TP-Link has introduced new security cameras to its Tapo smart home lineup, featuring 4K-capable outdoor models and affordable pan-tilt cameras suitable for indoor and outdoor use. All devices operate without subscription fees.
The company also released the Tapo HomeBase H500 hub, first revealed at CES 2024. This hub offers local facial recognition, expanded storage, and acts as a Matter controller, enabling integration of non-Tapo smart home devices like lights and locks into the Tapo app. However, cameras currently remain incompatible with Matter and instead connect via Amazon Alexa, SmartThings, and Google Home over Wi-Fi.
Available now via Amazon and TP-Link’s website, the updated battery-powered Tapo MagCam series delivers 8MP 4K resolution and Starlight color night vision for enhanced low-light clarity. The lineup includes the $149.99 Tapo MagCam 4K Solar (C460) and the $169.99 pan-tilt Tapo VistaCam 360 Solar (C660), both featuring integrated solar charging and 24/7 recording capabilities.
TP-Link achieves continuous recording by recording at a lower frame rate during inactivity, switching to high quality when motion is detected. The cameras can last up to 55 days on one charge and require just 45 minutes of sunlight per day to maintain charge.
A wired option, the Tapo C560WS at $99.99, offers on-device facial recognition and 24/7 recording at 25 FPS.
All new Tapo cameras support local microSD card storage or recording to the HomeBase hub at no extra cost. Users may also opt for Tapo’s cloud service, Tapo Care. The cameras include AI-powered alerts for pets, people, and vehicles, processed on-device. Pan-tilt models support automatic tracking.
TP-Link also unveiled the $59.99 Tapo RoomCam360 (C260), a plug-in indoor pan-tilt camera with 4K recording, 360-degree coverage, a privacy shutter, smart alerts, and noise detection for sounds like baby crying and glass breaking.
The new HybridCam series offers 2K resolution wired pan-tilt cameras for $30 and up. They are weatherproof, support indoor or outdoor use, and detect sounds useful for baby or pet monitoring. The $69.99 HybridCam Duo (C246D) pairs dual 2K cameras: a 360-degree pan-tilt with telephoto lens, and a fixed wide-angle lens. With synchronized tracking, the pan-tilt camera can follow motion detected by the fixed lens. A 4K solar-powered version was announced but is not yet available.
Single-camera HybridCam models start at $29.99 for 1080p and reach $49.99 for 3K resolution. They include pan-tilt functions, AI detection for people and sounds, with higher-tier models adding pet and vehicle detection.
The HomeBase H500 hub priced at $149.99 adds 16GB of onboard storage, expandable up to 16TB via external hard drive, and supports up to 16 Tapo and ONVIF-compatible cameras. It connects via Ethernet or dual-band Wi-Fi and features a mount for tablets (sold separately) that can show up to four live camera feeds simultaneously. The hub also has HDMI output for TV connection and built-in microphone and speaker for intercom use.
The HomeBase supports Tapo’s sub-GHz sensor ecosystem and serves as a Matter controller, managing compatible smart home devices from other brands within categories like lighting, sensors, switches, plugs, and locks. TP-Link confirmed that Matter currently does not support cameras, but plans are underway to add this feature, which TP-Link intends to support immediately upon release.