Camera Comparison · UK 2026
Tapo C501GW vs Tapo C520WS

Specs, pros and cons compared side by side

Both the Tapo C501GW and the Tapo C520WS are security cameras. This head-to-head sets them side by side using the specs, pros and cons from our full reviews. Tapo specs come from Tapo’s own product pages.

Quick verdict

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Tapo C501GW

Pick it for: 4G LTE connection (the C520WS: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi or Ethernet) · PoE (802.3af/at) option (the C520WS: plug-in 9V power)

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Tapo C520WS

Pick it for: 2K QHD 4MP video (the C501GW: 1080p) · 2.4GHz Wi-Fi as well as Ethernet (the C501GW: no Wi-Fi)

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Quick comparison

Spec Tapo C501GW Tapo C520WS
Resolution 1080p Full HD 2K QHD 4MP
Power 12V adapter or PoE (802.3af/at) Plug-in (9V, 3 m cord)
Wi-Fi 4G LTE or Ethernet (no Wi-Fi) 2.4GHz only + Ethernet
Weather rating IP66 IP66
Storage microSD up to 512GB microSD up to 512GB
Smart home Alexa, Google Alexa, Google
Apple HomeKit No No
Night vision Infrared and colour night vision with dual spotlights Infrared up to 29.9 m plus starlight full-colour night vision (f/1.6)
Siren Sound and light alarm Two spotlights and a 93dB siren
Tapo C501GW

Pros

  • Works where there is no Wi-Fi
  • PoE option
  • Pan-tilt coverage
  • IP66

Cons

  • 1080p only
  • Needs a SIM with a data plan for 4G
  • Still needs mains or PoE power
Tapo C520WS

Pros

  • Starlight colour night vision
  • Ethernet option
  • Patrol mode
  • IP66

Cons

  • Needs mains power nearby
  • 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only
  • Single lens (the C545D has two)

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Which should you buy?

Why choose the Tapo C501GW

  • 4G LTE connection (the C520WS: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi or Ethernet)
  • PoE (802.3af/at) option (the C520WS: plug-in 9V power)
Why choose the Tapo C520WS

  • 2K QHD 4MP video (the C501GW: 1080p)
  • 2.4GHz Wi-Fi as well as Ethernet (the C501GW: no Wi-Fi)

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