Tapo Cameras: 7 Best Wireless Outdoor Security Cameras for 2025

Tapo cameras have become a go-to solution for homeowners and businesses seeking reliable, smart surveillance. Known for their affordability, ease of use, and advanced features, these cameras offer a seamless way to monitor indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether you're looking to keep an eye on your home, pets, or office, Tapo cameras provide a range of functionalities, including motion detection, night vision, and even AI-powered event recognition.

From pan-and-tilt models that provide a wide field of view to battery-powered options for flexible placement, Tapo cameras cater to different security needs. With intuitive app controls, cloud storage options, and integrations with smart assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, they make home security more accessible than ever.

In this blog, we'll explore everything you need to know about Tapo cameras—how they work, their standout features, and how to optimize them for maximum security and convenience. Whether you're a first-time user or looking to upgrade your setup, this guide will help you make the most of your Tapo cameras.

What is Tapo Camera?

Tapo Camera is a smart security camera designed to help people monitor their homes, offices, and other places. It is made by TP-Link, a well-known brand that provides networking and smart home products. Tapo Cameras are popular because they offer high-quality video recording, motion detection, night vision, and remote access at an affordable price. These cameras are easy to set up and can be controlled through the Tapo app on a smartphone.

Tapo Camera is an excellent choice if you are looking for a simple, reliable, and budget-friendly security camera. It provides peace of mind by letting you check your home anytime, anywhere.

How to Set Up a Tapo Camera?

Setting up a Tapo Camera is quick and straightforward. Follow these detailed steps to get started:

Step 1: Download and Install the Tapo App

The first step is to download the Tapo app, which is available on Android and iOS devices. Install the app and create a TP-Link account if you do not already have one.

Step 2: Power On the Camera

Unbox your Tapo Camera and plug it into a power source using the included adapter. Wait for the LED light to start blinking, indicating it is ready for setup.

Step 3: Connect the Camera to Wi-Fi

• Open the Tapo app and tap the ‘+’ button to add a new device.
• Select your camera model from the list.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to connect the camera to your Wi-Fi network.
• Ensure you connect to a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network (Tapo Cameras do not support 5GHz networks).

Step 4: Position the Camera

Place the camera in the desired location:

• Position it on a shelf or table for indoor use or mount it on the wall.
• Install the camera in a weatherproof location for outdoor models, ensuring a clear view of the monitored area.
• Adjust the camera angle for optimal coverage.

Step 5: Customize Camera Settings

After the camera is connected, you can adjust various settings in the Tapo app:

• Enable motion detection to receive alerts when movement is detected.
• Set up night vision to monitor in low-light conditions.
• Adjust video quality based on your internet speed and storage capacity.
• Activate two-way audio if you want to communicate through the camera.

Step 6: Enable Storage for Recordings

• Option 1: MicroSD Card Storage – Insert a microSD card (up to 256GB) into the camera for local storage.
• Option 2: Cloud Storage – Subscribe to Tapo Care for cloud-based recordings.

Step 7: Link with Smart Home Assistants (Optional)

Tapo Cameras support Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant:

• Open the Alexa or Google Home app and link your Tapo account.
• Use voice commands to view live feeds on compatible smart displays.

Step 8: Activate Privacy Mode When Needed

If you do not want the camera to record at certain times, enable Privacy Mode in the Tapo app to temporarily disable monitoring.

Why Should You Use a Tapo Camera?

Tapo Camera is an ideal security solution for different needs. Here are some reasons why it is useful:

• Home Security – Protect your home by monitoring entrances, living rooms, or valuable items.
• Baby Monitoring – Watch over your baby or child from another room.
• Pet Monitoring – Keep an eye on your pets when you are not at home.
• Office and Business Security – Monitor shops, offices, and workspaces.
• Elderly Care – Check on elderly family members remotely to ensure their safety.
• Outdoor Surveillance – Some models are weatherproof, making them suitable for outdoor security.
• Smart Integration – Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice commands.
• Vacation Monitoring – Keep an eye on your home when traveling.
• Rental Property Security – Monitor tenants or rental homes without invasion of privacy.

How to Properly Insert an SD Card into Your Tapo Camera or Hub?

When inserting a Micro SD card into your Tapo device, it’s crucial to ensure proper alignment to prevent damage. Avoid inserting the card at an angle or using excessive force. If you encounter resistance, double-check the card’s orientation and the slot positioning before proceeding.

1. Standard Security Cameras

• Locate the SD card slot on the camera’s side panel.
• Hold the Micro SD card in the correct orientation and gently insert it into the slot.
• Push the card in until you hear a click, indicating it is securely in place.

2. Pan & Tilt Security Cameras

• Tilt the camera lens upward to reveal the SD card slot.
• Ensure the card is correctly oriented, then carefully insert it.
• Press the card until you hear a click, confirming it is properly seated.

3. Outdoor Security Cameras

• Unscrew and remove the back panel to access the Micro SD card slot.
• Align the card correctly and insert it gently into the slot.
• Push until you hear a click, ensuring a secure fit.

4. Battery-Powered Cameras & Doorbells (Using Tapo Hubs)

• The SD card must be inserted into the hub rather than the camera for cameras that rely on a Tapo Hub.
• Locate the Micro SD card slot on the back of the hub.
• Insert the card with the correct orientation and press it in until you hear a click to secure it.

Following these steps ensures a smooth installation process and prevents damage to your SD card and Tapo device. If you experience difficulty inserting the card, recheck its positioning before applying additional pressure.

Are Tapo Cameras Safe?

Yes, Tapo Cameras are designed with strong security measures, including end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), and privacy controls. This ensures that your video feeds remain secure and accessible only to authorized users, protecting your data from unauthorized access or breaches.

How do you connect a Tapo Camera to a new Wi-Fi?

To connect your Tapo Camera to a new Wi-Fi network, reset the camera by pressing and holding the reset button for 5-10 seconds until the LED starts blinking. Then, open the Tapo app, remove the camera from your device list, and go through the setup process again to connect it to the new network.

Why is My Tapo Camera Not Recording?

Ensure that the microSD card is properly inserted, the storage settings are correctly configured, and motion detection is enabled in the Tapo app. Also, check if the storage space is full and format the microSD card if needed.

How to Reset a Tapo Camera?

Press and hold the reset button for 5-10 seconds until the LED blinks red rapidly, indicating that the camera is resetting.

Why Does the Tapo Camera Go Offline?

A Tapo Camera may go offline due to several reasons:

• Weak Wi-Fi Signal – The connection may drop frequently if the camera is placed too far from the router. Try moving it closer or using a Wi-Fi extender.
• Internet Connectivity Issues – If your internet service is down or unstable, the camera will lose connection. Restart your router to fix common issues.
• Power Interruptions – If the camera loses power due to an outage or loose cable connection, it will go offline. Ensure it is properly plugged in.
• Router Settings – Changes in your router’s security settings, network name (SSID), or password can cause disconnection. Reconnect the camera to the updated network.
• Firmware Issues—Outdated firmware may cause connectivity problems. Check the Tapo app for updates and install the latest version.
• Too Many Devices on the Network – If multiple devices use the same network, bandwidth issues may affect the camera’s performance. Reduce congestion by disconnecting unused devices.
• Interference from Other Devices – Nearby electronic devices such as microwaves, cordless phones, or other Wi-Fi devices can interfere with the signal.

To fix the issue, restart your router and camera, check for firmware updates, and ensure a stable Wi-Fi connection. It could be due to weak Wi-Fi signals, internet issues, or power interruptions.

How to set privacy zone for your Tapo Camera?

The Privacy Zones feature lets you define specific areas within the camera's view that won't be monitored. This helps protect your privacy by keeping certain spaces from being recorded. The main purpose of these zones is to prevent specific areas from being captured or recognized.

Step 1: Open the Tapo app and select the camera you want to configure. Tap on it to enter the live view.

Step 2: Go to Device Settings > Video & Display > Privacy Zones.

Step 3: Enable the Privacy Zones feature and tap the arrow symbol to start editing.

Step 4: Add a zone, then drag the corners to adjust the size and position of the privacy zone.

You can personalize your privacy zones by adding new ones or clearing existing ones. Once you're satisfied with the adjustments, be sure to save the changes.

Is a Tapo Camera Waterproof?

Most indoor Tapo Cameras are not waterproof and should only be used indoors. However, TP-Link offers outdoor models like the Tapo C310, which has an IP66 weatherproof rating. This rating makes it resistant to dust, rain, and harsh weather conditions, ensuring reliable performance even in extreme outdoor environments.

Does a Tapo Camera Need a Subscription?

No, a Tapo Camera does not require a subscription to function. Users can record videos locally using a microSD card (up to 256GB) without additional fees. However, subscribing to Tapo Care provides access to advanced features such as cloud storage, AI-powered motion detection, rich notifications with snapshots, and activity zones. Cloud storage ensures footage is securely stored online, offering extra protection in case the camera or microSD card is damaged or stolen. While a subscription enhances security and convenience, it is completely optional. No, Tapo Cameras can record without a subscription using a microSD card for local storage. However, subscribing to Tapo Care unlocks cloud storage, motion-triggered recordings, AI-enhanced detection, and additional smart features, providing an extra layer of security and convenience.

How long does Tapo camera record on sd card?

The recording duration on an SD card for a Tapo camera depends on several key factors:

SD Card Capacity:

Tapo cameras support microSD cards up to 256GB (depending on the model). Larger cards offer more storage space, allowing for longer recording periods. The approximate storage duration based on different card sizes is as follows:

• 64GB: Can store 1 to 2 weeks of footage with continuous recording at 1080p.
• 128GB: Can store 2 to 4 weeks of footage with continuous recording.
• 256GB: Can store up to 1 to 2 months of footage.

Recording Mode:

• Continuous Recording: If the camera is set to record 24/7, the storage will fill up faster since it’s constantly writing data. The amount of time a card will last in this mode depends on both the capacity of the SD card and the video quality. A 64GB card could last around a week with continuous 1080p video.
• Motion-triggered Recording: In this mode, the camera only records when it detects motion. This method is much more storage-efficient and will extend the duration of the footage on the SD card. The length of time will vary based on how often motion is detected. For example, if motion is detected frequently, the card may fill faster, but the storage lasts much longer with less motion.

Video Quality & Settings:

• Resolution: Higher resolutions (like 1080p) take up more space than lower ones (such as 720p). Recording in 1080p will consume more storage, resulting in shorter recording durations for a given SD card size.
• Frame Rate: Higher frame rates (e.g., 30 fps) consume more storage than lower frame rates (e.g., 15 fps), which can extend the recording time on the SD card.

Adjusting these settings can help optimize storage space, allowing you to capture more footage over time.

Loop Recording

Tapo cameras feature loop recording, meaning once the SD card is full, the camera will automatically overwrite the oldest footage with new recordings. This ensures that the camera will continuously record without interruption, but you will only retain a limited amount of past footage. The actual time you can store footage will depend on your recording settings (motion detection vs. continuous recording) and video quality.

How to Enable Sound Detection on Tapo Indoor Cameras?

The Sound Detection feature on Tapo indoor cameras includes several detection types: Baby Crying Detection, Glass Break Detection, Dog Bark Detection, and Cat Meow Detection. When enabled, the camera will recognize abnormal sounds and notify users as necessary.

To enable Sound Detection on your Tapo indoor camera, follow these steps:

1. After setting up your Tapo camera, open the Tapo app and select the camera you wish to configure by tapping on it to enter the live view.
2. Tap the gear icon to access the camera settings page.
3. From the settings menu, tap Detection, then scroll down and select Sound Detection.
4. Choose the specific type of Sound Detection you want to enable (e.g., Baby Crying, Glass Break, etc.). Toggle the switch to allow the detection and adjust the sensitivity as needed.

Note: Not all Tapo cameras support all types of sound detection. Verify the specifications of your specific model to see which detection types are supported.

What Should I Do if My Tapo Camera’s Image is Discolored?

If your Tapo camera displays any abnormal coloration (such as purple, green, or pink hues), follow these troubleshooting steps to address the issue:

1. Open the Tapo app for Android devices, then go to Device Settings → Advanced Settings → Display Settings → Compatible Mode, and turn on the Compatible Mode.
2. Try switching the Day/Night mode manually while watching the Live View or by being near the camera. Listen for a click sound to check if the IR-Cut is functioning correctly.
3. Adjust the camera’s angle or position to avoid direct sunlight or other light sources. This helps determine if the color abnormalities are related to specific lighting conditions.
4. If the image appears too bright or white at night, it may be due to overexposure. Reflective surfaces like tiles and glass can reflect the camera's IR light, causing overexposure. Adjust the camera’s position to avoid these reflective objects.
5. If the issue persists, try rebooting and resetting the camera.

If the discoloration continues, please get in touch with TP-Link technical support for further assistance.

How to Set Detection Zones for Your Tapo Camera?

The Detection Zone feature allows you to designate specific areas for the Tapo camera to monitor for activity. Customizing detection zones can help reduce unnecessary detections by focusing on the most important areas.

There are two types of detection zones:

• Set for All: Apply a detection area for all detection types.
• Set for Each: Apply specific detection zones for each detection type.

Case 1: Set for All

1. Open the Tapo app and select the camera you want to configure. Please tap on the camera to enter its live view.
2. Go to Device Settings → Detection → Detection Zones.
3. Select Set for All and tap the Edit button to configure the detection zones.
4. Tap and drag the corners of the detection zone to adjust its size and shape. You can add, delete, and clear zones as needed. Once you're satisfied, tap Save.

Case 2: Set for Each

1. Open the Tapo app and select the camera to configure.
2. Go to Device Settings → Detection → Detection Zones.
3. Select Set for Each and tap Edit.
4. Choose specific detection types (e.g., motion, sound), then tap and drag the corners of the detection zones to customize their shapes. Add, delete, or clear zones as necessary. When you're done, tap Save.

How to Improve the Motion Tracking Function of My Camera?

If the camera's motion tracking function seems less responsive or not working well, you can improve its effectiveness by following these tips:

1. Position the camera properly: Place it in the desired monitoring area, ensuring it's angled and positioned to minimize hidden spots (blind spots).
2. Consider object speed: If people or objects move too quickly within the camera’s view, tracking may not be as responsive. Position the camera so objects are not too close, allowing it to track movements more effectively.

Suggestions to Enhance Tracking:

1. Choose an ideal installation position: To improve tracking effectiveness, mount the camera at least 15° above the vertical direction. The area directly below the camera isn’t ideal for tracking.
2. Mount to the side: Positioning the camera to monitor horizontal movement primarily can provide better tracking for crossing individuals, making the tracking function more effective.
3. Avoid installation behind glass: Glass may cause reflections, leading to blurry or unclear images, especially at night, which could interfere with motion detection.
4. Adjust detection sensitivity: Go to Camera settings → Detection settings to adjust the sensitivity for motion detection. Increasing the sensitivity may improve tracking if it's too slow.
5. Update firmware: Make sure your camera’s firmware is up to date. Newer versions may provide performance improvements that enhance motion tracking.

By following these steps and suggestions, you can optimize your camera’s motion-tracking function for clearer and more accurate monitoring.

How to Enable Patrol Mode on Tapo Cameras?

Patrol Mode on Tapo cameras allows continuous scanning of key areas, ensuring a complete view of your space. This feature is perfect for monitoring larger areas or for those who need their camera to rotate and cover different angles automatically.

This guide will walk you through setting up Patrol Mode, using the Tapo C225 as an example. The steps apply to other Tapo cameras with pan and tilt functionality.

Note: Only Pan/Tilt cameras support Patrol Mode. While continuous patrolling may affect the motor's lifespan, Tapo cameras are built for durability and reliability.

1. After successfully setting up your Tapo camera, open the Tapo app and select the camera you wish to configure to enter its live view.
2. Tap the gear icon to access the camera's settings page.
3. Select Pan & Tilt. Here, you can set the camera’s Pan & Tilt Angle and use the Pan & Tilt Correction option to reset the camera to its default position before proceeding to the Patrol Mode settings.
4. Tap Patrol Mode to access the patrol configuration page. You’ll need at least two marked positions to enable Patrol Mode.
5. Tap or hold the arrows to move the camera to your desired position (up, down, left, or right). Once positioned, tap Add Mark. You can customize the Layover Time for each position, then tap Save.
6. Repeat the above step to create additional marks. A minimum of two marks is required for Patrol Mode to function correctly.
7. Once you’ve added all your marks, toggle Patrol Mode to enable the feature.
8. Finally, tap Patrol Mode Schedule. You can choose a preset schedule or create a schedule for when the camera should patrol. After setting the schedule, tap Save, and your camera will begin moving between the marked positions according to your schedule.

With Patrol Mode active, your Tapo camera will automatically rotate through the marked positions, providing full coverage of your designated space.

7 Best Tapo Wireless Outdoor Security Cameras in Ireland

Tapo security cameras offer affordable yet high-quality surveillance for homes and businesses. Whether you need indoor monitoring, outdoor protection, or smart AI detection, a Tapo model fits your needs.

Here are the Best 7 Tapo cameras in Ireland, chosen for their features, reliability, and value.

1. Tapo C225 - Pan/Tilt AI Home Security WiFi Camera

• 2K 4MP resolution for crystal-clear footage
• AI-powered detection (person, pet, and motion alerts)
• Physical privacy mode – lens retracts for complete privacy
• Starlight sensor for superior night vision
• 360° pan & tilt for full-room coverage

Ideal for: Smart indoor security with AI-driven features

2. Tapo C200 - Pan/Tilt Home Security WiFi Camera

• 1080p HD video quality
• 360° horizontal & 114° vertical range
• Motion tracking with instant mobile alerts
• Two-way audio for easy communication

Ideal for: Affordable security, baby & pet monitoring

3. Tapo C310 - Outdoor Security WiFi Camera

• 3MP ultra-HD resolution for crisp outdoor footage
• IP66 weatherproof rating – withstands rain, snow & dust
• 30m night vision for clear images in darkness
• Motion detection with customizable activity zones

Ideal for: Outdoor security with clear night vision

4. Tapo C100 - Home Security WiFi Camera

• 1080p HD video with sharp clarity
• Motion & sound detection for instant alerts
• Built-in alarm system to deter intruders
• Simple setup via the Tapo app

Ideal for: Budget-friendly home security

5. Tapo C500 Camera - Outdoor Pan/Tilt Security WiFi Camera

• 1080p full-HD video
• 360° horizontal & 130° vertical range – zero blind spots
• Night vision & two-way audio for complete surveillance
• Motion tracking to follow suspicious activity

Ideal for: Comprehensive outdoor security with wide coverage

6. Tapo C320WS - Outdoor Security WiFi Camera

• 2K QHD resolution – sharper than standard HD
• Full-color night vision (starlight sensor + spotlight)
• Motion detection with instant alerts
• IP66 waterproof for durability in harsh weather

Ideal for: Outdoor security with ultra-clear night vision

7. Tapo C420S2 – Wire-Free Security System

• 2K Quad HD resolution – ultra-clear footage
• Wire-free installation – no hassle with cables
• Smart AI motion detection – reduces false alarms
• Rechargeable battery for long-lasting power
• IP65 weatherproof for rain & dust resistance

Ideal for: A flexible, wireless home security solution

Tapo cameras deliver top-tier security at budget-friendly prices. Whether you need indoor or outdoor monitoring, AI-powered detection, or a wire-free system, there's a model for you.