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Head-to-head · Best Indoor Security Cameras

Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera (2nd Gen) vs TP-Link Tapo C110

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

TP-Link Tapo C110 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.2 vs 4.0). The gap is mostly about indoor-only users seeking no-subscription person detection — read the strengths below before deciding.

Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera (2nd Gen)
Ranked #7 in Best Indoor Security Cameras
Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera (2nd Gen)
2 sources1 derived$49.99as of Oct 2

The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Gen) offers 2K resolution and a 130° field of view in a compact, wired design. Its standout feature is the automated privacy shield that physically covers the lens when the camera is disarmed. Security.org found both day and night video quality good in variable conditions, but noted the power cord is only about 6.5 ft long. This camera suits users seeking a plug-in indoor security solution with privacy controls but may not be ideal for those needing extended cord length.

Strengths
  • — Features 2560x1440 resolution with 130° field of view for detailed video capture
  • — Includes automated privacy shutter that slides over the lens when camera is disarmed, per PCMag
  • — Wired design eliminates need for battery recharging and ensures constant power
Watch-outs
  • — Power cord is only 6.5 ft long, limiting placement flexibility
  • — Expensive subscription required for most features; PCMag notes recorded video requires an Arlo Secure plan
$49.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
TP-Link Tapo C110
Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Indoor Security Cameras
TP-Link Tapo C110
4 sources2 derived

The TP-Link Tapo C110 offers 2K video resolution and built-in person detection at no extra cost, making it a strong contender for indoor security. It features a 30-foot IR range and Starlight sensor for low-light performance. However, reviewers noted that the limited three IR lights can cause glare when placed to face outside, and the inability to disable them while maintaining night mode is a notable limitation. This camera is best suited for users seeking a feature-rich indoor security solution without subscription fees.

Strengths
  • — 2K video resolution with 2304 by 1296 pixels, per PCMag
  • — Person detection feature without extra fee
  • — 30-foot IR light range for night vision
Watch-outs
  • — Only three IR lights may cause glare when placed facing outside
  • — Not designed for outdoor use, as Android Police notes
Buy at bhphotovideo.comFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera (2nd Gen)

The Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera (2nd Gen) includes an automated privacy shutter, a feature not found in the TP-Link Tapo C120 or Google Nest Indoor Cam (3rd Gen). However, it's more expensive and has a shorter power cord than the TP-Link Tapo C210, which offers pan and tilt functionality without a subscription.

TP-Link Tapo C110

The TP-Link Tapo C110 offers person detection without a subscription, a feature not available in the Arlo Essential Pan Tilt Indoor or Google Nest Indoor Cam (3rd Gen). However, it's limited to indoor use and lacks the pan-tilt functionality of the Arlo Essential Pan Tilt Indoor and TP-Link Tapo C210.

Specs side-by-side

SpecArlo Essential Indoor Security Camera (2nd Gen)TP-Link Tapo C110
Resolution2560x1440—
Field Of View130°—
Power SourceWired—
Privacy FeatureAutomated shutterprivacy mode
ConnectivityDual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz)Wi-Fi 2.4GHz
Night VisionInfrared (black and white)30 feet
AudioTwo-way audio—
Storage—SD card
← See the full ranking of best indoor security cameras