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Keeping a home secure from vandals, porch pirates, and wandering animals can help ensure the safety of both the property and the family. While a system that relies on electrical power can be helpful, a solar-powered security camera can function regardless of whether it’s overcast or the sun is shining brightly.
The solar panel camera uses an internal battery to store energy from direct and ambient sunlight and will gather energy anytime the sun is up. When the sun goes down, the camera operates on the internal battery, so there’s never any worry about the camera losing power. Since there are so many options on the market, we’ve gathered some of the top products below to help you find the best solar-powered security camera for any home security system. Keep reading to find out why these products made our list.
- BEST OVERALL: Reolink Argus PT Smart 2K Wire-Free Camera
- RUNNER-UP: Ring Spotlight Cam Plus Solar Camera
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Zumimall 2K Outdoor Battery Powered Security Camera
- BEST 3G/4G LTE: Reolink Go Plus Smart 4G Battery Camera
- BEST FOR SMART HOME: Ring Stick Up Cam Solar HD Security Camera
- BEST BULLET: ieGeek 2K 3MP Wire-Free Battery Camera
- BEST DOME: Soliom S600 Home Solar Wireless Security Camera
- BEST 4G: Ebitcam 4G LTE Cellular Security Camera
- WITHOUT WI-FI: Xega 4G LTE Cellular Security Camera
- BEST WITH DVR: Eufy S330 (EufyCam 3) Security Camera
How We Chose the Best Solar-Powered Security Cameras
We researched the most sought-after solar cameras in their respective categories and discovered that the best models are determined by their battery capacity, video resolution, field of view, storage capability, and ease of installation. Plus, there are other special features included by select brands.
The above models generate electricity very efficiently and are made with high power capacities of 5,200 to 15,000 milliamperes per hour (mAh), making them low maintenance after installation. With resolutions of 720 to 1,080 pixels (p), the above models also provide a clear picture and visibility that can be very helpful when there are intruders or porch pirates. As for storing the footage, each is made to be Wi-Fi compatible or meant for use with an SD card, though storage is limited and maintenance is higher with an SD card-reliant model.
In searching for the best options available, some of the best solar-powered home security cameras also include two-way audio, passive infrared sensor (PIR) motion-detection, 1P65 water-resistant ratings, night vision, and compatibility with smart-home systems. Finally, each of these picks is easy to install.
Our Top Picks
The list below of some of the best solar-powered security cameras has been compiled based on each product’s features. Additionally, product efficacy and overall value were factored in to help shoppers find the best solar-powered security camera to help keep their home safe and secure.
Best Overall
Reolink Argus PT Smart 2K Wire-Free Camera
The Reolink Argus solar-powered security camera has an impressive range thanks to its 355-degree horizontal rotation and 140-degree vertical tilt. The camera also has a broad field of vision that stretches up to 105 degrees and an intuitive PIR motion-detection system, so users can be confident that this camera will track and record any human movement around the home.
The solar-powered security camera continuously charges the 6,000mAh battery, which can operate the camera without charging for up to 4 weeks depending on settings, usage, and temperature. It can also connect through Wi-Fi to popular smart-home systems, like Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant, as well as through the Reolink app with a mobile device for remote access to the camera from any WiFi–accessible location. The camera has QHD resolution and built-in night vision capable of seeing and recording up to 33 feet away at night.
Product Specs
- Battery capacity: 6,000mAh
- Resolution: QHD (2,560p x 1,440p)
- Ease of installation: Easy
Pros
- 355-degree horizontal rotation, 140-degree vertical tilt, and 105-degree field of vision
- PIR motion sensor includes night vision and has a range of up to 33 feet
- 6,500mAh battery provides up to 4 weeks of operation between charges
- Operating temperature ranges from 14 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit
Cons
- Some feel that connecting to Wi-Fi and to smart-home systems is frustratingly inconsistent
Get the Reolink Argus solar-powered security camera at Amazon.
Runner-Up
Ring Spotlight Cam Plus Solar Camera
The Ring Spotlight Cam Plus features a 1,080p camera that provides clear images both day and night. Motion activation can be set to custom zones, and it has the ability to differentiate people from pets or wild animals, thus reducing false alarms. Owners can choose instant notifications via smartphone and either interact with visitors or set off lights and sirens to deter intruders. These deterrents can also be set to go off automatically.
The Ring Spotlight Cam Plus can work as a single stand-alone device or be integrated with Ring’s popular smart doorbells and lighting to create a complete home security system. It will also work with Alexa to provide an instant view of what’s going on outdoors from within the home. Further versatility to listen and speak to people is possible with some Echo and Fire TV combinations.
The included panel provides consistent solar power, and the device can hold two batteries for longer life and protection. Ring estimates that the simple setup usually takes no more than 10 minutes, and the camera works in temperatures ranging from -5 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Product Specs
- Battery capacity: 6,000mAh
- Resolution: 1,080p
- Ease of installation: Easy
Pros
- Can integrate with other Ring products for a comprehensive home security system
- Customized motion zones with instant notification, plus remote control of lights and siren
- 2-way communication using app, Alexa, and some Echo and Fire TV combinations
- Can hold up to 2 Ring battery packs for longer-lasting life
Cons
- Premium pricing and an additional monthly subscription is required to save video
Get the Ring Spotlight solar-powered security camera at Amazon or Ring.
Best Bang for the Buck
Zumimall 2K Outdoor Battery Powered Security Camera
The affordable Zumimall solar-powered security camera has a compact design, and its white painted finish looks good with most home exteriors. The camera comes with an IP66 weatherproof rating that ensures it won’t short out during a heavy thunderstorm. The 2K video resolution and night vision allow it to see and record up to 33 feet away in near darkness, though having a porch light on at night will help with the video clarity.
The solar-powered security camera is WiFi-enabled and can upload the video and audio data to online cloud storage. However, if the user isn’t comfortable with online storage, this camera is also compatible with local SD storage, though it doesn’t come with an SD card. The camera doesn’t record continuously because the data storage would fill quickly with unnecessary video. Instead, it begins recording when the PIR motion sensor system detects a human within 33 feet, so the user only gets relevant video.
Product Specs
- Battery capacity: 5,200mAh
- Resolution: 2K full high definition
- Ease of installation: Easy
Pros
- Meets or exceeds the specification of many rivals at a very competitive price
- 2K video resolution for both day and night vision delivers excellent images
- IP66 weatherproof rating ensures continued operation even in heavy storms
Cons
- An SD card is required for local storage but is not included
Get the Zumimall solar-powered security camera at Amazon.
Best 3G/4G LTE
Reolink Go Plus Smart 4G Battery Camera
This solar-powered security camera has a bullet-style design with a 110-degree field of vision that records video in 2K resolution. The IP65-rated camera works in temperatures ranging from 14 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit and is a good option for locations outside the range of the Wi-Fi router, like a garage, workshop, shed, or barn. This is because the camera has a built-in 4G LTE network that can provide wireless connectivity through several mobile carriers. The brand recommends T-Mobile for those in the U.S.
Up to 7 days of audio and video data can be stored free on the Reolink cloud server, where it can be reviewed and managed using the Reolink app and a compatible tablet or smartphone. The solar-powered security camera has night vision with a 33-foot range, and it’s equipped with PIR motion detection, which triggers the camera to begin recording. The rechargeable, high-capacity battery allows the camera to function without charging for up to 6 months, so the home is monitored even when the power goes out.
Product Specs
- Battery capacity: 7,800mAh
- Resolution: 2K
- Ease of installation: Easy
Pros
- Access to 7 days of free Reolink cloud video history
- Cellular connectivity allows the protection of buildings beyond Wi-Fi range
- Live view or playback can be shared with up to 10 other people
Cons
- Cloud storage is good for 7 days, but longer periods need a monthly subscription
- While it works with 3G, the brand recommends using 4G LTE for optimal experience
Get the Reolink 4G solar-powered security camera at Amazon.
Best for Smart Home
Ring Stick Up Cam Solar HD Security Camera
The Ring solar-powered security camera is made with a two-way audio system and is compatible with Amazon Alexa, allowing users to integrate their home security with the rest of their smart-home devices. It includes the ability to control the camera through voice commands and view a live feed from the camera through compatible devices like Echo Show. It’s also designed to resist rain, sleet, and snow with an IP65 weatherproof rating.
The solar-powered security camera comes with several privacy features that offer the option to customize privacy zones so the camera isn’t picking up audio from the next door neighbors. Video is recorded in 1,080p resolution, and it can be viewed, shared, or simply stored for up to 60 days with the Ring Protect Plan at an additional monthly cost.
Product Specs
- Battery capacity: 6,400mAh
- Resolution: 1,080p
- Ease of installation: Easy
Pros
- Has advanced motion detection with customizable zones and adjustable sensitivity
- Integrates with a wide range of Ring’s other smart-home security products
- Has IP65 protection rating and an operating range of -5 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit
Cons
- Storage of video under the Ring Protect Plan is at extra cost
Get the Ring Stick Up Cam solar-powered security camera at Ring.
Best Bullet
ieGeek 2K 3MP Wire-Free Battery Camera
The ieGeek solar-powered security camera comes with a sleek bullet-style design and features a separate solar panel and dual antennas that enhance the Wi-Fi signal reception. This security camera has an impressive visual range, capable of tracking and recording motion up to 65 feet away, even at night, using the built-in infrared night-vision mode.
The camera is designed with a wide 130-degree field of view, which partly makes up for the fixed positioning of bullet-style cameras. It also features 2K resolution and PIR motion detection that uses algorithms to improve human recognition. When real-time alerts are received via the CloudEdge app, the user can communicate with the individual at the device through the two-way audio system, helping deter vandals and burglars or communicate with package delivery personnel.
Product Specs
- Battery capacity: 15,000mAh
- Resolution: 2K
- Ease of installation: Easy
Pros
- Impressive color night vision has a range of up to 65 feet
- PIR will spotlight intruder, sound alarm, and instantly alert the user via smartphone
- 2K resolution with 130-degree angle view with 4 infrared radiation lights offer clear view of area around camera
- 360-degree adjustable solar panel with 15,000mAh battery offers dependable long life
Cons
- Does not provide 24/7 monitoring; only motion-activated recording
Get the ieGeek solar-powered security camera at Amazon.
Best Dome
Soliom S600 Home Solar Wireless Security Camera
The dome-style solar-powered security camera comes with the option to store video and audio data internally on an SD card (not included) or to save the data directly to online cloud storage. It features a versatile design that can capture video and audio from almost any direction due to the movement of the camera head.
The camera has PIR motion-detection technology that is made to automatically move the camera head within a 320-degree horizontal rotation and 90-degree vertical tilt, ensuring that the 120-degree field of view captures relevant images to be reviewed immediately or stored for later viewing.
The camera has a motion-activated spotlight and built-in night vision with a visual range of 32 feet in dim lighting. It records the video data in 1,080p resolution, so it’s easy to see who has visited the home, and users can even communicate directly in real time through the two-way audio system and Soliom+ app, which is free to use.
Product Specs
- Battery capacity: 9,000mAh (can add 3 batteries to solar panel)
- Resolution: 1,080p
- Ease of installation: Easy
Pros
- The dome design offers panoramic capture of both video and audio
- 320-degree horizontal rotation, 90-degree vertical tilt, and 120-degree field of view
- Zinc-alloy cover and bracket offer better durability than many plastic rivals
Cons
- Some users report difficulty connecting to Wi-Fi
Get the Soliom solar-powered security camera at Amazon.
Best 4G
Ebitcam 4G LTE Cellular Security Camera
Many solar-powered security systems rely on Wi-Fi, but in remote locations or those without an electricity supply, this often isn’t available. Ebitcam’s 4G LTE cellular security camera is an effective solution. Using the 4G mobile network, it can provide day and night video from virtually anywhere. The powerful 5-watt solar panel needs just 2 or 3 hours of sunlight per day, and there’s a high-capacity 10,400mAh backup battery if the weather is particularly bad. The IP65-rated case protects it from harsh conditions.
Field of view is excellent, with 360-degree rotation, 105-degree wide-angle capture, and 4x digital zoom. The advanced PIR motion detector has a low false-alarm rate and provides auto alerts. Unusually, a 32G microSD card is included for video recording. The Ebitcam comes with a SIM card, 300mb of free data, and will automatically connect to AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon, thus providing coverage of around 99 percent of the U.S. land mass. There are no fees for the card, though a data plan will be required for ongoing service.
Product Specs
- Battery capacity: 10,400mAh
- Resolution: 2K
- Ease of installation: Easy
Pros
- Powerful 5-watt solar panel and high-capacity backup battery ensure consistent performance
- Enhanced field of view with 360-degree pan and 100-degree tilt
- Includes SIM, 300mb free data, and connects automatically to AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon
Cons
- A few owners have reported breakdowns
Get the Ebitcam solar-powered security camera at Amazon.
Without Wi-Fi
Xega 4G LTE Cellular Security Camera
No Wi-Fi? It’s no problem with the Xega 4G LTE cellular security camera. Thanks to a powerful 5-watt solar panel, it doesn’t need electricity either. Even if the weather is bad, the high-capacity 14,400mAh backup battery can run the device for up to a year between charges. This makes it an ideal solution not just for areas where Wi-Fi is unreliable, but also for remote buildings and jobsites. With an IP66 rating, it will also stand up to rain, wind, and snow.
The Xega has a 2K camera that gives excellent day and night videos with 355-degree rotation, 95-degree tilt, and a range of up to 65 feet. There is motion sensing that can differentiate between animals and people, and it will automatically track movement and send an alert via smartphone. This also allows two-way conversation. An array of spotlights and LEDs can illuminate the darkest areas. In combination with an ear-piercing siren, these all provide excellent intruder deterrents.
The free SIM included is compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon cellular networks, though a data plan will be needed for ongoing service. Recordings can be stored in the cloud or on flash cards of up to 128GB, though as is common, these are both extra.
Product Specs
- Battery capacity: 14,400mAh
- Resolution: 2K
- Ease of installation: Easy
Pros
- No Wi-Fi, no problem—the 4G cellular network covers 99 percent of the U.S. land mass
- Spotlights provide color night vision up to 20 meters (65 feet)
- People-only motion detection dramatically reduces false alarms from animals, tree branches, etc.
Cons
- A number of users have had issues connecting to the AT&T network
Get the Xega solar-powered security camera at Amazon.
Best with DVR
Eufy S330 (EufyCam 3) Security Camera
All of the solar-powered security cameras we looked at have some kind of digital video recording (DVR), but none have the capabilities of the Eufy S330. The camera has a resolution of 4K (3,840p x 2,160p). It also has 8x zoom so it can capture exceptional detail. Video quality is good enough to offer BionicMind facial recognition, with AI that can learn to differentiate between friends and strangers.
Images captured can be recorded to a local hard drive or the cloud. The included drive is a useful 16GB, but for those who need extended capacities, up to 16TB can be provided. Although extra cost is involved, it is then possible to make thousands of hours of recordings.
The Eufy S330 has IP67 weather protection that will withstand the harshest environments and a built-in solar panel that makes it a breeze to install. It comes as a two-, three-, or four-camera kit, giving the opportunity to provide security cover over extensive areas. However, there is no single camera option, so the initial investment is considerable.
Product Specs
- Battery capacity: 5,200mAh
- Resolution: 4K
- Ease of installation: Very easy
Pros
- Outstanding detail from 4K video; 8x zoom enables BionicMind facial recognition
- Comes with 16GB of storage free, expandable to 16TB (extra drive required)
- Built-in solar panel simplifies installation and backup battery lasts 12 months per charge
Cons
- Surprisingly, there is no single camera option, making this a considerable investment
Get the Eufy solar-powered security camera at Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Solar-Powered Security Camera
When searching for a solar-powered security camera to go with a home security system, driveway alarm, or smart lock, it’s crucial to consider several factors, including the capacity of the solar panel, how data is transmitted from the security camera, and the image resolution.
Solar Panel Capacity
The capacity of the solar panel refers to the quantity of energy the unit is able to gather and send to the internal backup battery to store. Some solar panels can be less or more efficient, but the average solar-powered outdoor camera will have one or two solar panels that operate for between 6 and 8 hours a day in order to store enough energy to fill the battery capacity.
The storage capacity of an internal battery of a solar-powered security camera is measured in mAh, and these rechargeable batteries can vary in size depending on the number of features the camera needs to power, like two-way audio, Wi-Fi connections, and night vision.
However, it takes an average of 6 to 8 hours for a rechargeable battery on one of these cameras to charge fully. They can operate for anywhere between 1 week to more than 3 months without additional charging. Keep in mind that most cameras with solar power are actively recording only when the motion detector is triggered or when the user connects to the camera.
Data Transmission
Solar-powered security cameras can come equipped with internal memory cards that store recorded audio and video images. These SD cards are then uploaded to a computer for easy viewing. However, wireless solar security cameras compatible with Wi-Fi have quickly become a standard feature among security cameras, allowing the user to view and manage the data through a computer, tablet, or mobile device.
Data can also be transmitted through a 4G or 5G network in areas where Wi-Fi isn’t readily available or if it isn’t reliable. These security cameras feature the same 4G or 5G service that a smartphone or tablet can use when they cannot connect to Wi-Fi. Just keep in mind that this service will likely come at an additional cost through a local and compatible wireless carrier.
Image Resolution
When reviewing video footage of a home provided by a solar-powered security camera, it’s important that the quality of the picture is crisp and clear so it’s easy to make out distinguishing characteristics in the case of a break-in, vandalism, or theft.
To help ensure that individuals outside the home can be identified, it’s a good idea to invest in a security camera with between 780p and 1,080p resolution. There are units with even higher resolution, like 4K, but this isn’t necessary for most users.
- 780p resolution is usually seen in lower-end products that may prioritize price over image quality, but these cameras are still considered acceptable for obtaining relatively clear images.
- 1,080p is the standard for most solar-powered security cameras. This allows them to capture and transmit video in high definition, making it much easier to determine characteristics such as height or eye color, if necessary.
- 2K or QHD (2560p x 1440p) offers a resolution of 2560p for the width and 1440p for the height. It provides more definition than 1,080p but less than 4K. Many newer gaming consoles and smartphones use QHD.
Design and Weatherproof Rating
Solar-powered security cameras can roughly be sorted into two common categories based on their shape and design, including bullet and dome.
- Bullet security cameras have a tubular shape and a wide field of vision with a fixed view that can be adjusted manually or by remote control. These cameras are commonly used at a front or back entrance, and they will often include motion-sensing and night-vision capabilities.
- Dome security cameras generally have a smaller field of vision, but they also operate on a near-360-degree rotation that gives them almost complete coverage. This makes them a great option for commercial and industrial settings. Sometimes they are also used in residential settings, though dome cameras designed for home use are typically less robust than those made for commercial and industrial applications.
Buyers also look for a waterproof rating so they know the camera will work outdoors. This rating is provided in the format of IPXX, where IP stands for ingress protection. The first X is representative of the debris resistance, ranging from large solid objects, like a leaf, to minute solid objects, like dust and sand.
The second X represents the waterproof rating, which ranges from not water-resistant to being able to be submerged in several feet of water for extended periods of time with no ill effects. Ideally, a solar outdoor camera should have a rating of at least IPX5, giving owners confidence that the camera won’t shut down in light rain. For protection during a rainstorm, look for a camera with an IPX6 rating.
Compatibility and Features
Before choosing a really great solar-powered security camera, it’s important to determine whether it’s compatible with the existing Wi-Fi, smart home, or 4G or 5G service provider. For most products, this information can be found in the product specs, or it may be provided directly from the seller or manufacturer.
Keep in mind that most products will work with any type of Wi-Fi. However, the ability to connect directly through a built-in 4G network and the capability to integrate with a smart home are less common features. It’s important to check the specifications so buyers will be certain that the security camera will function as expected.
Other popular features for solar-powered security cameras include two-way talk, which allows communication via a built-in microphone, and speakers on the camera so a conversation with someone on the porch can happen even when they are away from home.
Some shoppers also look for products with motion-detection and night-vision capabilities so that the home is safe and secure throughout the night. PIR motion detection is an advanced feature that uses computer algorithms to determine whether the object detected is human. If the object is not human, then the motion-detection system doesn’t send an alarm.
Installation
The installation process varies among products but, typically, installing a solar-powered security camera is relatively easy. These cameras don’t require a wired connection to any systems inside the home. Instead, they can be mounted on a brick wall, siding, or even the roof.
One key consideration is to make sure that the solar panel is placed in a location that receives sunlight every day. The more sunlight the solar panels receive, the more effective they will be at absorbing the sunlight and then recharging the internal battery.
Some products have a separate solar panel and solar-powered security camera so that these two devices can both be placed in ideal locations for their individual purposes. However, other products have one or more solar panels built into the security camera, so they require a place that will be able to absorb sunlight and keep an eye on the home.
FAQs
If you have a few more questions about how solar-powered security cameras function, how long they last, and how to install them, then continue reading. Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about solar-powered security cameras.
Q. Can security cameras work without electricity?
Solar-powered security cameras are designed to work by absorbing energy from direct and ambient sunlight. If the camera were placed in a completely dark room, then it would continue working in night-vision mode for as long as the internal battery held a charge. After this point, the camera would no longer function until it was recharged.
Q. How do you install a solar camera?
Typically, a solar camera will require the camera and the solar panel to be mounted on a wall, post, or even the roof. The solar panel should be placed in the best available position to absorb sunlight, while the camera needs to be placed in the best location for keeping an eye on the house.
Mount it near the side door, front door, back door, windows, garage, or anywhere else you need coverage. Regardless of the product, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for placement and installation to help keep your home safe.
Q. How long do solar-powered security camera batteries last?
The rechargeable batteries in solar-powered security cameras often can last from 1 to 3 years before they need to be replaced, ensuring ongoing home security.
Q. Do solar-powered security cameras need to be installed in direct sunlight?
It’s always a good idea to place a solar panel in the location with the best sunlight, but it isn’t necessary for the security camera to work. A solar-powered security camera can still gather energy from ambient sunlight if it isn’t under direct sunlight.
Q. Do solar-powered security cameras work in the winter?
Solar-powered security cameras work in the winter, though they may gather less energy from the sun because the days are shorter. Outdoor security cameras make up for this energy shortage by limiting electrical output to motion sensors that trigger the camera, so the camera is not always on.
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