Weather is unpredictable, but thanks to the powerful and accurate solar powered weather station, you can predict the weather with great accuracy. If you are on the hunt for the best solar powered weather station. You are in luck today, since, we have put together a list of the best solar-powered weather stations you can buy today.
What is a Solar Powered Weather Station?
A solar-powered weather station is an accurate weather reading device that uses solar energy as its main source of power.
The device with the help of solar panels converts solar energy into electrical energy, which reduces reliance on the power grid, thus it is an eco-friendlier solution
Solar panel recharges onboard batteries that provide power during times when solar energy gets low, especially at night.
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A solar-powered weather station allows you to take readings anywhere in the world where you get at least 4-5 hours of sunlight a day.
A typical solar-powered weather station has the following components:
- Solar panels
- Batteries
- An array of sensors
- Display unit
- The main hub for transmitting data
Battery-Powered Weather Station vs Solar Powered Weather Station: Which One is Better?
There are two major types of weather stations based on the source of power namely battery-powered weather stations and solar-powered weather stations.
A battery-powered weather station as the name indicates receives its power from a battery. The batteries need to be changed regularly in addition to keeping them safe from water and corrosion attacks.
While a solar-powered station has enclosed batteries, which are recharged by the solar panels that come with the device. A solar weather station is an ideal solution for off-grid and remote weather monitoring.
Moreover, the solar powered weather station has better resistance to water and extreme weather conditions such as hail, heavy rainfall, high-speed winds, frost, heat, and so on.
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Advantages of Using a Solar Powered Weather Station
A solar-powered weather station is designed to offer several advantages to the users, such as:
- Providing accurate weather readings (Temperature, air pressure, wind speed, and humidity)
- Reducing reliance on the power grid
- Reducing cost in the long run
- Reducing carbon-footprint
- Eliminating the need to replace batteries
- Easy to setup
- Real-time weather monitoring
Things to Consider While Buying a Weather Station
Purchasing a weather station might be challenging, especially if it’s your first time. Not to worry, it’s not as complicated as it seems.
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Here are a few of the key things to be on the lookout for.
1. Durability
Weather stations are usually installed outdoors, where they have to withstand harsh weather conditions. Therefore, the device should be durable and rugged enough to endure tough weather conditions.
2. Accuracy of Readings
The level Accuracy is very important if you need to create accurate weather forecasts. Accuracy is dependent on the type of sensors used. Highly sensitive sensors give enhanced accuracy, but they are costlier than less sensitive sensors.
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3. Features
Features vary from one model to the next depending upon the model. Some common features include Wi-Fi connectivity, smartphone application, real-time data, historical data viewing, LCD screen, auto-display dimming, programmable weather alarm, and so on.
4. Installation Location
For what purposes do you want to buy a solar-powered weather station? Are you a hobbyist, farmer, or professional meteorological observer? Some devices are designed for a particular application while others are built for general applications.
If you are intending to use the device at home, then an average solar powered weather station should work fine. While for professional use, you might need to purchase a costlier solution.
5. Price
Price is another key parameter that affects our buying decisions. Usually, the price of a solar-powered weather station varies from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.
Look for a device in your budget range that offers optimal performance.
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6. Brand
Brand matters! Some major brands that have a good reputation for providing premium quality weather stations are Davis Instruments, KestrelMet, Ambient Weather, La Crosse Technology, AcuRite, and Spectrum Technologies.
Best Solar Powered Weather Station
Keeping in mind all the above-mentioned considerations, we have compiled a list of the best solar-powered weather stations you can purchase today. If you are in a hurry, here is the summary.
- Davis Instruments 6163 Vantage Pro2 (plus) Wireless Weather Station
- KestrelMet 6000 Cellular weather station
- Ambient Weather WS-2902C Smart Weather Station
- AcuRite Atlas Professional Weather Station
- La Crosse Technology V40A-PRO-INK Wi-Fi Professional Weather Station
- Ambient Weather WS-1900A Wireless Professional Weather Station
- ECOWITT HP3501 TFT Wi-Fi Weather Station
- AcuRite Iris 01536M 5-in-1 Weather Station
- Ambient Weather WS-1201 Solar weather station
Scroll down to read a detailed description of each station below and make a wise buying decision.
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1. Ambient Weather WS-2902C Smart Weather Station Review
If you are a weather geek and looking for a great weather station at a great price. Look no further, you have got your product. Ambient Weather WS-2902C is the best solar-powered home weather station.
Ambient Weather WS-2902C is super easy to install and operate. Monitor indoor and outdoor weather conditions with an amazing level of accuracy. Also, you can quickly view detailed information with Ambient’s animated expandable modules.
This weather station is built to feed weather data in real-time to the internet. To build a robust global network of weather data, you may link your station to the Ambient Weather Network and socially share your weather data with enthusiasts and experts in the field.
Monitor your home and backyard weather conditions with the brilliant, easy-to-read LCD color Display. The 10 different weather sensors allow you to keep an eye on changing weather conditions.
With all the available functionalities, Ambient Weather WS-2902C is the best value for the money.
Specifications:
- A wireless all-in-one integrated sensor array
- 300 feet line of sight
- Enhanced Wi-Fi connection
- 3 X AAA batteries (not included)
- Dimensions: 7.5 x 0.75 x 4.5 in.
- Power source: Solar
- Components: Wind vane, wind speed cups, Solar/ UV light, thermo-Hygrometer/ Radiation shield, rain gauge, bubble level, and solar collector.
- Weight: 3.9 pounds
- AmbientTool application
- Power source: Solar-powered with battery backup
Pros:
- Easy to assemble and use
- Internet connection
- Remote monitoring
- Accurate readings
- Highly convenient to use
- Lightweight
- 1-year warranty
- Compact design
- Affordable
- Support both metric and imperial units of measurement
Cons:
- Hard to follow instructions on internet connectivity
2. KestrelMet 6000 Cellular Portable Weather Station Review
Our next pick is KestrelMet 6000 Cellular weather station, which has been developed to provide around-the-clock access to weather information.
This weather station offers multiple mounting options; you can choose between Mono Mount Kit or the Tripod Mount Kit, whichever option is convenient for you. However, Mono Mount Kit is ideal for a pitched or flat roof while a tripod is usually used on flat terrain, a flat roof, or on the ridge of a pitched roof.
KestrelMet 6000 offers a full suite of commercial sensors for accurately monitoring weather conditions. In addition to monitoring weather conditions, this station allows you to record data in the cloud, thereby equipping you with the information needed to effectively meet environmental regulations, stay compliant and gather valuable weather research.
Due to its pre-configuration, this device is the simplest to mount. The selection of the appropriate sensor combination does not need any guessing. You can set up the weather station and run it for under 20 minutes from start to finish.
With this weather station, stay one step ahead of nature and be well prepared for any weather conditions to come.
Specifications:
- Power source: Solar and battery
- 24-hour fan for improved accuracy
- Multiple mounting options
- Cellular connectivity (SIM card activated)
- Power source: solar with battery backup
Pros:
- Smart design
- Affordable
- Easily deployable
- Pre-configured for quick installation
- 2-year warranty
- Cost-effective in the long run
- Ideal for remote locations
Cons:
- Very expensive
3. Davis Instruments 6163 Vantage Pro2 (plus) Wireless Weather Station Review
Davis Instruments 6163 vantage pro2 plus is a high-quality industrial-grade weather station engineered to handle the harshest weather conditions and deliver scientific precision.
With a wide range of sensors mounted on the weather station, you can measure different weather conditions accurately including rainfall, dew point, wind chill index, THSW index, heat index, Evapotranspiration, wind speed, wind direction, temperature, UV, solar radiation and others.
Furthermore, the device is robust and durable. It is designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions. If you are planning on installing a weather station, where harsh weather conditions prevail, then nothing can be more ideal than Vantage Pro 2.
If you are in search of a robust and accurate wireless weather station, look no further. Davis Instruments 6163 is an ideal product. Although it is somehow expensive, the powerful functionalities justify the cost.
Specifications:
- Power: Solar powered
- Weight: 14.50 pounds
- Material: Plastic
- Update rate: every 2.5 seconds (Almost 10x faster than an average station)
- Backlit LCD screen
- Dimensions: 24 x 12 x 19 inch
- Batteries: 3 C batteries required
- Measurement system: Metric
- Voltage: 4.50 V
- Transmission range: 1000 feet
- Radiation shield
Pros:
- Professional accuracy
- Rugged design
- Wide range of sensors
- 24-hour fan-aspirated radiation shield
- Corrosion-resistant
- Resistance against heat
- 1-year parts warranty
- Free shipping within the USA
- User-friendly interface
- Historical graphing
- Easy to assemble and get it running
- durable
Cons:
- Expensive
4. AcuRite Atlas Professional Weather Station Review
Next on the list, we have an amazing solar-powered weather station from AcuRite.
With an improved Wi-Fi connection, the AcuRite Atlas Professional weather station enables you to share your weather data with more than 250,000 personal weather stations around the world and join the Weather Underground community.
The device is highly sensitive to lightning. It can detect lightning strikes from up to 25 miles away, thus giving you enough time to prepare for potential thunderstorm activity.
Besides, with the “My AcuRite” application you can get instant weather alerts on your smartphone, tablet, or computer and monitor your data remotely.
This weather station is designed to provide accurate outdoor and indoor weather conditions including temperature, humidity, wind speed, rainfall, UV, light intensity, barometer pressure, and other related measurements.
In addition, the station through programmable alarms allows you to take action if necessary based on weather events.
Buy this station for your home, office, or business and get complete control over weather conditions. With hyper-accurate (12-24 hours) weather forecasts for your precise location take preemptive actions against any weather anomalies.
Specifications:
- HD display with battery backup
- Lightning detector
- Real-time weather conditions
- Dimensions: 0.75 x 6.8 x 9.8 in.
- Weight: 9.5 pounds
- Direct-to-Wi-Fi auto-dimming display
- Batteries: 5 AA Batteries required
- Custom programmable alarms
- Data reporting: every 30 seconds
- Wireless range: 330 feet
Pros:
- Unmatched accuracy
- Faster updates (every 10 seconds)
- Durable
- Limited 1-year warranty
- Accurate lightning detection
- AcuRite Desktop website or app
- Easy to setup
- Hyper-accurate 12-24 hours forecast
- Connectivity with weather underground (250,000+ personal stations)
- Exceptional performance
Cons:
- Bulky in size
5. La Crosse Technology V40A-PRO-INK Wi-Fi Professional Weather Station Review
Next on the list, we have V40A-Pro from La Crosse Technology, which is an accurate solar weather station for your home, construction site, golf course, farm, boat, and other related applications.
V40A-Pro has an illuminated color weather display with adjustable intensity settings and a programmable auto-dimming feature to reduce power consumption.
With this instrument, you can measure different weather information such as wind (speed, direction, and history), rainfall, temperature, heat index, and dew point.
The device may be used as a standalone weather station or connected by Wi-Fi for bonus features. Moreover, with the help of the built-in Wi-Fi, you can connect to multiple sensors and access advanced features when connected to the La Crosse View App.
La Crosse Technology V40A- Pro is one of the most popular personal weather stations. Buy this solar-powered weather station and keep yourself informed about the upcoming weather.
Specifications:
- Power source: Corded Electric
- Dimensions L X W X H: 8.05 X 1.18 X 5.7 in.
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Batteries: 8AA batteries required
- Enhanced features: weather information from National Weather Service (NWS)
- A large LCD panel
- Dimensions: 8.05 X 1.18 X 5.7 in.
- Material: Plastic
- Low battery indicator for each sensor
Pros:
- Long transmission range
- Optimal accuracy
- La Crosse View App
- Modern design
- Extended battery life (2-4 years)
- Weight: 12.8 Ounces
- 1-Year limited parts and labor warranty
- Affordable
- Easy to setup and use
Cons:
- The rain gauge needs maintenance
- Wind cups are not very durable
6. Ambient Weather WS-1900A Wireless Professional Weather Station Review
Ambient Weather WS-1900A Professional weather station is a reliable Solar powered home weather station to monitor your home and backyard weather conditions with great accuracy.
The weather station is equipped with an array of integrated sensors to measure different weather parameters including wind speed, wind direction, rainfall, barometric pressure, solar radiation, indoor/outdoor temperature, humidity, dew point, wind chill, heat index, and many more.
The device is super easy to mount and use. Moreover, the weather station has an intuitive and easy-to-read LCD color display, that’s important for older users.
Buy this off-grid weather station and keep track of weather parameters at the convenience of a smartphone.
Specifications:
- A wireless all-in-one integrated sensor array
- Supports both imperial and metric units of measurement
- 2 X AA batteries (not included)
- 5V DC adapter
- Components and sensors: Wind vane, wind speed cups, solar/UV light, Thermo-Hygrometer/ Radiation shield, Rain gauge, Bubble level, and Solar collector.
- Weight: 4.69 pounds
- Power source: Solar powered
- Material: Metal
- Line of sight wireless sensor array RF Transmission (open air): 330 feet, 100 feet under most conditions
- Update rate: 16 seconds (outdoor) and 64 seconds (indoor)
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Easy to read
- Accurate measurements
- Easy to assemble
- Affordable
Cons:
- Doesn’t include an internet connection
- Batteries not included
7. ECOWITT HP3501 TFT Wi-Fi Weather Station Review
ECOWITT HP3501 offers a good equilibrium between price, features, and accuracy.
HP3501 is a multi-functional weather station that takes accurate readings including wind, rain, pressure, dew point, heat index, temperature, humidity, and solar UV measurements.
You may monitor real-time accurate weather conditions via the Smart ECOWITT’S WS View plus or PC software, which gives you complete control over the data. In addition, you can also view different weather data and graphs, publish them on the Weather cloud, and many more.
The best thing about ECOWITT HP3501 is its ease of installation and operation. Furthermore, the reasonable price makes ECOWITT HP3501 an ideal weather station for you.
Specifications:
- Self-emptying rain collector
- Wireless Anemometer
- UV and Light sensor
- Weather App and PC software
- High Resolution 4.3” TFT color screen
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Power source: Solar-powered
- Weight: 5.42 pounds
- Dimensions: 4.53 X 1.65 X 3.23 in.
- Transmission range: 300 ft
Pros:
- Satisfactory accuracy
- High-resolution display
- Remote data viewing and analysis
- Highly sensitive sensors
- Multi-functional
- Energy efficient
- Affordable
- Compact shape
Cons:
- The barometer is less accurate
8. AcuRite Iris 01536M 5-in-1 Weather Station Review
AcuRite Iris 01536M has a patented self-calibrating forecasting feature, that offers an accurate weather forecast for your exact location. In addition, the device has programmable weather alarms, that notify in case of an irregularity in weather.
The remote control feature is noteworthy; via the “My AcuRite App”, you can view your weather data on a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, get alerts and track historical data even if you are thousands of miles away from your home.
You may also join Weather Underground (the largest network of weather stations globally) and share your data with more than 250,000 personal weather stations from all around the world.
In short, this device is a reliable Personal Weather Station (PWS) you can buy for your home, office, or business.
Specifications:
- Illuminated LCD with auto-dimming option
- Provides information every 18 seconds
- Self-calibration
- Battery: 4 x AA alkaline or Lithium batteries
- Material: Plastic
- Power source: Battery powered
- Dimensions: 1.2 x 7 x 8.1 in.
- Programmable weather alarms
- Weight: 3.64 pounds
- rain funnel with self-emptying rain gauge
Pros:
- Real-time weather information
- Manage data using a smartphone
- Superior weather forecasting
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Self-calibration
- 1-year limited warranty
- High-precision
- Easy to use
- 12-25-hour weather forecast
Cons:
- Batteries not included
- The data transmission rate is low
9. Ambient Weather WS-1201 IP Solar Weather Station Review
Let’s conclude the list with a reliable and affordable solution from Ambient weather.
If you are running on a tight budget, then Ambient Weather WS-1201 is the best solar weather station for you. The device combines reliability, ease of installation, affordability, and accuracy.
The station allows you to view comprehensive weather graphs and data analysis. In addition, you may connect your device with the Ambient Weather Network and Weather Underground to share weather data with thousands of users all around the world.
WS-1201 is an ideal choice for beginner weather observers, and people with a low budget.
Specifications:
- Power source: Solar-powered
- Material: Plastic
- A wireless Color Display Console
- Batteries: 3 AA Batteries required
- Color: Silver and white
- Dimensions: 7.75 x 0.75 x 5.75 in.
- Display module
- Weight: 7.8 pounds
- Self-emptying rain collector
- Update rate: 14 seconds
Pros:
- Reliability of data
- Accuracy of sensors
- Ease to assemble
- Easy-to-read display panel
- Environmentally friendly
- Affordable
- Supports Email and text alerts
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons:
- Comparatively less accurate
Conclusion
Buy one of the above-listed solar powered weather stations and take full control of the weather conditions. Weather is considered unpredictable, but with the right tools, we can use this unpredictability to our advantage.
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FAQS
Q1. What is solar-powered weather station?
A solar-powered weather station is a device to make accurate weather condition measurements such as temperature, moisture, wind speed, pressure, etc. It uses solar energy as its main power source. With these features, the device can function perfectly off the power grid.
Q2. How does a solar-powered weather station work?
A solar weather station is made to use sensors to collect precise measurements of the weather. Solar panels are used to power the apparatus. Solar energy not only powers the device but also recharges internal batteries for times when the sun’s energy source begins to fade.
Q3. Why I should buy a solar powered weather station?
A solar-powered weather station makes it possible to accurately track local weather conditions. Additionally, the device doesn’t require batteries because it runs on solar energy. The environmental friendliness of a solar-powered weather station makes it an excellent investment.
Q4. Who needs a solar-powered weather station?
A solar-powered weather station is the need of every person who needs to keep themselves updated with the accurate weather forecast, be that farmers, meteorologists, construction professionals, event managers, firefighters, hobbyists, or other professionals.
Q5. How the weather is forecasted using data from the weather station?
The array of sensors installed on the device measure different weather parameters such as humidity, temperature, moisture, pressure, wind speed, etc. The raw data is fed into advanced analysis software, to create accurate weather forecasts.
Q6. How long does a solar weather station last?
It depends on the type of weather station, how it is used, and the environment it is in. The average solar weather station, however, is made to survive for more than three years.