The Best Off-Grid Security Cameras: A Cost-Effective Way to Monitor Your Property

When you invest in a security system, you want it to do its job. Not just some of the time—all of the time. The last thing you want is your family in harm’s way because your power or internet went out. That’s why an off-grid security camera is an absolute must.

When considering off-grid options, you want a system as independent and autonomous as possible. Below, we’ve reviewed the best off-grid security cameras.

Comparison Table

The 5 Best Off-Grid Security Cameras Reviewed

Best Overall – Reolink Go PT Plus

Resolution: 2K 4MP super HD | Storage: 32 GB micro SD/Reolink Cloud
Field of View: 355° pan & 140° tilt | Type: Cellular/solar

Reolink is a trusted and reputable brand within the security industry. It should be no surprise that the Reolink Go PT Plus is one of the most popular alternatives for remote off-grid locations where electricity and Wi-Fi aren’t available. 

The Go PT is fully functional with 4G LTE and 4FF Nano SIM Card. But be aware that it doesn’t work with 5G or 2G SIM cards. It provides 2560×1440 motion-censored recordings at 15 frames per second and also supports time-lapse functions. 

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By using a prepaid data plan (recommended) and a built-in 32GB micro SD card, you can transmit or store motion-activated recordings. Otherwise, you can use the Reolink Cloud service for off-site backup. 

The Go PT Plus features notification, email, and sound alerts, live-stream and real-time talk, voice-activated commands, and blackout areas for privacy. 

This is an ideal option for homesteaders who live behind closed gates some distance away. Ultimately, it allows you to keep an eye on your entry point even when you’re not near it. 

Pros:

• 4MP/2K night vision
• Wireless
• Easy installation
• Cloud storage
• 16x digital zoom
• Remote live view
• Person & vehicle detection
• Works with Google Assistant

Cons:

• Does not support 24/7 recording
• Nano-SIM and solar panel sold separately
• Limited data plan carriers

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Best Field of View – Soliom S600 3G/4G

Resolution: 1080p HD | Storage: Up to 128GB micro SD/Soliom Cloud
Field of View: 320° horizontal/90° vertical | Type: Cellular/solar

Soliom’s reputation is built on providing low-maintenance, green-powered, and cost-effective security devices. The S600 3G/4G is a premium 4G LTE wireless security camera designed for places where power and Wi-Fi are limited or unobtainable. 

Each camera comes with a 9000 mAH rechargeable battery and solar panel and outstanding IP66 weatherproofing. Meaning the S600 can withstand -20°C to 60°C, as well as wind, rain, sleet, and snow. 

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In addition, with two infrared LED lights, it features excellent night vision (up to 32.8 ft) with 1080p full HD and 3x digital zoom. Furthermore, it features four continuous white LED lights for better night recordings.

You can set recording times and receive motion detection notifications when triggered by activity. Plus, you can share the camera feed with up to 10 additional people simultaneously, which is a great option for those who choose communal living. 

The Soliom S600 offers an astounding 320° wide-angle viewing with a 90° vertical adjustment. You can also control the pan and zoom through the Soliom+ app when using real-time view.

This 4G security system supports micro-SD cards (not included) of up to 128GB. Your purchase comes with a Nano-SIM (4FF) card and a 300M cellular data package. With the S600, you can record video footage to the SD card or cloud. 

While an SD card is not required for the system to operate, using one consumes far less data. For those seeking a simple security camera without many bells and whistles, the Soliom S600 provides a decent security device that functions entirely on solar and 4G.

Pros:

• Two-way talk
• SD or cloud storage
• 320° viewing
• Night vision
• 4G SIM card included
• Up to 128 GB storage
• Motion detection alert

Cons:

• Not compatible with Verizon
• No optical zoom
• Limited data plan carriers

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Best CCTC Option – Reolink RLK8-810B4-A

Resolution: 4K ultra HD 8MP | Storage: Built-in 2TB HDD
Field of View: 87° horizontal/44° vertical | Type: CCTV plug and play

If you’re fortunate enough to own an off-grid power supply, you can’t go wrong with the Reolink RLK8-810B4-A Security Camera System. 

With internet access, the unit has an abundance of smart features. However, even without internet, the system still acts as a stand-alone security system and functions without ethernet, Wi-Fi, or cellular. The only catch is you need a power source.

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Alternatively, it also works with both Wi-Fi and 3G/4G making it extremely versatile. 

With localized power, you get continuous 24/7 streaming and can record video on the NVR device. The RLK8-810B4-A supports up to eight cameras and facilitates live view through VGA or HDMI.

Each camera features a built-in microphone and 4K ultra HD 8MP 3840×2160 resolution with an 87-degree viewing angle and offers durable IP66 weatherproofing. 

In addition, there are 18 infrared LEDs for crystal-clear night vision up to 100 feet. Plus, playback features a lofty 25 frames per second.

The NVR features a built-in 2TB HDD but also supports USB and SATA external hard drives of up to 6TB each.

Better yet, if you have access to Power over Ethernet (PoE) or mobile data, smart features such as person, vehicle, and pet detection are available. You also have access to customized motion zones with motion alerts. 

Finally, the RLK8-810B4-A supports up to 12 simultaneous live viewers, and the NVR also supports both PoE IP cameras and Wi-Fi cameras. You can completely customize your system. 

Because the RLK8-810B4-A is a plug-and-play device, it only works well for those who already have their homes wired for solar power. Or those willing to run a generator during a power outage to ensure their security feed stays up and running.

Pros:

• Can work with or without internet
• Supports up to 8 cameras
• Up to 12 TB external storage
• Free software with no subscription fees
• 4K 8 MP 3840×2160 resolution

Cons:

• Requires a power source
• Wired system
• Limited field of view in comparison
• Expensive

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Best Battery Pack – Vosker V300

Resolution: 2K | Storage: 16 GB micro-SD
Field of View: 90 degrees | Type: Cellular/solar

The Vosker V300 also works where electricity and Wi-Fi are not an option. The V300 functions via 4G LTE and comes with a preactivated SIM card and 16 GB micro-SD for an easy install.

Not only does the Vosker V300 offer one of the larger (14000 mAh) battery packs, but it also allows for an optional external solar power bank. This significantly extends the battery life up to six months and provides a great option for those seeking an off-site security option. 

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The unit automatically records HD video within 100 feet when any motion is detected and can be transferred to the Vosker cloud or saved to the micro SD for local backup. 

Playback is viewed in HD 1080p at a rate of 15 fps. Live streaming is also available through the mobile app or desktop application for an additional annual fee. Likewise, there are three separate data plans based on the number of photos and videos you can upload to Vosker’s cloud.

Pros:

• Image recognition
• Multi-camera access
• Smart notification
• Cloud storage
• Live view
• GPS tracker
• Night vision
• Tripod mount

Cons:

• Additional data plan required per camera
• Super pricey for what you get
• Limited field of view

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Best Battery Operated – AlphaCam

Resolution: 1080p | Storage: Class 10 SD card up to 512GB
Field of View: 55-degree field view | Type: Stand-alone AA battery

In a worst-case scenario, power, internet, and cell service would all be out of commission, which would make 4G security cameras null and void. Short of having your own power supply, the only other stored power source would be batteries.

Thus, functioning solely on AA batteries and an SD card, the Alpha Cam Premium trail camera is the only completely autonomous, stand-alone unit on our list. 

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The Alpha Cam features a 30-megapixel camera with a .2-second trigger speed and 1-second recovery. Additionally, it features 1080p video at 30 frames per second with sound. There are also six HD LEDs for night vision with 100-foot detection for superb nighttime pictures. 

There’s also a 2.4″ color screen and illuminated control panel for viewing images and video day or night. If you find the view screen too small, you can opt for an SD card reader that plugs into your phone or a stealth cam SD card reader.

The Alpha Cam Premium also features a superb IP67 waterproof rating, making it extremely durable under adverse weather conditions. The battery life lasts up to one year at a rate of 70 pictures per day. To secure your cameras, you can use angled camera mounts and HME cable locks.

Pros:

• Up to 512 GB formatted SD card
• 1080p resolution at 30 fps with audio
• 100′ IR flash distance
• 90′ motion sensor
• Nine images per trigger
• No-blur night vision
• Time lapse and time stamp
• No additional fees or services required

Cons:

• No mobile apps for remote viewing
• No smart features
• Limited storage 
• Limited battery life

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Comparing Security Cameras With Your Personal Needs

When it comes to security cameras, everyone’s circumstances are different. You must consider your own needs. 

Generally speaking, there are three distinct “off-grid” infrastructures that you should consider when planning for security features: electricity, internet, and cell service. 

For example, you may not have access to internet, Wi-Fi, or cellular service, which essentially limits you to CCTV or battery-operated security options. So, before deciding on your security system, evaluate your needs realistically.

The majority of us are somewhere in between. So, for this review, “off-grid” assumes that public electricity and internet are not accessible. Because of this, we have omitted some viable security options that require either electricity, ethernet, or Wi-Fi.

For example, CCTV options don’t require internet access at all. However, they do require a continuous plug-in for their DVR/NVR storage devices. This means if your home is already run by solar, CCTVs are an excellent option. Otherwise, they’re completely useless during a power outage. 

Likewise, cellular security systems work great when Wi-Fi isn’t available, but if you live in a dead zone, they won’t do you much good. Understanding what you need is key to a reliable security system.

Key Features to Consider When Purchasing an Off-Grid Security Camera

Resolution

At a bare minimum, the resolution for any camera needs to be at least 1080p HD. The better the resolution, the better the clarity. Your security camera needs to clearly identify perpetrators. Many cameras struggle to display clean, crisp images and anything less than 1080 usually renders blurred photos and footage. 

Night Vision

You want a camera that records good video in the dark. Many have infrared LEDs to provide better imaging. In most cases, more IR LEDs result in better image quality. 

Additionally, many security gurus prefer motion-sensor activated floodlights. Not only do they add extra lighting for better imaging, but they are also more likely to deter would-be criminals.

Also Read: Best outdoor motion sensor alarm

Cellular Compatibility

For cellular systems, make sure the security camera you purchase is compatible with your current provider. Otherwise, you’ll be forced to purchase an additional plan. Many cameras are limited to a single carrier. 

Data Plans

Data plans can be tricky and pricey. Thoroughly analyze how much you need before you buy. Investigate any fees for changing or canceling your plan. 

Some reviewers report they used a great deal more data at the outset, just learning how to set up and use their cameras. Sometimes the difference between the lowest data plan and the highest is as little as $10, and it might well be worth the investment just to avoid any penalties for over-usage.

Some manufacturers, like Vosker, require their own data plans. You’ll need to decide if this extra cost fits into your security budget.

Field of View

Obviously, the better the field of view, the better range of vision you have. It’s a good idea to evaluate where your cameras will hang to get an idea of what kind of range you need. A minimum of 110 degrees is typically recommended, but with linear cameras, this isn’t always an option. 

Evaluate the area you want to monitor, then compare what you need to what you want and make sure they’re compatible.

Smart Features

With today’s technology, there are plenty of add-ons that increase the level of your security. Before you buy, decide which features you can live without.

For example, if you just want to keep an eye on your remote cabin in the woods, you probably won’t need two-way communication. Whether it’s facial recognition, smart notifications, or alarms, determine your must-haves before you purchase.

There are so many different security cameras on the market that the choices are overwhelming. It becomes even more challenging if you aren’t well-versed in the mechanics of how security cameras work. 

Narrowing down your selection based on the features that fit your unique situation will make the task much easier in the long run. You want security that protects your family in as many scenarios as possible.

Wrapping Up

If your home is already off-grid and set up for solar, the Reolink RLK8-810B4-A is your best bet. Short of needing a power supply, it’s totally autonomous. For a wider view, you can’t beat the Soliom S600.

If you’re still on the grid, then I suggest you get the Reolink Go PT Plus with the Alpha Cam as a backup. The PT plus gives you the best cellular option, while the Alpha Cam gives you a battery-operated backup in case of a cellular outage.