Quick pick for the best solar security cameras: the eufy SoloCam S340 is the best solar security camera for most homes: two lenses, 360-degree pan and tilt, built-in solar and storage, and no monthly fee. For the sharpest video, the eufyCam S3 Pro kit is the premium pick. On a budget, the Reolink Argus 4 Pro gives you wide 4K coverage and free local storage. Ring users should get a Ring camera with a solar mount.
How we put this guide together: written by Md. Mehedi Hasan for TopSmartGear, using the makers’ specifications, independent expert reviews and verified owner feedback. This is a research-based review, not a hands-on test. Sources include eufy’s official eufyCam S3 Pro page. Read how we review.
Best solar security cameras: our picks at a glance
| Camera | Best for | Resolution | Solar panel | Monthly fee to save video | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| eufy SoloCam S340 | Best overall | 3K dual-lens, pan and tilt | Built in | No (8GB built in) | Check current price |
| eufyCam S3 Pro | Best video quality | 4K | Built in | No (HomeBase 3) | Check current price |
| Reolink Argus 4 Pro | Best value | 4K, 180-degree view | Separate panel included | No (microSD) | Check current price |
| Ring Spotlight Cam Plus with solar | Best for Alexa homes | HD with spotlight | Ring solar mount or panel | Yes (Ring plan) | Check current price |
| Tapo solar camera kits | Cheapest | 2K | Separate panel | No (microSD) | Check current price |
1. eufy SoloCam S340: best overall
The S340 pairs a wide 3K lens with a zoom lens, and pans and tilts to follow people across your yard, so one camera covers what would normally need two. The solar panel sits on top, video saves to 8GB of built-in storage, and there’s no hub or subscription. Expert roundups regularly name it the best all-round solar camera.
- Good: 360-degree coverage, AI tracking, no fees, no hub.
- Watch out: 8GB fills quickly at a busy spot; the moving head means it should sit somewhere it can’t be easily reached.
2. eufyCam S3 Pro: best video quality
4K video, excellent color night vision and radar-assisted detection make this the premium solar system. Clips save to the HomeBase 3 (the 2-camera kit includes 1TB), and it works with HomeKit Secure Video. It costs more, but there’s nothing to pay afterward. Read our full eufyCam S3 Pro review.
3. Reolink Argus 4 Pro: best value
Two lenses stitch together a very wide 4K view, so it suits driveways and long fences. It comes with a separate solar panel you can angle toward the sun, records to a microSD card for free, and has strong color night vision for the price.
4. Ring with solar: best for Alexa homes
Ring sells solar versions and solar panels for its battery cameras, including the Spotlight Cam Plus. You get the best Alexa and Echo Show integration and Ring’s huge accessory range, but you need a Ring plan (Ring Solo) to save video. See our eufy vs Ring comparison.
5. Tapo solar kits: cheapest
TP-Link’s Tapo solar cameras are among the cheapest wire-free options from a well-known brand, with 2K video and microSD recording. They’re a good way to cover a shed, gate or garden on a small budget. More low-cost picks are in our best budget security cameras.
How to make solar actually work
- Find the sun first. Most panels need a few hours of direct sunlight a day. South-facing (in the northern hemisphere) and unshaded is best.
- Separate panels are more flexible. Cameras with a detachable panel can sit under the eaves while the panel goes in the sun.
- Expect slower winters. Short, cloudy days mean less charge; you may need a top-up by USB once or twice a season.
- Check Wi-Fi at the spot. Solar solves power, not signal. Test the Wi-Fi where you’ll mount it.
- Fewer false alerts save battery. Set activity zones so the camera isn’t waking for passing cars.
Frequently asked questions
Do solar security cameras work at night?
Yes. The panel charges the battery during the day and the camera runs from the battery at night, with infrared or color night vision.
Can solar cameras record 24/7?
Most record only when they detect motion to save battery. For continuous recording, choose a wired camera or a model with a wired mode.
Do they need Wi-Fi?
Most do. For places with no Wi-Fi at all, some brands sell 4G LTE solar cameras that use a cellular data plan.
Final verdict
Get the eufy SoloCam S340 for the best all-round solar camera, the eufyCam S3 Pro for the best video, or the Reolink Argus 4 Pro for value. See more in best outdoor security cameras and best home security cameras.
