TP-Link has launched a new range of security cameras under its Tapo brand, featuring 4K outdoor models and affordable pan and tilt cameras suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Introducing the Tapo HomeBase H500, the first central hub designed by TP-Link, which includes facial recognition and expanded local storage capabilities, the announcement was made during the CES 2024 event. This hub will act as a Matter controller, permitting the integration of non-Tapo devices into the Tapo ecosystem, reports 24brussels.
The new products are now available for purchase on various platforms, including Amazon and TP-Link’s official site. They represent an upgrade to the Tapo MagCam series, emphasizing 4K 8MP resolution and Starlight color night vision for improved images in low-light conditions. The standard model, the Tapo MagCam 4K Solar (C460), is priced at $149.99, while the Tapo VistaCam 360 Solar (C660) costs $169.99 and features pan-tilt functionality.
Both models incorporate solar power into their design, allowing 24/7 recording powered by batteries. David Lux, TP-Link’s marketing director, stated, “We achieved the 24/7 continuous recording at a lower frame rate.” By recording in reduced quality during inactive periods and switching to higher quality when motion is detected, devices can last up to 55 days on a single charge with maintenance needing as little as 45 minutes of sunlight daily.
A wired version, the Tapo C560WS, retails at $99.99 and supports on-device facial recognition along with continuous recording at 25 FPS. All cameras in the new series offer options for local recording onto a microSD card (sold separately), Tapo Cloud, or to the HomeBase, enhanced with AI-driven alerts for recognizing pets, people, and vehicles.
The Tapo RoomCam360 (C260), a 4K indoor pan-tilt camera priced at $59.99, promises 360-degree horizontal coverage, complete with a physical privacy shutter and various smart alerts, including noise detection technologies for critical sounds like crying babies and breaking glass. Additionally, the Tapo HybridCam series presents a cost-effective line of 2K cameras starting at $30, enriched with features like weather-proofing and pan-tilt functions, suitable for versatile positioning and mounting options.
The Tapo HybridCam Duo (C246D), priced at $69.99, comprises dual-lens functionality. One lens features a pan-tilt design with a telephoto capability while the other offers a fixed wide viewpoint, enabling simultaneous coverage of large spaces and focused zoom on particular areas. A 4K version of this model was previewed at CES 2024, but its release date remains yet unspecified.
Tapo’s New Hub Significance
Each camera supports local storage through the new Tapo HomeBase, which adds 16GB of local storage expandable up to 16TB via external hard drives. This triangular hub facilitates connections for up to 16 Tapo cameras alongside ONVIF-compatible devices. Once integrated with the HomeBase, all Tapo cameras will utilize local facial recognition capabilities.
The HomeBase also enables tablet integration for displaying live views of camera feeds and connects to televisions using HDMI for broader viewing options. With its built-in microphone and speaker, the device can function as an intercom for communicating with Tapo’s camera and video doorbell systems.
Supporting Matter-over-Wi-Fi devices, the HomeBase enhances the Tapo smart home experience by allowing control over Matter-compatible devices from other brands within the Tapo app. This system promises streamlined automations using Tapo’s extensive rules, although current integrations are confined to devices in categories such as lighting and sensors.
