We compared two plug-in indoor security cameras: the TP-Link Tapo C100 and the Amazon Blink Mini 2.
What we looked at
Video quality, night vision, alerts and alarms, audio, storage and subscription notes, and price.
The verdict
If you want a 1080p camera with night vision up to 30 ft, motion alerts, a sound and light alarm, baby cry detection and no monthly fee, at £18.00, the Tapo C100 is the value pick. If you would rather pay £11.99 more for night view in colour with a built-in spotlight, a wider field of view and the option of outdoor use with Blink's weather-resistant adaptor, the Blink Mini 2 is the more advanced option.
A £18 1080p indoor camera with 30 ft night vision, a sound and light alarm and no monthly fee.
A 1080p camera with colour night view, a spotlight and Alexa support, for £11.99 more.
Tapo C100 Full HD Indoor Security Camera, 1080P Wi-Fi Pet and Baby Camera, No Monthly Fee — Best Value
Intended for: Marketed as a 1080p Full HD indoor Wi-Fi camera with night vision up to 30 ft, motion detection and notifications, a sound and light alarm, two-way audio and baby cry detection, with no monthly fee.
What we liked
- Cheaper than the Blink Mini 2 on these listings
- 1080p Full HD video
- Night vision with a stated visual distance of up to 30 ft
- Motion detection with notifications, and a sound and light alarm
- Two-way audio through a built-in microphone and speaker
- Baby cry detection and no monthly fee, per the title
Worth knowing
- Night vision is not described as colour
- The listing does not mention a spotlight or outdoor use
Best for
- Budget-conscious home monitoring
- Pet and baby monitoring with cry detection
- Anyone who wants to avoid a monthly fee
Not ideal for
- Buyers who want colour night view
- Anyone who wants to use it outdoors
Blink Mini 2 Plug-in Smart Security Camera, HD Night View in Colour, Built-in Spotlight (White) — Colour Night View
Intended for: Marketed as a second-generation plug-in smart security camera with 1080p HD live view, night view in colour with a built-in spotlight, a wider field of view, two-way audio, motion detection and Alexa support.
What we liked
- 1080p HD live view with night view in colour and a built-in spotlight
- Wider field of view and two-way audio
- Real-time motion alerts on your smartphone
- Can be used outside with the Blink Weather Resistant Power Adaptor, sold separately
- Optional person detection with a Blink Subscription Plan, sold separately, and works with Alexa
Worth knowing
- Costs £11.99 more than the Tapo C100 on these listings
- Outdoor use and smart notifications need extras sold separately
Best for
- Anyone who wants colour night view and a spotlight
- Alexa households
- Buyers who may want to use it outdoors later
Not ideal for
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Anyone who wants everything included with no subscription option
