While you're enjoying a relaxing vacation or on a business trip miles away from home, it’s crucial to ensure the security of your house and keep an eye on potential intruders. A security camera becomes a must-have in such scenarios. As security technology continues to advance, the emergence of solar powered security cameras has revolutionized the industry. Relied on solar energy, these cameras offer a reliable and eco-friendly solution for remote surveillance in modern life.
In this comprehensive buying guide, from solar power capabilities to camera performance, we will provide you with necessary insights to help you select the best solar powered security camera for your specific needs. Additionally, we will introduce five highly rated types of solar security cameras. Let’s get started!
Why Do You Need a Solar Powered Security Camera?
As its name implies, a solar powered security camera harnesses sunlight through solar panels and converts it into electrical energy. The energy is stored in a high-capacity rechargeable battery, powering the camera and its functions. Here are the reasons to consider these off-grid security cameras:
- Independent Operation with Solar Power
The camera operates solely on solar energy without requiring any electricity. Its built-in battery stores enough energy to ensure uninterrupted operation.
- Environmentally Friendly
Utilizing solar energy reduces reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a lower carbon footprint and promoting sustainability.
- High Flexibility
Solar security cameras provide unparalleled flexibility as they can be placed anywhere, making them ideal for monitoring remote areas with limited access to power sources, such as farms and construction sites.
- Easy installation and Low Maintenance
These off-grid security cameras require no wires or cables, simplifying the installation process. With minimal battery replacement needs, they also reduce maintenance costs.
How to Choose a Solar Security Camera: Features to Consider
To select the best solar powered security camera, it is crucial to consider a range of features to ensure optimal performance and meet specific security requirements.
Solar Power Capability
The camera should have solar panels and batteries of great energy efficiency. For example, several hours of sunlight can keep the security camera running for days. This can ensure independent utilization of solar energy and continuous power supply to the camera.
Video Quality
Look for cameras that offer high-definition or even 4K resolution, so that you can have clear video footage and accurate identification for monitoring.
Remote Access
Choose a camera that supports remote access to monitor the live video feed and control camera settings remotely through mobiles.
Motion Detection and Alerts
Opt for cameras with reliable motion detection features. They can detect suspicious activities and send timely alerts to your phone when unexpected dangers arise.
H3: Storage Option
Check if the camera offers local storage options like SD card slots or cloud storage. This allows you to backup video footage for later review.
5 Best Solar Powered Security Cameras
Considering the features mentioned above, we will recommend the top five solar powered security cameras, providing details on pricing, pros, and cons for each.
eufy 4G Camera S230 Security Camera
eufy 4G S230 LTE Starlight Security Camera is a highly recommended off-grid security camera designed specifically for outdoor use in areas with limited Wi-Fi connectivity. What sets it apart is that it uses a reliable 4G LTE network connection, ensuring seamless remote access and monitoring capabilities. It is also equipped with a starlight color sensor that enables exceptional low-light detection for enhanced visibility.
The large-capacity battery enables this camera to operate for 3 months on its own, and once installed with a solar panel charger (sold separately), it can provide power forever.
Price: $169.99
Pros:
- Connects through 4G LTE network, no WiFi required.
- Remains protected from water and temperature extremes with an IP67 rating.
- Ensures 2K color precision 24 hours a day with the Starlight Sensor.
- A 120° field of view to see more of your surroundings.
- Built-in AI, GPS, and 2-way audio help identify problems and handle them more smartly.
- Gets cloud-free remote access with built-in 8 GB eMMC.
- No monthly fees.
Cons:
- It requires buying a separate solar panel charger for solar power capability (while many solar security cameras come with one as standard).
eufy S220 SoloCam
eufy S220 SoloCam is a compact yet powerful solar operated security camera. It requires only 3 hours of sunlight per day to operate. Its easy installation process and high-definition video recording capabilities also make it a practical choice. Even better, its advanced features such as exceptional night vision, two-way audio communication, AI detection, etc. contribute to reliable and efficient security surveillance.
Price: $129.99
Pros:
- Easy installation with its tiny size and wire-free design.
- Holds up in any weather with an IP67 rating.
- Infrared LEDs and an f/1.6 aperture to offer day and night clarity.
- An impressive 135° field of view to see wider.
- Smart AI can detect and alert you to any strangers.
- No monthly fees or hidden costs for maintenance.
- Built-in solar panel, no additional purchase necessary.
Cons:
- No pan and tilt feature may result in camera blind spots.
Reolink Argus 3 Pro
Reolink Argus 3 Pro is a wireless solar-powered security camera that can capture 2K video day and night. Equipped with a built-in spotlight, siren and two-way audio, it acts as a reliable deterrent against intruders while informing you of any detected activity. Features like intelligent detection, solar panel integration, easy installation and more make it a great choice for your home security.
Price: $149.99
Pros:
- Features dual-band WiFi to have stable connectivity.
- 2K resolution and a 122° viewing angle.
- Up to 128GB local storage.
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant to allow voice control.
- Smart detection with snapshots and instant alerts with siren, spotlights, recording.
Cons:
- Lacks support for HomeKit or IFTTT.
Ring Stick Up Cam Solar
Ring Stick Up Cam Solar is a versatile outdoor security camera powered by solar energy. It can record 1080p HD video for monitoring and offer you motion-activated notifications. Its adjustable motion sensor allows for customizable sensitivity, ensuring that you receive important alerts. With two-way audio feature, you can communicate remotely with anyone near the camera.
Price: $139.98
Pros:
- 1080p HD video quality to guarantee clarity.
- Works with Amazon Alexa voice assistant.
- Customizable alerts and motion zones to find the ideal setting.
- Allow connecting to all your Ring devices in the app.
Cons:
- Cloud storage requires a monthly subscription fee, and local storage is not supported.
Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera
Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera is another feature-packed, off-grid security camera that connects directly to Wi-Fi and delivers 2K HDR video. Similar to the cameras above, it also has smart features like a built-in spotlight, color night vision, two-way audio, and a rechargeable battery. The comparatively wider 160° viewing angle can ensure that it can monitor larger spaces. This camera is also not solar powered on its own, but it can be charged with the Arlo Solar Panel accessory for endless power if you purchase them together.
Price: $139.99
Pros:
- High-quality 2K video with HDR.
- A wide 160 viewing angle.
- Weather-resistant design for year-round security.
- Easy to install and charge.
- Seamless integration with other Arlo devices for a complete security system.
Cons:
- Requires a solar panel charger (sells separately) for solar power capability.
- Requires a monthly subscription fee for features like cloud storage and advanced object detection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best solar powered security camera is crucial for reliable and sustainable outdoor surveillance. Following this article, you can learn about the important features that you should consider and choose an optimal one from our best recommendations. By investing in the best off grid security camera, you can enjoy peace of mind while protecting the environment.
