How We Test Solar
Home security cameras are tricky devices to test, because how good they are doesn’t just come down to how their numbers stack up against the competition’s. We do look for better resolution, wider field of view and the presence of features we consider must-haves in 2022, like two-way talk, night vision and options for cloud storage. Then we add in extra goodies, like smart notifications or a built-in siren or spotlight, and hold up that whole package against its retail price. If the features are really strong for the price, we’ll recommend a camera more highly.
But we also test out cameras carefully, making sure all the features work well. Smart notifications aren’t helpful if they arrive 20 seconds late a siren isn’t useful if it’s barely audible. Some cameras disconnect too often, and some apps are difficult to understand or navigate. This experiential side of things is where our recommendations become more personal and in many ways more useful. Anyone can line up the specs of different products, but we’re putting our hands on these cameras for a week or more to see how it actually feels to install and use them.
If you want to read more about our review process, check out our in-depth article on how we test home security cameras and video doorbells.
Buyers Guide: Key Factors To Consider When Choosing Solar Powered Security Cameras
While there are others, these are the seven best solar-powered wireless security cameras that can help you choose the perfect piece for your situation. While you might find some of the features similar, each camera has a setting that stands it out from the rest.
Anyhow, here are 5 crucial aspects you shouldnt miss if you want to get the most out of your solar wireless CCTV system.
Buying Guide For Solar
With security camera systems becoming more of a necessity in recent times, technology has kept pace with the demand for innovations. You no longer need DVR/NVR technology for playback SD cards and IP cameras allow you to access the video footage in a device of your choice.
The evolution of technology in the security surveillance scene is so fast-paced that it is hard to keep up with the latest choices available in the market. Here is a concise list of features that you should focus on when shopping for a solar-powered security camera.
Resolution: One of the most crucial aspects to consider in any camera, be it a mobile phone camera, a DSLR, or a CCTV. The resolution of a camera tells you the power of the digital sensor included in it. This is the factor that decides the sharpness of the image captured by the cameras sensor. A higher resolution translates to a better quality image and more details in the scene.
A point to remember here is that the higher the resolution, the larger the size of the footage and the more storage space required.
Field of View:
This is the area covered by the camera. When using cameras with a larger field of view, you will need fewer cameras to cover the area to be surveilled. As the present-day cameras come with wireless technology that allows wider angles and better movement, it is ideal for real-time monitoring. However, without active monitoring of the system, a larger field of view is more suitable for static surveillance.
Night vision:
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Best Outdoor Wireless Solar
In 2022, security cameras have become so commonplace that its taken for granted. What was considered a luxury a decade or two back has become a given something expected and counted on.
We expect every public place to be monitored by security cameras. Now the trend is spreading to the home surveillance scene as well. CCTV technology has come a long way since its humble origins during the second world war.
Security camera systems are so advanced nowadays that you can order one online and install them by yourself without the help of a professional. The new generation outdoor solar security cameras are powered by wireless technology making installation easier. And, you have the option to store the recording on an SD card or to the cloud and view them on any device from anywhere.
However, even with all these advances in technology, you would still need a power source to get the camera running. In case the power supply is unreliable or unreachable, your best choice is a solar-powered security camera. You can set up a solar-powered security camera system anywhere as long as it has access to enough sunlight.
Read on to learn more about solar-powered surveillance cameras and what to look for when choosing one for your needs. The buying guide here would help you understand its various aspects and make the right choice. This article also brings you the 5 best wireless solar-powered security camera outdoor systems along with their specifications and brief reviews.
How We Chose These Solar Powered Security Camera Systems As Our Top Options
Were looking at these cameras because we want security for our homes and remote locations. And I wasnt about to review and suggest just any cameras for you, any more than I would just buy the first option I found online when searching best solar powered security camera.
Lets be honest here a lot of the options are just something some guy is trying to push for profit because hes got a contract.
I want unbiased suggestions, and I know you do, too. So, I dug around for quite a while looking for as long a list as I could muster before doing my own investigation into the quality, reputation, and features of each.
After that digging, I had a list of about 25 cameras that are currently available, had great reviews, and high ratings from real users.
25 is way too many to realistically consider for anyone, so I looked at all the specifications, and the details of the consumer reviews.
I compared these things to my own understanding of solar power, security, and cameras, and then dropped any off the list that didnt meet my own standards.
I was left with a list of about ten at this point. This is a manageable list, so I checked into things myself and discovered which ones work well.
Youll find my Ring spotlight cam solar review and Reolink Go review below, along with a couple of runners-up and additional thoughts on this matter of solar powered wireless IP cameras.
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How Do I Install Security Cameras
Lorex security cameras and security systems are designed for DIY installation. The installation depends on the technology that the security camera or system uses. For example, we have two types of wired security camera systems: IP security systems and Analog security systems. Both require a cable from the security camera to a recorder. Wire-Free security cameras, as well as Wi-Fi security cameras do not require a hardwired connection to a recorder. Rather, they send their data wirelessly, either to a recorder, hub, or app. The difference is that Wire-Free cameras are battery-operated and do not need to be plugged in, while Wi-Fi cameras need to be plugged in or wired into the existing power connections, as is the case for Wi-Fi security doorbells and floodlight security cameras. To learn more on security camera installation, please visit our How to Install Security Cameras article.
Reolink Solar Powered Wifi Security Camera
The Reolink Argus PT is a powerful solar powered security camera that can rotate 140° vertically and 355° horizontally to cover all angles of your business or home. By installing just one Argus solar powered security camera, you can easily monitor your whole store or front porch.
Key features
Excellent night vision and 1080p high resolution
- This is the best solar powered wireless security camera that offers 1080p HD images and a 105°wide view angle. Built with infrared LEDs and powerful image sensors, it provides excellent night vision and can produce clear footage at 33feet even at pitch darkness.
IP65 weatherproof and solar-powered
- Argus PT security cameras are solar-powered and can provide surveillance protection during the daytime and at night. The camera can also withstand tough weather conditions as it comes with IP65 certification.
Enjoy remote access anytime anywhere
- You can use the Reolink software on your smartphone to view, download, and playback videos. This solar-powered wireless security camera system also enables you to manage all the cameras on your Reolink app, and you can share it with up to 10 people.
Works perfectly with Google Assistant
- You can access your wireless powered security camera through Google Assistant. With a simple voice command, you can get a live feed directly on your Chromecast-enabled TV or Google Nest Hub.
Free 1GB cloud storage
Digital motion sensor and 2-way audio
Technical Specifications:
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Reolink Argus Eco Solar Battery Powered Security Camera System
This solar-powered wireless security camera enables multiple-account viewing, and the reolink app can allow seamless sharing with up to 20 family members who can live view simultaneously.
Key features
Live stream and two-way audio
- With a pre-installed speaker and microphone, you can communicate with everyone who is near the device. Chat with your kids, elders, babysitters, and verbally warn any lurking intruders even before they get close to the front door.
Save recorded videos
- Micro SD card and Reolink cloud allow you to save recorded videos, and you can access them remotely anytime from your smartphone. You can easily download all recorded videos on your phone to ensure you dont miss any precious moment. This solar security camera has an intuitive interface that will help you locate a specific event in real-time.
Instant alerts and smart PIR sensor
- When the sensors detect any movement within your home, they will automatically send you push alerts and email notifications. You can use the personalized voice alert feature to scare away any unwanted intruder. The best thing is that you can activate and control the siren remotely from your smartphone.
Excellent night vision
- The solar-powered wireless security camera system offers crisp video recording even at pitch darkness. With great night vision that can reach 33 feet and CMOS sensor, the camera can produce clear images both during day time and at night.
Cloud storage
Hands-Free control
Remote access
How Much Electricity Can The Solar Panel For Security Cameras Produce
The amount of electricity a solar panel for solar security cameras can generate is determined by multiple factors, like the average sun exposure, weather conditions, tilt angle of the panel, etc.
To maximize the efficiency of your outdoor solar security cameras, place the solar panel towards true south or true north to get the most of the natural resources.
Also keep your panel for the solar-powered security cameras away from possible obstacles, such as the shade created by a nearby tree or bush.
And it also helps improve the performance of solar-charged security cameras by wiping the panel surface regularly with wet tissue or cloth to clean the dust or debris.
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Solar Security Cameras Allow For Flexible Locations
A solar-powered security camera requires no cables and power grid to work. So it can be used in various surveillance applications, such as remote sites or geographically challenging environments.
The typical sites where you can install a solar-powered surveillance camera include, but are not limited to your vacation houses, sheds, construction sites, vineyards, farms, barns, boats, warehouses, RVs, etc.
What Is Lorex Known For
Lorex has been a provider of security cameras and security camera systems for over 30 years and is one of the most trusted names in the consumer security industry. We are known worldwide for our top-quality DIY security products that are both reliable and user-friendly. Lorex products can be purchased in many retail stores and online, where we offer a vast array of individual products and security accessories, as well as pre-assembled security camera systems. Lorex has head offices in Markham, Ontario, Canada and in Linthicum, Maryland, USA. We also have product warehouses in Markham, Indiana and California.
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Soliom S60 Security Camera
- The app is difficult to use
- Cannot connect to Alexa/ Google Assistant
The SOLIOM S60 solar security camera is made from high-quality plastic, which enables us to withstand various weather conditions and elements. Moreover, the product is made much more durable with its IP66-rating.
It also comes in quite a unique and exciting design, with a solar panel wing. With this, the security camera is quite popular, especially for those who like unconventional designs.
What I like about the SOLIOM S60 security camera is that it boasts a long working time. With big solar panels and a built-in 4000mAH battery, this security camera continuously charges itself during the day time. As such, you wouldnt have to worry about it running out of battery.
Many users have reported that the device can work up to 10 hours and even more. It is quite a useful feature to have, especially when you live in areas with frequent power outages and blackouts.
The SOLIOM S60 security comes with a 2-way motion detection system to reduce any false alerts. With this, the security camera becomes more accurate and precise.
When it does find something, the SOLIOM S60 solar-powered WIFI security camera automatically sends a notification to your phone via the mobile app.
The SOLIOM S60 security camera also features 2-way audio that enables the user to speak and hear anyone near the camera. Many users liked this feature and regarded it as something handy to have in situations.
What Are Solar Powered Security Cameras
Solar security cameras, or solar panel security cameras, use the solar panel to get power and require no electric sources or cablings.
Normally, a self-sufficient wireless solar security camera system is sold in bundles, including a solar panel and a solar security camera with rechargeable batteries.
Or you can also buy a DIY solar powered security camera and use a solar panel to power your camera.
Taking Reolink Argus 3 Pro solar powered security camera, for example, it comes with a rechargeable battery and offers a customized Reolink solar panel for your options to get non-stop power.
One of the TOP benefits, is that you can install a solar security camera anywhere you wish. In rainy or foggy days, the WiFi solar security cameras can still work as normal sufficient sunlight is absolutely the best!
As more and more consumers like you resort to a green security solution, you may catch sight of the solar-powered security cameras scattering everywhere when you look up.
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Do Solar Powered Surveillance Cameras Need Lots Of Maintenance
In general, the solar-powered security cameras, including solar panels, require pretty low maintenance.
To maintain the optical performance of your solar security cameras, it is recommended to clean and inspect the solar panel about once every six months.
You can use purified water and a soft brush to clean the panel on your own. Or if you want a thorough cleaning, hire a professional solar panel cleaner. And the average cost of having your panels cleaned ranges from $10 $20 per panel.
How Does It Work
The way a solar powered security camera works is the same as any other security camera. The only difference is the source of the power of the camera. Conventional systems draw their power from the electricity supplied by a local utility company. Solar powered cameras use the energy of the sun for their operation.
Solar-powered security cameras are part of a solar energy system. There are components that gather light energy from the sun. Most companies provide a separate solar array as part of the package. Some companies integrate these solar panels right into the design of the camera itself.
The light energy gathered gets converted into chemical energy in the form of DC power. This type of electric current then gets stored in the systems batteries, allowing the camera to operate at optimum efficiency. The same component enables the camera to function even at night. The device uses the energy stored in the batteries to perform its many functions. So, a solar powered security camera without WiFi capabilities will still operate in the same manner as a solar-powered security camera that has WiFi.
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Decide On A Camera With Wifi Or 4g Capability
This option isnt necessarily required for everyone, but many of you will find it more convenient. WiFi capability doesnt require a subscription, while 4G will .
Both are beneficial and provide things like push notifications, alarms, email alerts, et cetera, but the 4G has additional features and functions since it has a subscription providing more versatility.
Is The Solar Security Camera Weatherproof
The last thing you want is mounting a security camera and its solar panel, then they fail from rain the next day. So, you have to pay closer attention to the sturdiness, ensuring your entire surveillance kit is fully weatherproof. Doing so, you not only have the advantage of greater longevity but also youll see the value of your investment.
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Theyre Harder To Detect
Because you dont have all those wires running all over the place outdoors, your solar powered wireless security camera is harder to notice by the bad guys. Theyre looking for wires that indicate a system they dont want to trigger. And, if they dont spot the system, theyre less likely to try to disarm the security system and youre therefore more likely to know theres an issue.
