The difference between 850nm and 940nm LEDs

Hunting cameras  have become an essential tool for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts, allowing them to capture high-quality images and videos of wildlife in their natural habitat. One of the key components of a hunting camera is the infrared (IR) LED, which is used to illuminate the area in low-light conditions without alerting the animals to the camera’s presence. When it comes to hunting cameras, two common types of IR LEDs are the 850nm and 940nm LEDs. Understanding the difference between these two types of LEDs is crucial for choosing the right game camera  for your specific needs.

The primary difference between 850nm and 940nm LEDs lies in the wavelength of the infrared light they emit. The wavelength of light is measured in nanometers (nm), with 850nm and 940nm referring to the specific range of the infrared spectrum. The 850nm LED emits light that is slightly visible to the human eye, appearing as a faint red glow in the dark. On the other hand, the 940nm LED emits light that is completely invisible to the human eye, making it ideal for covert surveillance and wildlife observation.

In practical terms, the choice between 850nm and 940nm LEDs depends on the specific application of the hunting camera. For hunters who want to monitor game trails and wildlife activity without disturbing the animals, the 940nm LED is the preferred choice. Its invisible light ensures that the camera remains undetected, allowing for more natural and authentic wildlife behavior to be captured on camera. Additionally, the 940nm LED is less likely to spook nocturnal animals, making it an excellent option for capturing images and videos of elusive nighttime creatures.

On the other hand, the 850nm LED may be more suitable for general surveillance and security purposes. While it emits a faint red glow that is barely noticeable to humans, it can still be detected by some animals with heightened night vision, such as certain species of deer. Therefore, if the primary goal is to deter trespassers or monitor an area for security purposes, the 850nm LED may be a better choice due to its slightly more visible light.

It’s important to note that the choice between 850nm and 940nm LEDs also impacts the range and clarity of the camera’s night vision capabilities. Generally, 850nm LEDs provide slightly better illumination and longer range compared to 940nm LEDs. However, the difference in range is minimal, and the trade-off for increased invisibility with 940nm LEDs often outweighs the slight advantage in range offered by 850nm LEDs.

In conclusion, the difference between 850nm and 940nm LEDs in hunting cameras boils down to visibility and invisibility. While the 850nm LED offers slightly better illumination and range, the 940nm LED provides complete invisibility, making it the preferred choice for wildlife observation and covert surveillance. Understanding the specific requirements of your hunting or surveillance needs will help you make an informed decision when choosing between these two types of LEDs for your wildlife cameras.