What to check before you choose
A strong IP camera viewer should cover the basics without forcing you into another subscription or vendor-specific workflow.
Connection details
RTSP URL format: rtsp://username:password@camera-ip:554/stream1
RTSP URL format (sub): rtsp://username:password@camera-ip:554/stream2
Default credentials: RTSP user/password you create in the Tapo app
Manufacturer app: Tapo / Kasa (TP-Link)
Notes: TP-Link Tapo cameras ship with RTSP disabled. Open the Tapo app, pick your camera, then Camera Settings → Advanced Settings → Camera Account, and create an RTSP username and password. The stream is then available at rtsp://user:pass@camera-ip:554/stream1 for HD or /stream2 for the sub-stream.
Why IP Camera Viewer & Monitor fits
For a “best” recommendation, the practical answer is the app that works quickly every day and does not add extra friction. On iPhone, fast setup, low-latency playback, and a clean mobile interface matter most.
Frequently asked questions
Do Tapo cameras support RTSP?
Yes, but RTSP is disabled out of the box. You have to create a separate RTSP account inside the Tapo app before any non-Tapo viewer can connect. Once enabled, both the main HD and sub-streams become available over the local network.
How do I enable RTSP on a Tapo camera?
Open the Tapo app, pick your camera, tap the gear icon, then Advanced Settings → Camera Account. Create an RTSP username and password — these are separate from your TP-Link account. Save, then use those credentials in your iPhone viewer.
What is the RTSP URL for a Tapo camera?
After enabling RTSP, the URL is rtsp://username:password@camera-ip:554/stream1 for HD and rtsp://username:password@camera-ip:554/stream2 for the sub-stream. Use the username and password you created in the Tapo Camera Account screen, not your TP-Link login.
How do I view Tapo cameras on iPhone without the Tapo app?
Once RTSP is enabled, install an RTSP-capable iOS viewer, paste the stream1 URL, and you're viewing the camera locally with no Tapo cloud round-trip. The Tapo app can stay installed for firmware updates while day-to-day viewing happens in the third-party app.
Why doesn't Tapo show up in ONVIF discovery?
Most Tapo models do not advertise ONVIF, so an ONVIF scanner on the network won't find them. Add the camera by typing the RTSP URL manually instead. A handful of newer Tapo models added ONVIF support in firmware, so check for an update if you specifically need it.
Can I still use Kasa or Tapo while RTSP is enabled?
Yes. Enabling the RTSP camera account doesn't disable Tapo cloud or local streaming — you can keep using the Tapo app on other phones and view the same camera over RTSP from an iPhone viewer at the same time.
Download the app and test it with your camera
Scan the QR code or open the App Store link to try IP Camera Viewer & Monitor with your RTSP or ONVIF camera.
Scan to download