Review
Published:
Updated:
Author: John R. - Senior Editor & Wildlife Photography Expert
TL;DR
The GardePro A60 and A80 trail cameras deliver strong image quality, simple setup, and valuable features at a budget-friendly price. They handle shifting light conditions well, producing crisp details and natural colors. While 4K recording is possible, 1080p often works better for storage and playback. Their design is sturdy yet not perfect, as the gray finish and non-lockable latch may disappoint some users. The A80 offers Wi-Fi for those who prefer remote control, but the A60's simpler approach suits field conditions and quick memory card swaps. Both models strike a solid balance between quality and ease of use, making them worthy choices for those seeking reliable trail cameras.
Intro
The GardePro A60 and A80 trail cameras are designed to capture high-resolution wildlife imagery and videos.
Both models feature a Sony Starvis sensor, which provides 64MP still image resolution and supports ultra-high-definition video recording up to 4K at 20fps.
The cameras are equipped with an f/1.6 lens, a 70-degree field of view, and an Auto IR-Cut filter for enhanced low-light performance.
The A80 includes Wi-Fi connectivity for direct access and control through a mobile app, while the A60 lacks this feature.
Both models provide no-glow infrared night vision with a 940nm LED flash, enabling discreet observation at distances up to 30 meters (100 feet).
The trigger speed of approximately 0.1 seconds is supported by three PIR sensors covering a 120-degree angle.
These sensors are configurable with high, medium, and low sensitivity settings to suit different monitoring environments.
The A60/A80 supports hybrid modes, combining motion detection and time-lapse functionality.
Eight 1.5V AA batteries power cameras and offer an impressive standby time of up to eight months.
External power options include a Type-C USB input and optional DC adapters.
Both models are compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, supporting capacities up to 512GB.
The cameras have a 2.4-inch color LCD screen for on-site configuration, and the settings offer customizable working hours and programmable intervals for video lengths (3 seconds to 5 minutes).
The GardePro cameras are housed in IP66-rated waterproof enclosures, allowing operation in temperatures from -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F) and humidity levels of 5% to 95%.
Mounting options include a rear strap and a tripod base with dual 1/4"-20 thread inserts.
The included accessories are a USB cable, mounting strap, and user manual, with optional solar panels and AC power adapters available separately.
Pros
- Affordable
- 4K Video
- Invisible Flash
- False Trigger Suppression
Cons
- Grey Color Finish
- Non-Lockable Latch
- Potential for Off-Screen Triggers
Camera Setup
Setting up the GardePro A60 and A80 trail cameras is generally a simple process.
The cameras are designed for both novice and experienced users, offering an intuitive interface with a range of customizable settings.
These models present a clear interface that lets users adjust features as needed. The process starts with power.
Both models run on eight 1.5V AA batteries placed behind a sturdy cover. Lithium batteries work well because they handle cold weather and last longer.
For longer deployments, these cameras accept an external DC power adapter, which helps avoid frequent battery changes.
Storage is straightforward. Both A60 and A80 accept SD cards up to 512GB. It is best to format the card using the camera's menu before recording. This prevents errors and keeps things running smoothly.
The 2.4-inch LCD screen provides a bright, easy-to-use menu. Settings like date, time, and capture mode (photo, video, or both) are all accessible from here.
Responsive buttons allow quick changes, a relief when adjusting the camera outdoors, perhaps in uncomfortable weather.
Fine-tuning detection settings can make a big difference.
The camera offers PIR sensitivity settings of Low, Medium, or High. High suits colder conditions where wildlife stands out against cooler backgrounds.
Lower settings help avoid false triggers in warmer climates where minor temperature shifts or reflective surfaces might confuse the sensor.
The False Trigger Suppression (FTS) feature offers additional control by filtering out environmental noise, such as moving vegetation or fluctuating heat signals.
Low, Medium, or High settings let the user decide how strict the filter should be. Combining PIR and FTS can match different scenes.
For example, High PIR with Medium FTS might capture smaller animals in a stable, cool environment. Low PIR with High FTS might work better in windy areas with more movement.
A PIR test mode helps confirm proper camera placement. It shows how far the sensor reaches and ensures important areas are covered.
Video recording settings are also customizable. While the camera supports video resolutions up to 4K at 20fps, recording at 1080p is generally recommended for most scenarios to balance quality and file size.
For stills, though the camera can produce up to 64MP images, using 8MP often leads to better results. Higher megapixel modes rely on internal software tricks that may not improve quality.
Capturing at a stable resolution and then using professional software for editing can produce cleaner, more reliable images and footage.
Other controls allow setting video length, trigger intervals, and active hours. These help save battery life and storage.
If using the A80, Wi-Fi offers a way to adjust settings and view clips on a phone.
This is handy but works best when close to the camera. Wi-Fi use may slow performance and affect battery life, so it should be used with care.
All these settings give the user the flexibility to create a setup that fits their own conditions.
Camera Ratings
Detection Range: 16/20
Speed: 7/10
Accuracy: 9/10
Battery Life: 8/10
Daylight Images: 9/10
The daytime videos this camera captured repeatedly appear crisp and well-balanced, even when the lighting shifts between deep shadows and bright highlights.
If one considers the camera's ability to handle high dynamic range scenes, it does a fine job of keeping details visible in both darker tree lines and sunlit open fields.
Colors from the A80 look natural, with rich greens, earthy browns, and subtle blues that convey a true sense of place.
The fact that these models can record in 4K resolution at up to 20 frames per second is impressive at this price point, especially since the image quality remains strong despite the lower frame rate.
Many users might not expect a trail camera at this cost to manage mixed light conditions so gracefully, yet it seems to produce pleasing results time and again.
Lowlight Images: 8/10
Low light performance stands out, especially during dawn, dusk, or foggy conditions.
While higher ISO levels introduce some grain, the camera's internal noise reduction keeps scenes surprisingly clean.
Colors at twilight can appear cooler, with subtle blues and grays blending into the landscape.
The camera transitions from a faint, natural color palette to a crisp monochrome profile as the light fades.
Its automatic white balance and metering systems maintain detail in shadowed areas without blowing out brighter spots on the horizon.
A late-evening shot of a vivid sunset, for instance, shows nuanced tones and gentle gradations, reminding viewers that this camera manages tricky lighting with more finesse than one might expect at its price point.
Night Images: 8/10
The night images produced by this camera are surprisingly clear, especially given its modest price.
Its 940nm invisible infrared illumination delivers soft, even light without creating harsh glare that might scare away wildlife.
The camera has managed to capture distant mountain ranges under moonlight, showing subtle details in the landscape that many cameras might miss.
As animals move through the frame, the camera adjusts its flash output, though it may need a few seconds to settle.
This slight delay can lead to a brief over- or underexposure, but it usually corrects itself before the animal leaves the scene.
Would most users expect such nuanced night performance from a camera at this price point? Probably not, yet the results speak for themselves.
Design: 14/20
The GardePro A60/A80 presents a practical, straightforward design that differs from the brand's earlier models.
Its gray finish does not fade into natural surroundings as well as some of the earth-toned options seen in past releases.
Still, it can blend well enough in many outdoor environments, especially where subtlety is not the top priority.
The camera's casing appears sturdy, and its buttons and internal controls are arranged in a user-friendly manner.
It is easy to access the battery compartment and SD card slot without fumbling.
Yet, there is one clear disadvantage. The main latch on this camera cannot be locked.
While a Python cable lock can prevent the entire device from being removed, anyone curious enough could open the housing, remove the memory card, or adjust the settings.
This risk may concern those placing the camera in areas where human traffic is common.
The body is also slightly larger than some of GardePro's other models. This extra size means it will not fit into the company's existing security box.
The camera uses three PIR sensors, one primary sensor covering about 60 degrees, and two side sensors, each covering around 30 degrees, adding up to 120 degrees of detection.
Although the side sensors can be turned off, having them active may trigger recordings before the subject enters the camera's frame.
The camera lens covers about 70 degrees, which means some triggers might come from areas the camera cannot actually see.
Is that a bad thing? It depends on the user's priorities. These early triggers may waste some storage space, but they can also ensure the camera starts recording just as an animal steps into view.
Despite these drawbacks, the design should still meet most general needs. It is sturdy, easy to handle, and functional.
Those looking for a subtle appearance or added security options may feel the differences, but others might find the camera's simple design suitable for everyday field use.
Verdict: 79/100
The GardePro A60 and A80 trail cameras offer a strong balance of features, image quality, and versatility at a price that many users will find appealing.
They perform well across a range of lighting conditions, from bright midday scenes to faint twilight landscapes, and even handle challenging high-dynamic range settings with surprising finesse.
The ability to record at up to 4K seems like a bonus, yet the more practical 1080p option keeps file sizes manageable without sacrificing too much clarity.
Their setup process remains straightforward, allowing both newcomers and experienced users to adjust PIR sensitivity, enable False Trigger Suppression, and fine-tune recording modes without confusion.
The presence of three PIR sensors and a 120-degree detection angle can lead to early triggers, sometimes before wildlife enters the frame, but this also ensures the camera is ready when an animal finally appears.
The gray finish and non-lockable latch may raise some concerns for those who value subtlety or security, yet these issues feel relatively minor in the grand scheme.
Between the two models, the A60 often makes more sense for those heading into remote areas where Wi-Fi adds little benefit.
Swapping memory cards in the field tends to be faster, and the A60's lower cost can free up room in the budget for other gear.
For those who appreciate the convenience of remote access and prefer tweaking settings through a phone, the A80's Wi-Fi feature might provide real value.
From a personal perspective, both cameras deliver more than expected for their price.
The A80's wireless capability can be handy, but if asked to choose for regular field use, I would lean toward the A60.
Its simplicity and affordability fit my style, and I find the core strengths of image quality and reliable triggering remain intact.
In the end, these cameras prove that quality wildlife imagery does not have to come with a hefty price tag and that a few minor trade-offs can be well worth the results.
Buying Options:
Pro Tip:
Fine-tuning A80 False Trigger Suppression Settings
Fine-tuning your A80 trail camera settings can be simple with this step-by-step method:
- Start with High PIR sensitivity and Low FTS. Monitor for false triggers.
- If there are too many false triggers, switch FTS to Medium and observe.
- If the issue persists, move FTS to High and check the results again.
- If non-target events still trigger the camera, reduce PIR sensitivity to Medium.
- With PIR at Medium, reset FTS to Low and repeat the process:
- Low → Medium → High.
- Test each setting combination for a few days. Pick the one that best suits your environment.
This systematic method removes the guesswork and helps you find the perfect balance for accurate captures.
User Reviews
Specs
Official specs from the manufacturer.- Name:
- GardePro A80 4K WiFi
- Manufacturer:
- GardePro
- Model:
- GardePro A80
- Model Year:
- 2024
- Series:
- A80
- Flash Type:
- No-Glow IR
- Max Pixels:
- 64
- Max Video:
- 4000p
- No. of Sensors:
- 3
- Detection Range:
- 90 ft
- Flash Range:
- 100 ft
- Field of View:
- 70 degrees
- Trigger Speed:
- 0.10 second
- Min Delay:
- 0 seconds
- Max Delay:
- 60 minutes
- Max Card Size:
- 512 GB
- Cellular/Mobile:
- No
- WiFi:
- Yes
- Bluetooth:
- No
- Live View:
- No
- MSRP:
- $139.99
- Warranty:
- 12 months
- Country of Origin:
- China
- Buying Options: