TP-Link Introduces Tapo H500 Smart HomeBase with Matter Support

TP-Link has announced the Tapo H500 Smart HomeBase, a new smart home hub aimed at users looking to consolidate control of their devices, with an emphasis on TP-Link devices, as well as Matter products. The H500 supports both TP-Link’s Tapo ecosystem and Matter-compatible products, offering an alternative to setups that rely on multiple hubs.

DEVICE COMPATIBILITY AND CONTROL

At its core, the H500 is designed to manage up to 16 Tapo/TP-Link cameras and 64 smart sensors, whilst also offering integration with Matter-certified accessories, although this is seemingly limited to those devices that use Matter over WiFi, as there is no Thread Border Router functionality mentioned. This centralised approach is designed to simplify device management, particularly for households already using Tapo products. The hub includes AI-based object recognition, for Tapo cameras, with support for facial, person, pet, and vehicle detection – features offered by most cameras these days, including HomeKit Secure Video. Still, these functions are intended to help reduce unnecessary notifications by providing more specific alerts for cameras connected to the hub.

The H500 comes with 16GB of built-in eMMC storage and supports external hard drives or SSDs up to 16TB. This allows for local video storage without the need for a subscription, which may appeal to users looking for an offline option. Whilst cameras are still not a thing in Matter, for those with a deeper interest in camera support, the H500 does offer support for ONVIF.

Connection-wise, the hub supports both 2.4 & 5.0GHz WiFi, but also ethernet connectivity. When it comes to support or connectivity to its own line of sensors, it also offers sub-1GHz wireless, as is already the case with other hubs in their lineup.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

There is a built-in 110dB alarm siren, and the hub can act as a communication point for doorbell voice calls thanks to its microphone and speaker. An HDMI output is also included, enabling the live display of up to four connected camera feeds on a monitor or TV. The H50o also comes with a small stand that folds out, allowing it to prop up an iPad or other screen device.

MATTER…

Although the H500 supports Matter, TP-Link has not specified whether it will offer full integration with Apple Home natively or via Matter bridge support. As with other Matter-certified hubs, actual HomeKit compatibility will depend on how the manufacturer implements bridging for supported devices. However, as it’s designed to work with third-party Matter products for use within Tapo’s own ecosystem, it is definitely a Matter Controller. It should be noted that the hub currently support Matter 1.1 only.

What the Tapo H500 Smart HomeBase does offer is a fairly practical solution for users of TP-Link’s smart home ecosystem – especially cameras –  particularly those looking to consolidate device control and reduce reliance on cloud storage. However, Apple Home users will want to confirm the extent of Apple ecosystem integration before adopting it as a central hub.

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Device Quantity: Supports up to 16 cameras and 64 sensors
• Built-in Storage: 16GB eMMC
• Expandable Storage: 1-bay, 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD, up to 16TB
• 1 × USB 2.0 Port
• 1 × USB Type-C Port
• 1 × HDMI Port
• 1 × LAN Port
• 1 × Power Port
• 1 × Reset Button
• 1 × Answer/SYNC Button
• 1 × Decline/Mute Button
• 1 × Volume Up Button
• 1 × Volume Down Button
• LAN Port: 1 × 10/100 Mbps
• USB Ports:
  • 1 × USB-A for data transfer
  • 1 × USB-C for charging
• USB-C Output: 5V / 1.5A
• USB-A Output: 5V / 0.5A
• Siren: 110dB Alarm Siren
• Network: 2.4GHz + 5GHz Wi-Fi / Ethernet / Sub-1GHz
• Encryption Protocol: 128-bit AES with SSL/TLS
• Dimensions (L × W × H)**: 6.31 × 3.89 × 3.28 in (160.20 × 98.82 × 83.21 mm)
• Package Contents:
  • Tapo H500
  • RJ45 Ethernet Cable
  • Quick Start Guide
  • Screws
  • DC Power Adapter
• Certifications: CE, RoHS, RCM
• Operating Temperature: 0 ~ 40°C (32 ~ 104°F)
• Storage Temperature: -20 ~ 60°C (-4 ~ 140°F)
• Operating Humidity: 10% to 90% RH, non-condensing
• Storage Humidity: 5% to 90% RH, non-condensing