eufyCam S330 vs. E330: Which Do You Need?

The eufyCam S330 vs. E330 isn’t just a matchup of two “330” model names; they actually share several key features. However, each one is designed to meet different needs.

If you’ve been scrolling through reviews or Reddit threads, you’ll see this same debate: “wire-free convenience” vs. “always-on reliability.” The answer depends on your property. Let’s dive into the details.

eufyCam S330 vs. E330: Key Specs at a Glance

Let’s look at the key specs of eufyCam E330 and S330 first:

Both cameras offer the same resolution, AI-powered smart detection, night vision modes, and network connectivity, making it difficult to choose based on the specs. 

eufy E330 vs S330: What’s the Difference?

Just as mentioned above, both bullet cameras come with advanced 4K resolution, ensuring sharp video quality. However, video clarity is just one main factor to consider when selecting the right security camera for your home. To help you make the best choice, let’s dive into their key differences.

Design and Setup

The eufyCam S330 is all about making DIY installations a breeze. With its handy ball-head mount, you can easily adjust the angle after securing it in place. Plus, it’s powered by a built-in solar panel, so you won’t have to stress about finding an outlet. 

On the other hand, the E330 requires a bit more thought. It needs to be plugged into an outlet and comes with cables and connectors. You’ll have to position it within reach and tidy up those cables along the walls. And adjusting its position and angle is a bit trickier compared to the S330.

• Key takeaway: The S330 is designed for easy setup, while the wired E330 needs careful cable routing.

Power Source

One of the most noticeable differences between the E330 and S330 is the S330’s built-in 0.7W solar panel. 

Powered by eufy’s SolarPlus technology, it requires just 2 hours of direct sunlight daily. Additionally, it features a 13,400mAh rechargeable battery that can last up to a year, ensuring reliable performance even during cold winters. 

In contrast, the E330 relies entirely on electricity, meaning no need to worry about battery drain. However, lacking a backup battery also means the E330 will stop working during power outages.

• Key takeaway: The S330 uses solar power with a rechargeable battery, while the E330 relies solely on electricity.

24/7 Recording vs Event Recording

E330 is the first model in this series that supports continuous recording. S330 only supports motion-based recording. Both cameras send notifications when motion is detected, with the E330 having a slightly longer detection range of 40 feet compared to the S330’s 30 feet during tests.

While the difference is clear, choosing the right recording method depends on your needs. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Choose the event-recording camera (S330) if:

• You want to monitor pets, children, or package deliveries.
• You’re keeping an eye on areas with minimal activity, like a backyard, side gate, or rarely used entryway.
• You prefer not to have constant recording inside your home.
• You don’t want to sift through hours of footage to find specific incidents.
• You want to maximize storage efficiency, as 1TB can store up to 8 years of footage for 4 S330 cameras, compared to just 10 days for 3 E330 cameras.

Choose the 24/7 recording camera (E330) if:

• You’re concerned about theft, vandalism, or criminal activity, especially in high-traffic areas or near valuable assets.
• You need continuous monitoring for businesses like retail stores, banks, or restaurants to track customers, employees, and liability issues.
• You want complete assurance that every moment is captured, eliminating the risk of missing events that motion-based cameras might not detect.

Note: If you want 24/7 recording without the hassle of searching through footage, consider the NVR Security System S4 Max, which features smart video search for easier navigation.

• Key takeaway: The E330 offers 24/7 recording, while the S330 focuses on motion-based recording for efficient storage and monitoring.

eufy S330 vs E330: Pros & Cons of Bullet Cameras

Bullet cameras like the eufyCam S330 and E330 are designed to monitor specific zones, and have their own advantages and limitations when protecting your property:

Pros of Bullet Cameras

• Strong Deterrent Effect: Their visible design clearly signals that surveillance is in place.

• Easy Installation: Designed to focus on specific zones, providing consistent coverage.
• Durability: Built to withstand outdoor weather conditions.
  

Cons of Bullet Cameras

• Limited Coverage: They only monitor the area they’re pointed at, leaving activity outside their range unrecorded.
• Vulnerable to Tampering: More prone to being tampered with or knocked out of position.

Unlike a bullet camera’s fixed view, a PTZ camera can track motion and cover a larger space, but it usually can’t provide the constant view a bullet camera offers. 

When you combine a bullet camera with PTZ controls, you get the best of both worlds. That’s exactly what eufy has done with the new eufyCam S4.

Meet the New eufyCam S4

Instead of choosing between constant monitoring and motion tracking, you get both in one camera - the new eufyCam S4. The fixed 4K lens provides a steady view of your property, while the dual PTZ lenses pan, tilt, and zoom to follow motion automatically.

Specs at a Glance

How new eufyCam S4 Outperforms S330 and E330

• Flexible Recording Modes: Supports both event-based and 24/7 recording, allowing users to switch modes based on their needs.
• Triple-Lens Setup: Combines a 4K bullet view with PTZ tracking for detailed and wide coverage simultaneously.
• Enhanced Motion Detection: Dual detection (PIR + radar) minimizes false alerts and extends motion detection range to 40 feet.

• Detachable Solar Panel: Offers flexible placement for optimal sunlight exposure, with the option to wire for continuous recording in high-traffic areas.
• Night Vision and Deterrents: Provides Starlight color, spotlight color, and infrared options, along with a 105 dB siren and flashing red/blue warning lights for added security.

FAQs

What’s the main difference between the S330 and E330?

The S330 (also called eufyCam 3) is a battery-powered, solar-supported camera that records motion-based clips. The E330, on the other hand, is a wired 24/7 camera that continuously records.

Does the S330 work with HomeBase 2?

 No, the eufyCam S330 does not work with HomeBase 3. It is designed exclusively for HomeBase 3. That’s because it relies on the newer hardware for features like BionicMind AI, expandable storage, and cross-camera tracking. If you still have a HomeBase 2 setup, you’ll need to upgrade before adding S330 units..

Does the E330 require subscriptions?

No, the eufyCam E330 does not require a subscription. Like the rest of eufy’s ecosystem, the E330 is built around local storage, not monthly fees. It comes with a 1 TB hard drive that stores about 10 days of footage for four cameras, and you can upgrade up to 16 TB if needed. For people who are tired of paying for cloud plans, this is a major advantage.

Which camera has better detection range?

In side-by-side testing, the E330 consistently detected human motion at around 40 ft, while the S330 picked it up at roughly 30 ft. That said, 30 ft is plenty for most residential driveways, walkways, and porches. If you’re securing a larger property or want to catch motion farther out, the E330 has the edge.

Can I use both cameras together?

Yes, and many homeowners do. Both connect seamlessly to HomeBase 3, so you can monitor them in the same app and even take advantage of cross-camera tracking. A common setup is to use E330s for 24/7 coverage in high-traffic areas (like the front of a house or garage) and S330s in harder-to-wire spots where solar “forever power” makes life easier. 

Final Thoughts

Both the eufyCam S330 and E330 are excellent choices, each tailored to different needs. The S330 offers wire-free flexibility with easy installation and solar-powered operation for a near “set-and-forget” experience. The E330 focuses on professional-style 24/7 coverage, providing continuous 4K recording, ideal for those who want complete footage day and night.

If you’re unsure, for most residential setups, a mix of both can be practical—use the S330 in areas without outlets and the E330 where continuous coverage is essential. 

Alternatively, eufy’s new S4 combines the strengths of both cameras, offering flexibility and comprehensive coverage in one device.

Whichever model you choose, all three connect to HomeBase 3, providing subscription-free storage, advanced AI, and smarter home security.