How a Solar Outdoor Camera Works

The solar outdoor camera works in conjunction with solar panels to draw power from the sun. The accumulated energy is then converted into usable electricity.

Many solar-powered security cameras are capable of operating in cloudy conditions by converting diffused sunlight into usable energy. They also include a rechargeable battery for backup power.

1. Easy to install

When it comes to outdoor surveillance, solar-powered cameras are increasingly popular. These devices harness solar energy to power up an internal battery that keeps the camera running at night. This makes them ideal for places that don’t have access to the power grid.

Many of these cameras come with local storage on a microSD card to protect footage from theft. Others work with a cloud service that can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.

Solar-powered security cameras are also compatible with home automation systems like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. They can be controlled using voice commands to turn on/off the device, pull up footage and even talk to visitors.

Some of the most popular solar-powered outdoor cameras are from Ring, known for their doorbells. Their sleek cameras offer similar features but can be placed throughout the house and monitor remote areas. Some of their best models include a built-in floodlight and two-way audio. However, their limited range of motion detection and narrow field of view hinder their overall performance. Still, the brand’s name recognition and customer reviews make them an excellent choice for a solar outdoor camera.

2. Weather-proof

Solar-powered security cameras use a built-in solar panel to capture sunlight and convert it into electrical energy that powers the camera at night. This feature makes them ideal for outdoor surveillance or remote areas where grid electricity may not be available.

These cameras have weatherproof exteriors to keep solar outdoor camera them working even in harsh conditions. They also come with a built-in rechargeable battery to provide continuous power, so they won’t stop working at night. This ensures your home or business is protected day and night.

Some solar cameras also feature infrared night vision and spotlights to scope out possible intruders. They can be connected to your Wi-Fi or 4G network and send you notifications on your smartphone to alert you of any activity.

To get the most out of your solar-powered security camera, make sure the panel is placed in an area that gets enough sunlight year-round. Ideally, place the panel in a south-facing direction (in the northern hemisphere) or north-facing position (in the southern hemisphere). Also, consider placing the camera away from possible shade from nearby trees or buildings.

3. High-definition

Video quality is a vital feature for security cameras, especially solar ones. Look for a camera with a high resolution (HD or above) to ensure your footage is clear and can identify recognizable faces, license plates, and clothing colors. A wide field of view is also a plus, as it allows you to monitor more areas.

Many next-gen solar outdoor cameras offer 4K resolution, offering a sharper image and more intricate details. For example, a Reolink 4K solar powered security camera provides a panoramic view of your property, with the ability to zoom in for an even closer look at objects and movement.

Reolink 4K solar powered security cameras also incorporate spotlight color night vision to keep your home or office protected at all hours. This feature enables these cameras to see clearly in total darkness, so you never miss an important moment. In addition, the camera’s built-in solar panels and battery power options help to reduce electricity consumption and operating costs. They can also serve as a visible deterrent against criminals and trespassers, making them a great choice for residential surveillance.

4. Two-way audio

Some solar security cameras have two-way audio, which enables you to talk with visitors while keeping an eye on your property. This feature is useful if you have deliveries or service workers in the area, and it’s especially valuable for places where you don’t want to rely on a neighbor to watch your home.

Some brands, like Ring, make solar outdoor camera solar security cameras that work with their popular doorbells. That allows you to monitor your driveway or shed from your phone using a live view and two-way audio. You can also get notifications (siren, push, email) whenever motion is detected and play back recorded footage.

The wattage of the solar panel paired with your camera determines how much electric power it can generate. A higher wattage charges the battery faster, which can help you extend your security coverage. The camera itself should be positioned in an optimal location that receives sunlight for most of the day. It’s best to place it on a south-facing wall or atop an object that can capture the entire view of the area you’re monitoring.

5. Long battery life

Getting a solar-powered camera avoids tricky wiring and dead batteries and allows the device to work seamlessly in remote locations that don’t have access to power. It also makes for a smarter investment in a long-term surveillance solution that will keep your property secure around the clock.

The solar panel captures sunlight and converts it into electrical energy that stores in a built-in rechargeable battery. The internal battery powers the camera during less sunny intervals and at night, so you don’t need to worry about the device shutting down or losing video footage.

Most models on this list offer local storage in addition to cloud-based recording, allowing you to review your recorded footage anytime. We recommend choosing a model with enough storage memory to suit your needs.

If you’re shopping for a solar outdoor camera, consider opting for one with a high resolution and a broad field of view. Both of these features will help you easily identify objects and people in recorded videos. You should also look for a camera that supports 5GHz WiFi, which will enable you to connect to a home’s wireless network and get real-time alerts on your mobile devices.