TP-LINK TAPO C310-an external camera test for monitoring with Wi-Fi

Tapo C310 is the first external monitoring webcam made by TP-Link.The manufacturer boasts a sensational technical specification and a great price -quality ratio.For less than PLN 250, we get a functional external monitoring webcam equipped with a 3 MP matrix, microSD cards, built-in Wi-Fi module and a fully waterproof structure (IP66).

How did Tapo C310 come out in our tests?Is the new device as an interesting offer as the TAPO C200 rotary webcam (get to know our test), which we tested a year ago?You can learn from this and many interesting things about TP-Link Tapo C310 from the test below.

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TP -Link Tapo C310 - technical specification

TP-Link Tapo C310 is distinguished by the presence of a 3 MP of a sensor connected to the IR diode enabling night recording.The manufacturer has equipped the tapo C310 with a speaker and a microphone.Thanks to these elements, two -way video and sound transmission is possible.This means that the webcam can be used as intercom.

TP -Link Tapo C310 - price

TP-Link Tapo C310 is a new model that is just entering the market.The webcam is just appearing in stores.Its retail price is about PLN 250.Looking at the possibilities and quality of video recordings, this is not an excessive amount.TAPO C310 is currently one of the cheapest external monitoring cameras with a built-in Wi-Fi module and night mode.Competitive models from Xiaomi, Ubiquiti or IMou are at least a few dozen zlotys more expensive.

TP -Link Tapo C310 - the contents of the set

The TP-Link Tapo C310 webcam is supplied in a small packaging in white and blue colors.On the box you will find key information about the device.It is pleased that the manufacturer has not forgotten about the QR code, which allows you to quickly and conveniently download the Tapo application from Google Play and the App Store.

Inside you will find:

A useful element of the whole set is the mounting template, which facilitates wall mounting.

The manufacturer has also not forgotten about anchors and screws.The packaging also includes mounts resistant to weather conditions.

The set lacked memory card in microSD format, which is necessary for the camera.It is on it that video materials and photos are saved.We used a 32 GB memory card for testing, which will allow you to store several days of recordings.

TP -Link Tapo C310 - appearance and quality of workmanship

The Tapo C310 camera is made of high quality plastic.The manufacturer decided on matte plastics.The device has two external Wi-Fi antennas that have the option of adjusting the execution of the inclination.The camera front hides a lens with a resolution of 3 MP and LEDs - IR and signaling the status of the device.Importantly, the design has been designed in such a way that the lens remains clean even after heavy rainfall.

TP-Link Tapo C310 is a camera adapted for wall mounting on external facades.It was equipped with a round base attached to three screws.There was also a cut -out allowing to hide the cable in the base.The camera connects to the base using a rotating head, which allows you to set the lens properly.

TP -Link Tapo C310 - configuration

Tapo C310 is a webcam prepared to cooperate with smartphones and tablets.Before starting assembly and the configuration process.The next step is to install the camera and connect it to the power supply.Optionally, we can also connect the Internet using the RJ-45 socket.For the needs of the test, however, we used Wi-Fi connectivity, and the camera was located about 10 meters from the router.

After installing the camera and connecting it to the power supply, launch the Tapo application that will lead us through the entire initial configuration process.The program will ask you to connect a phone with a Wi-Fi network created by a webcam.In the next step, connect the TAPO to the proper Wi-Fi network (networks operating at 2.4 GHz are supported).After connecting the TP-Link Tapo C310 with our home Wi-Fi network, we can give the camera a name and set its location.

Remember to put a microSD memory card in the webcam.For this purpose, a star screwdriver is needed, which you will not find in the box.

The whole configuration process is extremely simple.It takes only a few minutes and does not cause the slightest problems.Even less advanced users can handle it.

TP -Link Tapo C310 - image quality

TP-Link Tapo C310 offers a 3 MP sensor recording at 720p, 1080p or 3 MP with 15 frames per second.We tested the webcam in November during very adverse weather conditions.Despite this, we could not complain about the quality of video and photos.

The camera is doing very well both during the day and at night.After dark, Tapo C310 automatically launches night mode, which works surprisingly well.Visibility is over 30 meters.

Importantly, TP-Link Tapo C310 has no problems with recording at dawn.The camera turns the IR diodes and night mode at the right time.

Below you will see photos taken with a TP-Link Tapo C310 camera during the day and night.

For comparison, identical photographs made with a smartphone - iPhone 11.

As you can see, the viewing angles are very wide and the image detail is satisfactory.

We also recorded several video materials that will allow you to assess the quality of the webcam when recording during the day, at night, at dawn and in the morning

All recordings are stored locally on a microSD memory card with a capacity of up to 128 GB.We rip them on our mobile device using the Tapo application.It is also possible to take photos from recordings.

TP -Link Tapo C310 - mobile application, additional functions

We manage the TP-Link Tapo C310 webcam from the TAPO application level.The program is intuitive, and at the same time offers a lot of functions.

The application is launched by default in preview mode.From this place we can observe a total of 32 cameras connected to our TP-Link account.From the main desktop level, we can use the Tapo C310 webcam as intercom.After starting the Speak mode, we can issue messages.There is also a conversation mode that will allow communication, e.g..with courier.

TAPO C310 also offers a privacy mode that allows you to stop video recording temporarily.

The camera has a perfect movement function.We can set one of three levels of sensitivity.We will be informed about the PUSH notification on our mobile device about each detection of traffic.

There is also an option to start the sound alarm issued from the webcam after detection of movement.Importantly, traffic detection does not respond to rain drops and small leaves falling near Tapo C310.

In the TAPO application settings you will find more useful functions.It offers the ability to reverse the video image and turn off the signaling diode.From the level of the settings, we will also check the condition of the memory card and the level of its filling.

Tapo C310 has several recording modes.The camera records the image 24h/7 and applies to the timeline of each time the movement detection.It is also possible to set the recording schedule.It allows for continuous recording at selected hours, recording only after detecting movement and suspension of recording at a given time.

TP -Link Tapo C310 - Summary

TP-Link Tapo C310 is a great webcam for external monitoring offered at a very attractive price.A positive assessment is influenced not only by the quality of recorded materials, but also a multitude of additional functions and a well thought -out TAPO application.

During the tests, I appreciated the quality of recordings during the day and night, thoughtful Tapo application, stable connection to the Wi-Fi network and the intercom option.I just didn't like the plug of the microSD card socket.We need a Christmas screwdriver to dismantle it.

To sum up, Tapo C310 is one of the best cheap external monitoring cameras.The latest TP-Link product is a device worth recommending.