What to Look For in an Outdoor WiFi Solar Camera
An outdoor wifi solar camera can be a great way to monitor an area without having to run wires. Look for a model that offers features like cloud and local storage, night vision, and two-way audio.
Keep in mind that your solar camera will need direct sunlight daily during peak sun hours. The best spot is a south-facing wall or atop an elevated space with an unhindered view.
Features
Solar powered cameras have a lot to offer that regular security systems don’t. They’re incredibly versatile and easy to install, especially since there are no wires to deal with. They’re also less noticeable to criminals, so they’re less likely to be disarmed or bypassed. In addition to that, they’re a great option for those who live in remote locations.
A good solar camera should be durable enough to withstand extreme weather conditions. Look for models with a robust exterior made from ABS polymers and an IP rating that indicates how protected it is against external threats. You should also consider the type of solar panel used to power the camera and its battery. It should have a long lifespan and be resistant to environmental conditions like dust, rain, and snow.
Look for a solar security camera with high-quality, intuitive apps that make it easy to manage settings, view live footage, receive alerts, and access recordings. Some even integrate with smart home ecosystems such as Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, letting you control your camera using voice commands. You’ll also want a model with an on-board SD card port for local storage. A 64GB card should be sufficient for most, but if you’re looking for more storage space, consider going with a 128GB or 256GB card. This way, you’ll be able to store more video footage on your camera for longer.
Installation
Unlike traditional wired cameras, solar-powered security cameras don’t need access to an outlet. However, they still need a charged battery to work. They outdoor wifi solar camera also need to be exposed to direct sunlight to function properly. Hence, it’s important to choose the right spot for them. Typically, outdoor cameras are installed on walls or attached to objects like poles and bars. A solid metal mounting bracket and cable ties are included in the package to help mount it on flat surfaces or attach it to objects.
Before installing a solar power security camera, make sure the area has enough sunshine to charge it. It’s also crucial to test the Wi-Fi coverage at the designated location before installation. A wireless camera that cannot connect to a strong Wi-Fi signal will be useless.
It’s also a good idea to buy a solar power security camera that provides local video storage. This way, you can monitor the camera from your smartphone even if there’s no Internet connection or WiFi available. Most wireless solar security cameras come with free cloud storage for a single camera, while some offer paid plans starting at around $5 a month.
Some solar powered security cameras have a built-in rechargeable cctv cameras factory Li-ion battery and can be operated even in places without WiFi or Internet. However, you’ll need to have a computer and a USB cable for initial pairing and configuration.
Battery life
In order to keep working all the time, a solar security camera needs to have a battery that’s capable of storing energy. Fortunately, the best models feature efficient charging systems that help to prolong battery life. They use photovoltaic cells that convert light into electricity, ensuring your camera doesn’t run out of power. Some solar cameras also have a backup power cell that can take over when the main battery is depleted.
The best solar outdoor security cameras have high-resolution video and accurate motion detection. Some also have night vision capabilities that can record clear images up to 55ft in the dark. Some also offer two-way communication for added safety and convenience. Moreover, they can easily connect to other smart home devices and work on 4G networks for monitoring places that don’t have Wi-Fi connections.
Solar powered outdoor cameras have different features and benefits, depending on the manufacturer and your region. For example, some have advanced storage systems that can be accessed via USB or micro SD slots. Others have cloud storage that can be accessed from the brand’s website or app. Some even have a built-in alarm that can alert you of suspicious activities around the house.
However, if you don’t have a lot of space to install your camera, it’s best to look for a model with a long battery life. This can save you the hassle of having to replace the batteries on a regular basis.
Storage
You can save footage of your solar-powered security camera locally by inserting a micro SD card in the camera. Some models also offer cloud storage, though this feature can be expensive. It’s important to weigh the benefits of each option to determine what works best for you.
Local storage is ideal for places without WiFi and allows you to avoid monthly subscription fees. However, it’s limited by storage capacity, so consider a higher-end model with a larger SD card.
Some solar security cameras allow you to customize alerts so that you don’t receive unnecessary notifications and emails, which can drain your battery. For example, the Reolink Argus 3 Pro can record only when motion is detected and send you a push notification to your smartphone. Other features include a LED spotlight built right into the camera and color night vision.
Solar-powered security cameras are a good choice for remote locations that don’t have reliable Wi-Fi coverage, but they are still more expensive than traditional wired options. Some brands like Wyze have a “name your price” subscription service for their cameras, which can reduce the cost significantly.
