Some of the new EaO filters are a bit smaller than there SDF conterparts but I don't have an EaO34 to compare. The EaO filters are not made by Hastings so there are some design changes with the new filters. Some have inlet end bypass valve for instance.
With the EaO filter, the size difference is meaningless, the media is so much bette it more than makes up for any size advantage they might be.