TP-Link’s New Video Doorbells: Tapo D210 and D225

TP-Link has just released their new video doorbells: the Tapo D210 and the Tapo D225. These models bring some of the most intriguing features seen in video doorbells, including continuous 24/7 video recording.

Unlike many competing products, these doorbells do not require a subscription, which makes them an appealing option for budget-conscious buyers.

Let’s explore what makes these doorbells stand out and whether they could be the right fit for your home.

Unboxing the Tapo D225

What’s in the Box?

When unboxing the Tapo D225, you’ll find that it comes with a variety of useful accessories. Both the Tapo D210 and D225 include similar components, with only minor differences.

Inside the box, you will discover:

• Smart Chime: This Wi-Fi connected chime offers various doorbell chimes and volume controls. It plugs into a standard 120-volt outlet and includes physical buttons to adjust both the chime and volume, allowing you to avoid using the app for these functions.
• Mounting Hardware: The package includes screws, anchor mounts, and a wall mount guide. The D225 features a vertical wedge mount that provides a 5° downward angle, ideal for higher porches. Both models also include a horizontal wedge mount with a 15° angle adjustment to the side, which can be flipped around for different mounting scenarios.

Mounting Options

The mounting system for these doorbells is versatile. The connection piece attaches to the back of the doorbell, either directly to the wall or via the wedge mounts.

The mounting setup includes a small pin for easy removal of the doorbell from the mount. TP-Link also includes an anti-theft feature in the app to enhance security.

Examining the Features of the Tapo Doorbells

Design and Functionality

The Tapo D210 and D225 share a similar design but differ slightly in features:

• Lens and Night Vision: Both models have a lens on the front. The D225 offers a wider field of view and features two infrared lights for night vision, capable of color night vision if there is adequate lighting on your porch.
• Push Button and LED Ring: Each doorbell has a push button with an LED ring and a spotlight. The LED ring’s color and brightness are adjustable through the settings, which aids in color night vision.
• PIR Motion Sensor: Located at the bottom of the doorbells, the PIR sensor detects motion and activates the camera. This sensor can detect movement up to approximately 5 meters away, which is crucial for reducing unnecessary camera activation and battery drain.

Battery and Power Options

• D225: This model includes a larger battery and can be wired into your home’s existing chime. It features a USB-C charging port and a micro SD card slot that supports cards up to 512 GB for local storage.
• D210: The D210 is a battery-only model and cannot be wired into a home chime. It shares the same USB-C charging port and micro SD card slot but has a smaller battery compared to the D225.

Installation Guide for the Tapo D225

Preparing for Installation

To install the Tapo D225, gather the following items:

• Mounting Plates and Hardware: Ensure you have the correct mounting plates and screws. A drill or screwdriver, a 6 mm drill bit, a measuring tape, and a smartphone for setup are also necessary.
• Safety Precautions: Turn off the power to your existing doorbell before beginning the installation to avoid electrical hazards.

Step-by-Step Installation

1. Measure and Mark: Position the doorbell at a height of approximately 4 feet from the ground. Check the placement for the best viewing angle and mark the spots for drilling.
2. Drill and Mount: Drill holes for the mounting hardware. Attach the wedge plates as needed to adjust the angle of the doorbell. Secure the doorbell with screws.
3. Wiring: For the D225, connect the wires from your home’s existing chime to the doorbell. The installation guide provides details on wiring and bypassing the chime for the Always On feature. Ensure the connections are secure and double-check with a pen tester.
4. Setup: Connect the doorbell to your Wi-Fi network using the smartphone app. Pair the smart chime with the doorbell and complete the setup process.

Key Features and Benefits

Always On Recording

The Tapo D225’s “Always On” feature provides continuous 24/7 video recording when the doorbell is hardwired. This mode allows pre-recording of 2 to 4 seconds before an event, offering a comprehensive view of activities around your home.

While this feature disables the use of your existing chime, the benefits of continuous recording and pre-event footage often outweigh this drawback.

Chime Options

You can use multiple chimes throughout your home with the Tapo doorbells. Besides the included smart chime, you can integrate smart speakers and displays from Google or Amazon as chimes, offering customizable ringtones and alerts.

Instant Communication

Unlike many video doorbells that require navigating through notifications and app interfaces, the Tapo doorbells provide instant communication by calling your phone when someone rings the doorbell. This feature ensures quick and efficient interaction with visitors.

Video Quality

Both the D210 and D225 offer high-quality video recording, comparable to expensive models from other brands. The D225 provides slightly better footage with a wider field of view, while the D210 is more compact.

Tips for Optimal Performance

Installation Height

Install the doorbell around 4 feet from the ground to ensure optimal performance. This height allows the camera to effectively detect people and vehicles.

PIR Sensor Distance

The PIR sensor’s effective range is about 5 meters. If your front yard is shorter, use the vertical wedge mount to adjust the angle and prevent constant camera activation.

Wi-Fi Signal Strength

A strong Wi-Fi signal is crucial for the doorbell’s performance. Ensure minimal interference from walls or other objects between the doorbell and your router. For the best results, a hardwired connection is preferable, but a strong Wi-Fi signal can also provide reliable performance.

SD Card Storage

For continuous recording, use high-quality micro SD cards compatible with the Tapo system. This ensures reliable storage and playback of video footage.

Conclusion

• The Tapo D210 and D225, both offer compelling options for those seeking reliable video doorbells, each catering to different needs and preferences.
• The Tapo D210 stands out for its simplicity and affordability, making it an excellent choice for users looking for a straightforward, battery-powered solution. Its ease of installation and basic feature set suit those who want essential doorbell functionality without the complexities of hardwiring.
• On the other hand, the Tapo D225 excels with its advanced features, such as 24/7 video recording and pre-recording capabilities when hardwired.
• This model is ideal for users who prioritize comprehensive security and are willing to invest in a more sophisticated setup.
• The D225’s larger battery, color night vision, and the ability to integrate with existing home chimes offer a higher level of convenience and performance.
• Ultimately, the choice between the D210 and D225 depends on your specific requirements. If you value simplicity and lower costs, the D210 is a solid option.
• However, if you seek advanced features and extended functionality, the D225 provides a more robust solution. Either way, both models from TP-Link deliver quality and reliability in the realm of smart home security.

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