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If you’re looking for an outdoor security camera that doesn’t need constant battery swaps or a monthly subscription, the Eufy SoloCam S40 might be worth considering—especially now that it’s $99.99 (down from its usual $199). This battery-powered camera comes with a built-in solar panel, which, according to Eufy, only needs two hours of direct sunlight daily to stay charged. That’s the kind of low-maintenance setup we want, but as with all solar-powered devices, real-world performance depends on actual sunlight exposure, so if you live somewhere gloomy or have lots of shade, you might run into trouble. Setup is straightforward, with built-in wifi allowing it to connect directly to your router without requiring a base station (but that also means you’ll need a strong signal wherever you install it).
Security features are solid. The 90dB siren can be activated remotely if an intruder is spotted, and the two-way audio lets you communicate with visitors—or warn off unwanted ones. AI-powered motion detection helps cut down false alerts by recognizing whether movement is from a person or something else, and custom activity zones allow you to filter notifications to specific areas. Unlike many competing security cameras, the SoloCam S40 doesn’t require a subscription to access past recordings. Instead, it comes with 8GB of built-in storage. However, HomeKit isn’t supported, which might be a dealbreaker if you’re deep into Apple’s ecosystem. On the plus side, Alexa and Google Assistant integration means you can view the live feed on a smart display or include the camera in automation routines.
The IP67-rated build of the SoloCam S40 means it can handle rain and dust, while its 130-degree field of view provides decent coverage. When motion is detected, you’ll get instant alerts on your smartphone and access to a 2K video feed through the Eufy Security app. The app also lets you tweak motion settings and review recordings, among other controls. Day or night, footage is recorded in color, thanks to its 600-lumen floodlight, though this light can only be set to trigger on motion detection or be manually turned on via the app—it won’t stay on for general illumination (something to consider if you were hoping to use it as a permanent fixture for illuminating a driveway or entryway).
