Since our babies play in multiple rooms, we had to buy a second security camera. So far we have used the Tapo C110. Our new camera, the Tapo C210 can be panned and tilted as it has a built-in motor. It is the bestseller on Amazon. But how is it as a baby monitor?
Field of View
For testing I put the cameras next to each other on the window.
The C110 has a wider field of view (more wide angle). That is
- an advantage because you can see the entire room without panning/tilting
- a disadvantage because you may no longer be able to see details like if a baby is still breathing
Pan/Tilt
The C210 can be panned 360° and tilted 114° remotely:
A clever feature, but it makes operating the camera more complicated. Luckily you can set the camera so that it automatically follows people, moves to certain points or patrols automatically.
The C110 on the other hand can be adjusted only manually:
I put it on the cabinet so I can see the whole room!
I can easily monitor the babies while cooking:
When tilting the C110 too much down it will tipple over easily.
That’s why I put something on the camera stand so that it will not fall landing on the head of a baby.
This it not necessary with the C210 because it is not as top-heavy. But the tilt is quite limited.
That’s why I think the C210 is best mounted on the ceiling:
Memory and Playback
You can put memory cards in both cameras and they will start recording when something is moving or the baby is crying. This was already useful. For example to find out why the baby fell out of the bed.
Having a recording on the memory card means paying for the cloud service is completely optional but you can do it if you want of course.
Conclusion
Note that the C110 and C210 are the 3MP versions of the C100 and C200 which are just Full HD. I wanted a higher resolution to see all the details (like if the baby is breathing) without having to position it right next to the baby (danger of radiation). There is also a 4MP version (the C220).
On vacations I bring the C110 because it is small and lightweight. On a vacation it is absolutely necessary to be able to see if the room service is stealing something.
Disadvantages:
- Motor noise (C210): My wife is very sensitive so I will (have to) turn the tilt/pan off during the night.
- No USB power: Both cameras need their own power adapter.
Advantages of both cameras:
- cheap
- Night Vision
- Microphone: warns you if the baby is crying
The C210 is better to monitor a baby close-up because it has a narrower field of view. The C110 on the other hand is cheaper and I can monitor the whole room without the need to tilt/pan which can get annoying with time. I think both cameras can work very well in tandem and as baby monitors.
Which one will you get? Are you happy with your purchase? Post in the comments!
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