In the rapidly evolving world of smart home security, video doorbells have become an essential tool for monitoring our homes' main entry points. Let's dive into a detailed comparison of two popular options: the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro ($169) and the newer Eufy Security E340 ($179.99).
When SimpliSafe released their Pro doorbell in 2018, 1080p resolution and basic motion detection were considered cutting-edge features. Fast forward to today, and the technology has advanced significantly. The Eufy E340, released more recently, represents the next generation with dual cameras, AI-powered detection, and local storage solutions.
The way these devices capture video reveals a lot about their different approaches to home security. The SimpliSafe Pro uses a single 1080p HD camera with a 162-degree field of view, which was impressive for its time. It employs HDR (High Dynamic Range) technology, which helps balance bright and dark areas in the frame - particularly useful when your porch is backlit by strong sunlight.
The Eufy E340 takes things further with its dual-camera system. Both cameras shoot in 2K resolution (2048 x 1536 pixels), offering significantly more detail than 1080p. The genius here is in the camera placement: one faces forward for traditional doorbell coverage, while the second points downward to monitor packages and capture full-height images of visitors. This eliminates the traditional blind spot directly in front of the door.
During nighttime operation, both devices handle things differently:
Here's where we see a major divergence in philosophy. The SimpliSafe Pro is strictly a wired device, requiring connection to your existing doorbell wiring (8-24V AC). While this ensures continuous operation without charging, it limits installation options and may require professional help.
The Eufy E340 offers both wired and battery-powered installation. Its removable 6500mAh battery charges in 5 hours and lasts up to 6 months, depending on usage. This flexibility means you can install it anywhere, even if you don't have existing doorbell wiring. For those who prefer continuous power, it can still be hardwired like the SimpliSafe.
Both devices have evolved beyond simple motion detection, but their approaches differ significantly:
SimpliSafe uses a dual-sensor system:
Eufy employs more advanced AI capabilities:
This is perhaps the most significant practical difference between these devices. The SimpliSafe Pro requires a cloud subscription starting at $5/month for video recording and storage. Without it, you can only view live video and respond to notifications.
The Eufy E340 includes 8GB of local storage, enough for weeks of recordings depending on activity levels. It can work completely subscription-free, storing all videos locally. For those wanting cloud backup, it's available as an optional service rather than a requirement.
SimpliSafe's strength lies in its integration with their broader security system. When connected to a SimpliSafe security system, the doorbell automatically records during various events:
Eufy offers broader smart home compatibility:
In practical use, both devices have their strengths:
SimpliSafe excels at:
Eufy stands out for:
When considering long-term value, we need to factor in both upfront and ongoing costs:
SimpliSafe Pro ($169):
Eufy E340 ($179.99):
The choice between the SimpliSafe Pro and Eufy E340 largely depends on your specific needs:
Choose SimpliSafe if you:
Choose Eufy if you:
The tech gap between these devices reflects their release dates. The Eufy E340's dual-camera system, AI features, and local storage represent current trends in smart home technology. While the SimpliSafe Pro remains functional, its features align more with 2018 expectations than 2024's capabilities.
For most users just entering the video doorbell market, the Eufy E340 represents better value and more advanced features at a similar price point. Its dual-camera system, flexible power options, and subscription-free operation make it a more versatile choice. However, the SimpliSafe Pro remains a solid option for those already invested in the SimpliSafe ecosystem or preferring simpler operation with professional monitoring integration.
Remember that both devices will receive software updates over time, potentially adding features or improving performance. However, hardware limitations mean the SimpliSafe Pro won't be able to match the Eufy E340's dual-camera coverage or 2K resolution without a hardware upgrade.
| SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro | Eufy Security E340 2K Dual Camera |
|---|---|
| Price & Value - Total cost including subscriptions | |
| $169 + required subscription ($5-10/month) | $179.99, no subscription required |
| Video Resolution - Higher resolution means clearer identification | |
| 1080p HD, single camera | 2K (2048x1536), dual cameras |
| Field of View - Wider angles capture more activity | |
| 162° single view | 160° front + downward facing second camera |
| Power Options - Affects installation flexibility | |
| Wired only (8-24V AC) | Battery (6 months) or wired |
| Storage - Impacts ongoing costs and privacy | |
| Cloud only, subscription required | 8GB local storage + optional cloud |
| Night Vision - Critical for 24/7 security | |
| Standard infrared, black & white | Dual-light color night vision up to 16ft |
| Smart Detection - Reduces false alerts | |
| Basic motion + person detection | AI-powered human, package, face recognition |
| Weather Protection - Ensures year-round operation | |
| Weather resistant | IP65 rated |
| Smart Home Integration - Expands functionality | |
| SimpliSafe ecosystem only | Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeBase |
| Installation Requirements - Consider setup complexity | |
| Existing doorbell wiring required | Flexible - battery or wired options |
| Additional Features - Extra capabilities | |
| Two-way audio, HDR video | Package monitoring, quick replies, radar detection |
The Eufy Security E340 ($179.99) offers better overall value with 2K dual cameras, flexible power options, and no required subscription. However, the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro ($169) is better if you already use SimpliSafe security systems.
The SimpliSafe Pro requires a subscription ($5-10/month) for video recording. The Eufy E340 includes 8GB local storage with no subscription required.
The Eufy E340 provides superior 2K resolution with dual cameras, compared to the SimpliSafe Pro's 1080p single camera. This means clearer visitor identification and better package monitoring.
The Eufy E340 offers easier DIY installation with battery power option. The SimpliSafe Pro requires existing doorbell wiring and might need professional installation.
The Eufy E340 features color night vision with dual lights up to 16 feet. The SimpliSafe Pro uses standard infrared for black and white night vision.
Both doorbells can display video feeds on smart TVs. The Eufy E340 offers broader compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant for home theater integration. The SimpliSafe Pro works primarily within its own ecosystem.
The Eufy E340 features dedicated package detection with its downward-facing camera and AI monitoring. The SimpliSafe Pro offers basic motion detection without specific package monitoring.
The Eufy E340 works with multiple platforms including Alexa and Google Assistant. The SimpliSafe Pro primarily integrates with SimpliSafe's own security system.
The Eufy E340 includes 8GB local storage (approximately 2 weeks of recordings). The SimpliSafe Pro relies on cloud storage through subscription.
Both are weather-resistant, but the Eufy E340 has an IP65 rating for better protection. The SimpliSafe Pro is weather-resistant but lacks specific rating details.
The Eufy E340 uses advanced AI for human, package, and face recognition plus radar detection. The SimpliSafe Pro uses simpler dual-sensor motion detection.
The Eufy E340 at $179.99 offers better long-term value with no required subscription. The SimpliSafe Pro at $169 costs more over time due to mandatory subscription fees.
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 - t3.com - eufy.com - youtube.com - trustedreviews.com - youtube.com - homedepot.com - eufy.com - costco.com - eufy.com - eufy.com - eufy.com
