Today we will discuss two very popular Outdoor WiFi Security Cameras from Tapo Company – Tapo C500 and Tapo C520WS.
In this post, we will see what is different between these cameras. For example – how clear the image is, how the image looks at night, whether it can distinguish people or other objects, whether it will be damaged in rain or bad weather, what is the lighting and alarm system, and how easy it is to set them up.
We will also see what is similar between them. For example – they can move around, if you talk in front of the camera, it will be heard, and you can also hear what is said around the camera, where to store the videos, how to maintain your privacy, and how to use them with other smart devices.
So let’s see, which camera is best for you!
Tapo C500 vs C520WS Specifications
| Feature | Tapo C500 | Tapo C520WS |
|---|---|---|
| Camera | ||
| Image Sensor | 1/3” | 1/3” CMOS |
| Lens | Focal Length: 3.89 mm, Aperture: F2.0 | F/NO: 1.61±10%, Focal Length: 3.18mm±5% |
| Field of View | 85.5° (Diagonal), 73.5° (Horizontal), 41° (Vertical) | – |
| Motion Range | Pan: 340° (360° Pan Coverage), Tilt: 60° (130° Tilt Coverage) | Pan: 340° (360° Pan Coverage), Tilt: 60° (130° Tilt Coverage) |
| Night Vision | 850 nm IR LED (up to 98 ft/30m) | 850 nm IR LED (up to 98 ft), Starlight Color Night Vision |
| Lighting | – | 2× Built-in Spotlights |
| Resolution | 1080p Full HD (1920 x 1080 px) | 2K QHD 4MP (2560 × 1440 px) |
| View Range | 360° horizontal, 130° vertical | 360° horizontal, 130° vertical |
| Video & Audio | ||
| Maximum Resolution | 1920 × 1080 px | 2560 × 1440 px |
| Frame Rate | 15 fps | 15/20/25/30 fps (Default 15 fps) |
| Video Compression | H.264 | H.264 |
| Digital Zoom | – | 12x |
| Audio Communication | Two-Way Audio with Noise Cancellation | Two-Way Audio with Noise Cancellation |
| Siren Volume | 90 dB (at 4-inch/10-cm) | 93 dB (at 4-inch/10-cm) |
| Storage | ||
| Local Storage | MicroSD Card Slot (Up to 512 GB) | MicroSD Card Slot (Up to 512 GB) |
| Cloud Storage | Tapo Care (Subscription required) | Tapo Care (Subscription required) |
| Detection & Notifications | ||
| AI Detection | Motion, Person, Tamper | Motion, Person, Pet, Vehicle, Line-Crossing, Tamper |
| Activity Zones | Yes | Yes |
| Network | ||
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz) | Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz) or Ethernet |
| Wireless Security | WPA/WPA2-PSK | WPA/WPA2-PSK |
| Ethernet Port | – | 1× 10/100 Mbps RJ45 Port |
| Security | ||
| Encryption | 128-bit AES with SSL/TLS | 128-bit AES with SSL/TLS |
| Power | ||
| Power Source | 12V DC Power Adapter | 9V DC Power Adapter |
| Output Voltage | 12V, 1A | 9V, 0.85A |
| General | ||
| Weather Resistance | IP65 | IP66 |
| Smart Integration | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa |
| Operating Temperature | -30℃~60℃ | -30℃~60℃ |
| Dimensions | 4.9 x 4.8 x 3.5 in | 4.9 x 4.8 x 3.5 in |
Resolution and Video Quality
There is also a difference between the Tapo C520WS and Tapo C500 cameras in terms of how clear the images are.
The Tapo C520WS camera takes pictures at 2K QHD resolution (2560×1440), which is known as 4MP. Its images are about 1.7 times clearer than those of a 1080p camera. As a result, much more detail is visible in the images and videos.
On the other hand, the Tapo C500 camera takes pictures at 1080p resolution (1920×1080), which is about 2MP. This is good for taking general high-definition pictures, but it does not provide the same detail as a 2K camera. From the review, it is known that the C500 camera can capture 20 frames per second (20 fps), which results in fairly good videos.
Another thing is that the Tapo C520WS camera can capture 30 frames per second (30 fps), which is useful for showing fast-moving objects clearly. Whereas the Tapo C500 camera works at 20 fps. As a result, fast-moving objects may look a bit blurry.
Night Vision Capabilities
There is a difference between the Tapo C520WS and Tapo C500 cameras when it comes to taking pictures at night.
The Tapo C520WS camera has both Starlight Color Night Vision and IR Night Vision. Its Starlight sensor and spotlight can take colorful pictures even in low light. It has the option to use 24-hour color mode or smart mode. The spotlight will turn on when something is detected in smart mode. This camera can see up to 98 feet at night, which further enhances night security.
On the other hand, the Tapo C500 camera only has IR night vision. Through this, it can take black and white pictures up to 98 feet in the dark of night. Although the C500’s product description initially said “color night vision”, it was later found out that this was actually a mistake. The spotlight in this camera is only used for alarms, not for taking color pictures.
AI Detection and Motion Tracking
There are some differences between the Tapo C520WS and Tapo C500 in terms of AI detection.
The Tapo C520WS camera can detect people, cars, objects, and pets. The specialty of this camera is that it can also detect if someone tries to do something bad to the camera or crosses a certain boundary. This reduces the possibility of getting false signals. This camera can warn the user about various things as needed. It can monitor a specific area and can move around on its own.
On the other hand, the Tapo C500 camera can only detect people and objects. This camera is not suitable for those who need to detect cars or pets. The C500 has less tracking ability than the C520WS. The C520WS camera has much better auto-tracking. It can only identify and follow people, while the C500 does not have this feature.
Durability and Weatherproofing
Both cameras are designed for outdoor use. However, they have different levels of protection against rain and dust. The Tapo C520WS camera has an IP66 rating. This means it can provide good protection against even very strong water and dust.
So it is more suitable for harsh weather conditions. On the other hand, the Tapo C500 camera has an IP65 rating. It also protects against water, but may not work as well as the C520WS in very bad conditions.
Light Alarms
Unlike some other cameras, these cameras have a system for signaling alarms with light and sound. The C500 model has a sound and light alarm combined with a siren and spotlight. It can be used if someone trespasses.
The C520WS model has an adjustable spotlight, which helps in taking better pictures in low light and is also useful for scaring off unwanted people.
Accessories
The C500 model comes with everything you need to install it, such as nuts, screws, and mounting brackets. These are enough for a typical setup. However, the C520WS model comes with a few extras, such as a waterproof cable cover and a sturdy mounting kit. These are better for outdoor use, as they are more durable.
Tapo c500 vs c520ws specs price
The price difference is actually due to the various features of the camera. The price of Tapo C500 is about $32 after using the coupon. It is good for those who want to keep an eye on their home at a low cost. On the other hand, the price of Tapo C520WS is about $55 after using the coupon. This camera has more features, so the price is a little higher. TP-Link’s website also says that the C5 series cameras offer various features at an affordable price.
Another interesting thing is that the Tapo C520WS camera has two powerful antennas. As a result, it can receive WiFi up to about 492 feet in open areas. The Tapo C500 camera does not have this feature. So for those who have a large house or space, the Tapo C520WS is good because WiFi works well on it.
Tapo C500 vs C520ws Detailed Similarities
Both cameras share several core features, ensuring they meet basic security needs while offering flexibility:
- 360° Visual Coverage with Pan and Tilt: The cameras are designed in such a way that they can see everything around them and a lot of it above. They can capture almost everything in the camera, so nothing usually escapes attention. The camera direction can be changed very easily using the Tapo app. As a result, users can see everything around them better.
- Two-way Audio and Customizable Alarms: Both of these cameras have a talking and listening system. Through this, you can talk directly to those around the camera. Also, the alarm sound of this camera can be changed as per your wish. As a result, if someone enters the premises without permission, the alarm can be sounded to warn them and the security aspect can be further strengthened.
- Flexible Storage Options: These cameras have two ways to store photos or videos. First, you can buy a separate microSD card and store it in the camera (up to 512 GB). Second, you can also store it online through Tapo Care. You can choose either of these two depending on your needs and budget.
- Physical Privacy Mode: Both of these cameras have a special feature. When you don’t want the camera to see you, you can turn it off. A cover fits over the lens, so the camera can’t see anything. This protects your privacy and helps you stay safe.
- Compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant: These cameras can be easily connected to Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This allows you to control the camera just by speaking and also get various notifications from the camera. Therefore, these cameras are very useful for those who have a smart home.
Additional Considerations
An important thing here is the ability of both cameras to detect movement. The Tapo C520WS can automatically follow movement. This means that if you want the camera to follow only people, cars, or animals, then that is possible. The Tapo C500 does not have this feature.
The C500 can only detect movement, but if you want the camera to follow only specific things, then that is not possible.
As a result, the C500 can send more notifications. For those who do not want unnecessary notifications and only want to keep an eye on the necessary things, the Tapo C520WS is a good choice.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The Tapo C520ws camera is a good choice for those who want good pictures, color pictures even at night, and advanced technology to identify people or other things. It is especially useful for those who have pets at home or who want to keep an eye on the comings and goings of cars. This camera costs around $70. It is suitable for those who have a large space or who want to see everything well.
On the other hand, for those who have a lower budget, the Tapo C500 camera is a good choice. It costs around $50. This camera can detect people or movement. It is enough for those who only need some basic security features. This camera lights up to take color pictures at night.
Both are good for outdoor use, but the Tapo C520ws is more durable. It does not get damaged easily and its WiFi connection is also good. For those who are looking for a good camera from the same company, the C520ws may be a better choice.
This comparison is based on various websites, store listings, and user opinions (as of March 25, 2025). So those who want to buy can know it well.
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