TP-Link Launches New Tapo Security Cameras
TP-Link has unveiled a range of new security cameras under its Tapo smart home brand, including a 4K-capable outdoor line and various budget-friendly pan and tilt cameras suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, all without subscription fees. The company is also introducing the Tapo HomeBase H500 hub, which was first showcased at CES 2024, featuring facial recognition and enhanced local storage for its cameras.
HomeBase Hub Features
The new HomeBase will function as a Matter controller, enabling the addition of non-Tapo smart home devices, like lights and locks, to the Tapo app. Currently, Tapo cameras do not support the Matter smart home standard, so they will work only with Amazon Alexa, SmartThings, and Google Home over Wi-Fi for now.
New Camera Releases
The newly launched Tapo cameras, available on Amazon and TP-Link’s website, include an upgrade to the battery-powered Tapo MagCam series, offering 4K 8MP resolution and Starlight color night vision for improved visibility in dim conditions. This lineup features the standard $149.99 Tapo MagCam 4K Solar (C460) and the $169.99 pan-tilt Tapo VistaCam 360 Solar (C660).
Innovative Features
Both models come with integrated solar power for the mounting system and are capable of continuous recording on battery power. “We achieved 24/7 recording at a reduced frame rate,” stated David Lux, the marketing director at TP-Link. “It records in lower quality during inactivity and switches to higher quality upon detecting motion.”
Camera Performance and Recording Options
TP-Link claims the cameras can last up to 55 days on a single charge while utilizing an adjustable frame rate to conserve energy, requiring merely 45 minutes of sunlight daily for full power. A wired option, the Tapo C560WS, priced at $99.99, features on-device facial recognition and uninterrupted recording at 25 FPS.
Storage and Smart Alerts
All new Tapo cameras offer local recording options to a microSD card (sold separately) and to the new Tapo HomeBase, with cloud storage available through Tapo Care. They include free AI-powered smart alerts for detecting pets, people, and vehicles, processed directly on the device. The pan-tilt versions include auto-tracking capabilities for moving subjects.
