Differences between NatureSpy Helarctos & Ursus trail cameras explained

With so many different models available, finding the right trail camera can be challenging. Here, we compare the differences between two of our popular models, the NatureSpy Helarctos and Ursus trail cameras, helping you to identify which is best for your needs and budget.

Summary

The NatureSpy Helarctos Solar (£139.99) stands out with its impressive 4K video recording, solar-powered functionality, and local WiFi connectivity, making it a feature-packed option for capturing high-quality footage. On the other hand, the NatureSpy Ursus (£99.99) offers a more budget-friendly alternative while still delivering excellent performance, particularly with its fast detection circuit and extra-durable IP67-rated housing. Read on to take a closer look...

1. Image Quality and Performance Compared

Image quality and camera performance are typically the first considerations when choosing a trail camera, so how do the Helarctos and Ursus compare?

Performance specifications compared

Set to maximum video quality, the Helarctos records at 4K 30fps, while the Ursus records at 1080p 30fps, making the Helarctos capable of producing more detailed images. Technical specifications aside, different trail cameras produce unique image characteristics, so the best way to determine your preference is by comparing their footage. The A/B comparison video below includes footage from both cameras, recorded from the same position on the same tree.

The difference in perspective in this comparison video is due to the field of view (FOV). The Helarctos features a moderately wide 89° FOV, while the Ursus has a narrower 55° FOV. The average field of view (FOV) of a trail camera typically ranges from 40° to 120°, depending on the model. Choosing between trail cameras with a narrower or wider FOV is mostly a matter of individual preference.

Low-glow vs. no-glow LEDs

While both cameras capture clear daytime footage, the differences become more pronounced in low light and night settings. The Helarctos, with its low-glow LED flash and wider FOV, more effectively illuminates the scene. In contrast, the Ursus uses a no-glow LED flash, which results in less detailed night images. However, the lack of visible light produced by no-glow LEDs makes the Ursus a better option in scenarios where discretion is key. By comparison, the Helarctos emits a faint red glow from its LEDs at night, similar to a TV standby light. Learn more about infrared LED flash types in this guide.

Detection circuit

The detection circuit in a trail camera determines its responsiveness, with two key specifications: how quickly the camera triggers upon detecting an animal, and how fast it recovers to be ready for the next recording. The Ursus has a faster 0.6 second video trigger, compared to the 1.2 second video trigger of the Helarctos. However, unless you’re recording a particularly fast-moving species, like a big cat racing past the camera, both are responsive enough to capture the action. For those seeking a lightning-fast trail camera, we recommend considering a model such as the Browning Recon Force Elite HP5, which features a 0.3 second video trigger.

Photo mode

The Helarctos and Ursus produce clear photographs, but counterintuitively, these trail cameras produce better quality images on lower photo resolution settings. This is the case with almost all trail cameras, as they commonly use interpolation to artificially increase the size of higher resolution images. Below we compare daytime and nighttime images from both cameras.

2. Design, Build and Features

The NatureSpy Helarctos and Ursus trail cameras are packed with features, including all the core capabilities we associate with versatile trail cameras.

Features compared

Rugged build

Durability is essential for trail cameras; it's vital that they perform reliably in all weather conditions. The Helarctos has an IP66 ingress protection rating, which is a typical rating for a good-quality trail camera, confirming its ability to withstand harsh outdoor environments. The Ursus, however, goes a step further with an IP67 rating, meaning it has even tighter seals. While both cameras are built to be durable, the Ursus is better suited for harsh environments, such as the high humidity of rainforests.

Sustainable battery power

Reducing the need to use disposable AA batteries was a key priority in developing the Helarctos and Ursus. The Ursus is compatible with rechargeable batteries, which is surprisingly not yet a standard feature in trail cameras due to power demands that are often only achieved by lithium batteries. The Helarctos, however, takes sustainable power to the next level. It can be powered entirely by its built-in solar panel, which charges the internal rechargeable battery pack. Over time, this can lead to significant savings on disposable battery costs. And when it’s not sunny? The Helarctos has space for four backup AA batteries, which it switches to when the rechargeable pack runs out. Thanks to its solar capability, the Helarctos is also an excellent option for monitoring locations where cameras won’t be checked for extended periods, such as several months or more. Learn how to optimise the set up of a solar trail camera for best performance in this article.

Local WiFi connectivity

The Helarctos features wireless connectivity through local WiFi via a free smartphone app. This allows users to preview the camera’s field of view and review footage when within 9m (30ft) of the camera. It’s especially useful for adjusting the camera’s position when it’s in a difficult spot, like higher up a tree, or for checking footage from the comfort of a sofa when the camera is installed in a garden.

Helarctos or Ursus: Which to buy?

Choosing between the Helarctos and Ursus trail cameras depends on your specific needs and budget.

• The Helarctos (£139.99) comes with all the bells and whistles, including 4K video recording, solar power, and local WiFi connectivity. It’s feature-packed, cheap to run, and delivers some of the best night footage available.
• The Ursus (£99.99), while more budget-friendly, is a highly capable trail camera. It has a responsive detection circuit, a more discreet no-glow LED flash, and its IP67-rated housing offers durability that surpasses most other trail cameras.

We hope this article helps to illustrate the differences between these two trail cameras. If you have any further questions, please get in touch.

The NatureSpy Helarctos Solar and NatureSpy Ursus are available in the NatureSpy shop. As a conservation social enterprise, we use the profits generated by our shop to support a diverse range of wildlife conservation projects, from lions in Zambia, to pine martens in Yorkshire and spectacled bears in Peru.