Camera Comparison · UK 2026
Aqara Camera E1 vs Tapo C250

Specs, pros and cons compared side by side

Both the Aqara Camera E1 and the Tapo C250 are security cameras. This head-to-head sets them side by side using the specs, pros and cons from our full reviews. Aqara specs come from our Aqara review, checked against Aqara’s own pages; Tapo specs come from Tapo’s own product pages.

Quick verdict

Ad: we earn commission if you buy through the price buttons on this page. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Aqara Camera E1

Pick it for: HomeKit Secure Video (the C250: no HomeKit)

Check latest price

Tapo C250

Pick it for: 4K 8MP (3840 x 2160) video (the E1: 2K, 2304 x 1296) · Works with SmartThings (the E1: Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home and IFTTT)

Check latest priceat Amazon

Quick comparison

Spec Aqara Camera E1 Tapo C250
Resolution 2K (2304×1296) 4K 8MP (3840 x 2160)
Power Plug-in (USB-C, 5V 2A adapter not included) Plug-in (9V, 3 m cord)
IP Rating Indoor only Indoor use
Wi-Fi 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 2.4GHz only
Storage microSD up to 512GB microSD up to 512GB
Apple HomeKit Yes ✅ (HomeKit Secure Video) No
Subscription Not needed for microSD recording Optional (Tapo Care)
Smart home Aqara Home, Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT Alexa, Google, SmartThings, IFTTT
Aqara Camera E1

Pros

  • 2K pan and tilt in a small body
  • HomeKit Secure Video
  • microSD up to 512GB
  • Shelf, wall or ceiling mounting

Cons

  • 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only
  • Not a Zigbee hub
  • Power adapter not included
  • Indoor only
Tapo C250

Pros

  • 4K detail
  • Auto-zoom tracking
  • Works with SmartThings and IFTTT
  • Local storage

Cons

  • 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only (the C260 is dual-band)
  • Indoor use only
  • 4K fills microSD cards faster

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn a commission from qualifying Aqara purchases.

Which should you buy?

Why choose the Aqara Camera E1

  • HomeKit Secure Video (the C250: no HomeKit)
Why choose the Tapo C250

  • 4K 8MP (3840 x 2160) video (the E1: 2K, 2304 x 1296)
  • Works with SmartThings (the E1: Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home and IFTTT)

Related comparisons

Buying guide: Best Indoor Security Cameras UK 2026

🎯 Which camera is right for you?
A few quick questions, instant matches.
Find My Camera →