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Eufy FamiLock S3 Max vs S3: Top Smart Lock 2025 | SmartTechShopping

by krystal vaughan 24 Apr 2025 0 Comments

Eufy FamiLock S3 Max vs. S3: Which Smart Lock Wins for Your Home in 2025?

As a self-proclaimed smart home geek, I’ve spent years tweaking my setup to balance security, style, and simplicity. When Eufy launched the FamiLock S3 Max ($399.99) and FamiLock S3 ($349.99) on March 17, 2025, I couldn’t resist testing the Max to see if its 4-inch interior screen and upgraded storage justified the $50 premium.

 Spoiler: It’s a game-changer for tech lovers like me. At SmartTechShopping.com, we’re diving into the S3 Max’s palm vein tech, 2K camera, and doorbell prowess, comparing it head-to-head with the S3 to help you pick the perfect smart lock for 2025.

Visit our YouTube channel for more updates & reviews: https://www.youtube.com/@SmartTechShopping


What Sets the Eufy FamiLock S3 Max Apart? Buy Now On Amazon
The Eufy FamiLock S3 Max is a 3-in-1 powerhouse: a smart lock, 2K video doorbell, and security camera, with a 4-inch interior screen that sets it apart from the S3. Both models share core features—palm vein recognition, subscription-free storage, and Matter compatibility—but the Max elevates the experience for households craving extra control. Here’s the rundown:
  • Palm Vein Recognition: Infrared scans your palm’s vein patterns for 99.99999% accurate, touchless unlocking (0.1-second speed).
  • 2K HDR Camera: A 5MP lens with 150° vertical/180° diagonal views captures every porch detail, doubling as a doorbell.
  • 4-Inch Interior Screen: Shows live footage instantly, ideal for app-averse users or quick checks.
  • Storage: 16GB local (vs. S3’s 8GB), storing weeks of clips without cloud fees.
  • Smart Home: Matter-certified for Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home; Wi-Fi 6 for smooth remote access.
  • Durability: ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 (250,000 cycles), IP65 weatherproofing.

Price: $399.99 (S3 Max) vs. $349.99 (S3). Battery: 15,000mAh rechargeable (6-12 months), with 4 AAA backups.
Testing the S3 Max: A Tech Geek’s Dream
I installed the S3 Max on my suburban Chicago home, upgrading from a basic smart lock. The palm scanner felt like sci-fi magic, unlocking faster than my old keypad. The 2K camera caught my mail carrier dropping a package in the snow, and the interior screen let my partner check visitors without grabbing a phone. But how does it stack up against the S3, which I tested on a friend’s door? Let’s compare.

S3 Max vs. S3: Head-to-Head Breakdown
  1. Interior Screen: Max’s Killer Feature
    • S3 Max: The 4-inch IPS screen displays live footage or motion alerts in 1 second, acting as a digital peephole. It’s a lifesaver for my 10-year-old, who checks for strangers before opening, and my tech-shy in-laws, who avoid apps.
    • S3: No screen; you rely on the Eufy app or a smart display (e.g., Echo Show). Fine for phone-savvy users but less intuitive for kids or guests.
    • Winner: S3 Max. The screen adds instant access, especially in multi-user homes.
  2. Storage Capacity
    • S3 Max: 16GB local storage holds about a month of footage (20-second clips, 10/day), perfect for heavy use.
    • S3: 8GB stores half as much, better for low-traffic doors. Both skip cloud fees, unlike Ring’s $5/month plans.
    • Winner: S3 Max for high-activity households; S3 suffices for quieter homes.
  3. Palm Vein Recognition
    • Both use identical palm scanners, storing up to 50 profiles with near-perfect accuracy. In testing, my 6-year-old and 70-year-old mom unlocked both effortlessly, even with gloves or wet hands.
    • Winner: Tie. No difference here—both shine.
  4. Camera and Doorbell Performance
    • Both feature 2K cameras with 150°/180° views and motion detection up to 19 feet. Night vision is crisp, and the doorbell button works well, though its small size confused some guests (fixed with a sticker).
    • Winner: Tie. Camera quality is identical, though the Max’s screen enhances viewing.
  5. Price and Value
    • S3 Max: $399.99, justified by the screen and extra storage.
    • S3: $349.99, a better deal if you’re app-focused or already own a smart display.
    • Winner: S3 for budget buyers; Max for premium features.

Get yours on Amazon

Comparison Table:
Feature
Eufy FamiLock S3 Max
Eufy FamiLock S3
Lockly Vision Prestige
Price
$399.99
$349.99
$499
Unlock Method
Palm, PIN, app, key
Palm, PIN, app, key
Facial, PIN, app, key
Camera
2K, 150°/180°
2K, 150°/180°
2K, 135°
Storage
16GB local, no fee
8GB local, no fee
Cloud (subscription)
Interior Screen
4-inch
None
Yes
Smart Home
Matter, Wi-Fi 6
Matter, Wi-Fi 6
Alexa, Google

Installation: A DIY Triumph
Installing the S3 Max took 18 minutes with a screwdriver and Eufy’s template. It fits standard deadbolts (2⅛-inch bore, 1⅜-2-inch door thickness), but storm doors may block the camera or palm sensor—opt for Eufy’s Smart Lock E34 ($199.99) if that’s an issue. The Eufy app streamlined Wi-Fi 6 setup, palm enrollment, and PIN creation. The S3’s installation is identical, with no differences in hardware fit.
Tip: Charge the battery fully (4 hours, USB-C) before starting. Not a DIYer? A locksmith charges $50-$100.
Pros and Cons of the S3 Max

Pros:
  • 4-inch screen is a game-changer for instant visitor checks.
  • Palm vein tech is fast, secure, and kid-friendly.
  • 2K camera and doorbell rival standalone devices.
  • 16GB local storage skips costly subscriptions.
  • Matter and Wi-Fi 6 ensure seamless smart home sync.
Cons:
  • $50 pricier than S3, not essential if you use the app.
  • Small doorbell button needs signage for guests.
  • Bulky exterior (7x2.5 inches) may overwhelm slim doors.
  • Facial recognition requires HomeBase 3 ($149.99).
S3 Max vs. S3: Who Should Buy Which?
  • Choose the S3 Max ($399.99) If:
    • You want the interior screen for app-free viewing (great for kids, seniors, or guests).
    • Your home has high traffic, needing 16GB storage.
    • You value a premium, all-in-one experience.
  • Choose the S3 ($349.99) If:
    • You’re comfortable using the app or smart displays.
    • You want to save $50 without sacrificing core features.
    • Your door sees lighter use (8GB storage is enough).
  • Skip Both If: You have a screen door blocking the camera or already own a video doorbell (try Eufy’s palm-only lock).
Where to Buy in 2025
  • SmartTechShopping.com: $399.99 (S3 Max), $349.99 (S3), free shipping over $300. Use code SMART20 for 20% off through May 2025.
5 Hacks to Elevate Your FamiLock S3 Max
  1. Highlight the Doorbell: Add a glow-in-the-dark “Doorbell” sticker for visibility.
  2. Track Access: Use unique PINs to monitor who’s entering (e.g., kids, cleaners).
  3. Smart Home Sync: Link to Alexa for voice unlocking or Nest Hub for screen mirroring.
  4. Clean Regularly: Wipe the palm scanner biweekly with a microfiber cloth.
  5. Optimize Clips: Set “Lite Surveillance” mode (10-second clips) to stretch battery life.
Our Verdict: S3 Max Shines, but S3 Holds Its Own

The Eufy FamiLock S3 Max is a tech enthusiast’s dream, blending palm vein unlocking, a 2K camera, and a 4-inch screen into a subscription-free package. Its $399.99 price feels justified for the screen and 16GB storage, especially for busy households. The FamiLock S3 ($349.99) is nearly as impressive, missing only the screen, making it ideal for app-savvy buyers on a budget. Both outshine pricier rivals like Lockly, and at Smart Tech Shop, we’re stocking them for your next upgrade. Minor quirks (small doorbell button, optional HomeBase 3) don’t dull their brilliance.

Shop the FamiLock S3 Max or S3 at Smart Tech Shopping and secure your home in style! Which one’s for you? Comment below or tweet us
@SmartTechShoppe
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