TP-Link VIGI is TP-Link's business CCTV range: InSight IP cameras in 4MP, 5MP and 8MP, and VIGI network video recorders from 4 to 64 channels. For most small sites, a VIGI PoE NVR plus 4MP or 5MP InSight cameras is the simplest system to fit, because each camera runs on one network cable for power and video. Zenith Security Co is listed on TP-Link UK's where-to-buy page as a VAR Partner and Online Store, and we supply VIGI across England, Scotland and Wales.
This guide covers every VIGI camera and recorder we currently sell, how to choose between them, and the questions installers and business owners ask us most. You can also browse the full TP-Link VIGI range.
VIGI InSight cameras compared
All the InSight cameras below are IP cameras. The fixed-lens models come in 2.8mm (wider view) or 4mm (narrower, more detail at distance). Figures are from our product pages.
VIGI NVRs compared
A VIGI NVR records the cameras to hard drives and lets you view them locally over HDMI or remotely in the VIGI App. The model number tells you a lot: the first digit after "NVR" matches the number of drive bays on the models we sell, and the last digits give the channel count.
All of these have 4K HDMI output. The NVR2008H-8MP product page lists ONVIF Profile S support for third-party cameras, with the full set of smart features on VIGI cameras.
How to choose a VIGI camera
Resolution
4MP covers most shopfronts, offices and driveways. 5MP gives a little more detail for the same view. 8MP (4K) is worth it where you need to read detail further from the camera, such as across a car park, or where you want to zoom into recorded footage. Higher resolution needs more storage and more recorder bandwidth.
Lens
A 2.8mm lens gives a wide view, good for rooms, entrances and small yards. A 4mm lens is narrower but shows more detail at distance. If you are not sure of the distance, the motorised varifocal S245ZI and S345ZI let you set the view from 2.7 to 13.5mm after fitting.
Style
Turrets are easy to aim and have no glass dome to reflect IR. Bullets are a visible deterrent and suit walls and poles (the VMB-350 pole mount fits 70-130 mm poles). Domes are discreet and harder to knock out of position. The panoramic S385PI and S485PI cover a 180° view from one camera.
Night vision
Most InSight models give full-colour images at night to 30 m. The varifocal models use infrared to 60 m, which is useful where a long, dark view matters more than colour.
Wired or Wi-Fi
Use a cabled PoE camera wherever you can run cable. The VIGI C340-W is the Wi-Fi option for spots where a cable is not practical; it still needs power at the camera.
How to choose a VIGI NVR
- Count the cameras, then add room to grow. If you will fit 6 cameras, an 8-channel recorder leaves space for two more.
- Decide on PoE. A PoE NVR (models ending -4P, -8MP or -16MP) powers the cameras directly, so no separate switch is needed. For larger systems, use a non-PoE NVR with an Omada PoE switch.
- Check the PoE budget. Add up each camera's power draw from its product page and keep the total under the NVR's budget, with headroom for night-time IR.
- Check bandwidth. Several 8MP cameras on a recorder with 80 Mbps incoming bandwidth can hit the limit. The 2000 and 4000 series have more.
- Size the storage. More bays means more recording days. Use our CCTV storage calculator and choose a surveillance hard drive.
Accessories
The VJB-305 junction box fits specific VIGI dome, bullet and turret cameras and hides the cable joint. See all VIGI mounts and accessories.
Frequently asked questions
What is TP-Link VIGI?
VIGI is TP-Link's business surveillance range. It includes InSight IP cameras in 4MP, 5MP and 8MP and VIGI NVRs from 4 to 64 channels, managed from the VIGI App, VIGI Security Manager or the web interface.
Which VIGI NVR has built-in PoE?
The NVR1004H-4P (4 PoE+ ports), NVR1008H-8MP and NVR2008H-8MP (8 PoE+ ports) and NVR2016H-16MP (16 PoE+ ports). The NVR1008H, NVR1016H, NVR2016H, NVR4032H and NVR4064H need a separate PoE switch.
Should I choose a 2.8mm or 4mm VIGI camera?
Choose 2.8mm for a wide view of a room, entrance or small yard. Choose 4mm when the subject is further away and you need more detail. If you are unsure, the motorised varifocal S245ZI and S345ZI adjust from 2.7 to 13.5mm.
Do VIGI cameras work with other NVRs?
VIGI NVRs support third-party cameras over ONVIF, and the full set of smart detection features works with VIGI cameras. Send us your models and we will confirm compatibility before you order.
Do VIGI cameras see in colour at night?
Most InSight models we sell give full-colour night vision to 30 m. The S245ZI and S345ZI use infrared to 60 m, and the panoramic S385PI and S485PI use infrared to 20 m.
Does a VIGI NVR come with a hard drive?
Check the box contents on each product page. Add a surveillance drive sized with our CCTV storage calculator if one is not included.
Where can I buy TP-Link VIGI in the UK?
Zenith Security Co is listed on TP-Link UK's where-to-buy page as a VAR Partner and Online Store. We deliver VIGI to England, Scotland and Wales within 1-2 working days, and trade accounts are available.
Related TP-Link guides
Zenith Security Co is listed on TP-Link UK's where-to-buy page as a VAR Partner and as an Online Store. We are a UK supplier, not an installer, and have been operating since 2012. Our trade counter is at Unit 3 Park View Centre, 243 Dudley Road, Wolverhampton WV2 3JU. We deliver within 1-2 working days to England, Scotland and Wales (not Northern Ireland), and trade accounts are available. Read more on where to buy TP-Link in the UK, or call 01902 902251.
