Best solar powered home security cameras of 2024

There are hundreds of home security cameras on the market, varying widely in price, function and quality, but only a few of them provide solar power. After years of testing CNET’s home security cameras, we have some tips if you’re looking for a new solar-powered security camera. Here are some parameters to consider.

privacy

This is a big one. You don’t want anyone spying on your property or hacking your camera. Wireless home security cameras Could be more Vulnerable to hacking Because of its connection to Wi-Fi networks and remote access. Wired home security cameras are safer. (Read more about Pros and cons of wired versus wireless systems here.)

Video resolution

Video quality should be a major consideration when purchasing a home security camera, whether it’s solar powered or not. In simpler terms, a camera won’t be effective if the only footage it records is grainy and unreadable.

The higher the resolution, the better the video quality. Most home security cameras on the market now have a 1080p resolution, but some have a 2K resolution (like the Arlo Pro 4) or a 1536 x 1536 pixel resolution (like the Arlo Video Doorbell). Just remember that the higher the video quality, the more bandwidth it takes, and the more likely your camera will experience lag times or glitches.

Local storage versus cloud storage

You have two main options: There’s cloud storage, which sends your video footage to a remote server to be saved, and local storage, which relies on a separate accessory or piece of hardware, usually a microSD card, to hold whatever footage you want to save. Cloud storage usually requires a monthly fee.