Ridgetec Lookout-X 4G LTE (Cellular) Review

Trailcampro Comprehensive Score:

81/100

 

Ridgetec Lookout X Review

 

The Ridgetec Lookout X is one of the smallest cellular units available, and the case design with its large, easy-to-use latch is a significant improvement over previous Ridgetec models.

The camera offers extensive programmability, which provides a lot of flexibility, although it might take a little time to navigate all the options. Overall, this unit stands out with its versatile power source options and enhanced picture quality. - TCP Staff

Model # RTX

 

Trailcampro Comprehensive Score:

81/100

Picture Quality:                 88/100

  48 Mpxl Photos (interpolated)  |  4K Video Resolution

Battery Life: 3 Months (pics) 

 Using 30 pics day + night  

Trigger Speed & Detection:                                                                                      88/100

 Trigger & Recovery: 0.47 s.  -  31.8 s.  (Pictures)  |  1.34 s.  -  32.3 s.  (Videos)  |  130 ft. Range

Quality of Design:                                                                                                                    91/100

   8 AA Batteries  |  12-volt External Battery Jack  |   Internal Viewer


 Review

 Pros

  • SIM supports: AT&T, Verizon, US Cellular, T-Mobile Bell, Telus, & Rogers
  • Real Time 2-way communication
  • Time Lapse
  • Dual option battery tray allows for 8 AA or 4 Li-ion 18650 cells
  • External power port can charge Li-ion batteries
  • Option for push notifications or email notifications
  • App has extensive programmability
  • PIR Sensitivity Adjustment
  • True Flash Brightness Adjustment
  • Change notification tone
  • Hours of operation
  • Cycle Storage (SD management)
  • Report Stolen in the app
  • SD card errors produce a notification on the app
  • Easy latch
  • Ribbons in battery tray for Li-ion 18650 batteries

 Cons

  • App is cluttered 
  • Can not select the menu items on the camera unless in non-cellular mode
  • Ribbons in battery tray for AA batteries

 

 

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:  88/100

Photo resolution:  48 mpxl (interpolated)

(To learn more about Megapixels and interpolation click HERE)

Video resolution: 4K   

Flash Type: No Glow

 We still have cameras in the field to continue receiving photos for testing.

 

 

 

 

Battery Life:    60/100

 


 

Picture & Video Resting Power (on):  1.12 mW

Picture Daytime/Nighttime Power Consumption:  46.37 Ws  |  44.6 Ws

Video Daytime/Nighttime Power Consumption:  61.55 Ws  | 104.32  Ws

Here are your best battery options:

Trailcampro Choice: AmpTORRENT Rechargeable AA Lithium

If the Lookout X were to take 15-day and 15-night pictures every 24 hours, this camera would last 2 months in the field - per charge - on a set of AmpTorrent Rechargeable AA Lithium batteries. 

There are a number of benefits to these batteries:

  • Up to 1,200 charges
  • Consistent 1.5 volt operation
  • Charges with the included USB cable
  • Eco-friendly (less batteries in a landfill)
  • Batteries pay for themselves after 2-3 charges

Longest Lasting Choice: Energizer Ultimate Lithium

If the Ridgetec Lookout X were to take 15-day and 15-night pictures every 24 hours, this camera would last 3 months in the field on a set of Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries.

 

 


 

Detection Circuit:     88/100

 

Picture Trigger & Recovery Speed:  0.47 s.  | 31.8  s.

Video Trigger & Recovery Speed:   1.34 s.  |  32.3 s. 

Detection Range & Angle:  130 ft @ 44.7° detection angle (49.6° f.o.v.)

Transmission Speed (Can Vary): 31.2s

 


 

 

Quality of Design:     91/100

 

Dimensions:  3.75" x 4" x 5"

Battery Type:  8 AA or 4 Li-ion 18650

External Battery Jack: 12-volt (5.5x2.1mm barrel plug)

SD Card Size: Up to 256GB (Speed of at least U3, and at least V30, maximum video quality will require higher speed than U3)

Country of Origin: China

 

Case Design

The Ridgetec Lookout X is a much better case design than Ridgetec's previous cameras. The unit has an option for either 8 AA batteries or 4 Li-Ion 18650 batteries, and the battery compartment incorporates a convenient tab to easily remove batteries.  Make sure the tab doesn't get caught in the seal when closing your camera. 

Ridgetec has transitioned to a single external antenna and a large latch for secure closure. The camera also has a wide seal to effectively prevent moisture intrusion.

There is a 1/4 x 20 threaded insert on the back and bottom of the camera. The back of the case incorporates teeth for a good grip on a tree, and a hole for a python cable lock.

The Lookout X has an internal LCD screen for image review and programming. The SD card slot is located on the bottom of the unit.

 

 Camera Setup

  1. Register for a new account using your email on the Ridgetec Freedom app
  2. Power up camera to setup mode and add SIM Card + SD card
  3. Scan QR code 
  4. Select camera plan
  5. Verify camera connection

 

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. 2025, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Back to Top of Page

Read Reviews From All the Game and Trail Cameras