Overview

The Dark Ops FHDR is a compact, high-performance trail camera perfect for discreet surveillance. Offering 1080p video and 26MP images, it features 'no glow' LEDs, making it ideal for security purposes while remaining invisible in the dark.

This ‘no glow’ trail camera is perfect for security or sensitive areas. With Gen 2 night optics and radiant 4 no-glow LEDs, it offers an invisible flash range up to 90ft. Illuma-smart technology adjusts the IR flash for improved detail in night photos.

The Smart IR video option allows the camera to record daytime videos for up to 5 minutes as long as motion is detected. This is a useful setting for capturing ongoing activity without interruption. Nighttime videos are limited to 20-second clips, but the camera can recover in under 1 second to start recording again if activity persists.

This is a fast camera for photos, featuring a competitive trigger speed of 0.09s along with recovery of 0.9s. This makes it highly responsive to movement, capturing photos with minimal delay inside its detection range of 70ft. Its video trigger and recovery speeds are good however for faster speeds we would recommend taking a look at Browning's HP5 or 1080 ranges.

Additional features include a timelapse function and a programmable start/stop timer, allowing you to programme when your camera is active and able to trigger.

Settings can be easily adjusted via a small, user-friendly text LCD screen. Footage cannot be directly reviewed on this camera, instead the screen displays the number of videos or photos taken and the remaining storage left on the SD card. To review footage, the SD card must be removed from the camera and inserted into a computer or laptop.

Its has a rugged, durable design, which makes it a reliable choice for long-term deployments, especially those in tougher environments.

The Dark Ops FHDR is a small, reliable, versatile trail camera that’s easy to use and performs well where no-glow LEDs are needed. However, if concealment isn’t a concern, we recommend considering the low-glow equivalent, the Strike Force FHDR, which offers slightly clearer images at night.

The warranty length in the UK through Naturespy is 2 years

Video Quality:

Max res: 1080p (30fps)     Max length: 2mins day, 20 secs night
Trigger speed: about 0.8 seconds     Recovery time: about 0.9 seconds

As a compact and budget-friendly trail cam, the Dark Ops FHDR produces reasonably smooth video both day and night in 1080p at 30 fps.

The Gen 2 night optics and long-range IR flash still perform well, and footage appears clear and well illuminated. There is a slight loss of detail and contrast in night footage compared to the ‘Low-Glow’ model, but this is compensated for by enhanced brightness on camera.

There is a small amount of noise in some clips, but it still captures good details. Colours are fairly bright and saturated with even contrast.

Video resolutions are available in either High (720p) or Ultra (1080p) to provide options based on your storage needs.

Audio quality is also commendable for a camera in this price range.
 

Photo Quality

Max res: 26MP interpolated (lowest 2MP)     Max number per trigger: 8 photos
Trigger speed: about 0.09 seconds     Recovery time: about 0.9 seconds

The camera's 26MP resolution delivers detailed and vibrant images both day and night.

Daytime shots are colourful and saturated, though some noise is present. In low light, the night optics and 4 powerful No-glow LEDs effectively illuminate the scene. As a no-glow model, the camera operates with a slower shutter speed, which can struggle to freeze faster-moving subjects. However, it still performs well overall.

‘Rapid fire’ mode allows up to 8 shots with just 0.3 seconds between each. This is particularly useful for creating a stop-motion-like sequence that helps to freeze the action.

Speed and detection

Trigger speed: approx. 0.09s (photos), 0.8s (videos)    Recovery speed 0.9s (photos and videos)
Detection range: approx. 70ft    LED type: No-Glow LEDs

The Dark Ops FHDR features an impressive detection circuit with very fast trigger speeds, particularly for photos. At approximately 0.09 seconds, the photo trigger speed is quick and well-suited for capturing humans or animals as soon as they enter the field of view.

While the video trigger speed of 0.8 seconds is good, those seeking faster video performance might consider Browning's 1080 or HP5 ranges for even quicker response times.

Recovery speeds are around 0.9 seconds which is great for getting multiple shots in quick succession, ensuring you don't miss any important moments.

The detection angle is narrow at 46 degrees but allows a detection range of up to around 70ft. 

Build quality & batteries

Warranty: 2 years (through NatureSpy)
Batteries: 6x AA (Lithium recommended)

The Dark Ops FHDR is one of the more compact models in Browning's lineup, measuring just 10.8cm x 7.6cm x 6.4cm, making it one of the smallest Browning cameras. Its size alongside the ‘no-glow’ leds, makes it easier to conceal and set up in the field with a lower risk of being noticed. 
Despite its size this camera has a robust and sturdy build like most brownings and features a high quality camouflaged casing.  
Powered by 6 AA batteries the Dark Ops FHDR can last on average up to around 20 months in photo mode and 2 months in video (Lithium batteries) thanks to the highly efficient illumination technology.

Browning cameras in general have been also very reliable for us and are covered by a 2 year manufacturer’s warranty in the UK when bought through NatureSpy.

Ease of use

The Dark Ops FHDR is a straightforward and user-friendly no-glow trail camera. It has a small B&W screen that displays mode, number of images/video taken, space on SD card and battery life. Adjusting settings is intuitive, using the buttons to the side of the screen, consistent with other Browning cameras.

Although it doesn’t offer live view or playback, it includes a 'motion test' to help you find the optimal position, with a test light on the front that blinks when detecting motion. To view photos and videos, you need to remove the SD card and use a laptop or another compatible device that has an internal or external card reader. 

The camera includes the usual accessories like a tree strap and mounting bracket, as well as a bottom thread for mounting. A loophole for cable locks also adds an extra layer of security when your camera is in more sensitive areas.

There are three main modes; Trail Cam (photos only), Video, and Timelapse Plus. The timelapse function only works during the day – and with timelapse plus, you can have photos taken at set intervals plus the camera will trigger day and night based on any detections.

If you do require any help or have any questions you can just get in touch with us.

Overall a very straight-forward camera trap to use, but if you do require any help or have any questions you can just get in touch with us.

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