Review
Published:
Updated:
Intro
The Spypoint LM 2, a member of the LINK-MICRO family of trail cameras, utilizes LTE cellular connectivity to transmit photos to the Spypoint app.
The LM2 camera captures daytime color pictures in JPG format with a resolution of up to 20 megapixels.
These photos are taken by an infrared movement detector with a range of up to 27 meters (90 feet).
For nighttime pictures, the camera captures images in black and white.
The LM2 trail camera does not have video recording capabilities.
The camera has a rapid 0.5-second trigger speed and supports multi-shot mode, allowing up to 2 photos per detection.
Three LEDs provide night illumination with a range of up to 27 meters (90 feet), and the infrared illumination adjusts automatically for optimal image quality.
The LM 2 supports external memory via microSD cards, up to 32 GB capacity (not included).
The camera's physical dimensions are compact, measuring 3.1 inches (H) x 4.4 inches (W) x 2.2 inches (D). It operates in temperatures ranging from -30°C to 50°C (-22°F to 131°F).
The Spypoint mobile app allows users to manage camera settings, view and categorize photos, and monitor weather conditions.
Various photo transmission plans are available, including a free option for 100 monthly photos.
Users can also access the web app at spypoint.com for online management.
The LM 2 features an optimized antenna design to maximize cellular signal reception for consistent performance.
The LM2 cellular camera includes a two-year limited warranty and is bundled with a mounting strap. Additionally, the camera latch is compatible with Python cable locks for added security.
Pros
- Affordable
- 100 Free Picture Downloads
- Light & Compact
- 2-Years Warranty
Cons
- No Video
- Grainy Nighttime Images
- Slow Trigger
- App Only Setup
- No In-Camera Card Formatting
- Poor Customer Service
Camera Setup
The LM2 camera differs from traditional trail cameras as it lacks a screen or physical buttons commonly found in such devices.
The sole switch available is the ON/OFF switch. Consequently, users are required to download a smartphone application for camera setup.
However, it's important to note that while camera setup can be accomplished via the app, the activation process and all subscription payments must be carried out through the Spypoint website.
In case you do not possess an existing account, you will need to create one before activating the camera or initiating subscription payments.
It's noteworthy that the LM2 supports micro SD memory cards with a maximum capacity constraint of 32GB.
Given the camera's inability to record videos, the 32GB limit is unlikely to pose any limitations for most users.
However, a potential inconvenience arises from the camera's inability to format the memory card internally.
Users are required to format the memory card using a computer, which may be an additional task for some.
Camera Ratings
Detection Range: 16/20
The LM2's detection range stands out as one of its strengths, and we have consistently observed triggers reaching nearly the advertised 90 feet (27 meters).
Speed: 3/10
The LM2 exhibits a swift initial trigger, promptly capturing the first image. However, the challenge lies in the subsequent shots. Despite the option to configure the trigger delay as "instant," we've observed a noticeable lag between triggers, often causing the subject to exit the frame before the next trigger activates. Another limitation is that the camera permits only two "multishot" trigger firings. Even when configured for two pictures, our cameras consistently exhibit multi-second delays between triggers.
Accuracy: 2/10
We've seen positive outcomes with the Medium sensitivity settings, experiencing an acceptable level of false triggers, mostly in windy conditions. However, two of our cameras continue to take empty 'test' pictures, despite having this option disabled.
Battery Life: 6/10
Despite its super-compact size, the LM2 accommodates eight AA batteries for power. Since the camera lacks video recording capabilities, battery life can be reasonably extended, depending on the sync frequency settings, which can be configured anywhere from once a day to instantaneously with each trigger. Considering that cellular cameras can be power-intensive and replacing batteries can become costly, the manufacturer provides alternative options. Users can opt for a rechargeable battery pack or an external power source, both available for purchase separately.
Daylight Images: 7/10
The daytime image quality delivered by the LM2 game cameras is commendable. The photos exhibit sharpness, pleasing saturation, and minimal ISO grain.
The camera offers only two photo resolution options: Medium and High. The Medium resolution yields images at 1920x1080 (2MP), while the High option provides images at 6144x3456 (21.23MP).
In our tests of both options, we have observed no significant differences in image quality between these options.
Unsurprisingly, we found the smaller Medium size images to be superior. This phenomenon is quite common in many trail cameras, where larger image sizes are achieved through software interpolation.
In essence, the camera features a small sensor, and when the camera software artificially increases the image size, it often leads to a loss in image quality.
Lowlight Images: 5/10
During daylight, the LM2 captures full-color images, whereas nighttime photos are rendered in black and white. However, in low-light conditions, the camera's choice between color and black & white depends on its assessment of available light. In simpler terms, the camera determines when to switch to color or black and white based on the lighting conditions.
Based on our analysis of the images produced by two LM2 cameras, it appears that the transition to black and white during low-light situations should occur earlier. Some photos taken in low light, which are still in full color, suffer from focus issues even when capturing slowly moving animals.
Night Images: 3/10
In contrast to the high-quality daytime images, the nighttime pictures captured by the LM2 are rather underwhelming. Although they are not inherently underexposed, which is a common problem with compact-sized game cameras due to inadequate illumination, the LM2's nighttime photos exhibit noticeable issues, including excessive graininess and a darkening effect that occurs along both sides of the image, a condition often referred to as "vignetting." These issues are typically attributed to limitations in the camera's lens and the use of lower-quality image sensors.
Design: 5/20
The compact size of the LM2 offers a few benefits but comes with several drawbacks.
Designed to be fully operated via the mobile app, the camera features only a tiny status light indicator and an On/Off switch.
While it's not uncommon for cellular cameras to lack an in-camera display and direct operation buttons, the status light on the LM2 provides limited feedback and only indicates signal strength. It falls short of conveying comprehensive operational status.
Regarding the management of camera settings through the app, options are notably limited.
Although the manufacturer achieved a compact design by eliminating the screen, buttons, and more powerful illumination typically found in larger game cameras, the attachable antenna raises concerns.
Not only is it somewhat loose, but it also significantly exceeds the camera's body size, somewhat contradicting the goal of producing a compact camera.
On a positive note, the camera can be secured with a standard-size Python cable lock, and the included strap is of good quality.
Verdict: 47/100
Our experience with the two Spypoint LM2 cameras over the past three months has produced mixed outcomes.
For one of our cameras, we took advantage of the free plan, which provides 100 free images per month, while opting for a paid subscription for the second device.
With the camera on a paid subscription with 1000 pictures per month limit, we activated the "Take a photo at next Sync" feature, which curiously transmitted four test shots instead of the expected two, twice daily, resulting in eight images per day.
This redundancy is perplexing and inefficient, particularly at night, leading to unnecessary battery depletion and cellular data usage.
Our initial memory card exchange presented further complications.
Customer service contact attempts through Spypoint were frustrating; despite an anticipated wait time of under 20 minutes, our patience was tested with repetitive music and outdated messages, culminating in an hour-long wait without resolution.
Multiple attempts yielded similar experiences.
Presently, neither LM2 unit is transmitting images, presumably due to memory card formatting challenges.
Regrettably, neither the cameras nor the associated smartphone application enables direct or remote formatting, necessitating manual preparation of memory cards—a significant inconvenience given our cameras' very remote and hard-to-reach locations.
The lack of an intuitive memory card formatting feature is a minor inconvenience for most, yet for seasoned users accustomed to in-camera formatting, it's a notable shortfall.
It was particularly disheartening to observe that the sole status indicator remained green following the card exchange.
Despite these setbacks—which may inadvertently color this review with a tinge of dissatisfaction—we include our full range of experiences for transparency.
Should these issues deter potential buyers?
That hinges on individual priorities.
The absence of customer support, the inability to capture video, and subpar nocturnal image quality are significant drawbacks.
Conversely, the Spypoint LM2 excels in capturing quality daytime images, boasts an impressive detection range, and fulfills its primary function effectively.
Its generous free plan and the potential for discounts, such as those found during Amazon sales, make it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals seeking remote image transmission without recurring fees.
Having discussed the camera's limitations and peculiarities, I found myself endorsing it to a budget-minded friend desirous of remote image access.
The Spypoint LM2 could indeed be a worthwhile choice for users who can accommodate its quirks and are attracted to its free plan offering.
Update December 27, 2023:
We continue to experience continued technical problems with our Spypoint LM2 cameras. One camera persistently captures numerous 'test' images, an issue not remedied by adjusting settings.
The second camera exhibits functionality only post-reset, ceasing operation shortly thereafter. Similar problems are echoed by other users.
Our recent interaction with Spypoint's technical support culminated in the provision of a replacement unit.
Regrettably, this replacement camera replicates the original's flaws, and keeps taking unwanted 'test' images, indifferent to our configured settings.
Additionally, despite setting a twice-daily synchronization frequency, the camera inconsistently performs only a single daily sync.
Given these unresolved technical shortcomings, we advise against purchasing this model at present. We recommend potential buyers to defer their decision until these pervasive issues are adequately addressed by the manufacturer.
Buying Options:
User Reviews
Anonymous 2/10
Just installed this camera in the field. Very poor cellular reception compared to my older Spypoint Camera. Picture is very grainy and does not sync when it's supposed to do. Do yourself a favor and do not buy an LM2. Not worth the frustration.
Nov. 11, 2023, 4:08 p.m.
Anonymous 10/10
I have multiple of these and they work flawlessly. Some of the above mentioned cons are a joke. Most don't need video and for a $59 cam it does what it is priced for.
Dec. 24, 2023, 8:14 p.m.
Heartbeat2121 0/10
Both cameras Randomly turns themselves off. Signal strength is 50% and battery is 100% w Duracell batteries. Have done this since the day I got them. Which makes them 100% worthless. About 350$wasted.
Specs
Official specs from the manufacturer.- Name:
- Spypoint LM2
- Manufacturer:
- Spypoint
- Model:
- LM2
- Model Year:
- 2023
- Series:
- LINK-MICRO
- Flash Type:
- Low-Glow IR
- Max Pixels:
- 20
- Max Video:
- 0p
- No. of Sensors:
- 1
- Detection Range:
- 90 ft
- Flash Range:
- 90 ft
- Field of View:
- 42 degrees
- Trigger Speed:
- 0.50 second
- Min Delay:
- 0 seconds
- Max Delay:
- 30 minutes
- Max Card Size:
- 32 GB
- Cellular/Mobile:
- Yes
- WiFi:
- No
- Bluetooth:
- No
- Live View:
- No
- MSRP:
- $99.99
- Warranty:
- 24 months
- Country of Origin:
- China