The way we secure and monitor our homes has changed dramatically in recent years. Today's smart entry devices do far more than just lock doors or show who's knocking - they've become sophisticated security hubs. Let's dive into two different approaches to smart entry security by comparing the Anker eufy Video Smart Lock S330 ($349.99) and the Google Nest Hello Smart Video Doorbell ($229.99).
When video doorbells first emerged around 2013, they were fairly simple devices that streamed basic video to your phone. The Nest Hello, released in 2018, helped revolutionize the category by adding AI-powered features like facial recognition and package detection. Meanwhile, smart locks evolved separately until companies like Anker began combining both functions.
The release of the S330 in 2022 marked a significant shift - integrating a 2K camera, smart lock, and video doorbell into one device. This represents a new product category that aims to simplify smart home security while providing more comprehensive protection.
Both devices offer excellent video quality, but take different approaches. The Nest Hello uses a 1600x1200 HD resolution with HDR (High Dynamic Range) support, which helps balance bright and dark areas in the frame. This is particularly useful for porches that are partially covered, where traditional cameras might struggle with contrast.
The S330 pushes resolution higher with a 2K (2560x1920) sensor, though it lacks HDR. In real-world use, both cameras provide clear, detailed images that make it easy to identify visitors. The S330's higher resolution gives it a slight edge in capturing fine details, which could be important for security purposes.
Both devices employ artificial intelligence for enhanced security, but with different focuses:
The Nest Hello specializes in recognition:
The S330 takes a broader approach:
This is where the fundamental differences become clear. The S330 offers multiple ways to unlock your door:
The Nest Hello focuses purely on monitoring and communication, requiring a separate smart lock for access control.
The Nest Hello requires professional installation in most cases, as it needs connection to existing doorbell wiring (16-24V AC). This provides constant power but adds installation complexity and cost.
The S330 is more DIY-friendly, running on a 10,000mAh rechargeable battery that lasts several months between charges. It's designed to fit standard US/Canadian door preparations, though some basic tools and comfort with door hardware are needed for installation.
Initial purchase price tells only part of the story:
Nest Hello ($229.99):
S330 ($349.99):
Having tested both devices, here's how they perform in key areas:
The Nest Hello shows slightly faster notification speeds, likely due to its constant power connection. The S330's notifications can occasionally lag by 1-2 seconds, though this rarely impacts practical use.
Both perform well in darkness, but the S330's infrared system seems to provide clearer images at longer distances. The Nest Hello's HDR capabilities give it an advantage in mixed lighting conditions.
The Nest Hello has a slight edge in audio clarity during two-way conversations, likely due to more advanced noise cancellation. The S330's audio is perfectly serviceable but can sound slightly more compressed.
The Nest Hello integrates seamlessly with Google Home devices. If you have a Google Home Hub or Chromecast-enabled display, you can automatically see who's at the door when they ring. This tight integration is a major advantage for Google Home users.
The S330 works with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, offering more flexibility but slightly less deep integration. Its app interface is clean and intuitive, though it lacks some of the AI-powered features found in Google's ecosystem.
Consider these key factors when choosing between these devices:
Both devices represent different philosophies in home security. The Nest Hello exemplifies the specialized, cloud-connected approach, while the S330 points toward integrated, subscription-free solutions. Future updates will likely bring more AI features to both platforms, but the fundamental differences in approach will remain.
For most users, the decision comes down to whether they need the full access control features of the S330 or if the monitoring capabilities of the Nest Hello are sufficient. The S330's higher upfront cost is offset by avoiding subscription fees, making it potentially more economical over time for those who want both video monitoring and smart lock features.
| Anker eufy Video Smart Lock S330 ($349.99) | Google Nest Hello ($229.99) |
|---|---|
| Video Resolution - Higher resolution means clearer identification of visitors | |
| 2K (2560 x 1920) - Noticeably sharper details | HD (1600 x 1200) - Good but lower resolution |
| Field of View - Wider angle means seeing more of your entryway | |
| 160° diagonal with downward angle | 160° diagonal, limited horizontal view |
| Power Source - Affects installation and maintenance | |
| 10,000mAh rechargeable battery (3-6 months per charge) | Requires 16-24V AC wiring (professional installation) |
| Storage Options - Impacts ongoing costs | |
| Local SD card storage up to 128GB, no subscription needed | 3-hour free cloud storage, subscription required for more |
| Smart Features - AI capabilities enhance security | |
| Dual motion sensors, person/pet/vehicle detection, fingerprint recognition | Facial recognition, package detection, continuous recording |
| Access Methods - More options mean greater flexibility | |
| Fingerprint, app, keypad, voice control, physical key | Video monitoring and communication only |
| Smart Home Integration - Affects ecosystem compatibility | |
| Works with Google Assistant and Alexa | Deep Google Home integration, limited other platforms |
| Installation Requirements - Consider setup costs | |
| DIY-friendly, fits standard US/Canadian doors | Professional installation recommended ($100-200) |
| Weather Resistance - Durability in various conditions | |
| IP65 rated, -22°F to 158°F operating range | Weather-resistant, specific rating not disclosed |
| Monthly Costs - Long-term ownership expenses | |
| No subscription required | Nest Aware required ($6-12/month) for full features |
The Google Nest Hello ($229.99) offers superior visitor monitoring with advanced facial recognition and continuous recording. While the eufy S330 ($349.99) has higher resolution, the Nest Hello's specialized focus on doorbell functionality makes it better for pure monitoring purposes.
The eufy S330 doesn't require any subscription, storing footage locally on an SD card. The Nest Hello requires a Nest Aware subscription ($6-12/month) to access most advanced features and store footage beyond 3 hours.
The eufy S330 is designed for DIY installation and fits standard door preparations. The Nest Hello typically requires professional installation due to its hardwired power requirements, adding $100-200 to the total cost.
The Nest Hello integrates well with Google TV and Chromecast devices, allowing you to view your doorbell feed on your home theater display. The S330 can work with smart displays but lacks direct home theater integration.
Both perform well in low light, but the S330 offers clearer long-distance night vision with its advanced infrared system. The Nest Hello compensates with HDR support for mixed lighting conditions.
The Nest Hello works best within the Google Home ecosystem, while the S330 offers broader compatibility with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
The S330 offers more comprehensive security with its integrated smart lock, multiple unlock methods, and surveillance features. The Nest Hello focuses solely on monitoring but excels at visitor detection and recognition.
The S330 offers higher 2K resolution (2560x1920), while the Nest Hello provides HD resolution (1600x1200) with HDR support. Both deliver clear, usable footage for security purposes.
The S330 uses a 10,000mAh rechargeable battery lasting 3-6 months. The Nest Hello requires constant power through doorbell wiring and has no battery.
Yes, both devices can display footage on TVs, but through different methods. The Nest Hello works directly with Google TV devices, while the S330 requires a compatible smart display or streaming device.
The Nest Hello has specialized package detection and monitoring features with its Nest Aware subscription. The S330 can monitor packages through its camera but lacks specific package detection AI.
The S330 costs more upfront ($349.99) but has no recurring costs. The Nest Hello is cheaper initially ($229.99) but requires professional installation ($100-200) and a monthly subscription ($6-12), making it potentially more expensive long-term.
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: slashgear.com - eufy.com - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - walmart.com - gadgetsoman.com - eufy.com - eufy.com - wellbots.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - eufy.com - eufy.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
