Great Video, if you get the solar panel and put 2 batteries in, will the solar panel charge both batteries up, when one finally goes dead and it switches over to the other one, will the dead start recharging, or will it need pulled out and recharged from 110v?
Hello LifeHackster. Your reviews are awesome as it helped me to better evaluate which cameras to buy. I had a bought a Ring Doorbell 2, but even though it says it is "wired", in the end it is a battery based device. The motion detection was slow and unreliable and the recording would freeze up often and the most it'd record was 30 seconds which was not enough and it will miss important parts. To put it simple, it did not live to my expectation$ and it was returned. Nevertheless, I did buy 4 Wired spotlight cameras in which 1 arrived defective from the get go and the other one failed/would not connect to the Chime Pro. Hence, I have decided to keep 2 Wired Spotlights for the simple reason the motion detection is smoother and way better and the recording after motion detection is at least a minute long. I have placed one by the front door porch up high which is secure from theft yet it gives me a nice bird's eye-view as well. The other one is placed by the garage/sideways and safe from the sun/rain. I have both of them connected with the help of a long durable /outdoor rated extension cord and I found a simple creative solution to record videos in color at night by simply buying Bright LED lights for the front porch which tricks the sensor thinking is daylight and for the garage, I installed a 50W floodlight which I can turn on/off via my phone and use it in security mode for the wee hours. Overall that has worked for me to have some reliable surveillance in front of my house. Having said that, I am giving Nest Outdoor camera a try as the 24/7 non stop recording was appealing compared to the Ring Devices which are motion triggered cameras only. I have not decided yet if Nest is worth it to keep considering the $100 a year for 10 days cloud recording and the additional expense to have it installed professionally considering the big and inconvenient big adapter that forces you to drill a big hole to connect it safely indoors. Anyhow, I came across a good deal for 2 Ring Battery spotlights with Solar Panels for $400 which can come handy for my backyard which there's not much activity (except for my playful dog) and the battery would not drain as often if it was placed in front of the house with the constant traffic. I am already aware the Wired Devices outperforms the Battery/Solar devices, but don't want to use extension cords on the back side so I am considering going with that good deal on hand. First question, when motion is detected, how long does the minimum recording goes for, 30 seconds, less or more? How reliable and worth it is in your opinion to get these devices considering the Wired Spotlights have already spoiled me with their better performance? I respect your reviews/opinions which can only help me make a better decision and if I do decide to buy them Ring Devices; If so, then that will be the end of the Nest Outdoor Camera as I prefer to spend $100 a year for 4 Ring devices - 2 covering my front side of the house and 2 on the backyard than to pay $100 for 10 days of cloud service for 1 camera only simply because it offers non stop recording.. i Apologize for the extended post and hope to hear from you soon, Thanks, Footballer
Hello Footballer...I would not recommend the Spotlight battery at this time due to footage freezing issues...see video - ring.com/share/6516490205887293920 If you have a light fixture in your backyard then you can replace it with the spotlight cam mount...but the floodlight is still one of the better value overall because it has a better light... If you want to go with battery powered, check out the Blink XT..I have several videos about it..it has its own issues but overall is a good weatherproof small footprint camera...plus it runs on 2 AA batteries that should last a couple of years in your backyard if there is not a lot of traffic... If you are going to invest on the Nest, I think you will be better off with a NVR PoE system...also I have a video of my setup (Reolink) in my channel...just check it out...24/7 monitoring.. As to your questions...The Ring spotlight battery will only record for 30 seconds not unless there is continuous movement..then it will record longer..and you cannot adjust this... Let me know if you have any other questions..
I had the faith you would reply, but Wow! That was mighty fast! Thanks :) I had bought two floodlights before, but because I did not have any junction boxes available I did not bother and returned them unopened boxes. Besides, i realized these floodlights emit a soft light color 3000K which I am not fond of. I have my house now into LED daylight bright lights, so soft white is not an option anymore :). On top of that, I was not going to spend on an electrician work from the get-go, so I bought them Wired Spotlights which I tried them using an extension cord. Now that I have tested them and I am satisfied with them, then it makes sense to invest to install junction boxes and free up my extension cords. :) I will take your recommendation not to go with the spotlight battery/solar devices specially if the footage freezes (Thanks for that posted sample video) and just like I experienced with the Doorbell Ring 2 device. To add insult to injury, if it only records for 30 seconds then it will be more a waste of time to buy it even at $400 or at any lower price. If anyone else is interested in pulling the trigger on this too good to be true special, here's the information for someone to take advantage of: COSTCO Ring Spotlight Camera Battery Bundle with 2 Cams, 2 Solar Panels & 12 Months Ring Video Cloud Recording Item #1220217 Member Only Item Online Price 479.99$ Less 80.00$ - Your Price 399.99$ It includes $80 OFF & Free Shipping $80 manufacturer's savings** is valid 1/29/18 through 2/23/18. While supplies last. Limit 5 per member. As far the Nest outdoor camera goes, I will follow your suggestion to check the Reolink as I am honest that I am naive when it comes to NVR PoE systems. I have a week left to make my final decision about the Nest Outdoor Camera which it's a mighty non stop recording camera, but the camera is useless unless one $hell$ out expensive subscription money. You are awesome and thanks for your prompt response! I had not subscribed before, but I made sure to do it this time. You rock!! , LifeHackster! :)
Ring needs to fix this issue... hopefully it is not hardware and it is their network or something that can be fixed via software update...when I first got the camera, I didn't have this issue... I need to check my old footage but I'm pretty sure I didn't notice any freezes then... Nest and 24/7 recording means it is constantly uploading data to the cloud...and this also applies to Ring...when internet is cut or out... then you have no footage...with an NVR system, it records to a hard drive..then you can set it up to also record to a cloud service for backup...just in case... I'm actually interested with the Nest that I have their doorbell camera on pre-order..so we will see then...the first time I'll be reviewing their cameras... Thank You for subscribing...
Well Lifehackster, I purchased the Ring spotlight camera and solar panel yesterday from Ring and got the 10% off, or $25.00 off price. It should be here Tuesday March 6th I think it said. Watching your video again before it arrives this Tuesday. By the way; Did you hear Amazon bought the Ring Security business? After I purchased spotlight yesterday the 10% discount was not deducted so I called customer service and they added it. I asked employee about Amazon purchase and he read me his memo that he received the night before and it and he told me no changes. It will still be Ring and only change will be Amazon delivery shipping. As a person that went through a company buy out, I myself was laid off and company put in their own people. Hopefully Amazon will not screw up Ring or the products! Have a good day. Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
Wow... Amazon bought out Blink also...darn..they are trying to get in the Home surveillance/security market...I really don't know if this is a good thing... I'm hoping Amazon will not screw this up..
LifeHackster , Sounds like Amazon wants to monaplies every business. Amazon owner is the reason places like Sears, Kmart and others are laying off people or going out of business.
LifeHackster, I got my spotlight camera and solar panel late afternoon March 6th. I started charging battery about 7:30pm and at 9pm or so, both orange and green lights were on battery. I turned in for the night and plugged battery in to finish charging at 4:10am. I was surprised how long it took to charge battery until just the green light was on. Between last night and this morning I think it had been on charger for 5 or so hours? After that, setup went fast and almost automatic. It asked if I wanted to set up with my Ring Chime Pro extender that I use for flood light security camera and said yes. Spotlight started to work immediately in my kitchen. I went outside in the dang 25 degree Milwaukee temperatures and put both spotlight and solar panel above my back door. Came in, checked live view and it said bottom cover open, close otherwise camera will not work properly. I went outside crawled up my ladder at least five times saying cover was open?? I even put battery on other side. I called customer service and the guy was zero help, basically telling me what I already did. Lastly, I rebooted my smartphone and spotlight has been working fine. That's the only problem I had with setup. Because I put on wall of my house and refacing camera post for wall, the solar cord hit the post, so I turn the cord upright. I don't think that should make a difference? Milwaukee, besides being cold again (last week) 60 degrees, today low 20's this morning. It was also cloudy all day and not sure if solar panel works? Messing around with live view all day, the battery is at 97% right now at 7:12pm. All in all, glad I have three Ring security cameras. Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
Thanks for the info on your install. I haven't had the " cover open" alert but I noticed that you need to push it pretty good to lock it in place...When I have the solar panel installed on mine.. I was getting at least 2 hours of full sunshine on the panel and my battery was always topped off 100% whenever I checked it. Right now, I'm testing how long the battery lasts and it has been 2 1/2 months - averaging 2-4 motion recordings/day and it is still at 37%...
LifeHackster , I always doubted what they said battery would last 6-12 months, especially in cold Wisconsin weather. Had a sunny day yesterday and it went from 94 to 100% so I know solar panel works. Also not getting a real good Wi-Fi signal using the Ring Chime Pro extender as my flood light security camera on same extender. I get a good green signal on flood light to a OK TO RED POOR ON Spotlight, but still works. We have another cold spell in Milwaukee in the mid-20's. When it warms up, I will try to mess around by pressing reset button direct to my Wi-Fi modem which is on second floor of my house. Both flood light and spotlight face each other outside about 10-15 feet apart and not sure why the Wi-Fi strength differences on the Ring Chime Pro extender? Maybe I will have to get a stronger Netgear Wi-Fi extender? Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
I have one of these but I use 2 batteries and the solar panel. The batteries don’t seem to charge with the solar panel. I’m not happy with it because it doesn’t seem to keep the batteries topped off. I already returned the cam once for a replacement and it seems like I have to do it again. My hardwired Ring products work much better.
if you want constant motion updates i suggest the wired spotlight cam. Let me just say that if you have your motion settings on freuqent with the battery one your battery will only last 2 days before you have to recharge it, it was so annoying i returned it for the wired one and would not go back to batteries. Also the solar panel is compplete shit, dont waste your $50 as it doesnt charge your camera but help maintain its charge and if it dies at such a rapid pace the way mine did because i had frequent motion notifs it will never charge or even be maintaned because its dying faster than it could recharge itself if that makes any sense. Overall if you want this for the motion alerts get the wired one.
i want to monitor a side path with a battery powered camera so all motion will be coming straight on to the camera what has been the best camera you have tested so far to do this? Thanks for your videos youare my go to channel on youtube.
Lifehakster there is so much out there with so many different quirks and issues and this and that. I know you have done a lot of research. Let me ask you for some advice. What is the best camera you think overall? What is the best battery camera overall? Here is my situation. I live in a very rural area. The only internet connection option I have is satellite internet. I can't even use cell phone without using a Verizon network extender. I also have limited access to power outside. What do you suggest for me to use?
If you have limited power outside, then "wired" cameras are not an option. As to battery powered cameras, I am liking the Argus 2 which I just reviewed. It is instant notification and also has pretty good color and night vision. If you install it with a solar panel option, then you don't have to worry about charging it.
That's what says on paper that battery will last 6-12 months but in reality, people saying that this battery last no longer than 1 month ( one guy who have this cam said that his camera detect only around 5 motion events a day and he needs to charge the battery every 3 weeks ). So any other owner can confirm that?
I will watch again, but what didn't you like about the solar panel? Just the wire? I thought the solar panel would work good? I live in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and I doubt the battery would stay strong enough in below freezing temperatures. Another plus for the solar panel I would think? Same reason I bought the Ring Pro doorbell hard wired instead of battery operated. I too was thinking of buying the spotlight camera and solar panel for my back yard. Thanks, Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
It is the wires from the solar panel and to how I positioned it that I will need to get wire clips or staple the wires to the wall just to get a cleaner look. Also, I didn't mention it in the video but the only location I can install the solar panel doesn't get sunlight and Ring states that it does need a few hours in direct sunlight to effectively function. BTW, the solar panel is to recharge the battery and not to power the camera...so if temperature at your place goes below -20 degrees then you might have issues with the camera.
Ring made it specifically for the Spotlight Cam...I don't know what their reasoning is to have a different adapter plug..the only thing I see different between this solar panel and the one for the stick up cam is the voltage output...5 volts for the spotlight cam and 6 volts for the stickup cam.
Do both your Ring spotlight and flood light security camera work on your Netgear Wi-Fi extender? And, do both work with your Ring Chime Pro extender? Ring sent me their Ring Chime Pro extender to strengthen Wi-Fi signal to my Ring flood light security camera, but they suggested I might have to buy a Netgear 300 for a stronger signal which I may do, but I like the Chime Pro Wi-Fi extender that alerts me to motion from the flood light security camera and my Ring doorbell pro. The Chime Pro extender also chimes when someone rings the doorbell. Again, my main question is: Even though you are using a Netgear Wi-Fi extender, does your Chime Pro extender still work with your spotlight and flood light security cameras with chime alerts? Thanks, Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
Don Zelmer - yes they do. My floodlight camera and my doorbell pro is connected through the extender. Your ring chime pro will work with the extender too
Question. Instead of plugging in the solar panel, could I use the first generation power cord and plug it into the wall if u have an outlet? I like how the original stick up cam cam can be hardwired. I just ran plug into attic
I know/realize it doesn't fit into your network/security infrastructure, but came across the Reolink Go, do you plan on doing a review of that in the future?
Well i have a second battery and i have to charge the batteries every 2 weeks so now im planing to get the plug in so i dont have to continue charging the battery every 2 weeks
I also have aluminum siding. I also have rain gutters. You can install it to the clips that are in the rain gutters. You do not have to drill as the clips have holes in them anyway.
Bought this and had it professionally installed. Ring solar camera does not perform as advertised. Too many notifications for cars driving down the street, BUT Fails to send alerts for people on my property! No ability to immediately respond to alerts (takes several minutes for the images to be loaded). Lots of error messages. I will be returning it and buying something else.
Yes, this camera has a lot of issues. If you have access to an outlet or an electrical junction box, you can try Ring's "wired" security cameras - floodlight, spotlight wired and mount...because they worked for me without issues.
Thanks very much for your reply. I had the installer come out today and take down the Ring Solar Cameras. I will be returning them but Ring has lost my business. This was an expensive test-I paid for installation and take down. The cameras were a failure. Alerts were almost always wrong (notification for birds, cars, trucks but almost NO notice for people on my property). I think the design of the doorbell camera is flawed because it is easy to cover it and/or cover your face as you approach the door. I want a device that is out of sight and out of reach--and has a good day and night vision camera, wi-fi, SD, motion, etc. Don't know what is the next best option....?
Probably not. It is the same camera as the wired Spotlight cam and just with a different mounting options. I hope that with the included mounts, you can mount the camera horizontally like in a ceiling, under an eave or soffit which you cannot do with the wired spotlight cam but able to do with the battery version.
Help! I got the spotlight camera because I wanted the spotlight to come on with motion at night as a deterrent to crime. However, I have determined that with a dim 60W porch light and the camera in a corner under that light, the spotlight does not come on! It will only come on if completely dark with porchlight off. This seems silly. The camera knows what time of day it is so should know the porch light is "artificial" and not daytime light. Ring thought at first the spotlight should definitely come on in any circumstance as long as light set to ON with motion at night but then said it will not come on if you have a porch light. I can't believe this can be true and if so, that there is not some workaround. Hope someone can help.
I have the same issue. Sad that Ring does not develop a fix for this as if this is the case, the cheaper stick up camera works serve the same purpose. Only thing I heard was to cover the light sensor if the camera somehow if you can find it but would make the lights turn on during the day as well.
@@AJREGALA Thanks for your comment. Yes, I think it is ridiculous that a camera that is supposed to double as a motion-activated security light, does not allow the light to come on! This has to be a simple firmware fix. I requested this on the Ring community forum but it didn't get any traction. There are so many requests on that forum for new features that aren't nearly as important as something like this which should be an inherent feature. Anyone reading this should jump on the Ring forum and make your voice heard too.
That's pretty good. I see a lot of reviews with people complaining that they are only getting a week or so. I don't want to drill holes in my house only to realize I'm going to have to recharge weekly
I really like your videos. You seemed to have a good knowledge of this battery-powered camera so maybe you can help me with this issue that I am having with mine. I did the set up properly, according to Ring and I have even contacted Ring regarding my issue with no success. My camera in the front of the house is only picking up “human” motions about 25% of the time. It often misses people coming and/or leaving the house. Are you experiencing any issues with your battery-powered camera? Thanks for your help.
The battery powered spotlight cam doesn't have the motion sensitivity slider that you can choose human motions only. It is only in their wired cameras. You can adjust the PIR sensor's zones and/or the motion frequency to "frequent" and see if it will be better in picking up motion. BTW, this also applies to all other battery powered security cameras which they use PIR sensors for motion detection, you need to position the camera so that the subject(s) that you are monitoring is in an angle or they are walking across the camera left to right or right to left and not towards or walking away from the camera. The PIR sensor will pick up motion best when the motion moves across the PIR sensor. Hopefully, this helps.
@LifeHackster - I dont have any wiring over my garage door. Would the Ring Spotlight be sufficient for over a 2 car garage/driveway? I am looking for something like this and cannot get Ring Floodlight due to it requiring wired. Thanks in advance. Also I commented on one of your other videos, I got the solar panel for a blink XT and boy it works good! Appreciate all the tips!
It should be ok. The lights will not be bright though but the camera will still have a good view of the area with color recording at night when the spotlights are on.
Depending on your lighting needs. I just checked and the floodlight doesn't have adjustment on light intensity but the spotlight camera has...which should be the other way around because the spotlight cam only has 700 lumens which is ok just to have some general lighting. The floodlight cam has 3k lumens which it is too bright for my back patio but it might work for you.
I have a Reolink Argus which is battery powered Wifi camera and also a Reolink 4MP wired NVR system. The argus is 1080p and the 4MP is a 1440p. Both of these cameras have better night vision than the Ring.
The spotlight cam battery has major issues right now as to lagging and freezing video...until Ring fixes that, I cannot recommend it. I like the Ring Floodlight, then Ring doorbell pro, and Ring spotlight cam wired...
I was interested in purchasing this setup but now that you’ve had it for a while I wanted your overall opinion. Does the solar panel keep the battery topped off? Has the video quality met your expectations? Did a range extender improve overall system responsiveness?
Ring just released this battery version of the Spotlight Cam...so I didn't have it for a while yet. I didn't like to solar panel because of the wires...so, I just bought a another battery pack..and it works good. Video quality especially at night could be better. For the Spotlight Cam, I didn't have to use a range extender...I used one though for my Ring Floodlight Camera.
I prefer "wired" than battery. My floodlight cam is still my go to camera..and it is mostly it is being used everyday...everytime we get in/out of the garage..and it is 99% reliable.
I am still debating should I get the wired or battery operated spotlight cam. Is the picture quality of the wired version much better than the battery ones? Did Ring update the firmware yet so you can adjust the light setting? Thank you.
I think both of them uses the same camera..so the picture quality is the same. They just run on different software/algorithm because one has to save battery power...so it is off most of the time until it is triggered by motion. The wired one is like on "standby mode" so when motion is triggered..it records 2-3 seconds footage before it got triggered. The lights now turns on and off in the app but Ring hasn't updated and hasn't added the light settings yet. I'm going to do a comparison video soon between these 2 spotlight cams.
I recently installed the Ring Doorbell Pro, Floodlight Cam and Spotlight Cam Battery Operated... The Spotlight Cam Battery Operated is HORRIBLE!!! Any recommendations and or suggestions for my backyard?
Yup...the battery spotlight cam has some lagging/freezing issues and I don't know if Ring is trying to fix... For battery powered Wifi cameras, I have the Blink which works ok..and also the Reolink Argus..
I had the Spotlight Battery all set up and it was working, but my WiFi was reading low, so I tried to connect to a different WiFi that I thought I had, but it had been disconnected by my son. So I tried to reconnect back to the original WiFi and now it won't connect. Do you have any suggestions. I have the Solar panel as well.
Tell them to put more time on the light i have it on my back yard and it goes off and im left in the dark this camera is soposably beter no wires but weak compared to the rest
Thanks for your review! I am not happy with this version of the spotlight cam. I purchased 4 and will be returning them. I was expecting the same features and video quality as the spotlight wired cams I have. Not being able to 1. Map out the area you wish to be monitored. 2. Only be notified when the camera notices a person versus any other object or animal/insect that moves. 3. Adjust the length of time the light stays on. 4. My cameras are not allowing me to turn on the light manually. 5. There is no way to tell the camera to use solar instead of battery life. The stick up cam has the feature of programming the cam where to get its charge. (I called ring and they said you have to just select it to give you the fastest live feed and the camera knows to use solar. The way you set it up on the video will drain the battery.) The video quality is not as good as the spotlight cam wired. My video feed has a haze and it lags on video and audio. The wired solar panel doesn’t bother me much, but it makes more sense to just by another battery as you will do. I hope they make the changes and make these cams more functional.
Elsa Padilla - I agree on all your points. It seems like they rushed this camera to the market. Their setup guide that comes with the camera shows that there is the “light settings” option in the app, but it is not there so I don’t know if they are going to leave that out or they are going to update their firmware. That is weird that we can not control the light.
They will be releasing a hardwired mount version next week I believe which will be like the wired version except it will be hard wired like the Floodlight Cam
Hello Elsa, would you please elaborate why you were not happy with the Ring Battery Solar Spotlight? There's a really good deal going on which I am interested , but I am hesitant because I already own two Ring Wired Spotlights and they work fine and dandy. Nevertheless, I tried a Ring Doorbell 2 , which is a battery dependent device, which left me unsatisfied and I am afraid these Battery /Solar Spotlights suffer from same issues. Your response to my inquiry will be more than appreciated.
Elsa Padilla I’m sure they’ve done an update by now but I can do all of the things you’re have trouble with and have no problems. The only thing that you still can’t do is map out your motion sensing zones. I two battery powered spotlights, doorbell 2, and a floodlight. While I’ve noticed that my floodlight has better quality it’s not a huge difference.
What's the distance you can mount away from the router? I am interested in either this or the Arlo Pro to put on shed and facing the house. Distance from router to shed is about 50'.
Ring spotlight cam I cannot recommend. It has issues..like lag and choppy video. Also Ring cameras needs a strong Wifi signal to work properly. I would go with the Arlo Pro 2 if budget is not a concern but you also need to check the Reolink Argus 2. -> ua-cam.com/video/ow5m52J371Y/v-deo.html
Awesome review! I’m really debating if I should get this. I really want to get the wired one but I don’t have an outlet close to the location and this seem to be a cleaner install. Is this worth buying? I notice you had a hard time turning off the light on and off. Is this a a know issue reported by Ring? I’m getting the ring classic doorbell with this camera?
Thanks. I'm not really convinced at this time that it is worth buying especially if this is your first Ring camera that you plan in purchasing. This has just been released and Ring will eventually fix this issue. I think they will update the app to add "light settings" just like their other cameras. The night vision is mediocre. I'm biased to "wired" cameras..they just perform better. The Ring doorbell pro is also way better than the classic doorbell...and because it is also wired.
Yes, you can wire it and that is how I wired mine too before I upgraded but wiring is just to charge the batteries and not to power the camera. The pro version needed constant power which you have to install Ring's power pack at the doorbell's transformer.. ua-cam.com/video/5b7abtr2xHk/v-deo.html
Thanks for the info. I noticed you like the black color. Was there a reason why you chose black versus white? I’m trying to decide which color to buy. Also, are you filipino?
I have just watched all your vid and you coverd this lol my yard wide put only about 10ft long should I be ok pointing at front get to pickup up people coming towards
The battery powered Ring spotlight uses PIR motion detection which is pretty accurate in detecting motion when the subject goes across the sensor. It will detect also if it is going towards the camera but it will usually trigger late...
Yes, it does..it is just missing the siren button on the main camera page... Just go to"Live View" and click the ( ! ) and it will say if you want to activate the siren...
Now that you've had the solar panel spotlight camera for awhile, do you have any comments? I saw this video a month or so ago and now it's February 14th. Seems to me at the end of this video you took off the solar panel? I should have watched the video again before this question. I will after sending this for sure. For the last few months I have been thinking of buying the spotlight camera and solar panel for my back yard like you did. I have the Ring flood light security camera on my garage viewing the back of my house and full driveway. I want the spotlight camera and solar panel to view my garage and backyard. I will attach spotlight camera and solar panel to my house. Do you think there will be any interference with the cameras being face to face? Sorry for being so wordy. Just interested in your comments before buying spotlight camera and solar panel. I also have the Ring Pro doorbell on my front door if you remember me? Thanks, Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
As to the battery powered Spotlight, it still has some "freezing issues" which I might do a video on... I know a lot of people have complained about this also... ring.com/share/6522565218084153824 Yes, I unhooked the solar power and from December, with 2-3 30 sec. recordings/day, my battery is at 57%. As to the battery consumption, it is pretty good and when the solar panel was hooked up and the panel getting around 2 hours/day of direct sunlight, my battery then was always topped off (100%). As to interference, no there will be no interference and I remember you Don.. :)
LifeHackster , I seem to recall you use a Netgear Wi-Fi extender for the spotlight or flood light security camera? I use the Chime Pro Wi-Fi extender Ring sent me free of charge a week after I bought flood light security camera because my Wi-Fi modem is on my second floor. I will have to do the same thing for the new spotlight, or buy a stronger Netgear Wi-Fi extender for both spotlight and flood light? Occasionally I still have some choppiness with the flood light that uses the Chime Pro Wi-Fi extender. I still will buy spotlight camera and solar panel for my back yard. Like you, there isn't an electric outlet nearby. I plan on buying in a few weeks. Although Milwaukee temperatures are supposed to be in the 40's, my lawn is still snow covered. Thanks again for your reply. Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
Yes, I use an old Netgear Wifi extender which I placed in the garage for my floodlight cam.. I think your Chime Pro extender should be enough. I use a TP link extender for my spotlight cam mount which is pretty good too but any cheap 2.4 GHz extender should work with the Ring - amzn.to/2CoHEjy The choppiness I think is not a WiFi issue...the battery powered Spotlight I have has a RSSI of 45 which is pretty good but still has the freezing issue.
LifeHackster , thanks again for the tips. I was going to contact Ring to see if there would be a problem with both flood light security camera and spotlight camera drawing from the Ring Chime Pro extender at the same time? Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
Did you notice any difference in video or motion sensing quality after installing the 2nd battery, or while the solar panel was plugged in? I've been considering purchasing this, but I was hoping that it would record more immediately upon detecting motion with the solar panel plugged in since it's sort of like having it wired to power.
There should be no difference...the second battery will just be a back up when the other one is drained and the solar panel is just to charge the battery and not as a direct source of power. To be fair though it does record faster than other battery powered PIR sensor cameras.
Nightvision does look washed out..did you try angling the ring spotlight down more to see if that would help with the light glaring back into the camera which might help with nightvision looking so washed out..you would think the nightvision would look better when spending that kind of money and that the video wouldnt be so choppy..
It helped a little bit when I angled it down but not much. The night vision on the Ring cameras is pretty much useless if used for facial recognition not unless the person stands directly in front of the camera. I can't wait for the Yi outdoor to be released so that I can compare the night vision.
Paul I got a email from Yi News on Sept.29th that the outdoor camera is coming out soon and last week the Yi app had an update that included being able to add Yi outdoor camera..
I forgot what video it was. But in the video on your channel there was a motion and either the ipad or echo show opened the ring camera. how do I do that? I want my echo show to pull up the video when it is triggered.
@@LifeHackster no It's not true I have installed this camera with 2 batteries inside 7 days ago and today both batteries are at 0% which is ridiculous. 3 months will last if you live in the desert and you have max 3 events every day ( every detected motion means 1 event) But my camera is in front of the house and she catch every single car on the street ( this is backstreet not a busy street ) but anyway people are going to work so they drive and my cam catches it so I have around 100 events every day.....can I have less? NO what' the point? its a security cam it suppose to catch everything that's what the security camera is for. WASTE OF MONEY in my opinion and I contacted Ring and they didn't even answered because they know they can't do shit because their cam is garbage.I found on their website that it suppose to last 1000 events so there you go 100 events x 10 days gave you a 1000 events ...so where is that 6-12 months they advertising?? this is bullshit.
These cameras are terrible, watch long term review. Battery life is terrible, picture is 480p at best, choppy, and digitized. 100+ Mbps 1gb modem router rated at twice the square footage of my house and still poor picture, can't even tell whose standing in the driveway half the time. I believe the hardware in these things is junk. Support is ridiculous, they say everything is fine and it looks great. Don't buy!!!
@@LifeHackster what was the fix? Customer service told me the picture looked great to them and insinuated my eyes were bad. We ended the call with him saying we were at a stand still. I wish I could upload my screen shots here so people could see them.
Great review! I have a question and maybe you can answer. What kind of wire is used to connect the solar panel to the cam? Is the wire connected to the solar panel a USB port? Can it be plug and unplug?
It uses the same wire like the USB cable but it is not USB but a barrel power connector but smaller in one end and the other end is fixed to the solar panel. I don't know if it is proprietary but it is specific to the Ring Spotlight Cam. You cannot use the one for the stick up cam.
Due to your thorough review. I just purchased two of these along with the solar panel. Thanks kuya! Keep up the great work.
You are welcome.
the unboxing videos found in youtube are much better than the same Manufactures website products details. Thanks ! You answer all my questions
You are welcome.
thanks so much for your detailed review! i appreciate it
Just what I needed! About to install this soon. Thank you for the detailed description & review! Great job as always!
Hey LifeHackster Like That Ring Solar Panel And Spotlight Cam Battery
By the way. Very informative video as usual.
Donald Zelmer - Thank You.
awesome review! really dig your stuff keep it up! thanks
Thank You.
Thanks again for your answer and information.
Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
Thanks great review.
You are welcome.
Thank You Very Much very good video
You are welcome.
I just bought my today but it’s White and also I install it on a Ceiling
What’s really needed is to know if the solar can charge the battery as intended without user ever having to unplug to charge into wall
Great Video, if you get the solar panel and put 2 batteries in, will the solar panel charge both batteries up, when one finally goes dead and it switches over to the other one, will the dead start recharging, or will it need pulled out and recharged from 110v?
The solar panel will charge both batteries.
Hello LifeHackster. Your reviews are awesome as it helped me to better evaluate which cameras to buy.
I had a bought a Ring Doorbell 2, but even though it says it is "wired", in the end it is a battery based device. The motion detection was slow and unreliable and the recording would freeze up often and the most it'd record was 30 seconds which was not enough and it will miss important parts. To put it simple, it did not live to my expectation$ and it was returned.
Nevertheless, I did buy 4 Wired spotlight cameras in which 1 arrived defective from the get go and the other one failed/would not connect to the Chime Pro. Hence, I have decided to keep 2 Wired Spotlights for the simple reason the motion detection is smoother and way better and the recording after motion detection is at least a minute long.
I have placed one by the front door porch up high which is secure from theft yet it gives me a nice bird's eye-view as well. The other one is placed by the garage/sideways and safe from the sun/rain. I have both of them connected with the help of a long durable /outdoor rated extension cord and I found a simple creative solution to record videos in color at night by simply buying Bright LED lights for the front porch which tricks the sensor thinking is daylight and for the garage, I installed a 50W floodlight which I can turn on/off via my phone and use it in security mode for the wee hours. Overall that has worked for me to have some reliable surveillance in front of my house.
Having said that, I am giving Nest Outdoor camera a try as the 24/7 non stop recording was appealing compared to the Ring Devices which are motion triggered cameras only. I have not decided yet if Nest is worth it to keep considering the $100 a year for 10 days cloud recording and the additional expense to have it installed professionally considering the big and inconvenient big adapter that forces you to drill a big hole to connect it safely indoors.
Anyhow, I came across a good deal for 2 Ring Battery spotlights with Solar Panels for $400 which can come handy for my backyard which there's not much activity (except for my playful dog) and the battery would not drain as often if it was placed in front of the house with the constant traffic. I am already aware the Wired Devices outperforms the Battery/Solar devices, but don't want to use extension cords on the back side so I am considering going with that good deal on hand.
First question, when motion is detected, how long does the minimum recording goes for, 30 seconds, less or more? How reliable and worth it is in your opinion to get these devices considering the Wired Spotlights have already spoiled me with their better performance? I respect your reviews/opinions which can only help me make a better decision and if I do decide to buy them Ring Devices; If so, then that will be the end of the Nest Outdoor Camera as I prefer to spend $100 a year for 4 Ring devices - 2 covering my front side of the house and 2 on the backyard than to pay $100 for 10 days of cloud service for 1 camera only simply because it offers non stop recording..
i Apologize for the extended post and hope to hear from you soon,
Thanks,
Footballer
Hello Footballer...I would not recommend the Spotlight battery at this time due to footage freezing issues...see video - ring.com/share/6516490205887293920
If you have a light fixture in your backyard then you can replace it with the spotlight cam mount...but the floodlight is still one of the better value overall because it has a better light...
If you want to go with battery powered, check out the Blink XT..I have several videos about it..it has its own issues but overall is a good weatherproof small footprint camera...plus it runs on 2 AA batteries that should last a couple of years in your backyard if there is not a lot of traffic...
If you are going to invest on the Nest, I think you will be better off with a NVR PoE system...also I have a video of my setup (Reolink) in my channel...just check it out...24/7 monitoring..
As to your questions...The Ring spotlight battery will only record for 30 seconds not unless there is continuous movement..then it will record longer..and you cannot adjust this...
Let me know if you have any other questions..
I had the faith you would reply, but Wow! That was mighty fast! Thanks :)
I had bought two floodlights before, but because I did not have any junction boxes available I did not bother and returned them unopened boxes. Besides, i realized these floodlights emit a soft light color 3000K which I am not fond of. I have my house now into LED daylight bright lights, so soft white is not an option anymore :).
On top of that, I was not going to spend on an electrician work from the get-go, so I bought them Wired Spotlights which I tried them using an extension cord.
Now that I have tested them and I am satisfied with them, then it makes sense to invest to install junction boxes and free up my extension cords. :)
I will take your recommendation not to go with the spotlight battery/solar devices specially if the footage freezes (Thanks for that posted sample video) and just like I experienced with the Doorbell Ring 2 device. To add insult to injury, if it only records for 30 seconds then it will be more a waste of time to buy it even at $400 or at any lower price.
If anyone else is interested in pulling the trigger on this too good to be true special, here's the information for someone to take advantage of:
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As far the Nest outdoor camera goes, I will follow your suggestion to check the Reolink as I am honest that I am naive when it comes to NVR PoE systems.
I have a week left to make my final decision about the Nest Outdoor Camera which it's a mighty non stop recording camera, but the camera is useless unless one $hell$ out expensive subscription money.
You are awesome and thanks for your prompt response!
I had not subscribed before, but I made sure to do it this time.
You rock!! , LifeHackster! :)
Ring needs to fix this issue... hopefully it is not hardware and it is their network or something that can be fixed via software update...when I first got the camera, I didn't have this issue... I need to check my old footage but I'm pretty sure I didn't notice any freezes then...
Nest and 24/7 recording means it is constantly uploading data to the cloud...and this also applies to Ring...when internet is cut or out... then you have no footage...with an NVR system, it records to a hard drive..then you can set it up to also record to a cloud service for backup...just in case...
I'm actually interested with the Nest that I have their doorbell camera on pre-order..so we will see then...the first time I'll be reviewing their cameras...
Thank You for subscribing...
LifeHackster Thanks for your insightful and well produced reviews which helps hundreds , if not thousands, like it did for me. 👍✌️
Well Lifehackster, I purchased the Ring spotlight camera and solar panel yesterday from Ring and got the 10% off, or $25.00 off price. It should be here Tuesday March 6th I think it said. Watching your video again before it arrives this Tuesday.
By the way; Did you hear Amazon bought the Ring Security business? After I purchased spotlight yesterday the 10% discount was not deducted so I called customer service and they added it. I asked employee about Amazon purchase and he read me his memo that he received the night before and it and he told me no changes. It will still be Ring and only change will be Amazon delivery shipping. As a person that went through a company buy out, I myself was laid off and company put in their own people. Hopefully Amazon will not screw up Ring or the products!
Have a good day.
Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
Wow... Amazon bought out Blink also...darn..they are trying to get in the Home surveillance/security market...I really don't know if this is a good thing... I'm hoping Amazon will not screw this up..
LifeHackster , Sounds like Amazon wants to monaplies every business. Amazon owner is the reason places like Sears, Kmart and others are laying off people or going out of business.
LifeHackster, I got my spotlight camera and solar panel late afternoon March 6th. I started charging battery about 7:30pm and at 9pm or so, both orange and green lights were on battery. I turned in for the night and plugged battery in to finish charging at 4:10am. I was surprised how long it took to charge battery until just the green light was on. Between last night and this morning I think it had been on charger for 5 or so hours? After that, setup went fast and almost automatic. It asked if I wanted to set up with my Ring Chime Pro extender that I use for flood light security camera and said yes. Spotlight started to work immediately in my kitchen. I went outside in the dang 25 degree Milwaukee temperatures and put both spotlight and solar panel above my back door. Came in, checked live view and it said bottom cover open, close otherwise camera will not work properly. I went outside crawled up my ladder at least five times saying cover was open?? I even put battery on other side. I called customer service and the guy was zero help, basically telling me what I already did. Lastly, I rebooted my smartphone and spotlight has been working fine. That's the only problem I had with setup. Because I put on wall of my house and refacing camera post for wall, the solar cord hit the post, so I turn the cord upright. I don't think that should make a difference? Milwaukee, besides being cold again (last week) 60 degrees, today low 20's this morning. It was also cloudy all day and not sure if solar panel works? Messing around with live view all day, the battery is at 97% right now at 7:12pm.
All in all, glad I have three Ring security cameras.
Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
Thanks for the info on your install. I haven't had the " cover open" alert but I noticed that you need to push it pretty good to lock it in place...When I have the solar panel installed on mine.. I was getting at least 2 hours of full sunshine on the panel and my battery was always topped off 100% whenever I checked it. Right now, I'm testing how long the battery lasts and it has been 2 1/2 months - averaging 2-4 motion recordings/day and it is still at 37%...
LifeHackster , I always doubted what they said battery would last 6-12 months, especially in cold Wisconsin weather. Had a sunny day yesterday and it went from 94 to 100% so I know solar panel works. Also not getting a real good Wi-Fi signal using the Ring Chime Pro extender as my flood light security camera on same extender. I get a good green signal on flood light to a OK TO RED POOR ON Spotlight, but still works. We have another cold spell in Milwaukee in the mid-20's. When it warms up, I will try to mess around by pressing reset button direct to my Wi-Fi modem which is on second floor of my house. Both flood light and spotlight face each other outside about 10-15 feet apart and not sure why the Wi-Fi strength differences on the Ring Chime Pro extender? Maybe I will have to get a stronger Netgear Wi-Fi extender?
Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
You beat me to it. I was thinking of buying the same thing which Ring has for $229.00.
I pre ordered mine when they first advertised it...
Thanks !
You are welcome.
Thanks for this! :)
You are welcome.
I have one of these but I use 2 batteries and the solar panel. The batteries don’t seem to charge with the solar panel. I’m not happy with it because it doesn’t seem to keep the batteries topped off. I already returned the cam once for a replacement and it seems like I have to do it again. My hardwired Ring products work much better.
if you want constant motion updates i suggest the wired spotlight cam. Let me just say that if you have your motion settings on freuqent with the battery one your battery will only last 2 days before you have to recharge it, it was so annoying i returned it for the wired one and would not go back to batteries.
Also the solar panel is compplete shit, dont waste your $50 as it doesnt charge your camera but help maintain its charge and if it dies at such a rapid pace the way mine did because i had frequent motion notifs it will never charge or even be maintaned because its dying faster than it could recharge itself if that makes any sense. Overall if you want this for the motion alerts get the wired one.
True. If you have access to a power outlet or a junction box. Wired Ring cameras are the way to go.
i want to monitor a side path with a battery powered camera so all motion will be coming straight on to the camera what has been the best camera you have tested so far to do this? Thanks for your videos youare my go to channel on youtube.
I have the solar version and I have yet to see anything below 90%... it's been about 2 weeks and a half and it's still at high 90s if not 100%
Yes, as long as you have direct sunlight for a couple of hours, then it will keep the battery of the camera topped off...
I have a spotlight too! But it’s not black
Lifehakster there is so much out there with so many different quirks and issues and this and that. I know you have done a lot of research. Let me ask you for some advice. What is the best camera you think overall? What is the best battery camera overall? Here is my situation. I live in a very rural area. The only internet connection option I have is satellite internet. I can't even use cell phone without using a Verizon network extender. I also have limited access to power outside. What do you suggest for me to use?
If you have limited power outside, then "wired" cameras are not an option. As to battery powered cameras, I am liking the Argus 2 which I just reviewed. It is instant notification and also has pretty good color and night vision. If you install it with a solar panel option, then you don't have to worry about charging it.
That's what says on paper that battery will last 6-12 months but in reality, people saying that this battery last no longer than 1 month ( one guy who have this cam said that his camera detect only around 5 motion events a day and he needs to charge the battery every 3 weeks ). So any other owner can confirm that?
I will watch again, but what didn't you like about the solar panel? Just the wire? I thought the solar panel would work good? I live in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and I doubt the battery would stay strong enough in below freezing temperatures. Another plus for the solar panel I would think? Same reason I bought the Ring Pro doorbell hard wired instead of battery operated. I too was thinking of buying the spotlight camera and solar panel for my back yard.
Thanks,
Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
It is the wires from the solar panel and to how I positioned it that I will need to get wire clips or staple the wires to the wall just to get a cleaner look. Also, I didn't mention it in the video but the only location I can install the solar panel doesn't get sunlight and Ring states that it does need a few hours in direct sunlight to effectively function. BTW, the solar panel is to recharge the battery and not to power the camera...so if temperature at your place goes below -20 degrees then you might have issues with the camera.
The old solar panels had a USB cable....I have never seen that adapter cable. I am very confused
Ring made it specifically for the Spotlight Cam...I don't know what their reasoning is to have a different adapter plug..the only thing I see different between this solar panel and the one for the stick up cam is the voltage output...5 volts for the spotlight cam and 6 volts for the stickup cam.
Hi can I mount my solar panel sideways so I could tilt it from side to side instead of up to down?
Do both your Ring spotlight and flood light security camera work on your Netgear Wi-Fi extender? And, do both work with your Ring Chime Pro extender? Ring sent me their Ring Chime Pro extender to strengthen Wi-Fi signal to my Ring flood light security camera, but they suggested I might have to buy a Netgear 300 for a stronger signal which I may do, but I like the Chime Pro Wi-Fi extender that alerts me to motion from the flood light security camera and my Ring doorbell pro. The Chime Pro extender also chimes when someone rings the doorbell. Again, my main question is: Even though you are using a Netgear Wi-Fi extender, does your Chime Pro extender still work with your spotlight and flood light security cameras with chime alerts?
Thanks,
Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
Don Zelmer - yes they do. My floodlight camera and my doorbell pro is connected through the extender. Your ring chime pro will work with the extender too
Can Spotlight Cam kick off SIREN automatically by scheduled (Midnight-5AM) when motion detected?
Hey Buddy. Did you ever do review on spotlight wired vs spotlight battery
Question. Instead of plugging in the solar panel, could I use the first generation power cord and plug it into the wall if u have an outlet? I like how the original stick up cam cam can be hardwired. I just ran plug into attic
I don't have the stick up cam and i'm assuming the power cord is a micro USB plug...if it is, then it will not fit...it has a barrel plug.
I know/realize it doesn't fit into your network/security infrastructure, but came across the Reolink Go, do you plan on doing a review of that in the future?
I'm not sure. We will see.
Well i have a second battery and i have to charge the batteries every 2 weeks so now im planing to get the plug in so i dont have to continue charging the battery every 2 weeks
I am having a hard time mounting to aluminum siding. Any suggestion? Trying to do it myself.
Try to find a stud to screw it in. I think the aluminum is too thin to hold the camera securely.
I also have aluminum siding. I also have rain gutters. You can install it to the clips that are in the rain gutters. You do not have to drill as the clips have holes in them anyway.
Try self tapping steel screws mate or stick it on. Good luck.
Is there a way to extend the solar panel cable? The provided one is too small. Appreciate the assistance lifehackster.
I haven't seen any extension for the Ring Solar Panel. Sorry.
Thank you. Please update here in case you find out if there is a way to extend the wire.
Bought this and had it professionally installed. Ring solar camera does not perform as advertised. Too many notifications for cars driving down the street, BUT Fails to send alerts for people on my property! No ability to immediately respond to alerts (takes several minutes for the images to be loaded). Lots of error messages. I will be returning it and buying something else.
Yes, this camera has a lot of issues. If you have access to an outlet or an electrical junction box, you can try Ring's "wired" security cameras - floodlight, spotlight wired and mount...because they worked for me without issues.
Thanks very much for your reply. I had the installer come out today and take down the Ring Solar Cameras. I will be returning them but Ring has lost my business. This was an expensive test-I paid for installation and take down. The cameras were a failure. Alerts were almost always wrong (notification for birds, cars, trucks but almost NO notice for people on my property). I think the design of the doorbell camera is flawed because it is easy to cover it and/or cover your face as you approach the door. I want a device that is out of sight and out of reach--and has a good day and night vision camera, wi-fi, SD, motion, etc. Don't know what is the next best option....?
A good option is a wired NVR PoE system...ua-cam.com/video/mI5eCSMLGM4/v-deo.html
@@Nibor.L Same for me. All traffic and no people notifications. I will be returning it as well.
Does the wired spotlight record 24/7? What are the difference between wired and battery powered? Thanks
Pilipinong pilipino brad ah haha
Will you be also reviewing the Ring Spotlight Cam Mount when it is released next week?
Probably not. It is the same camera as the wired Spotlight cam and just with a different mounting options. I hope that with the included mounts, you can mount the camera horizontally like in a ceiling, under an eave or soffit which you cannot do with the wired spotlight cam but able to do with the battery version.
Other than the spot light, how is this compared to the Stick Up cam, especially the new version that just came out a few days ago? Thanks.
Help! I got the spotlight camera because I wanted the spotlight to come on with motion at night as a deterrent to crime. However, I have determined that with a dim 60W porch light and the camera in a corner under that light, the spotlight does not come on! It will only come on if completely dark with porchlight off. This seems silly. The camera knows what time of day it is so should know the porch light is "artificial" and not daytime light. Ring thought at first the spotlight should definitely come on in any circumstance as long as light set to ON with motion at night but then said it will not come on if you have a porch light. I can't believe this can be true and if so, that there is not some workaround. Hope someone can help.
I have the same issue. Sad that Ring does not develop a fix for this as if this is the case, the cheaper stick up camera works serve the same purpose. Only thing I heard was to cover the light sensor if the camera somehow if you can find it but would make the lights turn on during the day as well.
@@AJREGALA Thanks for your comment. Yes, I think it is ridiculous that a camera that is supposed to double as a motion-activated security light, does not allow the light to come on! This has to be a simple firmware fix. I requested this on the Ring community forum but it didn't get any traction. There are so many requests on that forum for new features that aren't nearly as important as something like this which should be an inherent feature. Anyone reading this should jump on the Ring forum and make your voice heard too.
Is the solar panel plug suppose to come with the weather proof plug? Mine didn’t come with it.
how much life are you getting out of the batteries?
2 months in...I still have 57%..low use..averaging 1 motion recording a day..
That's pretty good. I see a lot of reviews with people complaining that they are only getting a week or so. I don't want to drill holes in my house only to realize I'm going to have to recharge weekly
I get about 8 to 10 days.
Chester Battle I'm getting at least a month on mine if not more
After one day mine went from 100% to 98%.
I really like your videos. You seemed to have a good knowledge of this battery-powered camera so maybe you can help me with this issue that I am having with mine. I did the set up properly, according to Ring and I have even contacted Ring regarding my issue with no success. My camera in the front of the house is only picking up “human” motions about 25% of the time. It often misses people coming and/or leaving the house. Are you experiencing any issues with your battery-powered camera? Thanks for your help.
The battery powered spotlight cam doesn't have the motion sensitivity slider that you can choose human motions only. It is only in their wired cameras. You can adjust the PIR sensor's zones and/or the motion frequency to "frequent" and see if it will be better in picking up motion. BTW, this also applies to all other battery powered security cameras which they use PIR sensors for motion detection, you need to position the camera so that the subject(s) that you are monitoring is in an angle or they are walking across the camera left to right or right to left and not towards or walking away from the camera. The PIR sensor will pick up motion best when the motion moves across the PIR sensor. Hopefully, this helps.
So would you recommend this specific camera?
This camera is better now..it is ok.. I like Ring Wired cameras better.
So how far away from the unit will it trip by motion?. I heard you cannot adjust, so have you tried to measure this?
@LifeHackster - I dont have any wiring over my garage door. Would the Ring Spotlight be sufficient for over a 2 car garage/driveway? I am looking for something like this and cannot get Ring Floodlight due to it requiring wired. Thanks in advance. Also I commented on one of your other videos, I got the solar panel for a blink XT and boy it works good! Appreciate all the tips!
It should be ok. The lights will not be bright though but the camera will still have a good view of the area with color recording at night when the spotlights are on.
Which one do you recommend for a backyard patio area, the wired floodlight or wired spotlight cam?
Depending on your lighting needs. I just checked and the floodlight doesn't have adjustment on light intensity but the spotlight camera has...which should be the other way around because the spotlight cam only has 700 lumens which is ok just to have some general lighting. The floodlight cam has 3k lumens which it is too bright for my back patio but it might work for you.
The spotlight Cam Battery have a siren?
Yes it does.
which has better night vision. Your Realink or Ring Camera? Is your Realink hard wired?
I have a Reolink Argus which is battery powered Wifi camera and also a Reolink 4MP wired NVR system. The argus is 1080p and the 4MP is a 1440p. Both of these cameras have better night vision than the Ring.
Let’s say your home, can u go into your app and turn the cameras off , if u wish to save energy ?
For the camera not to record...go to the motion settings and uncheck the motion zone..then it will not alert you or record when it senses motion...
@@LifeHackster will this save the battery life? I want to only have it on while I'm at work. Thanks!
Do you use solar panel now for your ring spotlight cam battery??? Would you recommend to have it???
Yes. I am actually using an aftermarket brand - wasserstein and is working pretty good.
LifeHackster thanks a lot. Bought the solar panel from them and at the same time the gutter mount for it....
sorry if you mentioned this already, but which do you prefer, the doorbell or spotlight cam?
The spotlight cam battery has major issues right now as to lagging and freezing video...until Ring fixes that, I cannot recommend it. I like the Ring Floodlight, then Ring doorbell pro, and Ring spotlight cam wired...
How high up is your cam
On this video..it is only about 7-8 feet up..
I was interested in purchasing this setup but now that you’ve had it for a while I wanted your overall opinion. Does the solar panel keep the battery topped off? Has the video quality met your expectations? Did a range extender improve overall system responsiveness?
Ring just released this battery version of the Spotlight Cam...so I didn't have it for a while yet. I didn't like to solar panel because of the wires...so, I just bought a another battery pack..and it works good. Video quality especially at night could be better. For the Spotlight Cam, I didn't have to use a range extender...I used one though for my Ring Floodlight Camera.
LifeHackster how is it compared to floodlight ?
I prefer "wired" than battery. My floodlight cam is still my go to camera..and it is mostly it is being used everyday...everytime we get in/out of the garage..and it is 99% reliable.
even though you didn't like the wires in the solar version, did you feel that the panel sufficiently powered the device all day every day?
Yes...it fully charged the battery on the second day and it remained 100% until I took it off...
I am still debating should I get the wired or battery operated spotlight cam. Is the picture quality of the wired version much better than the battery ones? Did Ring update the firmware yet so you can adjust the light setting? Thank you.
I think both of them uses the same camera..so the picture quality is the same. They just run on different software/algorithm because one has to save battery power...so it is off most of the time until it is triggered by motion. The wired one is like on "standby mode" so when motion is triggered..it records 2-3 seconds footage before it got triggered. The lights now turns on and off in the app but Ring hasn't updated and hasn't added the light settings yet. I'm going to do a comparison video soon between these 2 spotlight cams.
Can multiple users access the camera via the app?
Yes. You can share the camera(s) via the app...
LifeHackster at the same time.
.. Setting mine up tomorrow... Guess I will find out.
@@LifeHackster you are awesome
I recently installed the Ring Doorbell Pro, Floodlight Cam and Spotlight Cam Battery Operated... The Spotlight Cam Battery Operated is HORRIBLE!!! Any recommendations and or suggestions for my backyard?
Yup...the battery spotlight cam has some lagging/freezing issues and I don't know if Ring is trying to fix... For battery powered Wifi cameras, I have the Blink which works ok..and also the Reolink Argus..
LifeHackster which of the two do you like better, and do you still use your battery operated Spotlight Cam?
I had the Spotlight Battery all set up and it was working, but my WiFi was reading low, so I tried to connect to a different WiFi that I thought I had, but it had been disconnected by my son. So I tried to reconnect back to the original WiFi and now it won't connect. Do you have any suggestions. I have the Solar panel as well.
You probably need a stronger WiFi connection when initially you had a low signal. Try out a Wifi extender and see if it helps.
Is there a friend code you have, we are looking into getting this system! :)
I don’t have any discount codes at this time. Sorry.
@@LifeHackster thank you! We ended up getting the Ring system! :) Thank you so much on being so informative, it helped us reach this decision!
Well, how much is a few hours for recharging?
Tell them to put more time on the light i have it on my back yard and it goes off and im left in the dark this camera is soposably beter no wires but weak compared to the rest
Thanks for your review!
I am not happy with this version of the spotlight cam. I purchased 4 and will be returning them.
I was expecting the same features and video quality as the spotlight wired cams I have.
Not being able to
1. Map out the area you wish to be monitored.
2. Only be notified when the camera notices a person versus any other object or animal/insect that moves.
3. Adjust the length of time the light stays on.
4. My cameras are not allowing me to turn on the light manually.
5. There is no way to tell the camera to use solar instead of battery life. The stick up cam has the feature of programming the cam where to get its charge.
(I called ring and they said you have to just select it to give you the fastest live feed and the camera knows to use solar. The way you set it up on the video will drain the battery.)
The video quality is not as good as the spotlight cam wired. My video feed has a haze and it lags on video and audio. The wired solar panel doesn’t bother me much, but it makes more sense to just by another battery as you will do.
I hope they make the changes and make these cams more functional.
Elsa Padilla - I agree on all your points. It seems like they rushed this camera to the market. Their setup guide that comes with the camera shows that there is the “light settings” option in the app, but it is not there so I don’t know if they are going to leave that out or they are going to update their firmware. That is weird that we can not control the light.
They will be releasing a hardwired mount version next week I believe which will be like the wired version except it will be hard wired like the Floodlight Cam
Hello Elsa, would you please elaborate why you were not happy with the Ring Battery Solar Spotlight? There's a really good deal going on which I am interested , but I am hesitant because I already own two Ring Wired Spotlights and they work fine and dandy. Nevertheless, I tried a Ring Doorbell 2 , which is a battery dependent device, which left me unsatisfied and I am afraid these Battery /Solar Spotlights suffer from same issues. Your response to my inquiry will be more than appreciated.
Elsa Padilla I’m sure they’ve done an update by now but I can do all of the things you’re have trouble with and have no problems. The only thing that you still can’t do is map out your motion sensing zones. I two battery powered spotlights, doorbell 2, and a floodlight. While I’ve noticed that my floodlight has better quality it’s not a huge difference.
What's the distance you can mount away from the router? I am interested in either this or the Arlo Pro to put on shed and facing the house. Distance from router to shed is about 50'.
Ring spotlight cam I cannot recommend. It has issues..like lag and choppy video. Also Ring cameras needs a strong Wifi signal to work properly. I would go with the Arlo Pro 2 if budget is not a concern but you also need to check the Reolink Argus 2. -> ua-cam.com/video/ow5m52J371Y/v-deo.html
I was looking at the Reolink, leaning towards that. How is the wifi for that kind of distance?
50 feet is ok as long as there are not a lot of walls in between them... especially brick or metal.
Just windows, so pretty good line of sight. I will have to give the Reolink a try. If it doesn't work well, I can I always exchange it.
Awesome review! I’m really debating if I should get this. I really want to get the wired one but I don’t have an outlet close to the location and this seem to be a cleaner install. Is this worth buying? I notice you had a hard time turning off the light on and off. Is this a a know issue reported by Ring? I’m getting the ring classic doorbell with this camera?
Thanks. I'm not really convinced at this time that it is worth buying especially if this is your first Ring camera that you plan in purchasing. This has just been released and Ring will eventually fix this issue. I think they will update the app to add "light settings" just like their other cameras. The night vision is mediocre. I'm biased to "wired" cameras..they just perform better. The Ring doorbell pro is also way better than the classic doorbell...and because it is also wired.
From what I read. Doesn’t that classic ring doorbell give you the option to hard wire the existing doorbell? Is this not true what I read.
Yes, you can wire it and that is how I wired mine too before I upgraded but wiring is just to charge the batteries and not to power the camera. The pro version needed constant power which you have to install Ring's power pack at the doorbell's transformer.. ua-cam.com/video/5b7abtr2xHk/v-deo.html
Thanks for the info. I noticed you like the black color. Was there a reason why you chose black versus white? I’m trying to decide which color to buy. Also, are you filipino?
I decided on the color black just because all my ring products that I bought are black or brown for the doorbell... and yes, I am Filipino :)
I love my floodlight camera but the battery spotlight camera has horrible motion sensors
Yes. Wired cameras for Ring is definitely the way to go if you have power access.
Does it pick motion up coming towards the camra or just across it's path
I have just watched all your vid and you coverd this lol my yard wide put only about 10ft long should I be ok pointing at front get to pickup up people coming towards
The battery powered Ring spotlight uses PIR motion detection which is pretty accurate in detecting motion when the subject goes across the sensor. It will detect also if it is going towards the camera but it will usually trigger late...
Lifehackster I just installed the spotlight cam battery and realize they don’t have the siren mode?
Yes, it does..it is just missing the siren button on the main camera page... Just go to"Live View" and click the ( ! ) and it will say if you want to activate the siren...
How long did it take the battery to fully charge?
About 8-10 hours from dead battery.
What are the stickers for?
Window stickers/decal to let everyone know that you have a camera by Ring ;)
Not sure which one, this or blink xt?
I have issues with the battery powered spotlight from Ring and I don't recommend it. ua-cam.com/video/Tw9KkWVLkeM/v-deo.html
It is not updated. They have a different setup.
dont people break in wifi?
So when its dark it turn to black and white instead of color?
If the lights are off, yes but when the lights are triggered, it turns to full color.
@@LifeHackster thanks for the reply
How long the battery take to charge it ?
It will charge the battery to full around 5-6 hours.
Does it use icloud for its storage?
It uses its own cloud servers (Amazon)
Now that you've had the solar panel spotlight camera for awhile, do you have any comments? I saw this video a month or so ago and now it's February 14th. Seems to me at the end of this video you took off the solar panel? I should have watched the video again before this question. I will after sending this for sure. For the last few months I have been thinking of buying the spotlight camera and solar panel for my back yard like you did. I have the Ring flood light security camera on my garage viewing the back of my house and full driveway. I want the spotlight camera and solar panel to view my garage and backyard. I will attach spotlight camera and solar panel to my house. Do you think there will be any interference with the cameras being face to face? Sorry for being so wordy. Just interested in your comments before buying spotlight camera and solar panel. I also have the Ring Pro doorbell on my front door if you remember me?
Thanks,
Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
As to the battery powered Spotlight, it still has some "freezing issues" which I might do a video on... I know a lot of people have complained about this also... ring.com/share/6522565218084153824
Yes, I unhooked the solar power and from December, with 2-3 30 sec. recordings/day, my battery is at 57%. As to the battery consumption, it is pretty good and when the solar panel was hooked up and the panel getting around 2 hours/day of direct sunlight, my battery then was always topped off (100%). As to interference, no there will be no interference and I remember you Don.. :)
LifeHackster , I seem to recall you use a Netgear Wi-Fi extender for the spotlight or flood light security camera? I use the Chime Pro Wi-Fi extender Ring sent me free of charge a week after I bought flood light security camera because my Wi-Fi modem is on my second floor. I will have to do the same thing for the new spotlight, or buy a stronger Netgear Wi-Fi extender for both spotlight and flood light? Occasionally I still have some choppiness with the flood light that uses the Chime Pro Wi-Fi extender. I still will buy spotlight camera and solar panel for my back yard. Like you, there isn't an electric outlet nearby. I plan on buying in a few weeks. Although Milwaukee temperatures are supposed to be in the 40's, my lawn is still snow covered.
Thanks again for your reply.
Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
Yes, I use an old Netgear Wifi extender which I placed in the garage for my floodlight cam.. I think your Chime Pro extender should be enough. I use a TP link extender for my spotlight cam mount which is pretty good too but any cheap 2.4 GHz extender should work with the Ring - amzn.to/2CoHEjy
The choppiness I think is not a WiFi issue...the battery powered Spotlight I have has a RSSI of 45 which is pretty good but still has the freezing issue.
LifeHackster , thanks again for the tips. I was going to contact Ring to see if there would be a problem with both flood light security camera and spotlight camera drawing from the Ring Chime Pro extender at the same time?
Don Zelmer from Milwaukee
Arlo for wireless and ring with wired
Arlo is ok..I'll go with the Argus 2 for battery. Ring for outdoor wired.
Did you notice any difference in video or motion sensing quality after installing the 2nd battery, or while the solar panel was plugged in?
I've been considering purchasing this, but I was hoping that it would record more immediately upon detecting motion with the solar panel plugged in since it's sort of like having it wired to power.
There should be no difference...the second battery will just be a back up when the other one is drained and the solar panel is just to charge the battery and not as a direct source of power. To be fair though it does record faster than other battery powered PIR sensor cameras.
Nightvision does look washed out..did you try angling the ring spotlight down more to see if that would help with the light glaring back into the camera which might help with nightvision looking so washed out..you would think the nightvision would look better when spending that kind of money and that the video wouldnt be so choppy..
It helped a little bit when I angled it down but not much. The night vision on the Ring cameras is pretty much useless if used for facial recognition not unless the person stands directly in front of the camera. I can't wait for the Yi outdoor to be released so that I can compare the night vision.
LifeHackster
Same here...can't wait for Yi outdoor camera to come also..I definitely will be buying at least 2 of them..
Did they announce the Yi outdoor camera? When are they going to be released?
Cool...BTW, how's your Yi dome camera (outdoor mounted) holding up?
Paul
I got a email from Yi News on Sept.29th that the outdoor camera is coming out soon and last week the Yi app had an update that included being able to add Yi outdoor camera..
It sucks in my estimation battery died after 8 hours going back
Why don't you just install the solar panel closer to the camera?
You definitely can.
@@LifeHackster So you won't have messy wires is what I meant.
How much is it
$249 at this time. I have a feeling it will go down to $199 just like the the plugged in version eventually.
I forgot what video it was. But in the video on your channel there was a motion and either the ipad or echo show opened the ring camera. how do I do that? I want my echo show to pull up the video when it is triggered.
It might not be one of my videos. I have to ask Alexa everytime to open which Ring camera I want to view.
So, if I just buy this camera and no solar, how long until I have to charge the battery?
Around every 3 months depending on your use.
@@LifeHackster no It's not true I have installed this camera with 2 batteries inside 7 days ago and today both batteries are at 0% which is ridiculous. 3 months will last if you live in the desert and you have max 3 events every day ( every detected motion means 1 event) But my camera is in front of the house and she catch every single car on the street ( this is backstreet not a busy street ) but anyway people are going to work so they drive and my cam catches it so I have around 100 events every day.....can I have less? NO what' the point? its a security cam it suppose to catch everything that's what the security camera is for. WASTE OF MONEY in my opinion and I contacted Ring and they didn't even answered because they know they can't do shit because their cam is garbage.I found on their website that it suppose to last 1000 events so there you go 100 events x 10 days gave you a 1000 events ...so where is that 6-12 months they advertising?? this is bullshit.
Ano daw ?
The night video is worse than original rinng doorbell 🤔
I have to agree on you on that one. Ring could have made this better.
The battery does not last anywhere close to 6 months!
Depending on use. Try hooking up a solar panel to eliminate or minimize charging.
@@LifeHackster Yes I have the solar panel coming from Amazon Prime. I like ring. For now. I also have 3 batteries in total.
Unfinished review
These cameras are terrible, watch long term review. Battery life is terrible, picture is 480p at best, choppy, and digitized. 100+ Mbps 1gb modem router rated at twice the square footage of my house and still poor picture, can't even tell whose standing in the driveway half the time. I believe the hardware in these things is junk. Support is ridiculous, they say everything is fine and it looks great. Don't buy!!!
Sorry to hear your issues. My lag and choppiness issues were fixed but the picture quality is sub par as compared to other cameras.
@@LifeHackster what was the fix? Customer service told me the picture looked great to them and insinuated my eyes were bad. We ended the call with him saying we were at a stand still. I wish I could upload my screen shots here so people could see them.
Great review! I have a question and maybe you can answer. What kind of wire is used to connect the solar panel to the cam? Is the wire connected to the solar panel a USB port? Can it be plug and unplug?
It uses the same wire like the USB cable but it is not USB but a barrel power connector but smaller in one end and the other end is fixed to the solar panel. I don't know if it is proprietary but it is specific to the Ring Spotlight Cam. You cannot use the one for the stick up cam.