ADVERTORIAL
TP-Link Tapo is a line of smart home devices produced by TP-Link, a global manufacturer of networking and smart home products. Tapo focuses on providing affordable, user-friendly smart solutions like smart plugs, security cameras, smart bulbs, and other smart devices. The Tapo line allows users to control their devices remotely through the Tapo app on a smartphone or integrate them with popular smart home ecosystems, such as Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Smart Plugs:
Remote control via the Tapo app.
Scheduling and timers.
Energy monitoring (on selected models).
Voice control (supports Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa).
Security Cameras:
1080p HD video quality.
Night vision (up to 30 feet).
Two-way audio (allows for communication).
Motion detection with real-time notifications.
Cloud and local storage options (supports microSD cards up to 128GB).
Privacy mode for when you don't want the camera on.
Smart Bulbs:
Dimmable and tunable white/color lighting.
Remote control via the app.
Schedule and timer settings.
Energy-saving mode.
Voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Smart Hub and Sensors:
Central hub for connecting multiple smart devices.
Door/window sensors, motion sensors.
Instant alerts when motion is detected.
Affordable: Tapo devices are relatively inexpensive compared to other smart home brands.
User-Friendly: The Tapo app is intuitive and easy to set up, making the devices accessible for beginners.
Wide Compatibility: Works with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for voice control.
Reliable Performance: Devices are generally stable, with responsive controls and notifications.
Cloud and Local Storage: The security cameras offer both cloud storage (via subscription) and microSD card options.
Limited Ecosystem: Compared to more established smart home ecosystems like Google Nest or Apple HomeKit, the Tapo product range is more limited.
Subscription for Cloud Storage: Although local storage is available, cloud storage for cameras requires a paid subscription.
No Apple HomeKit Support: Tapo does not natively support Apple HomeKit, limiting its use in homes using that ecosystem.
Basic Automation: The app offers simple automation options, but advanced features like multi-device routines are limited.
Set up the Device:
Unbox the product and plug it in (e.g., smart plug) or mount it (e.g., camera).
Download the Tapo app from the App Store or Google Play.
Create a TP-Link account or log in if you already have one.
Connect to Wi-Fi:
Ensure your Wi-Fi network is running on a 2.4GHz frequency (Tapo devices do not support 5GHz).
Follow the app’s instructions to connect the device to your Wi-Fi network.
Control and Monitor:
Use the Tapo app to control the device (turn on/off smart plugs, view camera feeds, etc.).
Set schedules or timers for automation (e.g., turning lights off at a specific time).
Monitor security cameras, review video footage, or receive motion alerts.
Voice Control:
Link your TP-Link account with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Use voice commands like “Hey Google, turn on the living room light” or “Alexa, show me the front door camera.”
Optional Features:
For cameras, you can subscribe to TP-Link’s cloud storage service or insert a microSD card for local storage.
Set up privacy zones to mask parts of the camera’s view if necessary.
Overall, TP-Link Tapo is a budget-friendly entry into smart home automation with a focus on simplicity and ease of use.
The camera itself came with a lack of instruction. I was hoping to get more from the app but the app was confusing. After 2 weeks of troubleshooting I finally figured out everything...mostly. Now I want to stop sharing the camera with somebody else. I've gone to the home screen and the me area. Both camera/are updated. It doesn't give me the option to delete the account I am sharing with. It only gives me the option to share with someone else."
An updated app showed up on my phone this morning. This app is now 10 times more complicated to use! I turned the camera on last night when I went to sleep and this morning, it's been off all night and I have no incident recordings! I typically review those every morning; to see if anyone has messed with my car and then delete them or save a select few, but now I can't find a way to delete the recordings that I don't need! How do we delete incident recordings from the SD card now????"
The app is responsive and the camera gives good quality. My reason for only 3 stars is that they made downloading clips very complicated and unfunctional. You're basically just screen recording a recording plus 5 more steps, is this the year 1990? .... Changing my rating from 3 to 5, The update of Sep-Oct '23 solved the issue of downloading clips and now they made it very easy and accessible. TY. :)"