After experiencing video smart locks at CES 2025, I predicted they would be the new “big thing” in home security, an ambitious combination of video doorbell and smart lock. Now Eufy is leaping forward with an early announce date on its own version, the FamiLock S3 Max, which could be the first video smart lock available to buyers this March.
The FamiLock S3 Max uses a 2K camera with a 180-degree diagonal field of view to capture anything happening outside the front door and relay it to a video screen on the inside portion of the doorbell (or in the Eufy app). Eufy’s motion detection and object recognition can also detect people up to 19 feet away from the lock.
Eufy’s video smart lock doesn’t just include a video screen. It’s also Matter compatible, which means it will work with Alexa, Google Home and Apple Home. The lock is also rated with BHMA Grade 1 durability, the highest available for residential and commercial locks, a relatively rare achievement in the world of smart locks and a sign that it’s particularly solid.
The FamiLock also leans heavily into battery life, with a 15,000-mAh rechargeable battery and four AAA batteries that combine to offer continual power even if one fails and can support the lock’s full function for up to six months.
Eufy’s app provides control over the FamiLock S3 Max’s features, including lock/unlock sensing, motion detection and, of course, remote control over all features. It also enables another unique part of this smart lock: the ability to read your palm print. Hover your hand above the lock, and it can recognize programmed prints and unlock without any other steps. I’ve seen other palm reading locks before, and they act as a contactless alternative to fingerprint reading with interesting possibilities. Eufy’s lock can hold up 50 palm prints, easily enough for friends and family.
I’m not sure about the ultimate destiny of the video smart lock combo devices. They’re flashy and they replace peepholes easily, but they have a lot to prove compared to easy-to-install video doorbells. Eufy’s approach combines several unique features and an excellent BHMA rating, which is promising but also means there’s a lot to test on this lock.
I’m going to continue testing the FamiLock and its video functionality then let you know what my final call is, but if you want one you can preorder on the Eufy website for $400 (discounts available) or wait for the lock to arrive at online websites like Best Buy, Home Depot and Amazon on March 17, 2025.
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