According to an article on the effectiveness of security cameras posted on the journalist’s resource, surveillance cameras have been linked to reducing crime and public safety, even when used around the home. Despite standard security cameras being effective in catching intruders, they can be expensive to maintain; therefore, people opt for solar-powered cameras as they are both effective and economical.
Solar-powered wireless security cameras convert solar energy to electrical energy using their small solar panels. They convert sunlight to electricity which then charges their in-built rechargeable batteries. The camera has in-built integrated inverters that convert direct current power from the solar panels into alternate current to provide power when there’s direct sunlight. In case of limited direct sunlight or at nighttime, the power stored in the rechargeable batteries keeps the camera running at all times.
They are also wireless, meaning they connect to your home via Wi-Fi instead of data cables. According to an article published in The National Library of Medicine, solar energy is the best alternative energy source since it reduces the ecological footprint compared to fossil fuel. Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy. It is also a cheaper alternative to electricity.
Forbes Home lists the most important features to consider when buying a solar-powered camera, which include; resolution, zoom capabilities, field of view, and others.
We tested ten solar-powered cameras, assessing their pros, cons, and quality of the features mentioned above to determine which had the highest quality feature to serve a specific need. These are our findings:
Best For High Definition Images: Arlo Essential Wireless Security Camera
What we liked
✓ It provides a 25-feet full-color night vision.
✓ It has excellent zooming quality
✓ It has affordable subscription rates
What we didn’t like
✘ The solar panel has to be bought separately
This solar wireless security camera from Arlo is a leader in providing high-definition images, contributed by its resolution of 1080p. With such high resolution and the color night vision feature, this camera provides clear and vivid images, even at night.
Since this is a solar-powered camera, it is bought with the Arlo solar panel, which is connected to the camera. The solar panels receive sun exposure, ensuring your camera battery will remain charged. This will save you from the hassle of taking it down constantly to recharge it.
One of the things we disliked while testing was that the solar panel had to be bought separately. This would translate to an extra cost in addition to the camera itself.
Best For Limited space: Ring Stick Up Cam Solar
What we liked
✓ It easily mounts everywhere due to its compact design
✓ The solar panel is included
✓ It comes with a lifetime purchase protection
✓ Affordable subscription rates
What we didn’t like
✘ It has limited third-party compatibility.
We chose this camera not only because it has an average 4.7 Amazon customer rating but also because of the ease with which you could move and mount it in various parts of the household. Its compact design and light weightiness ensure mounting will be a breeze and will take up little space.
The solar panel has a small device that can be mounted outdoors and connected to the camera using a micro-USB cable. The panel only needs a few hours of sunlight daily to keep your camera fully charged. Unfortunately, it has limited third-party compatibility.
Best zoom capabilities: Reolink Argus 3 Pro
What we liked
✓ It has a 16x zoom
✓ It has a long warranty
✓ It has a free cloud option available
What we didn’t like
✘ The solar panel is sold separately
This solar-powered wireless security camera made it to our list of the best because of its incredible zoom capabilities. It boasts 16x zoom, allowing you to observe people or things in great detail. It also has a free basic cloud plan with plenty of amazing features and is compatible with Google Assistance and Amazon Alexa.
We liked that the camera and solar panel came with a manual. The manufacturers clearly stated that the solar panel requires direct sunlight exposure and cannot convert power from moonlight at night or LED lights. It also comes with a two-year warranty and the ability to get a refund or replacement if defective.
On the downside, the solar panel is sold separately from the camera, which adds to the cost.
Best field of view: TWUFY Outdoor security cameras with pan 355° Tilt 120°
What we liked
✓ It has a 360° all-round view.
✓ Its direction can be controlled via a phone app known as CloudEdge
✓ The solar panel is included when you purchase
✓ It has a 15000m Ah rechargeable battery which supports 365 days of uninterrupted use.
✓ It has a built-in microphone and speaker that enables two-way audio
What we didn’t like
✘ It only supports Wi-Fi connection and no other wired network connection
✘ It does not support 24/7 recording, except motion detection recording.
This solar-powered security camera is sure to secure your home from all angles, literally. We liked its ability to rotate completely to give a 360° all-around view without lag. This feature can be easily operated using the mobile app, CloudEdge, wherever you may be.
The solar panel is also included with your purchase and simply connects to the camera via a USB cable. This keeps it powered as long as it stays exposed to direct sunlight. It also comes with a 15000m Ah rechargeable battery in addition to solar panels. This would ensure you have 24/7, 365 days of uninterrupted surveillance, even in seasons whereby direct sunlight is scarce.
It also has an in-built high-quality microphone and speaker, enabling two-way audio, allowing you to make real-time calls and even scare off intruders.
The only downside to this camera is that despite its incredible field of view, you can only record footage when it is in motion detection mode.
Best for two-way Audio: Sehmua Wireless Security Camera
What we liked
✓ It has real-time two-way audio
✓ IP65 weatherproof, so it can withstand all kinds of seasons
✓ Long-lasting battery life
✓ Has color night vision
What we didn’t like
✘ Poor quality of raw materials used in the manufacture
This security camera is suitable for those who want to see and hear what the camera captures and communicates to the people under view. We chose this camera in particular because it captures two-way audio in real-time.
This camera has a 360° adjustable solar panel purchased separately and easily connected to the camera via a USB cable. The power obtained from the solar panel ensures that the camera is fully charged and operating at all times, ensuring 24/7 security and uninterrupted surveillance.
It is also made of weatherproof material, ensuring that it will stay running and in tip-top condition all year round. It also has a long-lasting battery life and color night vision. So even at night, it will still be running. The only downside is that it is made with poor-quality materials.
What to look out for in solar-powered wireless security camera systems
Cost
Ensure that the camera of your choice is within your budget in terms of purchase and maintenance.
Night vision
Ensure your camera can capture clear, colored images for extra safety at night.
Field of view
You should choose a camera that captures your desired field of view, whether your entire compound or a tiny section.
Resolution
It is best to choose a camera that will give you sharp and clear images so that you can use captured footage in case of anything.
Compact Design
You should choose a camera with a design that’s easy to install and mount and does not take up too much space.
FAQs
What is the best solar-powered wireless security camera?
This depends on your individual needs and priorities. The one that has the features you need most is best for you.
Do all solar-powered cameras need Wi-Fi?
Yes, they do. They are connected to your home via a Wi-Fi connection. They need to stay connected to keep recording, enable to retrieve footage, and access certain features.
How do you install a solar-powered camera?
First, choose a strategic area in your home to place the solar panel and camera. The solar panel should be placed in an area that receives direct sunlight. The camera should be placed a few feet above entryways, such as the front and back doors. The solar panel and camera should be near each other, as they are usually connected via a USB cable.
The manufacturer usually includes instruction manuals and materials, such as screws and bolts, that will guide you on mounting the camera and solar panel. You will then connect the camera to your Wi-Fi and download any software needed, such as the app that will connect the security camera to your phone’s camera, which allows you to survey your home through your phone.
Can all solar-powered cameras access smart features?
Most of them can. It would be inconvenient if they could not since most people own smartphones.
What will happen if there is a prolonged period of no/limited sunlight?
Solar panels can absorb sunlight to keep the camera running, even if it’s out for a few hours or the sun is less intense than usual. The excess power is stored in rechargeable batteries which work as a backup energy store.
How long do solar-powered camera batteries last before needing replacement?
Most of them can last for up to 2-3 years.
Do solar-powered cameras consume electricity?
No, they do not. They get their energy from sunlight, which the solar panels convert to power stored in rechargeable batteries.
What is the main factor I should consider when purchasing a solar-powered camera?
This solely depends on you and your needs. The main factor you should consider is the one you need the most, whether it’s high resolution, large field of view, or fair cost.
Do I need professional help to install my solar-powered camera?
No, you do not. Most cameras have a simple and compact design that’s easy to handle. They also come with an easy-to-understand instruction manual. Also, the manufacturer will indicate their contact information; therefore, you can reach out for help via phone or e-mail.
What are the best solar-powered wireless security cameras?
According to this guide, the brands mentioned are the best in the market. They include Arlo, TWUFY, Ring, and Sehmua.
