Article · 27 Oct 2026

How to choose a solar 4G camera to resell: 8 checks before you order

Choosing a solar 4G camera to resell is less about the photo on the listing and more about eight checks that decide whether customers bring cameras back. These are the questions we would ask any factory, including us, before ordering stock.

1. The 4G bands, in writing

Ask for the exact 4G bands of the module, not “4G LTE”. Compare them with the networks your customers use. Our Africa version lists B1, B3, B7, B8, B20 and B28; the SIM card guide shows the bands by network. A camera on the wrong bands never comes online, and the customer blames you.

2. Battery capacity and cell type

Get the capacity in mAh and the cell type. A pack of 7,000 to 12,000 mAh in 18650 lithium cells is normal for this class. Be wary of standby claims without a condition: “up to 3 months” means waiting for alerts with no sun, not streaming.

3. Panel watts and how it mounts

A separate panel on a cable lets the installer point it at the sun while the camera points at the gate. An all-in-one camera with the panel on top is simpler but needs a spot with sun and a view. Check the watts: 3 to 5 W is common; the panel and battery guide shows how to check it covers daily use.

4. The app, and whether it costs money

Find out which app the camera uses, whether it is on Android and iOS, and whether cloud recording or features carry a subscription. Our cameras use Tuya Smart / Smart Life, with microSD recording and optional cloud.

5. IMEI and type approval

Every SIM device has an IMEI. Ask for it printed on each carton. In Nigeria, the NCC has tightened type approval rules for SIM devices.^[1] In Kenya, the Communications Authority requires dealers to have equipment approved before selling.^[2] Decide with your importer who applies, in whose name, before you order a container.

6. Samples, and what they cost

Order samples of every model you plan to stock and test them on your customers’ networks, at night, for a week. We ship samples from two units, mixed models allowed, and those count towards the price tier.

7. The price level, against the market

A very low factory price often means a smaller battery, a weaker panel or a module with fewer bands. Compare the FOB price with what the same type sells for locally, using our price guides for Kenya, Nigeria and Ghana. We keep our factory prices level with comparable listings so a reseller can sell at normal shop prices and keep a margin.

8. Carton, labels and your own brand

Check what is in the box (bracket, screws, cable, manual), whether the carton shows the band version, and whether you can put your own brand on the camera, box and manual. See OEM and private label for what can be changed.

A checklist to send any supplier

• 4G bands of the module, and the band version you will receive.
• Battery mAh and cell type; panel watts and mounting.
• App name, platforms and any subscription.
• IMEI on each carton; documents for type approval.
• Sample price and minimum, price tiers and production time.
• What is in the box, and what can carry your brand.

Send the same list to us through the quote form, and compare the answers side by side.