Browning Spec Ops Elite HP5 Ultra Trail Camera Review

 - TCP Staff

Model # BTC-8E-HP5U  | Browning Spec Ops Elite HP5 Ultra Manual

Trailcampro Comprehensive Score:

 In Progress/100

 Review

 Pros

• Adjustable IR
• Video in 60 Fps
• SD card easily accessible
• Large text on LCD screen
• Start/Stop programmability
• Timelapse + Motion
• Smart IR Video
• Automatic adjusting flash
• Multishot: Up to 8 images
• Easy latch
• LCD screen shows where the camera is facing
• Detection Circuit

 Cons

WHY BUY FROM TRAILCAMPRO?

Since 2003 Trailcampro’s rigorous testing has literally shaped the evolution of trail cameras. Our testing is supported exclusively through purchases at Trailcampro.com with absolutely NO outside funding whatsoever.  If you have found anything on our website useful, please consider Trailcampro for your next purchase. Beyond supporting the ongoing improvement of trail cameras, click HERE to find out why Trailcampro offers the best value in the industry.

Picture Quality:  In Progress/100

Photo resolution: 46 mpxl (interpolated)

(To learn more about Megapixels and interpolation click HERE)

Video resolution:  1440p video 60 fps

Flash Type: No Glow

Photo Format: .JPG

Video Format: .MP4

 We are placing cameras in the field and will post samples when we get them.

Battery Life:    85/100

Picture & Video Resting Power (on):  0.6 mW

Picture Daytime/Nighttime Power Consumption:  1.4 Ws  | 1.9 Ws

Video Daytime/Nighttime Power Consumption @ 10 sec:  24.7 Ws  |  40.2 Ws

Here are your best battery options:

Trailcampro Choice: XTAR Rechargeable Lithium Batteries

If the Browning Spec Ops Elite HP5 Ultra were to take 35-day and 35-night pictures every 24 hours, this camera would last 17.2 months in the field - per charge - on a set of XTAR Rechargeable Lithium AA batteries.

There are a number of benefits to these batteries:

• Up to 1,000 charges
• Consistent 1.5 volt operation
• Not affected by extreme weather (Hot or Cold)
• Charges with the included 8 bay Smart Charger
• Eco-friendly (fewer batteries headed to the landfill)
• Batteries pay for themselves after the 2nd charge
• No lithium smell

Longest Lasting Choice: Energizer Ultimate Lithium

If the Spec Ops Elite HP5 Ultra were to take 35-day and 35-night pictures every 24 hours, this camera would last 25.9 months in the field on a set of Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries.

Video Mode

If this camera were to take 15 day and 15 night videos every 24 hours, it would last 4.2 months in the field on a set of Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries.

Detection Circuit:     98/100

Picture Trigger & Recovery Speed:  0.02 s.  |  1.1 s.

Video Trigger & Recovery Speed:   0.45 s.  |  0.9 s. 

Detection Range & Angle:  110 ft @ 48.1° detection angle (52.4° f.o.v.)

Quality of Design:     93/100

Dimensions: 5.5" x 4.25" x 3"

Battery Type:  8 AA

External Battery Jack: 12 Volt (5.5*2.1)

SD Card Size: Up to 512GB

Country of Origin: Vietnam

Case Design

The case design of the Recon Force Elite HP5 is exceptional and the camera feels sturdy and well-built. The strap and python cable are threaded through a steel bracket affixed to the case. Most manufacturers use plastic. The camo case design allows the unit to blend in well.The HP5 has a threaded slot on the bottom for a Slate River Mount and the battery compartment and SD card slot are both easily accessible.

The battery tray is tough to get out initially. However, after removing it several times it loosens up for future operation. The LCD screen on the inside is very large and easy to read. The SD card is easily accessible from the bottom. In general, this is an outstanding case design.

 Camera Setup

Durability

The vast majority of consumer-grade trail cameras are inexpensive, imported devices exposed to harsh conditions 24/7/365.  Most manufacturers only offer a one-year warranty.  We stock only the most durable units and provide an additional year of warranty at no extra charge. The Trailcampro exclusive 2-year warranty allows you to deal directly with Trailcampro avoiding long wait times on hold with the manufacturer and prolonged periods without a replacement camera.  We turn around most warranties in just one business day!

 All test results are achieved through the use of proprietary equipment used exclusively by Trailcampro.  Any re-publication of this data without prior written consent is strictly prohibited by law. COPYRIGHT TRAILCAMPRO, L.L.C. 2026, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Back to Top of Page

Read Reviews From All the Game and Trail Cameras