TP-Link Tapo D225
Outdated firmware and weaker AI detection make it a less appealing choice than the D235.
Consolidated from 23 cited sources across 22 outlets
Where the cited sources landed, as we read them
- 19 positive sources
- 2 mixed sources
1 of 8 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick.
Firmware is outdated and lacks the AI features of the newer D235.
Flagged 13 September 2026
Pros & cons
- ✓ 2K video
- ✓ Free smart alerts
- ✓ Optional local storage
- ✓ Good build quality
- ✓ Affordable
- ✗ Outdated firmware
- ✗ Weaker AI detection
The sources behind this ranking
We searched the web and YouTube for what has been published about this product, then read the articles, video transcripts and comments we found.
Evidence 4 articles and 19 video reviews
19 positive sources
With our Editors' Choice in this price range, the TP-Link Tapo D225, you get many of the same features without a subscription, as well as local storage and lots of third-party integrations, all for the same cost.Read A
The Tapo D225 is taking smart doorbells to the next level. This isn’t just another video doorbell that sends you motion alerts—it’s a dual-powered, pre-roll recording, AI-enhanced security system wrapped up in a sleek design. Imagine this: you’re sitting on a beach halfway across the world, and your phone buzzes—not just a notification, but an actual call. It’s your doorbell.Watch B
Tapo is TP-Link's smart-home value line, and the D225/TD25 is one of the strongest no-subscription mainstream doorbells available right now.Read A
The new Tapo D225 smart video doorbell and the Tapo D210 video doorbell are both impressive new options for your smart home.Watch E
Despite being packed with many great features, it's still a very affordable option!Watch W
Tapo Video Doorbell D225: A Must Watch Review!Watch D
This budget-friendly 2k video doorbell packs a punch with a ton of features. This is a dual-powered smart video doorbell. With local storage you have no subscription fees to pay.Watch E
Already running Tapo cameras or TP-Link smart plugs around the house? The D225 drops right into that ecosystem without any friction. Sharp video, local storage, solid motion detection — and it talks to your other Tapo devices without needing a separate hub or a paid plan to unlock basic features.Watch W
Getting a smart doorbell like the Tapo D225 is an excellent way to start creating a smart home, but how simple it is to set up determines if the smart device gets used or traded out for one that does not require setup.Watch T
The D225 also has full color night vision, built-in spotlights, two-way audio, noise cancellation, and a 98-decibel siren, making it a surprisingly complete security package for its price. We'll be placing this product on our tier list, so watch until the end to find out where it ranks.Watch T
The Tapo D225 is the better overall video doorbell because its battery and wired options, pre-roll recording and smart detection make it more flexible, while the D130 remains the better choice for users who prioritize 5 MP video and continuous wired recording. The Tapo D130 gets an overall price-to-performance rating of A, while the D225 gets A.Watch G
Another impressive feature of the Tapo D225 is its incredible 2K QHD live view. With this level of clarity, you can easily identify faces and see every detail outside your door, even when zoomed in. This is especially useful for identifying visitors or packages. And the highquality video feed gives you a clear and accurate picture of what's happening at your front door.Watch P
This dual power option makes it incredibly flexible for installation, allowing you to mount it wherever you need it most. If you choose to hardwire it, you can take advantage of continuous recording for aroundthe-clock monitoring. On the other hand, the 10,000 MIA battery allows for up to 8 months of use on a single charge, making it a great option for those who may not have existing wiring.Watch I
It's definitely one of the best video doorbells without a subscription immediately on release, but is it worth it to you? This is our Tapo D225 review, but we have a more comprehensive walkthrough below.Watch C
Discover the TP-Link Tapo Doorbell Camera D225, a versatile addition to your home security setup. This doorbell camera offers remarkable installation flexibility, allowing you to choose between a battery-operated setup with an impressive eight-month lifespan or a continuous power supply via wired installation.Watch T
If you’re searching for a reliable, feature-packed smart doorbell with strong privacy and no forced subscription, the Tapo D225 is definitely worth considering.Watch G
A smart doorbell that delivers sharp 2K video, AI detection, and reliable night vision, all without a monthly subscription.Watch N
Boost your TP-Link Tapo Smart Video Doorbell Camera setup with the eeTao 5V USBC Charging Cable — the perfect power solution for your Tapo D210 and D225 models. Designed for seamless compatibility, this high-quality USB-C charging cable ensures reliable and safe charging with its robust protective features.Watch D
The TP-Link Tapo D225 is a reasonably priced wire-free video doorbell that delivers sharp 2K quality and works with lots of other smart devices.Watch
2 mixed sources
8-month battery is a standout differentiator — no other model in this group comes closeRead V
If your front door has no doorbell wiring and normal traffic, paying more for the pricier one can be wasted money because you're buying flexibility you'll never plug in. But if you do have wiring and you want round-the-clock recording and a wider view that actually catches packages on the step, the cheaper one just can't do that and you'll feel it every day.Watch
Frequently asked questions
It ranks #2 of 17 on our video doorbells tier list, in A tier. That placement draws on 23 cited sources across 22 outlets.
None of the 21 sources with a clear view is critical of it. Outdated firmware. Weaker AI detection.
Ranked nearby in Video Doorbells
S tier #1 Google Nest Doorbell (Wired, 3rd Gen)
A tier #3 Eufy Video Doorbell Dual
B tier #4 Ring Wired Doorbell Pro (3rd Gen)
B tier #5 Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd Gen)
B tier #6 Reolink Video Doorbell
B tier #7 TP-Link Tapo D235
F tier #14 1 of 2 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. TP-Link Tapo D225 (wired)
F tier #15 2 of 8 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Logitech Circle View Doorbell
F tier #16 2 of 6 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free (1st Gen)
F tier #17 5 of 8 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick.