About this product
The TP-Link Tapo C401 Smart Wire-Free Outdoor Security Camera provides flexible outdoor security with 1080p Full HD video, color night vision, person detection, two-way audio, motion detection and a rechargeable 5200mAh battery offering up to 180 days of battery life under specified test conditions. Its IP65 weatherproof design and wireless installation make it suitable for monitoring entrances, driveways, gardens, garages and other outdoor areas. Buy now from our website for convenient outdoor security in South Africa.
Overview Summary
TP-Link Tapo C401 Smart Wire-Free Outdoor Security Camera
The Tapo C401 is a battery-powered outdoor security camera designed for flexible installation without a permanent power cable. It records 1080p Full HD video at 15fps and uses a 1/3 inch Progressive Scan CMOS sensor, a 3.16mm lens and a wide field of view of 116.7 degrees diagonally. Color night vision, infrared night vision, WDR and 3DNR image enhancement help provide useful video coverage during both daytime and low-light conditions.
The camera provides AI-powered person detection, motion detection, customizable activity zones, two-way audio and a 70 dBA siren measured at 3 metres. Recordings can be stored locally using a microSD card of up to 512GB, while Tapo Care cloud storage is also supported through a subscription. The rechargeable 5200mAh battery provides up to 180 days of battery life under TP-Link's specified laboratory test conditions, while the IP65 weatherproof enclosure supports outdoor installation.
Performance tier: Advanced outdoor smart security camera
Uses: Home security, driveway monitoring, entrance monitoring, garden monitoring, garage monitoring, backyard monitoring, outdoor surveillance
Description
The TP-Link Tapo C401 Smart Wire-Free Outdoor Security Camera is designed to provide outdoor monitoring without the need for a permanent power connection. Its rechargeable battery allows the camera to be installed in locations where running a power cable would be inconvenient, providing flexibility for areas such as driveways, front entrances, gardens, garages and backyards.
The camera uses a 1/3 inch Progressive Scan CMOS sensor and a 3.16mm lens with a wide 116.7 degree diagonal field of view. It captures 1920 x 1080 Full HD video at 15fps and uses H.264 video compression. WDR and 3DNR image enhancement are provided to help improve image quality in challenging lighting conditions.
For night monitoring, the Tapo C401 combines color night vision with two 850nm infrared LEDs providing night vision up to 10 metres. Two white lights are also included and can be controlled through the camera system. This allows the camera to provide useful visibility in low-light outdoor environments.
Smart detection features include motion detection and AI-powered person detection. Activity zones can be customized so monitoring can focus on selected areas. Notifications can be sent through the system when relevant activity is detected, helping users stay informed about activity around their property.
The built-in microphone and speaker provide two-way audio with noise cancellation, allowing communication with people within the camera's viewing area. A 70 dBA siren measured at 3 metres and customizable sound and light alarm functions provide additional deterrence and notification options.
Storage can be handled locally using a microSD card with support for capacities up to 512GB. Tapo Care cloud storage is also supported through a subscription. The camera connects using 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and does not require an Ethernet connection or permanent wired network connection.
The built-in rechargeable 5200mAh lithium-ion battery is rated for up to 180 days of battery life under TP-Link's specified laboratory test conditions. Actual battery life varies according to settings, usage, router specifications and environmental factors. The IP65 weatherproof design makes the Tapo C401 suitable for outdoor use, with an operating temperature range of -20 to 45 degrees C.
Features
The Tapo C401 combines wire-free installation, smart detection, Full HD video and outdoor protection in a compact battery-powered security camera.
- 1080p Full HD video: Captures video at 1920 x 1080 resolution for detailed live monitoring.
- Wire-free installation: Built-in rechargeable battery allows flexible placement without a permanent power cable.
- 5200mAh rechargeable battery: Provides up to 180 days of battery life under specified laboratory test conditions.
- AI person detection: Detects people and provides more relevant security notifications without requiring a subscription for person detection.
- Color night vision: Provides color video in low-light conditions.
- Infrared night vision: Two 850nm IR LEDs provide night vision up to 10 metres.
- Wide field of view: Provides a 116.7 degree diagonal field of view.
- Motion detection: Detects movement and can trigger system notifications.
- Custom activity zones: Allows selected areas to be monitored for activity.
- Two-way audio: Built-in microphone and speaker enable two-way communication with noise cancellation.
- 70 dBA siren: Provides an audible alarm measured at 3 metres.
- Customizable sound and light alarm: Supports configurable deterrence features.
- Local storage: Supports microSD cards up to 512GB.
- Tapo Care cloud storage: Provides an optional cloud storage service through subscription.
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi: Connects wirelessly using IEEE 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi.
- IP65 weather resistance: Designed for outdoor environments and protection against dust and water exposure.
- Smart assistant support: Compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
- No hub required: The camera can connect directly to a compatible Wi-Fi network.
Secure Your Outdoors, No Wires Attached.
Enjoy complete outdoor security without the constraints of wires. The Tapo C400 provides comprehensive surveillance, from deterring package theft and safeguarding vehicles to securing your backyard and monitoring all outdoor spaces, including gardens, pools, and garages.
Power That Lasts: 180-Day Battery*
Say goodbye to frequent recharging. With a powerful 5200mAh battery, enjoy up to 180 days of reliable security on a single charge.
Vivid Colors, Even at Night
Advanced color night vision technology captures clear, detailed footage in low-light environments without sacrificing image quality.
AI-Powered Detection: No Subscription Required
Gain peace of mind and receive more relevant real-time notifications with AI detection that alerts you when people are detected within frame, no additional fees or subscription needed.
Focus on What Matters: Customize Activity Zones
Eliminate unnecessary alerts and receive notifications only for the areas you choose to monitor. Create custom activity zones to pinpoint specific areas, like your front door or driveway, ensuring you're only alerted to relevant activity.
Maintain Privacy: Define Hidden Zones
Protect your personal space by creating custom privacy zones. Exclude sensitive areas from recordings and live views, giving you complete control over what is captured.
Personalize Your Alarm
Create a completely custom sound and light alarm. Adjust the spotlight brightness to illuminate your property and record custom audio messages to warn off potential intruders.
1080p Clarity: See Every Detail
Enhance your home security with crystal-clear 1080p live view.
Identify faces, license plates, and other crucial details with exceptional precision.
Flexible Storage Solutions
Choose between locally storing footage on a microSD card or via the cloud with a Tapo Care subscription.
Local microSD storage
Supports up to 512GB local storage on microSD card. (microSD card sold separately).
Tapo care cloud service
Receive rich notifications with snapshots, encrypted protection, data backups, and 30-day video clip history with Tapo Care cloud service.
Year-Round Weather Protection
Built to last, the IP65 weatherproof design protects your camera from the elements, ensuring reliable performance year-round.
Pair with Smart Assistants
Includes seamless integration with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings. View live streams on your Echo Show or Chromecast.
Two-Way Audio
Engage in seamless real-time conversations with anyone within the camera's view thanks to integrated microphone and speakers.
No Hub Required
Simplify setup by connecting directly to your Wi-Fi network, eliminating the need for a hub.
What's in the Box
- Tapo C401 Camera x1
- Camera Bracket x1
- Mounting Screws x2
- Mounting Screw Anchors x2
- USB Charging Cable x1
- Mounting Template Sticker x1
- Quick Start Guide x1
Specifications
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Specifications |
| Product Code | NET-TL-TAPO-C401 |
| CAMERA |
| Image Sensor | 1/3" Progressive Scan CMOS Sensor |
| Lens | Focal Length: 3.16mm ±5% |
| Aperture: F1.6±5% |
| Field of View: 116.7±3degrees (Diagonal), 99.7±3degrees (Horizontal), 53.8±3degrees(Vertical) |
| Night Vision | 2 x 850 nm IR LEDs (32.8 ft. / 10 m) |
| Color Night Vision |
| Lighting | 2x White Lights |
| Motion Activated, App-Controlled |
| Hub Compatibility | Compatible with Tapo H200 & Tapo H500 |
| Interface & Button | 1x POWER Button |
| 1x RESET Button |
| 1x microSD Card Slot (Up to 512 GB) |
| VIDEO & AUDIO |
| Maximum Resolution | 1080P 2MP (1920x1080 px) |
| Frame Rate | 15fps |
| Video Compression | H.264 |
| Live View | Yes |
| Image Enhancement | 3DNR |
| WDR |
| Audio Input & Output | Built-in Microphone and Speaker |
| Audio Communication | Two-Way Audio with Noise Cancellation |
| Siren Volume | 70 dBA (Level measured at 3m distance) |
| STORAGE |
| Local Storage | MicroSD Card Slot on Camera (Up to 512 GB) |
| Cloud Storage | Tapo Care Cloud Storage Services (Subscription required) |
| DETECTION and NOTIFICATIONS |
| Sensor | Single Motion Sensor (FOV: 110degrees horizontal) |
| Single Ambient Light Sensors |
| AI Detection | Motion Detection |
| Person Detection |
| Activity Zones | Yes |
| Output Notification | System Notification |
| System Notification with Snapshot (Tapo Care Services) |
| NETWORK |
| Network Connectivity | Connect via Wi-Fi |
| Wireless Connectivity | IEEE 802.11b/g/n, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi |
| Ethernet Port | No |
| RTSP | No |
| ONVIF | No |
| SECURITY |
| Security | 128-bit AES Encryption with SSL/TLS WPA/WPA2-PSK |
| POWER |
| Power Source | Built-in Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery |
| Optional Solar Panel (Sold separately) |
| Input Voltage | 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz, 0.2 A (Not included) |
| Output Voltage | 5.0 V, 1.0 A, Type-C Power (Not included) |
| GENERAL |
| Smart Integration | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa |
| Weather Resistance | IP65 |
| System Requirements | Tapo App: iOS 11.0 or higher, Android 7.0 or higher |
| Mounting Options | Wall-Mounted |
| Operating Temperature | -20degreesC ~ 45 |
| Storage Temperature | -40degreesC ~ 60degreesC |
| Operating Humidity | 10%~90% RH, Non-condensing |
| Storage Humidity | 5%~90% RH, Non-condensing |
| Charging Temperature | 0degreesC ~ 45degreesC |
| Dimensions ( W x D x H ) | Camera Dimensions: 81 x 48 x 58.32 mm (3.19 x 1.89 x 2.3 in.) |
| Package Content | Tapo C401 Camera x1 |
| Camera Bracket x1 |
| Mounting Screws x2 |
| Mounting Screw Anchors x2 |
| USB Charging Cable x1 |
| Mounting Template Sticker x1 |
| Quick Start Guide |
| Certifications | CE, FCC, DOE, CEC, RCM, KC, NCC, BSMI, NTRA, IP65 |
FAQ
What is the Tapo C401 outdoor security camera?
The Tapo C401 is a battery-powered smart outdoor security camera with 1080p Full HD video, person detection, color night vision, two-way audio, local microSD storage and IP65 weather resistance.
Does the Tapo C401 require a power cable?
No. The Tapo C401 has a built-in rechargeable 5200mAh battery, allowing it to operate without a permanent power cable.
How long does the Tapo C401 battery last?
The Tapo C401 provides up to 180 days of battery life under TP-Link's specified laboratory test conditions. Actual battery life varies according to device settings, usage, router specifications and environmental factors.
What video resolution does the Tapo C401 support?
The Tapo C401 supports 1080p 2MP video with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels at 15fps.
Does the Tapo C401 have night vision?
Yes. The Tapo C401 supports color night vision and infrared night vision using two 850nm IR LEDs with a stated night vision distance of up to 10 metres.
Does the Tapo C401 detect people?
Yes. The Tapo C401 supports AI-powered person detection and motion detection, helping provide more relevant notifications when people enter the camera's view.
Does person detection require a subscription?
No. TP-Link specifies person detection as a feature that does not require a subscription.
Can the Tapo C401 record without cloud storage?
Yes. The camera has a microSD card slot supporting cards up to 512GB. The microSD card is purchased separately.
Does the Tapo C401 support two-way audio?
Yes. The camera has a built-in microphone and speaker for two-way audio communication with noise cancellation.
Is the Tapo C401 suitable for outdoor use?
Yes. The Tapo C401 has an IP65 weather resistance rating and is specified for operation from -20 to 45 degrees C.
What Wi-Fi does the Tapo C401 use?
The Tapo C401 connects using 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and supports IEEE 802.11b/g/n wireless networking.
Does the Tapo C401 need a hub?
No. The Tapo C401 can connect directly to a compatible Wi-Fi network. It is also compatible with Tapo H200 and H500 hubs.
Can the Tapo C401 work with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa?
Yes. The Tapo C401 supports smart integration with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
What is the field of view of the Tapo C401?
The camera has a 116.7 degree diagonal field of view, with a 99.7 degree horizontal field of view and a 53.8 degree vertical field of view.