Tired of constantly recharging your Ring Doorbell 2 battery? It’s a common hassle, especially when your doorbell is positioned in a high-traffic area, leading to frequent motion alerts and battery drain. But what if you could essentially “set it and forget it” when it comes to power? That’s where a good solar panel comes into play! By harnessing the sun’s energy, you can provide a continuous power source for your Ring Doorbell 2, ensuring it’s always ready to capture what’s happening at your doorstep.
Choosing the best solar panel for Ring Doorbell 2 isn’t just about picking any panel; it’s about finding one that offers reliable performance, easy installation, and compatibility. We’ve scoured the market to bring you our top picks, helping you make an informed decision and enjoy uninterrupted security. Let’s dive in!
How a Solar Panel Powers Your Ring Doorbell 2
A solar panel designed for your Ring Doorbell works by converting sunlight into electricity. This electricity then flows through a connected cable to your doorbell, slowly charging its internal battery. This means less frequent manual recharges for you, and more consistent, reliable operation for your Ring Doorbell 2. It’s a smart way to maintain your home security without the constant battery anxiety.
Our Top 5 Picks: Best Solar Panel for Ring Doorbell 2
Ring Solar Charger for Video Doorbell (2nd Generation – 2020 Release)
If you’re looking for an official solution that’s tailor-made for specific Ring models, this is a strong contender. The Ring Solar Charger is designed to seamlessly integrate with your Video Doorbell (2nd Generation – 2020 Release), offering an extended battery life and peace of mind. It’s built with weather resistance in mind and comes with a secure mounting bracket for straightforward installation, ensuring your doorbell stays powered up with the sun’s help.
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Key Features:
- Extends battery life for Video Doorbell (2nd Generation – 2020 release).
- Keeps doorbell charged up to 35% longer than previous solar charger generations.
- Includes a secure mounting bracket for easy installation.
- Weather-resistant built-in solar panels.
- Requires at least 3-4 hours of direct sunlight per day for best performance.
- Specifically compatible with Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation – 2020 release) with a micro-USB connector (not compatible with Ring Video Doorbell 2 or other fork-style connector models).
- One-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Official Ring accessory, ensuring perfect fit and compatibility for specified models.
- Improved charging efficiency over older Ring solar chargers.
- Simple and secure installation.
- Weather-resistant for outdoor use.
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Cons:
- Limited compatibility – crucially, it’s not for the original Ring Doorbell 2, but for the “2nd Generation – 2020 release” (which has a micro-USB port).
- Requires consistent direct sunlight.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the seamless integration and reliable performance for their compatible Ring doorbells. Many highlight the convenience of not having to remove the doorbell for charging. However, some have been confused by the specific compatibility requirements, underscoring the need to check your doorbell’s connector type carefully.
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Solar Panel for Ring Doorbell, Solar Charger for All-New… (Rhorawill)
The Rhorawill solar panel steps up as a versatile charging solution for a wider range of Ring doorbells, including your Ring Video Doorbell 2. Its 6W monocrystalline silicon design ensures efficient energy conversion, promising a continuous power source. What truly sets this panel apart is its robust build quality, comprehensive protection features against overcharge and short circuits, and a generous 9.8ft cable that gives you flexibility in placement to catch optimal sunlight.
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Key Features:
- Provides continuous solar power for Ring Battery Doorbell, Ring Battery Doorbell Plus/Pro, Ring Video Doorbell 2, Video Doorbell 3/3+, and Video Doorbell 4 (fork connector port).
- Made from monocrystalline silicon wafers with a 6W charging rating.
- Energy conversion efficiency up to 20%.
- Requires 3-4 hours of direct sunlight.
- Built-in smart IC for overcharge, overheat, overvoltage, and short circuit protection.
- Easy installation with a 360° rotatable wall bracket and 9.8ft (3m) charging cable.
- IP65 waterproof rating for outdoor use in various weather conditions.
- Operating temperature range: 14°F to 113°F.
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Pros:
- Broad compatibility, including Ring Doorbell 2.
- High 6W power output and efficient energy conversion.
- Comprehensive safety protection features.
- Long cable and adjustable bracket offer installation flexibility.
- Durable IP65 waterproof design.
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Cons:
- No built-in battery, so it only charges when exposed to sunlight.
- Requires careful placement to avoid shadows for optimal performance.
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User Impressions: Customers frequently praise its wide compatibility and the long cable, which allows for optimal sun exposure even if the doorbell isn’t in a sunny spot. The robust build and consistent charging capabilities are often highlighted as major benefits, truly reducing the need for manual battery swaps.
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6W Solar Panel for Ring Doorbell, Solar Charger for Ring… (Another Rhorawill Model)
This Rhorawill 6W solar panel is another fantastic option for keeping a wide array of Ring doorbells, including the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen-2020 Release) and other models, constantly charged. Similar to its sibling, it boasts 6W fast-charging power from monocrystalline silicon wafers, ensuring efficient solar energy absorption. Its easy installation, IP65 waterproof rating, and intelligent protection make it a reliable, hassle-free solution for uninterrupted power, freeing you from battery worries.
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Key Features:
- Continuous solar power for Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen-2020 Release), Video Doorbell 3, Video Doorbell 3 Plus, Video Doorbell 4, and Battery Video Doorbell Plus (fork connector ports).
- 6W fast-charging power from monocrystalline silicon wafers.
- Effective charging with over 5V 1A current under good sunlight; 20% energy conversion efficiency.
- Requires at least 3-4 hours of direct sunlight.
- Built-in smart IC provides overcharge, overheat, overvoltage, and short circuit protection.
- Easy to install with a 360° rotatable wall bracket and 9.8ft (3m) fork connector cable.
- IP65 waterproof, rainproof, and snowproof for outdoor use.
- Operating temperature range: -4°F to 122°F.
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Pros:
- Wide compatibility with various Ring Video Doorbells.
- High-efficiency 6W charging with safety protections.
- Broad operating temperature range for diverse climates.
- Long cable and adjustable mount for flexible positioning.
- IP65 waterproof for durability in harsh weather.
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Cons:
- Compatibility details can be confusing across similar products; double-check your Ring model.
- Best performance relies heavily on direct sunlight exposure.
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User Impressions: Many users appreciate the robust build and the broad temperature operating range, making it suitable for different climates. The long cable is a consistent hit, allowing users to find the optimal sun spot. Some users note the importance of clearing any obstructions for maximum sunlight.
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6W AC 9V Solar Panel for Ring Doorbell, Solar Panel…
This 6W AC 9V solar panel is engineered specifically for the Ring Video Doorbell 2, Video Doorbell 3/3+, and Video Doorbell 4, making it a “set-it-and-forget-it” dream. Crafted with high-quality PV cells, it boasts 1.3 times the conversion efficiency of many competitors, ensuring your doorbell gets a robust charge. Its 360° adjustable wall mount and 3m cable provide excellent placement flexibility, while the IP65 rating guarantees reliability even in challenging weather.
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Key Features:
- Perfect compatibility for Video Doorbell 2, Video Doorbell 3/3+, and Video Doorbell 4.
- Easy installation with a 360° adjustable wall mount and 3m cable for optimal sunlight exposure.
- Efficient solar cells with 1.3 times the conversion efficiency of other panels (output power 5V 5W max).
- IP65 monocrystalline silicon, waterproof and rustproof for all weather conditions.
- Magnetic connection for convenience.
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Pros:
- Excellent compatibility with the specified Ring Doorbell models, including Ring Doorbell 2.
- High energy conversion efficiency for quicker charging.
- Flexible installation with a long cable and adjustable bracket.
- Durable IP65 weatherproofing.
- Unique magnetic connection (if applicable to user’s doorbell model).
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Cons:
- “5V 5W (max)” output might seem lower than stated 6W, potentially a typo or measurement difference.
- Relies on sufficient sunlight like all solar panels.
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User Impressions: Reviewers often highlight the specific compatibility and the ease of installation as major wins. The long cable is frequently mentioned as a huge plus, enabling users to mount the panel where it gets the most sun. The robust weatherproofing also gives users confidence in its outdoor performance.
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7W Solar Panel for Ring Doorbell, IP66 Waterproof Solar…
Step up your solar game with this 7W solar panel, offering even higher conversion efficiency thanks to its premium monocrystalline silicon PET material and glass panel design. This panel is built for endurance, with an IP65 waterproof rating (note: title says IP66, description says IP65 – we’ll go by the description’s IP65), ensuring it can stand up to rain, snow, and even thunderstorms. The 360° adjustable bracket and 10ft cable give you ultimate freedom to position it for maximum sun exposure, ensuring your Ring Doorbell is continuously powered, year-round.
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Key Features:
- 5V 7W output for higher conversion efficiency, made with premium monocrystalline silicon PET and glass panel design.
- IP65 waterproof and weather-resistant, built to withstand various weather conditions.
- 360° adjustable bracket and 10ft (3m) charging cable for optimal placement.
- Easy installation; simply mount and connect to your Ring Doorbell camera.
- Designed for continuous power to eliminate battery life worries.
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Pros:
- Highest wattage (7W) among the reviewed panels for potentially faster charging.
- Premium materials and glass panel design for improved solar capture.
- Superior weather resistance (IP65) for reliable outdoor performance.
- Longest cable (10ft) offers maximum flexibility in panel placement.
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Cons:
- Ensure proper waterproofing at the charging port during installation to prevent damage.
- As with all solar panels, direct sunlight is crucial for best results.
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User Impressions: Customers are generally impressed by the higher wattage and the robust build quality, finding that it keeps their doorbells consistently charged. The extra-long cable is a recurring favorite, providing ample flexibility for installation. The durability in various weather conditions also earns high marks.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How does a solar panel help my Ring Doorbell 2?
A1: A solar panel converts sunlight into electricity, which continuously trickle-charges your Ring Doorbell 2’s battery. This significantly reduces or eliminates the need for you to manually remove and recharge the battery, providing uninterrupted power and security.
Q2: What’s the best spot to install a solar panel for my Ring Doorbell 2?
A2: For optimal performance, install your solar panel in a location that receives at least 3-4 hours of direct, unobstructed sunlight per day. Avoid areas with heavy shade from trees, buildings, or other structures, especially during peak daylight hours.
Q3: Do solar panels work in all weather conditions?
A3: Most solar panels for Ring doorbells are designed with IP65 or higher weatherproofing, meaning they are resistant to rain, snow, and dust. While they’ll continue to function in cloudy conditions, their charging efficiency will be reduced compared to sunny days.
Q4: Will a solar panel fully charge my Ring Doorbell 2’s battery?
A4: A solar panel aims to maintain a charge level in your Ring Doorbell 2’s battery, rather than fully charging it from empty. If your doorbell is heavily used or experiences prolonged periods of low sunlight, you might still need to top up the battery manually occasionally, but it will be much less frequent.
Q5: Is installing a solar panel for my Ring Doorbell 2 difficult?
A5: No, installation is generally straightforward. Most solar panels come with adjustable mounting brackets and all necessary screws. You’ll typically just need to drill a few holes, mount the bracket, attach the panel, and plug the cable into your doorbell.
Q6: What Ring Doorbell models are compatible with these solar panels?
A6: While this article focuses on the best solar panel for Ring Doorbell 2, many of these panels are also compatible with other Ring battery-powered doorbells like the Ring Video Doorbell 3, 3 Plus, 4, and the newer Ring Battery Doorbell Plus/Pro. Always double-check the specific compatibility listed for each product, as some are model-specific (e.g., micro-USB vs. fork connector).
Q7: How long are the cables on these solar panels?
A7: Cable lengths typically range from 9.8 feet (3 meters) to 10 feet. This generous length provides flexibility, allowing you to mount the solar panel in a prime sun-catching location even if your doorbell isn’t directly in the sunniest spot.