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Tapo TD21 2K 3MP Battery Doorbell Camera Wireless, Colour Night Vision, IP65, Ring Chime Included, 160° FOV, No Monthly Fee

Pros

  • Includes a physical Ring Chime in the box at no extra cost
  • No monthly subscription fee for AI person/package detection
  • Up to 6-month battery life on a single charge

Cons

  • 160° field of view is narrower than pricier 180° wide-angle rivals

Specifications

Brand
TP-Link
Price tier
Mid-range
Connectivity
Wi-Fi (Battery)

How it compares in Video Doorbells

We list 31 video doorbells products, priced from £29.99 to £179.99. At £44.99 this one is the 5th cheapest of them 26 cost more. The average across the subcategory is £92.06 and the midpoint is £79.99, so it lands £47.07 below the average.

Its 4.3-star score sits level with the video doorbells average of 4.26, with 10 of the 31 rated higher. Its 3,964 Amazon reviews make it the 8th most-reviewed here, against a subcategory average of 3,446.

Price position in Video Doorbells

Cheapest £29.99This one £44.99Dearest £179.99

Splitting the subcategory into three price bands puts this product in the Budget band (£29.99£74.54), which holds 8 of 24 products and averages £53.09 at 4.21 stars.

Average price and rating of each price band in Video Doorbells
BandRangeProductsAverage priceAverage rating
BudgetThis one£29.99£74.548£53.094.21
Mid-range£79.99£119.998£95.434.31
Premium£121.19£199.998£152.894.26

About this product

The TP-Link Tapo TD21 2K 3MP Battery Doorbell Camera offers a smart way to keep an eye on your property without the ongoing costs of subscription services. This mid-range wireless doorbell is designed for homeowners and renters looking for reliable security and peace of mind, particularly those who are sensitive about monthly fees for video recording or person detection. It’s a solid choice for adding extra protection to your home with features you can actually use.

This Tapo device boasts impressive 2K resolution and a wide 160° field of view, capturing clear images even in low-light conditions thanks to its colour night vision. The IP65 weather resistance means it’s built to withstand the elements, making it suitable for both exposed porches and more sheltered entrances. A key benefit is that there are no monthly fees associated with accessing recorded footage or utilising the intelligent person detection features – you get full access without extra charges.

The Tapo TD21 relies on a long-lasting rechargeable battery, offering up to six months of operation on a single charge. It connects via Wi-Fi and offers convenient motion detection, sending alerts directly to your smartphone. Included with the doorbell is a physical Ring Chime unit, allowing you to hear notifications throughout your home – a handy feature for those who don't want to rely solely on their phone.

It’s worth noting that the 160° field of view is slightly narrower than some competing wide-angle models, though it still provides a good level of detail. Overall, this TP-Link Tapo doorbell offers excellent value and functionality for those seeking a secure and feature-rich solution without the commitment of ongoing subscription costs.

FAQ

What is this doorbell best suited for?

The Tapo TD21 is ideal for securing entryways and porches where clear visibility is important. Its wide field of view helps capture movement across a larger area, making it suitable for deterring potential intruders.

What materials is the doorbell constructed from?

The doorbell features a plastic housing with a metal mounting bracket. The camera lens is made of glass and the body is largely composed of durable ABS plastic.

How long does the battery last before needing to be recharged?

With a single charge, you can expect up to six months of operation. Battery life will vary depending on usage and environmental factors.

What is the field of view (FOV) of the camera?

The camera boasts a 160-degree field of view, providing a relatively wide perspective for capturing activity around your doorstep.

Does this doorbell require a monthly subscription fee?

No, there are no monthly subscription fees associated with using this device. It operates entirely on battery power and does not rely on cloud-based AI services.

How does the price of this doorbell compare to other options in its category?

The Tapo TD21 sits within a mid-range price tier, offering competitive features compared to similar Wi-Fi doorbells at comparable costs.

What size is the doorbell and how easily does it mount?

The doorbell has a compact design. It's designed for standard doorway installations but may require some adjustment depending on the existing mounting setup.

Is there any specific maintenance or cleaning required?

To maintain optimal performance, clean the camera lens regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

What safety precautions should I be aware of when using this doorbell?

Ensure the device is placed where it won’t obstruct pathways or pose a tripping hazard. Keep out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental damage.

Does this doorbell include all necessary accessories?

The package includes the doorbell itself, a physical Ring Chime for audible alerts, and mounting hardware. It does not include any additional wiring or tools.