Cameras · Head to head

Aqara Camera E1 vs TP-Link Tapo C100

Full Smart Cameras comparison in 2026

Updated August 2026
Data from Amazon and official Aqara and TP-Link sites.
2026 verdict
Value tips this security camera matchup toward the TP-Link Tapo C100, which undercuts the Aqara Camera E1 on price while also carrying a better rating, a longer warranty, RTSP streaming support, a wider spread of alerts, a built-in light, customizable motion zones and a privacy zone. Those extras add up to the overall win here, especially for anyone who wants active notifications and finer control over what triggers an alert. The Aqara Camera E1 still has real strengths, though: it supports more connectivity options and offers sharper 2K video, both useful for buyers already committed to a specific smart home platform or who want the crispest picture on a budget. Shoppers focused on price, reliability and privacy controls should pick the TP-Link Tapo C100, while those who need broader connectivity or higher resolution should stick with the Aqara Camera E1.
Price alerts

Camera prices change while you decide

We check the price of every Camera in the catalog daily and email you the drops, whichever one you pick.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Smart home deals and news, straight to your inbox

Price drops, new releases and the smart home news worth knowing.

No spam. Unsubscribe in one click.

FeatureAqara Camera E1TP-Link Tapo C100Winner
Price$63.46$17.99TP-Link Tapo C100
Rating4.24.3TP-Link Tapo C100
Warranty1 year2 yearsTP-Link Tapo C100
Connectivity2.4 GHz WiFi, 5 GHz WiFi2.4 GHz WiFiAqara Camera E1
2K VideoYESNOAqara Camera E1
RTSPNOYESTP-Link Tapo C100
AlertsMotion, PeopleMotion, People, Baby Crying SoundTP-Link Tapo C100
LightNOYESTP-Link Tapo C100
Customizable Motion ZonesNOYESTP-Link Tapo C100
Privacy ZoneNOYESTP-Link Tapo C100
Weather ResistanceNONOTie
PoENONOTie

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better overall: Aqara Camera E1 or TP-Link Tapo C100?

The TP-Link Tapo C100 is the better overall security camera. It wins on price, rating, warranty, RTSP streaming, alerts, a built-in light, customizable motion zones and a privacy zone, while the Aqara Camera E1 only pulls ahead on connectivity and 2K video.

What is the biggest difference between Aqara Camera E1 and TP-Link Tapo C100?

The biggest difference is value and extra controls: the TP-Link Tapo C100 costs less, carries a better rating and longer warranty, and adds RTSP streaming, a wider range of alerts, a built-in light, customizable motion zones and a privacy zone, while the Aqara Camera E1 counters with more connectivity options and sharper 2K video.

Does the Aqara Camera E1 offer sharper video than the TP-Link Tapo C100?

Yes, the Aqara Camera E1 wins on 2K video, giving it a sharper picture, though it gives up the price advantage, RTSP support and privacy zone that the TP-Link Tapo C100 offers.

Which camera supports RTSP streaming?

The TP-Link Tapo C100 supports RTSP streaming, letting it connect to third-party viewing software, a feature the Aqara Camera E1 does not offer.

Who should buy the TP-Link Tapo C100?

Buyers who want the more affordable, better-rated camera with a longer warranty, RTSP streaming, customizable motion zones and a privacy zone should choose the TP-Link Tapo C100.

Who should buy the Aqara Camera E1?

Shoppers who need broader connectivity options and sharper 2K video should pick the Aqara Camera E1.

Full comparison table

Compare all 105 Cameras side by side

You are looking at two of them. The full table lines up all Cameras in the catalog with the same specs, so you can filter by what you need and sort by price or rating.

  • 105 Cameras
  • 63 specs compared
  • 60 filters
Open the full comparison
More Cameras

Top Cameras to compare next

Compare the best smart security cameras by video quality, connectivity, storage, alerts, integrations, and more. Find the ideal model for your home.

All Cameras
Aqara

More Aqara products

A sharper look at other Aqara products worth comparing.

Explore Aqara
TP-Link

More TP-Link products

A sharper look at other TP-Link products worth comparing.

Explore TP-Link