Top Solar Security Camera Reviews
Most solar-powered security cameras have a built-in panel to convert sunlight into power. This energy can run the camera and recharge its battery during gray sunless days.
Many also come with remote access and a two-year warranty. They can detect motion and send prompt alerts to your smartphone or tablet.
1. Ring Stick-Up Cam
Like Ring’s sleek video doorbells, this minimalist camera is designed for simplicity and ease of use. While it doesn’t have as many bells and whistles as more sophisticated options, it offers solid 1080p HD quality, decent infra-red night vision, a two-way talk feature and free cloud recording (plus paid storage).
The camera has several power options: It can plug into a wall outlet or run on battery power. There’s also a model that bundles the battery-powered cam with an optional solar panel accessory. And if you have other Ring devices, the cameras can be linked to automate functions across your home.
I tested the battery-powered version of the camera and found it to be reliable. It’s rated to last months on a charge and has a quick-release switch wireless cctv camera outdoor solar that lets you swap batteries. It also includes a barrel-style power connector that’s compatible with the optional solar panel, as well as a mountable foot/wall base.
The standout feature of the camera is Bird’s Eye View, which uses radar to track a person’s path around your property and display it on a picture-in-picture window in the app. Other useful features include motion detection zones and privacy zones, which let you specify the areas that trigger an alert or disable movement monitoring. You can also set up automations between the camera and other Ring devices, such as a push notification when your doorbell rings.
2. Reolink Argus 3 Pro
Unlike the pricier models in Reolink’s line, this camera doesn’t require power over Ethernet (PoE). Instead it uses a rechargeable battery and solar panel to provide energy for recording video and illuminating your space during nighttime.
Setup is quick and easy. The Reolink app guides you through the process, and a QR code scan establishes a wireless connection. A Micro USB port on the bottom of the camera accepts a compatible microSD card for additional local storage. Two-way audio lets you communicate with anyone you spot, and a siren will scare away intruders. The fixed lens has a 122o diagonal field of view and offers excellent video quality at 1440p. Six IR LEDs provide up to 33′ of night vision, and the camera can record full color video.
Smart person and vehicle detection combines traditional motion sensors with on-camera image recognition to filter out trivial movements and reduce false alarms. You can customize the detection zone, sensitivity, object size, and PIR schedule via Reolink App/Client.
Argus 3 Pro is a great choice for keeping an eye on kids, pets, package deliveries, and more. The bundled remote is helpful for monitoring activity from your bed or sofa, and the built-in microphone makes it easier to talk back to any intruders you detect. It doesn’t have a removable battery, so you’ll need to purchase a $35 Reolink solar panel for outdoor use, but this is an inexpensive addition to the overall cost of the camera.
3. Eufy SoloCam S40
Battery-powered smart security cameras are great, but you need to remember to charge them, and this often isn’t the easiest thing to do. Solar panels like those sold by Ring, Arlo and other brands negate this issue but add to the cost and require additional hardware to set up. Eufy’s SoloCam S40 solves this by integrating its own solar panel into the camera itself, and it has plenty of smart detection options too.
The camera can detect motion and trigger a bright flash and two powerful spotlights to illuminate anything or anyone that enters its field of view. You can also set up custom detection zones that will trigger the camera to record and send you notifications only when certain events occur.
At night, the camera can switch between black and white or color mode to capture more detail. Recorded clips are stored on the camera’s internal 8GB of storage, which Eufy says will keep it topped up for two months (although this depends on how often it is triggered).
You can stream footage directly to your phone or smart TV via a simple app, and you can connect the camera to Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to control its features using voice commands. The included 2.4GHz Wi-Fi router lets you top solar security camera set up a private network to share the video feed and recordings with other family members, and a second camera can be added for a full home or office setup. Unlike many other cameras, there are no monthly fees with the SoloCam S40, so this is an excellent value for hassle-free outdoor monitoring.
4. Reolink 4K Solar+Pan & Tilt
A combination of high-resolution power and solar energy, the Reolink 4K solar+Pan & Tilt series brings peace of mind to any property. With a wide viewing angle and powerful spotlights, they allow you to monitor areas in detail, even in low-light conditions. Plus, the rechargeable battery and solar power compatibility make them perfect for places where running cables is challenging.
4K 8MP Ultra HD – Capture stunning details in every frame; 5GHz/2.4GHz WiFi – Enjoy a more stable and blazing-fast network connection
With a 355-degree pan and 140-degree tilt, this security camera can capture an area of up to 1,500 square feet. It also includes advanced night vision capabilities that work all day and night. It uses passive infrared technology to detect movements, triggering an alert when it spots something unusual.
You can customize motion schedules and sensitivity via the free Reolink App or client to avoid getting unnecessary alarms. The built-in spotlights enhance the color night vision, allowing you to monitor your surroundings at any time, day or night.
With the ability to connect with your mobile devices, you can receive notifications in real-time whenever movement is detected. This security camera can be mounted anywhere, giving you complete control over your property. It also features smart detection algorithms to monitor the shapes of people and vehicles, ensuring your safety.