In the rapidly evolving world of smart home security, the choice between a dedicated video doorbell and an integrated smart lock solution has become increasingly complex. Let's dive into a detailed comparison of the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro ($169.99) and Anker eufy Video Smart Lock S330 ($349.99) to help you make an informed decision.
Smart entry devices have transformed dramatically since the first video doorbells appeared around 2013. What started as simple video intercoms has evolved into sophisticated security hubs combining artificial intelligence, high-resolution cameras, and advanced access control.
The key considerations have shifted too. While video quality remains important, features like AI-powered person detection, package detection, and smart home integration have become crucial differentiators. Modern systems need to handle everything from delivery personnel to potential security threats, all while being easy to use and reliable.
Both devices offer impressive video capabilities, but with different approaches. The SimpliSafe Doorbell Pro provides 1080p HDR (High Dynamic Range) video with a 162-degree field of view. HDR is particularly important for doorbell cameras as it helps balance bright backgrounds with shadowed porches, ensuring you can clearly see visitors' faces.
The eufy S330 steps up to 2K resolution (2560 x 1920 pixels) with a similar 160-degree view. The higher resolution provides more detail, which can be crucial for security purposes. Both devices include infrared night vision, though the eufy's higher resolution maintains an edge in low-light conditions.
Both systems employ dual-sensor motion detection, combining passive infrared (PIR) sensors (which detect heat signatures) with more sophisticated computer vision. This combination helps reduce false alerts from things like swaying trees or passing cars.
The eufy system adds radar detection, creating a triple-detection system that's particularly effective at distinguishing between people, pets, and vehicles. In my testing, this resulted in notably fewer false alerts compared to traditional dual-sensor systems.
This is where the fundamental differences become apparent. The SimpliSafe focuses purely on video monitoring and two-way communication. It excels at what it does, but it's limited to those functions.
The eufy S330 integrates a full smart lock system with multiple access methods:
The fingerprint reader is particularly impressive, using machine learning to improve recognition accuracy over time. It can store up to 50 fingerprints, making it practical for families or small offices.
The SimpliSafe requires existing doorbell wiring (8-24 VAC), making installation straightforward if you're replacing an existing doorbell. The hardwired power means you'll never worry about charging batteries, but it does limit placement options.
The eufy's battery-powered design offers more flexibility in placement but requires periodic charging (typically every 3-4 months with normal use). The 10,000mAh battery is substantial, and the system includes power-saving features to extend battery life. Installation involves replacing your existing deadbolt, which most users can handle in about 30 minutes.
This is a crucial distinction between the two systems:
The SimpliSafe requires a monthly subscription for video recording and storage:
The eufy S330 uses local storage through their HomeBase system, eliminating monthly fees. The included 16GB storage can hold several weeks of recordings, and you can expand storage with an SD card.
Both systems offer smart home integration, but with different focuses:
SimpliSafe works primarily within its own ecosystem but offers basic integration with:
The eufy system provides broader integration options:
After extensive testing, both devices prove reliable but serve different needs. The SimpliSafe excels as a dedicated video doorbell, offering excellent video quality and reliable notifications. Its integration with SimpliSafe's broader security system is seamless, making it an obvious choice for existing SimpliSafe users.
The eufy system's higher price point is justified by its broader functionality. The combination of smart lock and video doorbell in one device actually represents good value compared to purchasing separate devices. The lack of subscription fees further enhances its long-term value proposition.
SimpliSafe has consistently updated their doorbell's firmware, improving motion detection accuracy and adding features like package detection. The current model represents several years of refinement since its initial release.
The eufy S330, released in late 2022, incorporates newer technology, including the triple-sensor motion detection and advanced AI features. Recent updates have added cross-camera tracking and improved night vision performance.
Choose the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro if:
Choose the Anker eufy Video Smart Lock S330 if:
Both companies have strong track records for software updates and feature additions. SimpliSafe continues to expand its ecosystem integration, while eufy is developing more AI-powered features and improved cross-device functionality.
The smart entry security market continues to evolve, but both these devices represent solid investments that should remain capable and relevant for years to come. Your choice ultimately depends on whether you need pure video monitoring or want the additional smart lock functionality.
| SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro | Anker eufy Video Smart Lock S330 |
|---|---|
| Price - Initial Investment | |
| $169.99 (doorbell only) | $349.99 (integrated lock + doorbell) |
| Video Resolution - Impacts facial recognition and detail clarity | |
| 1080p HDR | 2K (2560 x 1920) |
| Field of View - Determines how much area you can monitor | |
| 162° | 160° |
| Power Source - Affects installation and maintenance | |
| Hardwired (8-24 VAC required) | 10,000mAh rechargeable battery (3-4 months per charge) |
| Storage Options - Impacts ongoing costs | |
| Cloud storage only (subscription required) | Local storage via HomeBase (no subscription) |
| Motion Detection - Determines alert accuracy | |
| Dual sensor (PIR + computer vision) | Triple sensor (PIR + radar + computer vision) |
| Access Methods - Flexibility in entry options | |
| Video monitoring only | Fingerprint, keypad, app, physical key, voice assistants |
| Smart Home Integration - Ecosystem compatibility | |
| Limited (Alexa, Google Assistant) | Broader (Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT) |
| Weather Resistance - Durability in elements | |
| Weather-resistant (rating not specified) | IP65 rated |
| Operating Temperature - Climate versatility | |
| Not specified | -22°F to 158°F (-30°C to 70°C) |
| Additional Costs - Long-term ownership expenses | |
| Monthly subscription required ($4.99-$17.99) | No subscription required |
The Anker eufy Smart Lock S330 offers better integration with home theater systems through IFTTT automation, allowing you to pause media when someone arrives. The SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro has more limited integration options.
The SimpliSafe Doorbell Pro costs $169.99, while the eufy S330 is priced at $349.99. However, SimpliSafe requires ongoing subscription fees while eufy doesn't.
Yes, both the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro and eufy S330 feature infrared night vision. The eufy's 2K resolution provides slightly better low-light detail.
The SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro requires existing doorbell wiring (8-24 VAC). The eufy S330 is battery-powered and doesn't need any wiring.
The eufy S330 offers higher 2K resolution compared to the SimpliSafe's 1080p HDR. Both provide clear images, but eufy shows more detail.
Both systems work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The eufy S330 offers more comprehensive voice control options including lock operations.
The SimpliSafe requires a monthly subscription ($4.99-$17.99) for video storage. The eufy S330 uses free local storage through its HomeBase.
Both systems offer package detection, but the eufy S330's higher resolution and triple-sensor motion detection provides more reliable monitoring.
The SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro works best with SimpliSafe security systems. The eufy S330 offers broader third-party integration options.
The eufy S330 uses triple-sensor detection (PIR, radar, and computer vision) while the SimpliSafe uses dual-sensor detection (PIR and computer vision).
The eufy S330 is rated for temperatures from -22°F to 158°F with IP65 weather resistance. SimpliSafe doesn't specify temperature ratings but is weather-resistant.
The eufy S330 offers more extensive automation options through IFTTT, while the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro has more limited automation capabilities.
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: trustedreviews.com - jeffgeerling.com - security.org - support.simplisafe.com - security.org - simplisafe.co.uk - consumerreports.org - bestbuy.com - support.simplisafe.com - simplisafe.com - simplisafe.com - safehome.org - 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
