The Best Solar-Powered Security Cameras to Help Protect Your Home 24/7

While a household security system that relies on electrical power can be helpful, a solar-powered security camera can function even if the power goes out. The solar panel camera uses an internal battery to store energy from direct and ambient sunlight and will gather energy anytime the sun is up. When the sun goes down, the camera operates on the internal battery, so there’s never any worry about the camera losing power. 

We tested seven top solar-powered security cameras to find the top models. After weeks of testing each camera, we found the Eufy EufyCam S3 Pro 2-Cam kit, with its built-in solar panels, reliable performance, and crystal clear images, to be the top model. 

Ahead, we break down what specs you need to pay attention to when shopping for a solar-powered security camera while presenting our list of the best solar-powered security cameras. Keep reading to find out why the following models made our list.

1. BEST OVERALL: Eufy EufyCam S3 Pro 2-Cam Kit
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Zumimall 2K Outdoor Security Camera
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3. BEST w/ SPOTLIGHT: Ring Spotlight Cam Plus (with Solar Configuration)
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4. BEST MOVING: Eufy SoloCam S340 Security Camera
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5. BEST EASY TO USE: Blink Outdoor (3rd Gen) + Solar Panel Charging Mount
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6. ALSO CONSIDER: Reolink Argus PT Smart 2K Wire-Free Camera
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7. BEST RESOLUTION: Tapo TP-Link Outdoor Camera With Solar Panel Bundle
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Solar-Powered Security Cameras Comparison

Our Top Picks

The list below of some of the best solar-powered security cameras has been compiled based on each product’s features. Additionally, product efficacy and overall value were factored in to help shoppers find the best solar-powered security camera to help keep their home safe and secure.

Our Ratings

Those who hate fees will like Eufy’s EufyCam S3 Pro 2-cam kit. It includes two 4K video quality security cameras and a Eufy HomeBase 3, which can support up to 16 cameras and store up to 16GB of video footage. So, unlike most of the other security cameras out there, you don’t need to pay a monthly subscription fee for cloud storage of recorded video footage. 

These bullet-shaped cameras are a little larger than the ones on other solar-powered wireless security systems, but that’s because the solar panel is built into the top of each camera. This means you don’t need to mount an unsightly solar panel, nor do you have to trail a cord from panel to camera, resulting in a cleaner, more streamlined look.

These integrated solar panels performed well during testing. In the 4 weeks that we tested the Eufy duo, we experienced no power issues despite long periods of overcast weather, thanks to its large 13,000 mAh battery. It stayed well charged even with the camera picking up a steady pace of foot traffic going past the front of our home. Eufy does sell an external solar panel that can be used to add charging power if the built-in panel isn’t enough. 

Each camera has a wide 135-degree field of view and picks up crystal clear 4K images, which allowed us to easily identify faces, whether it was the middle of the day or the middle of the night. It’s a great option for homeowners who want a security camera without having to commit to a monthly fee. 

What our tester says: “This no-subscription security camera​ is great for anyone who wants to avoid a monthly fee. I love the ease of installation and streamlined look of the integrated solar panel.”—Tony Carrick, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Eufy solar-powered security camera at Amazon or Eufy.

Our Ratings

The affordable Zumimall solar-powered security camera features a compact design and a white finish that looks good with most home exteriors. The camera also comes with an IP66 weatherproof rating that ensures it won’t short out during a heavy thunderstorm.

Thanks to 2K video resolution and night vision, the Zumimall allowed us to see and record video with high enough resolution that we were able to make out faces and license plates. The Zumimall is also compact and has a sleek look that makes it less conspicuous when mounted to the house, thanks in part to its magnetic ball mounting kit. Its 130-degree field of vision is a little on the narrow side, but it was still wide enough to cover our entire four-car driveway and then some. There’s also a microphone for two-way talk and siren, and floodlight alerts. The included solar panel is large enough that the camera stayed powered through 3 weeks of testing.

Since Zumimall is WiFi-enabled, there’s no need to install a hub to connect it to your network. But while the Zumimall camera is affordably priced, the cloud storage is among the pricier plans we’ve seen at $9 a month ($90 a year). This camera does have a slot compatible with local SD storage, though it doesn’t come with an SD card.

What our tester says: “This is a reliable camera that produces great footage and has a streamlined look all at a rock bottom price.”—Tony Carrick, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Zumimall solar-powered security camera at Amazon or Zumimall.

Our Ratings

The Ring Spotlight Cam Plus is affordable and offers cool features for those who love Alexa. Its 1,080p HD camera is a step down from the 4K cameras out there, but it uses HDR technology, so we didn’t have a problem picking up faces or license plate numbers with it both day and night. 

The motion activation is reliable and can be set to custom zones easily via the app, something that helped us limit the amount of erroneous footage from dogwalkers and other passersby on the sidewalk. It also has built-in motion-activated spotlight sirens to deter intruders and a two-way talk feature. While it doesn’t require a hub, it also doesn’t offer any on-board SD storage, which means you’ll need to pay $4.99 per month for access to video history for a single camera. 

Along with integrating easily with Ring’s other cameras, it will also work with Alexa to provide an instant 140-degree field of view of what’s going on outdoors from within the home. The device comes with one rechargeable battery and a solar panel, which proved to be enough to supply it with ample power even when we forgot to turn it off for a front yard Halloween party that kept it going nonstop for hours. It’s a very reasonably priced security camera for those who don’t mind the monthly subscription fee on the back end. 

Get the Ring Spotlight solar-powered security camera at Amazon (solar panel sold separately) or Ring.

Our Ratings

With its ability to pan and tilt automatically to track passersby, the Eufy S340 offers a level of functionality and coverage you simply can’t get with standard stationary security cameras. 

Our in-house tester put the Eufy to the test by installing it 12 feet high on a telephone pole. From that position, the S340 lens quietly followed as she walked past it, taking it a step above other moving cameras that require you to manually direct them from a smartphone. You can also communicate through the camera via two-way talk. 

The S340’s solar panel and long-range WiFi give you the flexibility to install it just about anywhere on your property. Our tester pushed it to its limits by installing it some 500 feet from the home, yet it maintained a strong signal. The solar panel on this long-range security camera also proved to provide it with enough power to keep the battery running out on most days. While it is possible to run the battery down on overcast days with extended use, it charges quickly when the sun comes out.

The Eufy maintains a sharp picture with its 3K resolution, although it becomes somewhat grainy when using its zoom feature. While the camera does require the additional expense of a Eufy hub, that hub also gives it local storage, so you don’t need to pay a monthly fee for cloud storage to access recorded videos.

Get the Eufy S340 solar-powered security camera at Amazon, Walmart, or Best Buy.

Our Ratings

Blink’s solar-powered wireless camera combines a camera and solar panel into a single unit, making it an easy-to-install security system. There was no need to mount the camera and a panel separately via cord, though the unit’s combination design makes it a bit less sleek than other models. The Blink only sports a 1080p camera, but a high 30fps frame rate makes video smooth and clear even at night. 

At the top of the unit is the Blink solar panel. Though small, it provided enough power that the camera didn’t run low on battery through our entire 3 weeks of testing, even though we had it running during a busy Trick-or-Treat night on Halloween. 

The Blink app offers plenty of customization options, which allowed us to control motion zones, set video clip lengths, and configure video quality. It does require a Blink hub, which is a small box that sits inside the home. But that hub also offers local video storage, so there’s no need to pay a monthly fee for video storage. 

Since it’s a Blink camera, it also works seamlessly with Alexa. We were able to access video footage on our Echo Show with minimal setup. Along with its low price, Blink’s wireless camera system offers quality footage, a robust app, and the ability to store footage without a monthly subscription fee. 

Get the Blink solar-powered security camera at Amazon. 

Our Ratings

Tapo’s TP-Link bundle is a reasonably priced camera that produces crystal clear images. Its 2K resolution allowed us to make out plate numbers, faces, and other details even in darker conditions. That high-quality video made up for the fact that its built-in motion detector spotlights are rather weak. 

The Tapo also comes with a large solar panel that provides ample power to keep the camera running. Tapo says the battery only needs 30 minutes of direct sunlight to keep the camera charged, and that held true during testing. We had the Tapo up for about a month, and the battery never dropped much below 90 percent capacity, even after a period of cloudy weather. Connectivity was also reliable. We set up the hub inside the house about 50 feet from the camera and experienced no drops throughout our testing period. 

The Tapo kit includes a hub, which was very easy to set up. The hub is compact, so it doesn’t take up much space. Plus it has an SD slot that supports cards with up to 512GB capacity, so you can access saved video without having to spring for a monthly cloud storage subscription. 

Tapo’s excellent video quality and reasonable price make it a great option for those looking for a wireless camera that’s a step up from 1080p resolution but who don’t want to invest hundreds in an outdoor camera. 

Get the Tapo TP-Link solar-powered security camera at Amazon.

Our Ratings

The Reolink Argus’s ability to pan, combined with its 2K+ video, makes it a formidable sentry for any property. The camera has 355-degree horizontal rotation and 140-degree vertical tilt with an intuitive PIR motion-detection system. 

We loved the Reolink Argus’ ability to pan and tilt, allowing us to cover more territory than with stationary cameras. We do wish it would auto-track. The camera must be moved manually via the app, which we found to be a bit clunky. As a standalone camera, the Reolink has a comparatively narrow 110-degree field of vision, which limits its coverage unless someone is manning it to swivel the device. The camera does have a 5MP 2K+ Super HD resolution and built-in night vision, and produced clear, crisp images during our testing, even in poor lighting.

The Reolink comes with a large solar panel that does an excellent job of charging the high-capacity battery, which displayed full or close to full during our entire month-long testing period. It can also connect through Wi-Fi to popular smart home systems like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, as well as through the Reolink app with a mobile device for remote access to the camera from any Wi-Fi-accessible location. 

All in all, the Reolink is an affordably priced solar-powered wireless security camera for those who want a wider view of their property and don’t mind having to manually control the camera to get it. 

Get the Reolink Argus solar-powered security camera at Amazon or Walmart. 

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Solar-Powered Security Cameras

We researched the most sought-after solar cameras in their respective categories and discovered that the best models are determined by their battery capacity, video resolution, field of view, storage capability, and ease of installation. Plus, there are other special features included by select brands.

After selecting the top models, we put them to the test. Each camera was installed and used to monitor an area for a minimum of 3 weeks. During that time, we evaluated connectivity, battery usage, video quality, motion detection, and such features as two-way audio and motion detection. 

The above models generate electricity very efficiently and are made with high power capacities of 5,200 to 15,000 milliamperes per hour (mAh), making them low-maintenance after installation. With resolutions from 1,080 pixels (p) to 4K, the above models also provide a clear picture and visibility that can be very helpful when there are intruders or porch pirates. As for storing the footage, each camera is Wi-Fi compatible or accepts an SD card, though storage is limited and maintenance is higher with an SD card-reliant model. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Solar-Powered Security Camera

When searching for a solar-powered surveillance camera to go with a home security system, driveway alarm, or smart lock, it’s crucial to consider several factors, including the capacity of the solar panel, how data is transmitted from the security camera, and the image resolution. 

Solar Panel Capacity

The capacity of the solar panel refers to the quantity of energy the unit is able to gather and send to the internal backup battery to store. Some solar panels can be less or more efficient, but the average solar-powered outdoor camera will have one or two solar panels that operate for between 6 and 8 hours a day in order to store enough energy to fill the battery capacity.

The storage capacity of an internal battery of a solar-powered security camera is measured in mAh, and these rechargeable batteries can vary in size depending on the number of features the outdoor solar camera needs to power, like two-way audio, Wi-Fi connections, and night vision. 

However, it takes an average of 6 to 8 hours for a rechargeable battery on one of these solar security cameras to charge fully. They can operate for anywhere between 1 week and more than 3 months without additional charging. Keep in mind that most cameras with solar power are actively recording only when the motion detector is triggered or when the user connects to the camera.

Data Transmission

Solar-powered outdoor cameras can come equipped with internal memory cards that store recorded audio and video images. These SD cards are then uploaded to a computer for easy viewing. However, wireless Wi-Fi compatibility has quickly become a standard feature among the best outdoor security cameras, allowing the user to view and manage the data through a computer, tablet, or mobile device.

Data can also be transmitted through a 4G or 5G network in areas where Wi-Fi isn’t readily available or if it isn’t reliable. These solar security cameras feature the same 4G or 5G service that a smartphone or tablet can use when they cannot connect to Wi-Fi. Just keep in mind that this service will likely come at an additional cost through a local and compatible wireless carrier.

Image Resolution

When reviewing video footage of a home provided by a solar-powered security camera, it’s important that the video quality is crisp and clear so it’s easy to make out distinguishing characteristics in the case of a break-in, vandalism, or theft.

To help ensure that individuals outside the home can be identified, it’s a good idea to invest in a security camera with at least 1,080p resolution. You’ll also find high-resolution security cameras that have 2K to 4K resolution. 

• 1,080p is the standard for most solar-powered security cameras. This allows them to capture and transmit video in high definition, making it much easier to determine characteristics such as height or eye color, if necessary. 
• 2K or QHD (2560p x 1440p) offers a resolution of 2560p for the width and 1440p for the height. It provides more definition than 1,080p but less than 4K. Many newer gaming consoles and smartphones use QHD. 

Design and Weatherproof Rating

Solar-powered security cameras can roughly be sorted into two common types based on their shape and design, including bullet and dome.

• Bullet security cameras have a tubular shape and a wide field of vision with a fixed view that can be adjusted manually or by remote control. These cameras are commonly used at a front or back entrance, and they will often include motion-sensing and night-vision capabilities.
• Dome security cameras generally have a smaller field of vision, but they also operate on a near-360-degree rotation that gives them almost complete coverage. This makes them a great option for commercial and industrial settings. Sometimes they are also used in residential settings, though dome cameras designed for home use are typically less robust than those made for commercial and industrial applications.

Buyers also look for a waterproof rating so they know the camera will work outdoors. This rating is provided in the format of IPXX, where IP stands for ingress protection. The first X is representative of the debris resistance, ranging from large solid objects, like a leaf, to minute solid objects, like dust and sand. 

The second X represents the waterproof rating, which ranges from not water-resistant to being able to be submerged in several feet of water for extended periods of time with no ill effects. Ideally, a solar outdoor camera should have a rating of at least IPX5, giving owners confidence that the camera won’t shut down in light rain. For protection during a rainstorm, look for a solar-powered camera with an IPX6 rating. 

Compatibility and Features

Before choosing a really great solar-powered security camera, it’s important to determine whether it’s compatible with the existing Wi-Fi, smart home, or 4G or 5G service provider. For most products, this information can be found in the product specs, or it may be provided directly from the seller or manufacturer. 

Keep in mind that most products will work with any type of Wi-Fi. However, the ability to connect directly through a built-in 4G network and the capability to integrate with a smart home are less common features. It’s important to check the specifications so buyers will be certain that the solar WiFi security camera will function as expected.

Other popular features for solar-powered security cameras include two-way talk, which allows communication via a built-in microphone, and speakers on the camera so a conversation with someone on the porch can happen even when they are away from home.

Some shoppers also look for products with motion-detection and night-vision capabilities so that the home is safe and secure throughout the night. PIR motion detection is an advanced feature that uses computer algorithms to determine whether the object detected is human. If the object is not human, then the motion-activated camera doesn’t send an alarm.

Installation

The installation process varies among products, but typically, installing a solar-powered security camera system is relatively easy. These cameras don’t require a wired connection to any systems inside the home. Instead, they can be mounted on a brick wall, siding, or even the roof.

One key consideration is to make sure that the solar panel is placed in a location that receives sunlight every day. The more sunlight the solar panels receive, the more effective they will be at absorbing the sunlight and then recharging the internal battery. 

Some products have a separate solar panel and solar-powered security camera so that these two devices can both be placed in ideal locations for their individual purposes. However, other products have one or more solar panels built into the security camera itself. These easy-to-install security cameras​ require a place that will be able to absorb sunlight and keep an eye on the home. 

FAQs 

If you have a few more questions about how solar-powered security cameras function, how long they last, and how to install them, then continue reading. Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about solar-powered security cameras for home use.

Q. Are solar-powered security cameras worth it? 

When it comes to peace of mind, having a household security system can’t be beat. Solar-powered models in particular provide ongoing protection against theft due to their battery-powered designs that function for months before requiring maintenance.

Q. Do solar-powered security cameras work at night? 

Solar-powered outdoor security cameras stay on at night after charging throughout the day. Many models on the market also come with built-in night vision security cameras and infrared lights to ensure the resolution is as clear as it would be in broad daylight. 

Q. Can security cameras work without electricity?

Solar-powered security cameras are designed to work by absorbing energy from direct and ambient sunlight. If the camera were placed in a completely dark room, then it would continue working in night-vision mode for as long as the internal battery held a charge. After this point, the camera would no longer function until it was recharged. 

Q. How do you install a solar camera?

Typically, a solar camera will require the camera and the solar panel to be mounted on a wall, post, or even the roof. The solar panel should be placed in the best available position to absorb sunlight, while the camera needs to be placed in the best location to keep an eye on the house. 
Mount it near the side door, front door, back door, windows, garage, or anywhere else you need coverage. Regardless of the product, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for placement and installation to help keep your home safe.

Q. How long do solar-powered security camera batteries last?

The rechargeable batteries in solar-powered security cameras often can last from 1 to 3 years before they need to be replaced, ensuring ongoing home security.

Q. Do solar-powered security cameras need to be installed in direct sunlight?

It’s always a good idea to place a solar panel in the location with the best sunlight, but it isn’t necessary for the security camera to work. A solar-powered security camera can still gather energy from ambient sunlight if it isn’t under direct sunlight.

Q. Do solar-powered security cameras work in the winter?

Solar-powered security cameras work in the winter, though they may gather less energy from the sun because the days are shorter. Outdoor security cameras, like some video doorbells, make up for this energy shortage by limiting electrical output to motion sensors that trigger the camera, so the camera is not always on.

Meet the Testers

Tony Carrick is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, landscaping, technology, home security, and design. His articles have been featured on such sites as Popular Mechanics, Futurism, SFGate, Pro Tools Review, and more.

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

Additional research provided by Timothy Dale and Bob Beacham

 

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