Just curious to know if you have any experience putting the XB up high. Thanks
The WIFI If I am subscribed to Verizon but not Verizon wifi available, it will switch to AT wifi that available in the area So I have to have multiple wifi accounts to have access to my pictures and videos?
Hey Francisco, these trail cameras use cellular networks to transmit photos and videos. You don’t need to have a Verizon or AT&T plan in order to use either trail camera. You would create an account with either Tactacam or Spypoint and pay for the service through them. The Tactacam XB has its own WiFi functionality that you can connect to through the app if you are close by the trail camera. This will enable you to adjust the settings or use the live preview feature to sim your camera.
After using the Spypoint flex e-36 and subscribing to their service, I just cant't wait to send them back. Terribly disappointed, I don't think these cameras are any good and the fact that you can't take photos plus video, is ridiculous. You point this out.
Hey moe248! Yeah, sadly I think they are discontinuing the XB. It’s a great camera and I’m hoping they release the XB Pro this year. We’ll see. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
super video thank's, if you have the chance to test its 2 new cameras (Model: 119904S Bushnell CELLUCORE™ 20 SOLAR CELLULAR) & (Tactacam REVEAL X-Pro) which will be available soon it would be greatly appreciated before making my choice of my first cell camera, thank you again, stephane from Canada
Hey Stéphane! Thanks for checking out my channel! If I had the Reveal SK, I would definitely consider the cellucore as they are very similar. That would make for a good match up. However, the Reveal X-Pro is definitely on my radar. I’m interested in the specs on that camera. Stay tuned and thanks for watching! 👍🏻
Hey thanks for checking out my channel ondaroadagain! It does not. I’m currently using two XBs and the new X-Pro. I’m hoping Tactacam comes out with an XB 2.0 or an XB-Pro this year. For me, it really boils down to the photos + videos feature and Tactacam is doing the best in that category in my opinion. 👍🏻
Hey Robert! I'm flattered that anyone would want a Mountain Buck shirt. Very cool! I have to update my website a bit and eventually set up an online store of sorts. Thanks for your interest!
Hi Dwane ..My intention was to purchase a sim backup card before buying the spy point flex but it never showed up.. I attempted to call Spy Point w/o any success. Nix to spy point I say ..Looking into your Tactacam
Tactacams are junk! Unless you enjoy getting grey pictures. Worst cameras I've ever owned and the customer service, well let's just say the cameras don't work nor does the customer service.
Hey Randy! Thanks for checking out my channel! Are you talking about the night photos being gray? I really like the Reveal system especially the photos + videos option. What cell camera do you like better?
The flex for a significant firmware update yesterday. Big improvement in image quality in my opinion. I wasn’t a big fan pre upgrade but now are pretty solid.
Hey bowhuntingforlife! Thanks for the heads up on the firmware update! Best of luck this season!
Good video. Thanks.
Thank you for watching, Kevin!👍🏻
Spypoint did very well with there new camera my opinion I own 10 of them. Good video
Hey Landon! Thanks for checking out my channel and for the kind words! Best of luck this season 👍🏻
Here’s my personal opinion for both; and yes I’ve owned both brands. I’ve had to deal with customer service for both Reveal and Spypoint. I invested into spypoint a few years ago and in 2 months one camera stopped sending pics; the other cameras no glo flash quit working. Customer service was a nightmare. My call got picked up in India, and the first guy barely spoke English. Got second guy on phone and English was barely discernible. He assured me, after being on the phone for nearly an hour and a half that he had fixed the first camera. He was sadly mistaken. Second phone call a month later for second camera was for no flash working. All night pics were solid black pics. Spent over 2 hours with same heavy Indian accented reps. Cameras were garbage and customer service was even worse.
Fast forward to last month. Bought my first reveal and for some reason the SIM card did not activate. Got to speak to a very nice lady right here in the good ol USA! Spoke very good English, probably better than I do. Total time on the phone less than 20 minutes and had a brand new SIM card on the way at no cost!! Moral of the story, I’m planning on having about 5 tactacam reveals by hunting season 2023!!
Hey Charles! Thanks so much for sharing your experience! It’s always great when you can get the help you need quickly and from solid people. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
Solid review.
Thanks Chris, I really appreciate that! Best of luck this season 👍🏻
@@mountainbuck and to you. I have both cameras and am leaning towards more of the flex due to significant diff in price
I switched to Reveal after 3 spypoint cameras all had issues. I'm very happy with Reveal.
Hey Ralph! Thanks for the information and for watching👍🏻
SPYPOINT does allow photo first with video like the XB it’s in the app just have to select it.
i recently bought the XB and id have to say its the best camera I've ever used or seen personally. I've had spy point and had nothing but problems between connection and not receiving the photos or just straight up not working at all. i haven't had a single problem with the XB yet and it's in the same spot I've had my spy points. The app is way better and easier to use on the XB, also haven't had any issues with payment like i did with spy point. I had to deal with support for spy point a couple times and that just sucked. In my opinion tactacam is 10x better than spy point for pretty much the same price. I also purchased the antenna extender and solar panel few weeks afterwards which makes a big difference.
Hey RidinMoose4Days! Good to hear from you! I'm a huge fan of the XB and the Reveal app and system. Tactacam is definitely leading the way with a lot of innovation. I'm really liking the LCD screen on their new X-Pro. Check it out if you have some time! th-cam.com/video/PB9wxU3mWmA/w-d-xo.html
What is, “quite some time “? You referred to that multiple times when discussing battery life on one unit versus the other unit vs Instant photo drops versus delayed photo drops. I was really eager to hear you compare how long batteries lasted specifically. I’m done using spypoint and I’ve been running their solar package which has been very nice not having to buy any batteries for the last year, but I’m just finished with the terrible service.
Hey The Tree Amigos! Thanks for checking out my channel! I've had the XB only drop 10% battery after about a full month of taking photos. If you check out my FLEX review, you'll see that I had it configured in a way that really drained the battery. I was able to refine the settings so that the battery didn't drain nearly as fast, but in my opinion after using both cameras is that the XB (and all newer Reveal cameras) have better battery life. I don't have extended battery life reviews as that would take quite some time and I'd also have to pay for simultaneous photo plans (these reviews can really start adding up haha - subscription plans, HD photo and video requests). I am doing a full season review of the Tactacam Reveal Solar Panel (I'm very interested if it will last the entire season without the need for new batteries). I think you'll like Tactacam if you give them a try. Best of luck this season! 👍
The Spypoint Flex also has a very performant solar pannel that can enable you to keep your camera going for months . For about 5 months now, I have not bothered about going to change the batteries of my flex. I am so greatful for that.
Hey felsisulem! Those solar panels definitely help out a ton with battery costs. Spypoint has the new FLEX-S coming out this summer that has an integrated solar panel. I did a preview video on it and I’ll be testing it out for sure when it comes out. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
@@mountainbuck i now have that new flex s model, waiting for your review on that model, so far im very impressed with the Flex S
@@timothybird5565 oh sweet!!! How do you like it? I’m guessing that battery life isn’t an issue with that integrated solar panel. I’m very excited to test it out! Hopefully I can get my hands on it soon 👍🏻
Nice video
Thanks Pat! Much appreciated 👍🏻
Great video guy. Some good info. Kinda makes me want to try a flex out since we do have problems with service in our area. I am just worried about the longevity of the spypoints quality….
Have you used the moultrie edge yet? Review upcoming? Maybe another head to head? 😁
Hey Travis! Thanks for checking out my channel! I haven’t checked out the Edge yet. It looks interesting though. Maybe I’ll have to take a look 🤔
Don't get the edge it's not ready for prime time. I'm returning 6 tomorrow. Photo notifications with no pictures
Where are the cameras made?
At about 2:40 in the video is your feeder. I have one just like it and the cage looks like the one I use. I made my cage out of a safety cage that goes around the big round kerosene heater. Works great. This was a good comparison of the cameras. Im still on the fence between the two. I've been running 2 spy point micros and 2 cell links for the past 2 years with no issues as long as I use good micro sd cards and keep the firmware updated. I have 6 regular SD card cameras that take video but I'm wanting to try video with a cell camera. Maybe I will do like you and purchase 1 of each and compare them. Thanks for the information.
Hey Basic info! Thanks for checking out my channel! If you do end up comparing them, let me know which one you like best. Did you see the new Reveal X-Pro? It’s got some cool new features (like the LCD screen). th-cam.com/video/PB9wxU3mWmA/w-d-xo.html
@@mountainbuck I haven't checked it out yet. I try to stay within a lower price range because of theft. Seems to be on the rise the past couple years. I even had someone cut a tree down to get a $100 spy point. I was thinking maybe the GPS would help track down a thief. I will take a look and see what it has to offer. Thanks
Holy crap! They cut a tree down!?! That’s just nuts.
@@mountainbuck Yes, it was on my own property. Im sure it was someone I knew but I cant prove it. They never got in front of any of my camera's. They knew where the cameras were and approached them from the back. They only took the 1 cell cam but they cut down the tree and messed up my hunting area for the season. $100 Spypoint and $15 worth of batteries. Thats why I have to go with inexpensive cameras. I have more stuff stolen here in Tennessee than my Dad does in Michigan. He has never had a camera stolen in over 60 years
@@basicinfo.9315 A rag wool mitten, paracord & a climbing rope. 3 things u can do to protect your 📷 investment & not have animals know they're being watched. I use it on public & private. Fold-over rag-wool glove & place behind the top of your camera to angle it downward. Also keeps 📷 warmer cuz the whole back isn't up against the cold tree. U could use 1 stick but I like paracord up in the tree to pull my climbing line up with. All these things along with the fact that u now have another video device in your 🌳. This one doesn't need to be turned on or off. All things r a benefit.
The free plan is a huge selling point for me. I have three Spypoints now. I will not even consider Tactacam until they come out with a free plan of some sort.
Hey Dusty, thanks for checking out my channel! That is definitely a great selling point and if you can manage your photos down to a 100/ months it’s even better. Best of luck this season 👍🏻
Glad to see someone finally do a well constructed review. Great video to the point and editing was perfect. What’s your opinion on the reveal SK? I know it’s basically the same as XB except with solar, battery pack and mounting plate. I have 2 XB’s with after market solar panels and 2 SK’s. For $30 more it seems the SK is worth it to me. Thanks again 👍🏻
Hey Travis! Thanks so much for the kind words. I put a lot into these videos and it’s nice to hear someone appreciates the hard work. I haven’t tested the SK personally, but I really like the concept. In my opinion, the whole point of these cellular trail cams is to not have to go pull the SD card or change the batteries. So the SK makes a lot of sense. I have the solar panel and appreciate that it’ll get me through the entire season. How do you like your SKs? Thanks again for the positive feedback. I really appreciate it 👍🏻
@@mountainbuck Personally i would spend the extra money for the XB/panel combo over the SK. The remote panel is larger (better charge?) than the integrated panel on the SK... and it allows you to always mount the panel on the south face of the tree, which helps during those short winter days in the northern states. Now, if the SK can run all winter in the north with no battery swaps.... all my points go right out the window. Please do let us know if the SK is truly a maintenance-free 24/7/365 rig.
@@dgott7726 Hey dgott7726! I agree with your points about the external solar panel. It's a much bigger surface area to capture energy. I'd still like to check out the SK to see how it performs, but it doesn't look like I'll get to it any time soon. Best of luck this season!
I believe they discontinued the SK. IMO the battery/solar capacity is too small for a camera that triggers regularly. Especially since cams take the best pics when pointed north and not into the sun.
@@brodychapman8348 I’ve had my camera out since January 2022 and have yet to have to mess with it. It has yet to come below 50% battery. It looks like you can still buy it from websites but not available from tactacam website. So I would agree it has been discontinued.
I just ordered the new $99 Moultrie Mobile Edge. No SD card which is interesting. It has internal memory. It automatically picks up the best signal. You don't have to switch SIM cards or have dual SIM cards. It operates on any cell carrier. AT&T, T Mobile, Verizon, etc. All of them not just AT&T or Verizon.
Hey Martin! Thanks for checking in! Let me know how you like that Moultrie Mobile Edge. I might have to check it out. 👍🏻
@@mountainbuck Will do. I have the Reveal X and really like it.
@@AckBoater I don’t like the idea of having to pay for every photo if I don’t want to. Without an sd slot you cannot backup or view your images in hd.
@@bowhuntingforlife Good point. I also thought about that before buying the Moultrie Mobile Edge but I never request a high resolution picture from my Reveal X or look at one on the card.
Dwane..Nice to see your cell comparison..
Being a retired Pro photographer, my conclusion might be to use the Flex in video mode and considering it’s a little clearer by (9 mp)..than the XB . To take a series of screen shots as the buck rotates it’s head ..Their both winners. Nice comparison.. It’s the FLEX for me!
Hey Robert! I'm a big fan of photography and image editing. That's cool that you were able to do that for a career! I appreciate your input!
***RESPECT = GREAT PRESENTATION
Hey Francisco! Thanks for checking out my channel! Hook me up and subscribe if you could! 👍🏻
I like the XB but its far from the perfect cam (which I don't believe exists at that price point). I use an XB and several Gen 1 and Gen 2 Reveal X cams...along with 4 Moultrie Deltas. I went with with the XB and Gen 2s because the video-to-app feature is appealing. However, I have noticed a significant time lapse between the moment a pic is captured and when the video starts. For example, last week I had pics of a doe standing on her back legs to get to a licking branch which means she spent significant time in front of the camera....I then requested the video and there was nothing there...already gone. That is a significant time gap and sucks to be charged for videos that are likely to not have what you expect. Happened again later in the week when a bobcat strolled by with something in its mouth....nothing in the video. Also I have noticed a significant difference in the trigger range between both generations of Reveal Xs and the XB. I believe the XB is 80ft and both Reveal X's are 96+ ft. I can moonwalk in front of my XB at about 30 yds and it will not take a pic....so if my cam is on an ag field taking inventory, the difference in trigger range between the XB and the Gen 1 and 2 is significant. I prefer the Reveal Xs in general....if I had my cams on a feeder or a tight pinch point or funnel, I may prefer the XB. Also, the Reveal X Gen 2 has the video-to-app feature but it also has the same issue as the XB with the time lapse between pic and video....that being said, I continue to buy Gen 2s over Gen 1s because the SIM card flexibility makes more sense for me because I never know what carrier I will need from one year to the next. If the Gen 1s allowed for SIM card swaps I would be staying with them because the video-to-app has been so disappointing with the Gen 2. Thanks for the content!
Hey Mike! Thanks for your perspective! I appreciate the input! How do you like those Moultrie Deltas?
I believe Bushnell has a new cell camera. Have you tried it yet
Hey Alan! Are you talking about the CelluCore Solar or is there a newer one out?
Some comments/critiques:
1. You say the Xb has no flash or lights. It absolutely does they are just much less visible to the human eye. I can visibly see the glow from the flash on the Xb/SK models, it's just not as bright. That is the case with many cams classified as "no glow".
2. Instant transmit mode burns the batteries faster in all cell cams. The more times it transmits data=more battery use. Spypoint pointing that out to educate their customers doesn't make it a negative!
2a. Cell cams recover slower when in instant mode than in scheduled upload mode. I.E. they are unable to detect and trigger after the prior pic/video as quickly when they are transmitting pictures immediately. 30 seconds recovery time is not uncommon thus when you run a cam in instant mode you're probably missing a lot of stuff that happened after the initial triggering event. That's why it makes more sense to run them in scheduled upload mode, which is limited to only twice a day on tactacam.
Hey Brody! Thanks for checking out my channel and for the feedback. Lots of good information there. What are your thoughts on the newer Reveal cameras (X Gen 2.0 and the X-Pro) and their new hybrid transmission mode?
@@mountainbuck I don't have a 2.0 or x-pro so my comments will be purely theoretical based on how all the cell cams I'm familiar with operate.
Hybrid transmission mode - It sounds convenient to be able to change settings more frequently (24 hrs was a drawback with reveals compared to competitors) and will be easier on batteries than pure instant mode, to me the primary drawback to instant mode is that it takes longer to recover and trigger again when it's constantly pinging the cell tower. I assume that negative exists within the 5 minute window after triggering on hybrid mode. So it should be easier on batteries than full instant mode, harder on batteries than scheduled upload, and still have more missed photos while recovering (which is my primary dislike)
The biggest issue I have with tactacam is that they only transmit the first photo of a multiphoto burst! Using a 2 or 3 shot burst with short time duration between photos helps combat the issue of 16ish second recovery time to trigger again (in scheduled upload mode, longer in instant) and gives you a better likelihood of catching following deer you may miss while sensor is recovering or getting different/better angles. Also worth noting is that recovery times can vary greatly depending on strength of cell service. I have mediocre service in most of my locations. I will say the reveal SK gets great reception.
I have not used the photo/vid combo mode because i'm annoyed by paying extra for video but that sounds like a valid solution to cell cam shortcomings. I primarily use Ridgetec cell cams on video mode. Even on video mode, my monthly costs per cam is less than the 500 photo plan from tactacam.
Last thing on the reveals - they have that aiming line/wifi setup deal because the sensors detect very poorly above or below that line. That is a negative compared to other cams with a sensing zone that covers much more vertically. When you hang a tactacam high and angle it down (preferred to get above deer eye level) it reduces the length of the detection zone compared to some competitors.
For the price point they take impressive pictures and the transmitted thumbnail quality is better than most cell cams. The inability to transmit bursts is what kills them for me. I know i miss more deer (on transmitted photos) with them than competitors. That is the most important thing to me, capture pics of the deer that are there. The vertically short detection zone and max of only twice daily scheduled uploads drives the nail in the coffin.
@@brodychapman8348 Thanks for the additional information, Brody! Interesting stuff for sure! I never use burst mode on my Tactacams and just stick with the Photo + Video feature as that is my go-to. Pretty crazy... I just had a bear show show up and try to rip off another camera I was testing (video coming out later today!). I was able to get some additional video from the reveal XB (due to the photo + video mode) that I had mounted below the new camera. I haven't heard of Ridgetec cell cams. I'll have to check them out sometime. Thanks again for your contribution and best of luck this season 👍.
How long is the battery life/how many photos can you get out of the 12 batteries and the 8?
Hey Jacob! Thanks for watching. Sorry, but I didn’t do an extended battery comparison. I will say that I really like my Reveal Solar Panel and it kept my camera at 100% battery life for well over 3 months.
Have you tried putting the XB up high? I've read comments on your videos and others that they don't work very well high and pointed down compared to other cameras. I know setting any camera high is not ideal but where I am we have bears that literally destroy them waist high. I have some spypoint micros set high and they do ok. Going to put my XB above one of them to see if there's any difference. Just curious to know if you have any experience putting the XB up high. Thanks
Hey Redneck Farmer! I actually have never placed any of my Reveal cameras up high. Please let me know how you make out when you try it! 👍🏻
@@mountainbuck I will. Thanks for responding so quickly. So many content creators don't. Keep up the great work👍
@@redneckfarmer6584 thank man. Will do👍🏻
I junked out my Reveals, could not trust them so now i have 5 spyypoint flex cams everyday dependable which is the goal of a cell cam right
Hey Timothy! Thanks for your input and for watching. Best of luck this season 🦌
The WIFI
If I am subscribed to Verizon but not Verizon wifi available, it will switch to AT wifi that available in the area
So I have to have multiple wifi accounts to have access to my pictures and videos?
Hey Francisco, these trail cameras use cellular networks to transmit photos and videos. You don’t need to have a Verizon or AT&T plan in order to use either trail camera. You would create an account with either Tactacam or Spypoint and pay for the service through them. The Tactacam XB has its own WiFi functionality that you can connect to through the app if you are close by the trail camera. This will enable you to adjust the settings or use the live preview feature to sim your camera.
After using the Spypoint flex e-36 and subscribing to their service, I just cant't wait to send them back. Terribly disappointed, I don't think these cameras are any good and the fact that you can't take photos plus video, is ridiculous. You point this out.
Hey thanks for your input! Photos + Videos is my go-to feature on any trail cam I use. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
Looks like Tactacam is not showing the XB on their webpage. Only X and X Gen2.
Hey moe248! Yeah, sadly I think they are discontinuing the XB. It’s a great camera and I’m hoping they release the XB Pro this year. We’ll see. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
super video thank's, if you have the chance to test its 2 new cameras
(Model: 119904S Bushnell CELLUCORE™ 20 SOLAR CELLULAR) & (Tactacam REVEAL X-Pro)
which will be available soon it would be greatly appreciated before making my choice of my first cell camera,
thank you again, stephane from Canada
Hey Stéphane! Thanks for checking out my channel! If I had the Reveal SK, I would definitely consider the cellucore as they are very similar. That would make for a good match up. However, the Reveal X-Pro is definitely on my radar. I’m interested in the specs on that camera. Stay tuned and thanks for watching! 👍🏻
I see that Tactacam discontinued the XB … does that impact your XB recommendation?
Hey thanks for checking out my channel ondaroadagain! It does not. I’m currently using two XBs and the new X-Pro. I’m hoping Tactacam comes out with an XB 2.0 or an XB-Pro this year. For me, it really boils down to the photos + videos feature and Tactacam is doing the best in that category in my opinion. 👍🏻
Ok 👍..I give up .. How do we obtain a 👕 shirt ?
Hey Robert! I'm flattered that anyone would want a Mountain Buck shirt. Very cool! I have to update my website a bit and eventually set up an online store of sorts. Thanks for your interest!
Hi Dwane ..My intention was to purchase a sim backup card before buying the spy point flex but it never showed up.. I attempted to call Spy Point w/o any success. Nix to spy point I say ..Looking into your Tactacam
Tactacam has discontinued its Reveal XB camera.
Hi Stanley. It’s a shame as that is a great trial cam. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
Flex is better....and has a free 100 photo plan ...that's a no brainer,,,,,and flex tacks less batteries and a better solar panel,,,,...just saying.
Hey Fred! Thanks for your input! I’m pumped to check out the new FLEX G-36 and the FLEX-S. Check back for reviews on those 👍🏻
Tactacams are junk! Unless you enjoy getting grey pictures. Worst cameras I've ever owned and the customer service, well let's just say the cameras don't work nor does the customer service.
Hey Randy! Thanks for checking out my channel! Are you talking about the night photos being gray? I really like the Reveal system especially the photos + videos option. What cell camera do you like better?
pr໐๓໐Ş๓ ❗