Last year, one security device we saw emerge as an important piece to a smart home was the pan and tilt security camera. We saw and tested many of these new smart security cameras, which had excellent video resolution, two-way talk, night vision, and easy setup. One of the best features of a pan and tilt security camera is its ability to cover a large part of the outside of your home. You can store videos locally, which is also a nice feature, especially for users who don't want to pay a monthly fee for cloud storage. I was sent one of Eufy's latest outdoor security cameras to test, called Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 with 4K Ultra HD, a solar panel, and works on either a cellular or Wi-Fi connection. Here is what I found from testing this robust pan and tilt smart security camera for the past three months.

What is the Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 security camera?

Forever Power with Solar and Battery Backup

Enjoy round-the-clock, off-the-grid surveillance with the upgraded solar panel and a robust 9,400mAh battery. This combination delivers “Forever Power,” ensuring the camera stays operational with just two hours of solar charging under optimal conditions. Even in low sunlight, the powerful battery can sustain the camera for up to a month based on typical usage, including 10 motion-triggered recordings and five live view sessions daily.

Buy Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330

Seamless 4G LTE and Wi-Fi Connectivity

Stay connected even during Wi-Fi outages. The Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 features auto-switching between Wi-Fi and 4G LTE, guaranteeing uninterrupted security. The included 3-in-1 SIM card, compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, automatically selects the most stable network to optimize connectivity. Whether you’re in a rural area or need reliable backup, this feature ensures peace of mind.

Stunning 4K Color Clarity, Day or Night

Experience crystal-clear video with the 4K ultra-HD color camera. During the day, capture every detail, including license plates up to 30 feet (10 meters) away. The built-in 100-lumen spotlight at night enhances visibility, delivering vibrant color footage up to 26 feet (8 meters) in darkness. Whether it's identifying intruders or monitoring wildlife, the Eufy S330 provides unparalleled clarity.

360° Viewing with AI Tracking

Monitor every corner of your property with the camera’s 344° pan and 70° tilt capabilities. Advanced AI technology detects and tracks people and vehicles, automatically adjusting to follow their movements. This ensures you never miss critical activity while maximizing your surveillance range.

Light and Sound Alarm for Deterrence

Setting alarm in eufy appGearBrain

The optional light and sound alarm effectively deters intruders. With a 100-lumen spotlight and an audible alarm, this feature actively protects your property and prevents threats before they escalate.

Durable Design for Harsh Environments

Built to withstand the elements, the Eufy S330 operates seamlessly in temperatures ranging from -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C) and is resistant to rain, dust, and snow. Regardless of the weather, it’s perfect for year-round outdoor security.

Voice Assistant Integration

Simplify your security with hands-free control. The camera works seamlessly with Google Assistant and Alexa, allowing you to view footage or adjust settings with simple voice commands. While it supports Wi-Fi connection with HomeBase S380, it is incompatible with Apple HomeKit or NAS storage.

Efficient Data Usage

The Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 is optimized for efficient data consumption, using approximately 700MB per month based on 10 daily live views of 10 seconds each and 25 motion-triggered recordings per day. For ultimate performance, use the included SIM card, which supports 4G LTE connectivity with Nano SIM cards.

Cost? - Incredible Value for High-End Features

Priced at $249.99 on the Eufy website, the S330 currently offers a $100 coupon on both the company’s site and Amazon, bringing the price down to just $149.99. This is an exceptional deal for a smart security camera with pan and tilt capabilities, solar-powered operation, 4G LTE connectivity, and advanced AI tracking. At this price, it’s one of the most affordable high-performance outdoor security solutions on the market, offering unmatched value for buyers.

For those seeking a cutting-edge, reliable, and eco-friendly security camera, the Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 is an outstanding choice. With top-tier features and an unbeatable price, it’s a smart investment in your home’s safety.

How to Set Up the Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 Security Camera

Setting up the Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 Security Camera is straightforward and can be done in these simple steps. Here’s a complete guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Unbox and Inspect Your Camera

• Ensure you have all the components in the box: the Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 camera, solar panel, included 3-in-1 SIM card (pre-installed), mounting brackets, screws, and user manual.

Step 2: Charge the Camera

• Before setup, charge the camera using the included solar panel or a USB-C cable (not included) if necessary.
• The built-in 9,400mAh battery will likely have some charge out of the box, but fully charging it ensures uninterrupted setup and use.

Download eufy app from App Store or Google PlayGearBrain

Step 3: Download the Eufy Security App

• Download the Eufy Security App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
• Create a Eufy account if you don’t already have one, or log in with your existing credentials.

Step 4: Insert and Activate the SIM Card

• The included 3-in-1 SIM card (compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon) is pre-installed in the camera. If you use a different Nano SIM card, insert it into the SIM slot.
• Ensure that your SIM card plan supports 4G LTE data.
• Power on the camera by pressing the power button and waiting for the indicator light to turn solid blue, signaling that the camera is connected to the mobile network.

Step 5: Add the Camera to the Eufy Security App

1. Open the Eufy Security App and tap the “+” icon in the top right corner.
2. Select the 4G LTE Cam S330 from the list of devices.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect the camera to the app. This includes scanning the QR code on the camera or entering the serial number manually.
4. Once the camera is added, you’ll be prompted to name the camera (e.g., “Backyard Camera”) for easy identification.

Step 6: Mount the Camera and Solar Panel

1. Choose an ideal location for the camera, ensuring it has a clear view of the area you wish to monitor. Position it in a location with at least 2 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal solar panel performance.
2. Use the provided mounting hardware to securely attach the camera and solar panel to walls, fences, or poles.
3. Adjust the camera angle to cover the desired area. Use the pan (344°) and tilt (70°) features for precise positioning.

Step 7: Test the Connectivity

• The camera automatically selects the most stable network (Wi-Fi or 4G LTE). Ensure it connects appropriately, and the app displays a live feed.
• Use the app to check signal strength, adjust settings, and test motion detection and recording.

Adjust activity zones in Eufy appGearBrain

Step 8: Customize Settings in the App

1. Motion Detection: Configure motion detection zones, sensitivity, and alerts.
2. AI Features: Enable AI tracking for people and vehicles.
3. Alarms: Set up the spotlight and sound alarm to deter intruders.
4. Video Settings: Adjust resolution to 4K for the clearest recording.

Step 9: Voice Assistant Integration (Optional)

• Connect the camera to Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa for hands-free voice control.
• Follow the integration steps provided in the Eufy Security App.

Step 10: Enjoy 24/7 Monitoring

With the camera fully set up, you can monitor your property from anywhere using the Eufy Security App. Auto-switching between Wi-Fi and 4G LTE ensures uninterrupted surveillance, even if one network fails.

By following these steps, you can maximize the features and performance of your Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 and enjoy peace of mind knowing your property is secure.

Testing Results - What we learned about Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330

Over the past three months, I tested the Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 on a typical home, positioning it outside in the backyard on top of a shed approximately 20 feet from the house. Connected to our dual-band Wi-Fi router, the camera experienced no issues with connectivity or power, thanks to its seamless operation on both Wi-Fi and LTE, along with its solar panel providing continuous energy. The setup was quick and straightforward, and I was impressed with the camera's video quality, particularly the color night vision, which offered clear and detailed footage even when zoomed in. The pan-and-tilt functionality was intuitive to control via the Eufy app, and the ability to set activity zones effectively reduced false alerts.

The camera’s manual alarm feature, which can be triggered through the app or set to activate based on sound or motion, proved helpful for deterring intruders and wildlife. The built-in light was convenient for illuminating the yard at night and could be activated through the app or via voice commands with a smart speaker. While the app occasionally experienced delays in loading the live feed, possibly due to video transmission over Wi-Fi or LTE, the camera’s excellent zoom capabilities and responsive pan-and-tilt controls made it a reliable choice for home security. Auto-tracking is a new feature I am also starting to see appear in other smart security cameras. For the S330, it did not work as well as the auto-tracking I tested on other smart security cameras, but it did work. I would say this feature needs more work.

The solar panel is a standout feature, ensuring uninterrupted operation and eliminating concerns about power outages. The local storage also helps reduce ongoing costs by removing the need for cloud storage subscriptions. However, users should be mindful of respecting neighbors’ privacy, as the camera’s wide 344-degree field of view and ability to capture objects up to 30 feet away could inadvertently include neighboring properties. Overall, the Eufy S330 impressed with its robust features, ease of use, and reliability, making it a solid option for outdoor home security.

Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 installed outside on a shet and connected to solar panel for powerGearBrain

What are users saying about Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330?

I decided to do a deep dive and look into what users are saying about this pan-and-tilt smart security camera by Eufy. In putting together this overview of user feedback, I found the Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 has received a mix of positive and critical feedback from users, with many highlighting its innovative features and performance while noting some areas for improvement. Here’s a summary of what users liked and didn’t like about the product:

What Users Liked

• Flexible Connectivity and Power Options: Users appreciated the dual connectivity options of 4G LTE and Wi-Fi, which make it suitable for remote areas or properties without electricity or internet access. The included solar panel, combined with the long-lasting battery, was a standout feature, providing continuous power and eliminating the need for frequent recharging.
• Impressive Video Quality and Features: The 4K resolution was praised for its clarity, offering detailed daily and night footage. Many users highlighted the camera’s night vision and spotlight as reliable for capturing clear images in low-light conditions. The pan-and-tilt functionality, AI motion tracking, and customizable activity zones were well-received, enhancing the camera’s versatility.
• Ease of Setup and Use: Most users found the setup process quick and straightforward. The Eufy Security app provides an intuitive interface for managing features like live view, activity zones, and alarms. The camera's compact design and durable weather-resistant construction made it easy to mount in outdoor locations.
• Cost Efficiency: The local storage option via microSD cards and the solar panel’s ability to maintain power were frequently mentioned as cost-saving benefits. Some users noted that this helped avoid recurring expenses like cloud storage fees or frequent battery replacements.
• Versatility for Various Use Cases: The S330 was highly recommended for diverse applications, such as monitoring rural properties, off-grid locations, or construction sites. Its ability to work without Wi-Fi and its seamless connectivity through major cellular networks (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) added to its appeal.

What Users Didn’t Like

• Connectivity Issues in Some Scenarios: While many users found the connectivity reliable, a few experienced challenges with LTE performance, particularly in areas with weak cellular signals. Some reported delays or outages in receiving motion notifications or accessing live feeds, which affected the camera's responsiveness.
• Activity Zone Setup and Motion Detection: A few users found the process of configuring activity zones in the app cumbersome and reported issues with accuracy, such as false alerts or missed motion events. For example, some noted that the camera struggled to differentiate between people, vehicles, and other movements, particularly at greater distances.
• Limited Compatibility and Features: The S330 does not offer 24/7 recording capabilities, disappointing users who expected continuous surveillance. Additionally, while the camera supports Google Assistant and Alexa, it does not integrate with Apple HomeKit or offer NAS storage options, limiting its compatibility for some smart home setups.
• Blurriness in Long-Distance Zoom: Although many users praised the 4K resolution, some reported blurry images when zooming in on objects more than 10-30 feet away, making identifying details like license plates difficult.
• Cost Comparisons: While most users agreed that the camera offers good value for its features, a few compared it to less expensive alternatives that provided similar performance in certain situations, such as rural areas with poor cellular coverage.

Summary

In conclusion, the Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330 stands out as a versatile and innovative security solution for outdoor use, particularly for remote and off-grid locations. Its dual connectivity options, solar-powered "Forever Power," and impressive 4K video quality make it a strong contender in the smart home security market. While some users highlighted areas for improvement, such as motion detection accuracy, long-distance zoom clarity, and activity zone setup, the camera’s ease of use, durable design, and cost efficiency make it a highly recommended choice. For those seeking a reliable, eco-friendly, and feature-packed security camera, the Eufy S330 delivers excellent value and performance, ensuring peace of mind and robust property protection.

Remember to use GearBrain, our smart home compatibility find engine. It can help you find, buy, and connect any smart device and find compatible products that work with your existing smart-connected devices, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and Amazon Alexa-enabled devices..

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