Smart video doorbells have become an essential part of the modern connected home. If you're considering upgrading your traditional doorbell, you're likely looking at two popular options: the $79.99 TP-Link Tapo TD25 and the $119.99 Google Nest Hello. Let's dive deep into what makes each unique and help you decide which best fits your needs.
The video doorbell market has matured significantly since Ring pioneered the category in 2013. The Nest Hello, released in 2018 and updated in 2021, helped establish premium features like facial recognition and 24/7 recording. The newer Tapo TD25, launched in 2023, represents the latest generation with improved resolution and AI capabilities.
Video quality is perhaps the most noticeable difference between these devices. The Tapo TD25 brings an impressive 2K 5MP sensor (that's 2560 x 1920 pixels) with HDR (High Dynamic Range, which helps balance bright and dark areas in the same scene). The 180-degree diagonal field of view means you can see everything from packages on the ground to tall visitors.
The Nest Hello offers 1600 x 1200 resolution with a 160-degree field of view. While still HD quality, it's noticeably lower resolution than the Tapo. However, Google's image processing is excellent, providing clear, well-balanced images even in challenging lighting conditions.
Night vision is another area where these doorbells differ significantly. The Tapo TD25 includes full-color night vision with built-in LED spotlights, while the Nest Hello uses traditional infrared LEDs for black-and-white night vision. The color night vision can be particularly helpful for identifying vehicles or clothing details after dark.
One of the biggest differentiators is power options. The Tapo TD25 offers both battery and hardwired installation. Its 10,000mAh battery can last up to 8 months between charges, depending on usage. When hardwired (using 8-24V AC power), it gains additional features like pre-roll recording, which captures the few seconds before motion is detected.
The Nest Hello is hardwired-only, requiring 16-24V AC power from a transformer. While this means more complex installation, it ensures consistent power for 24/7 recording and eliminates the need to charge batteries. Professional installation is recommended for those without electrical experience.
Both doorbells include AI-powered detection, but their approaches differ:
The Nest Hello's facial recognition can learn to identify frequent visitors and announce them by name through Google Assistant devices. The Tapo TD25's broader range of AI detection types might be more practical for general security monitoring.
Storage approaches highlight significant philosophical differences between these companies:
The Tapo TD25 supports local storage via microSD card (up to 512GB) with no subscription required. This means you own your footage and don't have ongoing costs. Cloud storage is available as an option through the Tapo Care service.
The Nest Hello provides 3 hours of free cloud storage but requires a Nest Aware subscription ($6/month) for extended storage and additional features. While this means ongoing costs, it also provides secure off-site storage and easier access to historical footage.
Ecosystem integration could be a deciding factor for many users. The Nest Hello integrates seamlessly with Google Home devices, offering features like:
The Tapo TD25 works well with Amazon Alexa but has limited Google Home support. It integrates nicely with other Tapo devices but doesn't offer the same level of ecosystem integration as the Nest Hello.
Choose the Tapo TD25 if:
Choose the Nest Hello if:
The Tapo TD25 offers impressive value at $79.99, especially considering its higher resolution and flexible power options. The lack of required subscriptions makes it more economical long-term.
The Nest Hello's $119.99 price point plus subscription costs make it a premium option, but its tight Google integration and reliable performance may justify the cost for some users.
Both devices are capable smart doorbells, but they serve different users. The Tapo TD25 represents the better value for most users, offering superior core features at a lower price point. However, the Nest Hello's ecosystem integration and proven reliability make it the better choice for Google-centric smart homes or those who prioritize advanced features like facial recognition.
Remember that a smart doorbell is often a long-term investment in your home security system. Consider not just the initial cost, but also installation requirements, ongoing fees, and how the device will fit into your existing smart home setup.
| TP-Link Tapo TD25 Smart Video Doorbell 2K 5MP | Google Nest Hello Smart Video Doorbell |
|---|---|
| Resolution & Field of View - Determines image clarity and coverage area | |
| 2K 5MP (2560 x 1920), 180° diagonal view | HD 1600 x 1200, 160° diagonal view |
| Power Options - Affects installation flexibility and features | |
| Battery (8 months) or Hardwired (8-24V AC) | Hardwired only (16-24V AC required) |
| Night Vision - Critical for after-dark monitoring | |
| Full-color with LED spotlights | Black & white infrared LED |
| Storage Options - Impacts ongoing costs | |
| Local microSD up to 512GB + optional cloud | 3-hour free cloud, subscription required for more |
| AI Detection Features - Determines alert accuracy | |
| Person, pet, vehicle, package detection included | Person detection, facial recognition (subscription) |
| Smart Home Integration - Important for ecosystem compatibility | |
| Strong Alexa support, limited Google Home | Excellent Google Home integration |
| Price & Ongoing Costs - Total cost of ownership | |
| $79.99, optional cloud subscription | $119.99, requires Nest Aware subscription ($6/month) |
| Installation Requirements - Consider setup complexity | |
| DIY-friendly, flexible mounting options | Professional installation recommended |
| Pre-Roll Recording - Captures moments before motion | |
| Available when hardwired only | Always available (hardwired system) |
| Mobile App Features - Daily usability | |
| Quick responses, customizable zones, live view | Facial recognition, familiar face alerts, continuous recording |
The $79.99 TP-Link Tapo TD25 offers superior video quality with 2K 5MP resolution (2560 x 1920) compared to the $119.99 Nest Hello's HD resolution (1600 x 1200). For home theater integration, the Tapo TD25's higher resolution provides clearer images when viewing doorbell footage on large screens.
The Tapo TD25 works without a subscription and includes local storage via microSD card. The Nest Hello requires a Nest Aware subscription ($6/month) for features beyond basic live viewing and 3-hour history.
The Tapo TD25 offers more flexible installation options with either battery or hardwired power. The Nest Hello requires professional hardwired installation, which may add to the initial cost.
Both doorbells can display video on TVs through their respective ecosystems. The Nest Hello works seamlessly with Chromecast devices, while the Tapo TD25 supports Fire TV devices through Alexa integration.
The Tapo TD25 features full-color night vision with LED spotlights, while the Nest Hello uses traditional black-and-white infrared night vision. Color night vision provides better detail for home security monitoring.
The Tapo TD25 offers a wider 180° diagonal field of view compared to the Nest Hello's 160° view, providing better coverage of your entryway.
The Nest Hello integrates best with Google Home systems, while the Tapo TD25 works well with Amazon Alexa but has limited Google Home support.
The Tapo TD25 includes package detection at no extra cost, while the Nest Hello requires a subscription for this feature.
The Tapo TD25 battery lasts up to 8 months between charges. The Nest Hello doesn't have a battery option and requires constant hardwired power.
Only the Tapo TD25 offers local storage via microSD card (up to 512GB). The Nest Hello requires cloud storage through a Nest Aware subscription.
The Nest Hello offers better multi-screen viewing through Google Home devices, making it ideal for homes with multiple display points. The Tapo TD25 works best through mobile devices and Alexa displays.
For most users, the Tapo TD25 offers better value with superior core features at $79.99. The $119.99 Nest Hello is worth considering mainly if you're already invested in the Google Home ecosystem or require professional installation.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: trustedreviews.com - community.tp-link.com - community.tp-link.com - bestbuy.com - tp-link.com - tp-link.com - youtube.com - manuals.plus - tp-link.com - tapo.com - community.tp-link.com - tomsguide.com - youtube.com - techradar.com - cnet.com - safewise.com - support.google.com - drivenbydecor.com - youtube.com - safehome.org - cdn.hibuwebsites.com - beachcamera.com - security.org - youtube.com - acerenttoown.com
