The Best Solar-Powered Security Cameras – Electricity-free And Easy Installation
Are you looking for the best solar security camera? While regular security cameras require traditional electricity, you won’t have that issue with a solar security camera as it’s wireless and comes with a built-in rechargeable battery and solar panel. In terms of functionality, it works in the same way as any other security camera, but the only difference is the power source.
Solar security cameras have components that help gather light energy from the sun. After that, it converts this energy into a form of DC power that gets stored in the system’s batteries. The stored battery allows the camera to operate throughout the day, even in the evening.
If you’re thinking of purchasing a solar security camera but are not sure where to start, we’re here to help! Below, we’ve put together a comprehensive overview of the benefits of solar security cameras and how to go about choosing one. We’ve also curated a list of 7 of the best solar security cameras to get you started.
Benefits of Solar Security Cameras
A great benefit of solar security cameras is their flexibility of placement. Since these cameras don’t require AC electricity to run, you can install them anywhere around your home and won’t have to worry about plugging in the device. Some individuals also use it when they’re out camping or at a construction site, barn, or farm.
Another great thing is that you won’t have to worry about recording or streaming security videos as you can install a solar security camera even if you don’t have wireless internet. With solar security cameras, they can rely on your mobile provider’s network coverage, which means you can manage the security of your solar security camera wherever you have network coverage. Some cameras also already have a SIM card integrated into the design, so installation is a breeze.
While you may think that solar security cameras won’t work at night and only during the day, these cameras have rechargeable batteries that allow them to continue to work in the evening. Some even have starlight sensors and absorb light emitted by the stars to provide a full-color image of the surrounding area rather than the usual grayscale version that you’ll get.
With solar security cameras, you’re also doing your part for the environment as it has a very minimal carbon footprint. They don’t rely on electricity, and also don’t require infrastructure changes when being installed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy to install. Solar security cameras are straightforward to set up as they don’t require wires. You just need to find an area with adequate sunlight and place them there.
- Minimal maintenance. While you would need to replace the battery, you’d only have to do so every two to three years, and some solar security cameras can last five years or more.
- Still functions during power outages. Even if there is a power outage in your area, your solar security camera will still work because it runs on battery and not on electricity.
- Good for the environment. Since solar security cameras derive energy from the sun, you won’t burn fossil fuels, which reduces your environmental footprint.
Cons:
- Dependent on the sun. While there are many positives of getting solar security cameras, they’re still reliant on the sun, so it may not always be functioning at full capacity.
What to Look for in Solar Security Cameras
There are a few things to consider when it comes to solar security cameras. First, you’d want to take a look at the design of the camera. There are two common types of solar security cameras – bullet and dome. Bullet cameras usually have a tubular shape and come with a fixed view – though some varieties allow you to tilt the camera. Then, there are dome security cameras that are usually installed indoors. Dome cameras also have a wider viewing angle than bullet cameras.
You’ll also need to consider connectivity. There are two types – solar-powered security cameras and cellular networks.
- Solar-powered security cameras can still connect to the internet with the help of ethernet cables.
- In contrast, cellular network cameras use either 4G or 5G networks to record, capture, and stream security videos.
Another thing to consider is where you’ll be placing the camera. For example, with solar security cameras, you’ll most likely be using it for outdoor use as they’d need to be exposed to sunlight to collect energy. There are, however, solar security cameras that can be used indoors, these usually come with a separate solar panel that you can mount and power outdoors.
Then, you’ll also have to consider the features you’d like. Some solar security cameras may already come with smart features such as voice integration, video recording, and more. Another thing to think about is the battery characteristics. As solar security cameras rely on rechargeable batteries, it’s crucial to think about the battery lifespan. You wouldn’t want to purchase a camera that only lasts for several hours on a single charge.
Camera features are also vital as you want to make sure that you’re capturing sharp images. Some features to take a look at include night vision capabilities, motion detection, and image quality. Ideally, it would help if you also looked for a camera with both internet and mobile network capabilities.
Finally, it would be best if you considered a solar security camera that’s easy to install without requiring professional assistance, durable, and able to withstand various weather conditions. The camera should be made of durable ABS plastic housing and lightweight aluminum. Since most cameras are placed outdoors, they should also be waterproof and protected against dust and moisture.
Top 7 Best Solar Security Cameras
1. Outdoor Security Camera System Wireless
This solar security camera comes with plenty of fantastic features that make it a great addition to your home. It’s able to work with Google Assistant so you can easily see the live feed from the camera that records videos in 1080p full HD and a wide field of vision. It also comes with an eco-friendly solar panel and a rechargeable battery camera that can run 365 days a year.
Setup is easy, and you can place the camera anywhere you want. Other great features of this camera include a motion sensor that’s sensitive and instant app push notifications, email alerts, and even sound alarms when motion is detected. Videos from the past 7-days are also recorded to a cloud, and you can view them via the Reolink app. There’s also low-battery notification, multiple-account viewing, and two-way audio and live stream.
Pros:
- Works with Google Assistant
- Easy setup
- Comes with a sensitive motion sensor
- Free cloud storage for 7-days
Cons:
- There’s a bit of a delay with the video recording
2. SOLIOM Wireless Outdoor Solar Battery Security Camera
Another great solar-powered camera, this particular model contains a larger battery capacity, so you won’t need to keep charging it. The installation’s also simple as there’s no wiring required, and it comes with a 1080p HD daytime video recording along with an LED light that helps with enhancing night vision. The camera can capture high definition video – even in the evening with a maximum visible distance of around 33 to 49 feet.
There’s also a built-in sensor, and you’ll get an alert sent to your smartphone when motion is detected along with a video clip that’s saved into the SD card and cloud storage. In terms of durability, this camera is weatherproof, has two-way audio and live viewing, and an accurate motion detection system. Those that have purchased it have given it rave reviews and mentioned that the picture is clear, and the sensor works great. They also like how the app is user-friendly, and they receive notifications on their phone.
Pros:
- Larger battery capacity
- Captures high definition video
- Built-in sensor
- Weatherproof
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with great instructions
3. Reolink Outdoor Security Camera Wireless Rechargeable Battery
If you’re looking for a solar security camera that’ll work with your smart home, this is an excellent purchase. The camera works with Alexa and Google Assistant, and you can view live videos with a simple command. Installation is simple as there’s no need to plug into a power supply, and you’ll get all the instructions you need.
In terms of video quality, you’ll view videos in 1080p HD, and the camera has a starlight CMOS sensor along with infrared LEDs. With a 130-degree wide field of vision, you’ll be getting crystal clear videos and detailed images. Everything is recorded to a micro SD card that has 64GB of storage, and backup videos are uploaded onto a cloud. If need be, you can also playback videos through the app from your phone or computer. The camera is weatherproof, comes with two-way audio, and allows 10 family members or friends to view them together.
Pros:
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Installation is simple
- Great video quality
- Easily playback videos from your phone or computer
Cons:
- The motion-sensing doesn’t work great
4. SOLIOM S90 Wireless Security Camera Outdoor Solar Battery Powered
This solar security camera comes with three solar panels and a massive battery. It’s made from durable plastic material to withstand various weather conditions, and you’ll get everything you need upon your purchase from accessories to tools and instructions.
Other features that this camera has include an intelligent motion detection alert that’ll allow you to catch movements with fewer false alarms. You’ll also automatically get a signal to your home and a short video clip uploaded to the cloud and SD card. Upon your purchase, you can also download the app that’ll allow you to access live view at any time. There’s also a two-way audio feature along with clear day time video and night vision.
Pros:
- Comes with three solar panels
- Durable and weatherproof
- Intelligent motion detector
- Access live view from the app at any time
Cons:
- The motion detector is a little too sensitive and tends to detect something when nothing’s there
5. Solar Motion Sensor Light Outdoor – 800 Lumens
This solar security camera comes with adjustable angles so you can get a full range of lighting. It’s also easy to install and is made to withstand various temperatures. There are two separate working modes for this camera – it’ll turn on in the evening in weak light mode, and switches to the high light mode when it senses someone within a distance of 10 to 26 feet.
Those that purchased this camera mentioned that it was easy to install, and all they needed was a power drill and a ladder. They also said that it’s entirely water and weatherproof and helps illuminate dark spots in the evening. They also like how it’s a heavy-duty solar light even though it can take a while to charge fully.
Pros:
- Comes with adjustable angles
- Durable and weatherproof
- Comes with two separate working modes
- Heavy duty
Cons:
- Takes a while to charge fully
6. Outdoor Home Security System – 1080P WiFi Camera Surveillance
This waterproof solar security camera comes with 180 days of battery life and has motion detection technology that only detects humans – significantly reducing false alarms triggered by animals and passing cars. The sensors are also extremely sensitive, and you can pick your preferred recording duration from 20 seconds to 1 minute.
Other great features of this camera include delivering sharp images to your phone via the app, having a 360-degree noise-canceling microphone that’ll allow you to communicate with individuals. You can also share your camera with multiple individuals through the app, and installation is easy as it’s designed to fit in any space. Those that have purchased this camera mentioned that it comes with a sleek design that is constructed well, and remote viewing is very quick, and the cameras are clear.
Pros:
- 180 days of battery life
- You can choose your preferred recording duration
- Delivers sharp images to your phone
- Installation is easy
Cons:
- The camera would sometimes lose connection
7. WALI Solar Powered Bullet Dummy Fake Simulated Surveillance Security
Last on the list, you’ve got this inexpensive solar security camera made of high-quality, durable material. It has a compact design, is easy to install, and comes with an integrated solar panel along with batteries that act as a backup when there’s not enough sunlight. In terms of installation, you can easily install the camera onto a ceiling or wall with the screws that come with your purchase.
It’s not a real camera but is meant to improve home security by resembling a real camera with its activation light. It’s an excellent alternative for individuals that don’t want to purchase a real camera but want to deter criminals. Those that have purchased it mentioned that it does the job, looks realistic, and is durable. While the two AA batteries helios to power the red light, customers have suggested not to use that feature as real cameras don’t have a blinking red light.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Looks like a real camera
- Compact design
- Durable
Cons:
- Real cameras don’t have a red flashing light
The Bottom Line
A solar security camera is an excellent addition to your home as it’s a practical solution to keeping your home safe. It’s especially great for those that live in remote locations or areas where conventional security systems are either too expensive or not feasible.
Since these cameras also use power from the sun rather than a traditional electricity source, you’ll also be reducing the cost of your electricity bill. We hope that this comprehensive guide has helped you learn more about solar security cameras and allowed you to purchase one that suits your needs.