Aqara E1 vs Eufy E220: SMB Backup or RTSP?
Automated research by Top10Scout editorial team · Not hands-on tested · Last verified 2026-10-05
Published · Updated
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Choose Aqara Camera E1 for its documented card-backup route to SMB3-compatible NAS storage. Choose eufy Indoor Cam E220 when your recorder or NAS software supports its RTSP route, or when a lower-cost local card timeline is enough. Both offer network-storage options. Start with the recording system you already have: an E220 owner whose NAS setup works has no reason to replace the camera merely to gain another NAS label.
What changes during an ordinary room check?
The choices that change the purchase
| Decision | Aqara Camera E1 | eufy Indoor Cam E220 |
|---|---|---|
| Network-storage route | SMB3-compatible NAS storage | NAS via RTSP |
| Local recording | microSD card storage (up to 512 GB) for recording in full quality, whether it's continuous or triggered by events | Recording to a microSD card requires no monthly subscription. |
| Power equipment | A 5V 2A USB-A power supply is required and is not included. | USB power adapter (5V/2A), USB cable |
Both use moving coverage rather than a fixed doorway view. E1 documents person tracking, while E220 documents motorized pan and tilt. Choose the normal view around the place you need to check: the entry, a pet’s resting area or an object that needs watching. A moving lens cannot show every corner simultaneously, and furniture can still hide the target. If the existing camera already gives the view and saved footage you need, retain it. For a new purchase, decide how footage will reach the storage system before comparing sensor headlines.
Which NAS route fits your existing recording setup?
E1’s local card recordings can be backed up to SMB3-compatible NAS storage. Its instructions require an inserted supported card and SMB-compatible software. Choose this arrangement when copying the camera’s card recordings to that compatible destination is the workflow you want. Include the camera-side card even if you already own a NAS. E220 also lists NAS via RTSP among its supported storage options. Check whether the recorder or NAS application you intend to use accepts that camera route before buying. The two labels describe different integration arrangements; a storage box alone is not a compatibility check. An existing E220 owner with working RTSP recording should keep that setup unless another documented E1 feature solves a specific problem. A new buyer starting without compatible software should first choose the recording arrangement, then price its card, disk and software requirements. The camera-price gap alone cannot settle that complete-system decision.
Can both keep a local timeline without a bill?
E1 supports full-quality continuous or event recording on a separately purchased card. E220 similarly documents local card footage without monthly fees, with continuous and event modes. Either card route can suit a household that revisits recent events and saves an important clip when needed. Choose a network-storage arrangement when it serves an additional retention or recording need. A continuous timeline helps revisit the period around an event, while event clips may suit occasional room checks. Both depend on the chosen card and recording settings. Save a significant incident before ordinary recording overwrites it. Card capacity alone cannot promise a number of retained days. Optional paid cloud storage is a separate purchase from these documented local routes.
Does Apple Home show the same native detail?
E1 and E220’s cited native specifications describe the camera output, not every ecosystem route. E220 states When used with Apple HomeKit, streaming is limited to 1080p. E1’s secure-video arrangement has separate Apple hub and active-plan requirements. Choose that integration when its viewing and storage arrangement is the one you intend to use. If native local detail is the buying reason, compare the camera’s app and storage route. If the room is mostly viewed through Apple Home, inspect that integration’s limits first. Check the controls you actually need rather than assume every native app setting carries over. Our recommendation compares documented features and setup requirements. We have no hands-on testing.
What is the complete buying cost?
The checked listed hardware reference prices are $69.99 USD and $54.99. Their listed hardware difference is $15.00, using the stated configurations and source-check dates. Retailer buttons can lead to a different checkout price. E1’s cited package requires separately supplied power equipment; E220’s documentation lists an adapter and cable. Add the chosen card, any missing NAS disk or recording software, and required power equipment to the cart. Existing owners should compare that full replacement cost with keeping working equipment. The difference between two new boxes is not the cost of switching.
Which prices are being compared?
These are separate listed hardware reference prices from Aqara US store and eufy US store. The displayed difference is not a delivered checkout saving; tax, shipping, promotions and package details can differ.
Our pick for the documented card-backup route
Choose E1 when its card-backup route fits your compatible software and destination. Budget the required card and separately supplied power equipment. Its NAS support is a specific workflow, not an exclusive advantage over E220.
Our pick for an existing RTSP setup or simpler local timeline
Choose E220 when your recorder supports its NAS-via-RTSP route, or its local card timeline covers the task at the lower reference price. Keep a working E220 recording system; the supplied adapter also helps a new installation.
Frequently asked questions
Does E1 include the required power supply?
The cited E1 listing states A 5V 2A USB-A power supply is required and is not included.. E220’s documented package lists an adapter and cable. Confirm the selected retailer package before relying on included accessories, since the manufacturer reference and a retailer bundle may differ.
Is cloud storage required for local continuous footage?
No, the cited card routes do not require purchasing cloud storage. Insert the supported card and select the mode. Apple secure video is a separate route with its own hub and plan requirements.
Does eufy E220 support NAS storage too?
Yes. Its official storage FAQ lists NAS via RTSP alongside local microSD and optional cloud backup. Check compatibility with your chosen recorder or NAS software. This is different from E1’s documented card-backup route to SMB3-compatible NAS storage.
Should an E220 owner switch to E1 for backup?
Keep E220 when its current RTSP recording setup already meets your needs. Consider E1 when you specifically want its documented card-backup workflow and have checked the required software, card and power equipment. Buying another camera requires the full replacement budget.
Official sources
Aqara Camera E1: checked exact-model source and conditions — checked 2026-10-05
eufy Indoor Cam E220: checked exact-model source and conditions — checked 2026-10-05