Best Solar-Powered Security Cameras (2025)
Solar security cameras need no wiring and no battery swaps. Place them anywhere with sunlight and forget about them.
Here are the best options.
For cameras without monthly fees, see our guide to Best
No-Subscription Security Cameras.
Top Solar Security Cameras
| Camera | Resolution | Storage | Monthly Fee | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reolink Argus 3 Pro + Solar | 2K | Local (SD/NVR) | $0 | $130-160 |
| Eufy SoloCam S40 | 2K | Local (built-in) | $0 | $180-200 |
| Ring Stick Up Solar | 1080p | Cloud | $4-10 | $150-180 |
| Arlo Pro 4 + Solar Panel | 2K | Cloud | $5-15 | $250-300 |
Best Overall: Reolink Argus 3 Pro with Solar Panel
Reolink includes a solar panel with many bundles—no extra purchase required. The camera works standalone with SD card
storage, no hub needed.
- Resolution: 2K (2560×1440)
- Storage: MicroSD (up to 128GB) or Reolink NVR
- Solar Panel: Included in many kits
- Monthly Fee: $0
- Price: $130-160 (with panel)
Pros
- Solar panel often included
- No subscription required
- No hub required (standalone)
- Excellent value
Cons
- 2K resolution (not 4K)
- SD card storage fills fast
- Panel requires good sun exposure
Best Integrated Solar: Eufy SoloCam S40
The SoloCam S40 has a built-in solar panel—no separate panel to mount or connect.
- Resolution: 2K
- Storage: 8GB built-in (no SD card)
- Solar Panel: Built into camera body
- Monthly Fee: $0
- Price: $180-200
Pros
- Integrated solar (one unit)
- Built-in spotlight
- No subscription fees
- Person detection included
Cons
- Only 8GB storage (can’t expand)
- No HomeBase integration
- Needs direct sunlight (panel is small)
Solar Panel Requirements
Solar cameras need adequate sunlight to stay charged:
- Minimum: 2-3 hours of direct sunlight daily
- Ideal: 4+ hours facing south (northern hemisphere)
- Winter: Less sun = slower charging (battery backup handles short gaps)
- Cloudy climates: Solar may not keep up; consider wired power instead
Solar vs Battery-Only
| Factor | Solar Panel | Battery Only |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | Zero (self-charging) | Swap battery every 3-12 months |
| Placement | Needs sun exposure | Anywhere |
| Cost | +$30-50 for panel | Lower upfront |
| Reliability | Depends on sun | Consistent until depleted |
Mounting Tips for Solar Cameras
- Face panel south (northern hemisphere) for maximum sun exposure
- Avoid shade from trees, overhangs, or buildings
- Angle panel toward sun (20-40° from horizontal depending on latitude)
- Keep panel clean — dust and debris reduce charging
- Consider winter sun angle — sun is lower; test placement in winter
Which Solar Camera Should You Buy?
| Your Priority | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Best value (no subscription) | Reolink Argus 3 Pro + Solar |
| All-in-one design | Eufy SoloCam S40 |
| Amazon ecosystem | Ring Stick Up + Solar Panel |
| Best video quality | Arlo Pro 4 + Solar Panel |
Verdict
Best Overall: Reolink Argus 3 Pro with Solar Panel. Best value, no subscriptions, solar panel often
included.
Best Integration: Eufy SoloCam S40. Built-in solar panel means one unit to mount, not two.
For more no-subscription options, see: Best No-Subscription Security
Cameras.