An outdoor PTZ cellular camera that works on cellular 4G LTE
I recently had a requirement to install a security camera at the storage lot where I keep my 5th Wheel Trailer. This lot is remote from my home and does not have any power or Wi-Fi available. This meant that the usual security camera installation would not be an option. To resolve this issue I took a look at the Genbolt GB216K-4G (GB216H-4G) security camera. I can honestly say that I was impressed by this camera which seemed to have all the features needed for the application. In this review I will cover my experience with the installation and the performance of this camera.
What you Get

The GB216-4G cellular camera comes with the following items:
1 x GB216-4G security camera
1 x 6W Solar panel
1 x SIM Card
1 x Bracket
1 x USB Cable
1 x Screw Driver
4 x Screws & Anchors
1 x User Manual
1 x Decal
The Basics
The GENBOLT GB216-4G cellular camera is different than most other outdoor cameras in that it does not require external power or a network to work. The supplied Solar panel will power the camera and the built in 4G LTE cellular radio will provide the connectivity. As long as you have a cellular signal you will be able to view this camera anywhere in the world.
The overall size is typical for an outdoor security camera even though it has a built in cellular radio and battery. It measures approximately 14.5cm high x 9.5cm wide (5.7 x 3.75 inches). The antenna will add another 9.5 cm (3.7 inches) to the height if you extend them vertically.
Overall rotation on the horizontal (Pan) is up to a 355 deg and 90 deg on the vertical (Tilt). This amount of range is typical and would be plenty for a field of view in most home or small business applications.
As far as color options you are limited to white. Again, I would have liked to see them offer this camera in the new silver/black color scheme found in some other Genbolt models like the GB216D-K
Specifications
Night Vision | |||
Night Color | Yes | Night Vision | 10 Meters |
Connectivity | |||
Communication Type | 3G/4G LTE Cellular | Night Color | Yes |
Optics | |||
Field of View | 120 Degrees | Horizontal Viewing Angle | 355 Degrees |
Zoom Type | Digital | Opticalr | Yes |
Video | |||
Video Format | MP4 | Resolution | 3 Megapixels |
Max Frame Rate (FPS) | 20 | Video Capture Resolution | 1080p |
Alarm & Storage | |||
PIR Detection | Yes | Video Motion | Yes |
Video Storage | Yes | SD Card | Max 128MB (not included) |
Siren | Yes | Humanoid Detection | Yes |
Floodlight | Yes | ||
Software-Smart Phone | |||
Apple Store | Yes | Google Play Store | Yes |
Power | |||
Power Source | Solar | Wattage | 8 watts |
Battery Power | 1500 mAh | Voltage | 5 Volts |
Batteries Included | Yes | Cable | 2 Meter |
Environmental | |||
Waterproof Rating | IP66 | Mounting Type | Wall Type |
Plenty of High-Quality Features


The GENBOLT model GB216-4G cellular camera provides a 3MP image which is quite clear and sharp. The image provides more than enough picture detail
The camera has no optical zooming capabilities but does provide Digital zoom. Digital zoom uses technology (software) to manipulate pixels in the image when zooming in/out. Optical zoom uses a physical change in the lens. Optical zoom is always the better way to zoom as it provides the best overall details and/or image quality. As a general surveillance camera the GB216-4G cellular camera provides sufficient zooming capabilities but don’t expect to zoom in to read license plates at a distance.
The camera comes with a Auto focus feature. When you zoom in/out it will try to adjust and provide the best focus. This works fine and the focus was good throughout the zoom.
Setup
Setup was extremely easy. In fact this cellular camera could easily be the quickest setup I have done with any camera. It was just a matter of turning on the switch, scanning the QR code and bang the camera was up. I wish all cameras were this easy.
Cellular Communications
The GENBOLT GB216-4G cellular camera can be used with a 3G/4G LTE cellular network. The camera comes with two cellular antennas and a built-in SIM card.
Prior to installing this cellular camera I had a regular Wi-Fi camera using the RV’s built-in cellular router. I had purchased a data plan (SIM Card) specifically for this RV router from my cellular provider. Installing this camera allowed me to cancel my existing plan and save approx. 50% in data costs. The data re-fill plans offered are actually better than what I could purchase on my own.
You can easily re-fill your data through the Genbolt App and they offer a number of different plans that should address every application.
Night Vision
The GENBOLT GB216-4G cellular camera provides above average night vision. During our test it did provide adequate scenes at the advertised 10M or 30ft .
It accomplishes this by using an array of 4 infrared LEDs and White LED’s. IR LED’s emit an invisible light that humans can’t see but will help camera see at night.
As a bonus the camera has some white LED’s built into the camera that acts as a flood light. When movement is detected these lights activate and will allow the camera to see color at night. Normally you would see Black and White images when using just IR LED’s.
Recording & Storage
The GENBOLT GB216-4G cellular camera provides a SD Card slot that will allow you to insert a SD Memory card (max 128GB). You can configure the camera to record on PIR detection and/or Humanoid Detection. You can also limit recording by using a weekly schedule. The playback was very smooth and responsive.
Storage of video events can be done directly on the camera using a SD Card (memory card). A SD card slot is provided on the camera which allows you to insert up to 128GB SD Card. Video events are then stored on this card. When the SD card becomes full it will start overwriting old video. Depending on how many video events you have in your environment it is possible to store up to a month or more of video events/clips.
128 GB Memory SD Card
Playback and searching your stored video was also easy and intuitive . The App allows you to find your recorded events by using the timeline or by specific dates using the calendar.
Alarm & Detection
False alarms from standard camera video detection can be extremely annoying. Things like plants moving in the breeze, snow, rain, dogs, moths, fog, leaves falling, sun and lights from cars passing by can cause standard detection systems to false alarm.
The GENBOLT GB216-4G cellular camera comes with a built-in Passive Infrared sensor (PIR). This has some huge benefits over the typical video motion detection systems in that the normal cause of false alarms do not affect the PIR sensor. This will greatly reduce the number of false alarms. Of course, the standard AI humanoid alarm detection is also available and can be used to supplement the PIR sensor. Humanoid detection uses the camera video to detect changes. When it sees a change it will analyze the change to determine if it’s a human. This helps to reduce false alarms generated by video motion. During my tests I found it to be pretty accurate but as with most cameras in the range it was not perfect. You can expect some false alarms.
You can also set a schedule for your alarm detection to operate. For example, you could setup detection to work only between certain hours and specific days.
Notifications
The GENBOLT GB216-4G cellular camera Wi-Fi camera can notify you of detection events by sending notifications to your phone.
FAQ
How do you power the camera?
The cellular camera comes with an 8 watt solar panel that provides all power and charges the internal battery. You can also use the supplied USB cable to power and charge the camera (USB block required – not supplied). The cable for the solar panel is approx. 2 meters long (not the 3 Meter listed).
Do I need a Internet Connection?
No. To be able to use the GENBOLT GB216-4G cellular camera you will need a 3G/4G LTE cellular signal at the camera location. The cellular connection will allow you to view your cameras from anywhere in the world.
Are there any monthly fees?
Yes. After the initial free 300MB is used or the trial period ends, you will need to purchase additional cellular data. They offer multiple plans like 30, 90, 180, 360 days. Additional data can be ordered through the Genbolt App.
Can I mount this on a corner of my house?
Yes. But you will need to purchase an corner mount bracket. We have provided a suitable bracket below.
Pro's & Cons
During my review I have identified the following Pros and Cons
Pros
- Can be mounted anywhere that has 3G/4G LTE cellular coverage
- No household power required. The solar panel supplies all required power.
- Mounting bracket allows you to mount the camera on a ceiling or wall. Provides you with more options when selecting a location.
- Great price point for all the features you get.
Cons
- The cameras zoom capabilities could be better.
- Missing some features like presets (saved positions) and auto-tracking.
Alternatives
Conclusion
During the testing of the GENBOLT GB216-4G cellular camera I found it to be above average for cameras in that price range. I did find overall that this is a good choice for those specific applications requiring remote monitoring. With good image quality and above average night vision I don’t think you can go wrong with this camera.