Are you a proud owner of a Eufy HomeBase 3 and find yourself constantly bumping into storage limitations? You’re not alone! While the HomeBase 3 comes with some internal storage, for serious long-term security footage retention, you’ll definitely want to expand it. The good news is, your Eufy HomeBase S380 (HomeBase 3) is designed to accommodate a standard 2.5-inch SATA hard drive or SSD, giving you plenty of room to store weeks, or even months, of valuable recordings without any pesky monthly fees.
Choosing the best 2.5 hard drive for Eufy HomeBase 3 can feel a bit overwhelming with so many options out there. Do you go for a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD) for sheer capacity at a lower price, or a Solid State Drive (SSD) for lightning-fast access, durability, and quieter operation? We’re here to help you navigate the choices and find the perfect storage solution to keep your Eufy security system running smoothly.
Let’s dive into our top picks, covering a range of capacities and types, so you can make an informed decision for your Eufy HomeBase 3.
1. BUSlink Hard Drive Expansion for HomeBase S380 (HomeBase 3)
When it comes to finding the best 2.5 hard drive for Eufy HomeBase 3, it doesn’t get much more tailored than this! The BUSlink Hard Drive Expansion is specifically designed for your HomeBase S380, offering a seamless, plug-and-play experience. You won’t have to guess about compatibility or complicated setups; this drive is built to integrate perfectly, making it an excellent choice for expanding your Eufy security system’s local storage with minimal fuss.
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Key Features:
- Purpose-built for HomeBase S380 (HomeBase 3)
- Ample storage for extended video recordings
- Easy Plug & Play Installation (no software/configuration needed)
- Reliable BUSlink quality for 24/7 operation
- Compact & Quiet Operation
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Pros:
- Guaranteed compatibility with Eufy HomeBase 3
- Extremely easy installation process
- Designed for continuous security recording
- Quiet operation won’t disturb your home environment
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Cons:
- May be a proprietary solution, potentially limiting capacity choices to what BUSlink offers
- Price might be higher due to specialized design
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise this drive for its “it just works” simplicity and seamless integration. Many appreciate not having to worry about formatting or troubleshooting, noting it’s a true set-it-and-forget-it solution for their Eufy HomeBase 3.
2. MDD MQ04ABB400 4TB 5400RPM 16MB Cache SATA 6.0Gb/s 2.5in
If you’re looking for massive storage capacity without breaking the bank, the MDD MQ04ABB400 4TB hard drive could be a strong contender. With a whopping 4TB, you’ll have an incredible amount of space for your Eufy HomeBase 3’s security footage, meaning less overwriting and more data retention. Just be aware of its specific physical dimensions; this drive is thicker than many standard 2.5-inch drives, so double-check your HomeBase 3’s internal bay clearance before purchasing.
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Key Features:
- High 4TB capacity for extensive video storage
- Standard 2.5″ SATA 6.0Gb/s interface
- 600,000 hours MTTF (Mean Time To Failure) for reliability
- 5400RPM speed and 16MB cache
- Bare drive only (no accessories included)
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Pros:
- Exceptional storage capacity for the price
- Suitable for surveillance systems requiring large local storage
- Reliable performance for continuous recording
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Cons:
- Important: 15mm height might be too thick for standard 2.5″ bays in the Eufy HomeBase 3. Always verify HomeBase 3’s maximum supported drive height.
- Bare drive – requires users to handle formatting
- HDD (Hard Disk Drive) technology is slower and more prone to mechanical failure than SSDs
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User Impressions: Buyers appreciate the immense storage for the cost, often using it in external enclosures or devices that can accommodate its thicker profile. For surveillance needs, the capacity is a major draw, but the thickness is a frequently mentioned caveat.
3. Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
Ready to upgrade your Eufy HomeBase 3 with speed and reliability? The Crucial BX500 1TB SSD is an excellent choice. Unlike traditional spinning hard drives, SSDs offer silent operation, enhanced durability against drops (though hopefully your HomeBase 3 isn’t falling!), and significantly faster data access. This means your HomeBase 3 could potentially process and retrieve footage quicker, contributing to a snappier overall experience. Plus, it’s more energy-efficient, which is always a bonus.
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Key Features:
- 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-inch Internal SSD
- Up to 300% faster than a typical hard drive
- Improves overall system responsiveness
- 45x more energy-efficient than typical HDDs
- Backed by Micron’s 3D NAND technology and a 3-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Much faster performance for quicker footage access
- Greater durability due to no moving parts
- Silent operation, perfect for home environments
- Energy-efficient, potentially leading to less heat generation
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Cons:
- Higher cost per gigabyte compared to HDDs
- 1TB might not be enough for very long-term, high-resolution footage for multiple cameras
- Write endurance (how many times data can be written) is a factor, though typically high enough for home surveillance
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User Impressions: Customers love the performance boost and peace of mind that comes with an SSD. They highlight the quick boot times and general responsiveness in devices where these are installed. It’s often recommended for those prioritizing speed and reliability over raw capacity-to-cost ratio.
4. Western Digital 1TB WD Blue Mobile Hard Drive HDD
The Western Digital 1TB WD Blue Mobile Hard Drive is a classic workhorse, offering a reliable and cost-effective way to expand your Eufy HomeBase 3’s storage. WD Blue drives are known for their consistent performance in everyday computing tasks, making them a solid choice for continuous video recording in your security system. If you’re looking for a dependable HDD from a reputable brand without spending a fortune, this 1TB option is definitely worth considering.
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Key Features:
- 1TB storage capacity
- Reliable everyday computing performance
- WD quality and reliability
- WD F.I.T. Lab certified for compatibility
- Free Acronis True Image WD Edition cloning software (though not needed for HomeBase 3)
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Pros:
- Trusted brand with a long history of reliable storage
- Good balance of price and capacity
- Suitable for 24/7 operation in surveillance systems
- Standard 2.5-inch form factor ensures compatibility
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Cons:
- Slower than SSD alternatives
- Contains moving parts, making it less durable than an SSD
- Can generate more heat and noise compared to an SSD
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User Impressions: Many users choose WD Blue drives for their consistent performance and value. They are frequently praised as reliable replacements or upgrades for laptops and small form factor PCs, which translates well to the HomeBase 3’s needs for stable, continuous recording.
5. eufy Security HomeBase S380 (HomeBase 3), eufy Edge Security
This isn’t a 2.5-inch hard drive for the HomeBase 3, but rather the Eufy HomeBase 3 itself! We’re including it here to highlight its incredible capabilities and underscore why an expandable drive is so crucial. The HomeBase 3 is the brain of your Eufy security ecosystem, boasting advanced AI like BionicMind facial recognition and expandable local storage up to a massive 16TB. It allows you to ditch those pesky monthly fees by storing all your security footage locally, making it an investment in both security and savings.
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Key Features:
- BionicMind AI with 99.9% facial recognition accuracy
- Seamlessly connects all compatible eufy Security devices
- Expandable Local Storage (up to 16TB, requires a 2.5″ drive)
- Uncompromised dual-layered AES-256 and RSA-1024 encryption
- Proactive Intruder Deterrence with 100dB alarm siren
- 16GB inbuilt storage for immediate use
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Pros:
- Eliminates monthly cloud storage fees
- Advanced AI features for smarter security
- Robust privacy protection for your data
- Central hub for your entire Eufy security system
- Massive potential for storage expansion with an added 2.5″ drive
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Cons:
- Requires a separate 2.5″ drive to achieve significant storage expansion
- 16GB internal storage fills up quickly with multiple cameras/high activity
- The initial investment for the HomeBase 3 itself
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User Impressions: Owners are consistently impressed with the HomeBase 3’s AI capabilities and the ability to avoid subscription fees. The expandable storage feature is a major draw, with many planning to add a large 2.5-inch drive to maximize its potential.
6. KingSpec 1TB 2.5 SSD SATA III Internal – 550MB/s Read
The KingSpec 1TB 2.5-inch SSD is another excellent choice if you’re leaning towards the speed and durability benefits of solid-state storage for your Eufy HomeBase 3. With impressive read/write speeds, your HomeBase 3 will feel more responsive, whether it’s recording new footage or you’re reviewing past events. KingSpec emphasizes reliability and performance, using 3D NAND flash memory to deliver a robust storage solution that’s both quiet and energy-efficient.
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Key Features:
- 1TB 2.5″ SATA III SSD with 3D NAND flash
- Max Sequential read speeds up to 550 MB/s, write speeds up to 520 MB/s
- Shockproof, anti-drop, quiet, and low power consumption
- Supports wear leveling, garbage collection, TRIM, S.M.A.R.T
- Wide compatibility (laptops, desktops, all-in-one computers, and HomeBase 3)
- 3-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Significantly faster than traditional HDDs
- Enhanced durability with no moving parts
- Quiet and efficient operation
- Supports essential technologies for long-term stability
- Good balance of capacity and performance for HomeBase 3
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Cons:
- More expensive per gigabyte than HDDs
- For extensive multi-camera setups, 1TB might be limiting over longer periods
- Less well-known brand compared to Crucial or Samsung
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User Impressions: Users praise KingSpec SSDs for their noticeable speed improvements in various devices and their overall reliability for the price. They often mention quick boot times and program loading, indicating it performs well for continuous data access, which is great for security footage.
7. Crucial BX500 2TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
If you loved the idea of the Crucial BX500 1TB but wished for more room, then the 2TB version is your answer! This SSD offers all the same fantastic benefits – blazing speed, rugged durability, and silent operation – but with double the capacity. For your Eufy HomeBase 3, this means you can store even more high-definition video footage for longer periods, giving you greater peace of mind without compromising on performance or reliability. It’s a superb upgrade for any HomeBase 3 owner looking for premium storage.
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Key Features:
- 2TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-inch Internal SSD
- Boot up faster. Load files quicker. Improve overall system responsiveness.
- 300% faster than a typical hard drive
- 45x more energy-efficient than a typical hard drive
- Micron 3D NAND technology with a Crucial 3-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of high capacity and SSD performance
- Superior speed for faster footage review and recording
- Highly durable and completely silent operation
- Energy-efficient design
- Trusted brand in memory and storage
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Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared to 2TB HDDs
- While 2TB is substantial, it’s still far from the HomeBase 3’s maximum 16TB potential
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User Impressions: Like its 1TB sibling, the 2TB Crucial BX500 receives rave reviews for transforming system performance. Users love the extra capacity combined with SSD speed, making it a popular choice for significant upgrades in laptops and other devices that benefit from fast, reliable storage.
8. Toshiba MQ01ABD 1 TB 2.5″ Internal Hard Drive MQ01ABD100
The Toshiba MQ01ABD 1TB internal hard drive is another solid, dependable option for expanding your Eufy HomeBase 3’s storage. Toshiba is a well-respected name in hard drive manufacturing, and this 2.5-inch drive offers a good balance of capacity and reliability for continuous surveillance recording. It features “Silent-Seek Technology” and excellent power efficiency, meaning it’ll operate quietly and efficiently within your HomeBase 3, making it a good fit for home environments.
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Key Features:
- 1TB 2.5″ SATA internal hard drive
- Silent-Seek Technology for quieter operation
- Excellent power efficiency
- Built-in collision sensor for data protection (when in a mobile device)
- Advanced Format technology for efficient data storage
- S.M.A.R.T. support for drive health monitoring
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Pros:
- Reliable performance from a reputable brand
- Good 1TB capacity for basic to moderate extended recording
- Operates relatively quietly and efficiently
- Cost-effective storage solution
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Cons:
- Slower data access compared to SSDs
- More susceptible to mechanical failure than SSDs (due to moving parts)
- Generates more heat and vibration than an SSD
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User Impressions: Users typically find Toshiba drives to be reliable and cost-effective for general storage needs. They are often chosen for laptop upgrades or as secondary storage, where their quiet operation and decent performance make them a practical choice. For continuous use in a HomeBase 3, its reliability is key.
9. eufy Security HomeBase S380(HomeBase 3),eufy Edge Security
Again, this entry points to the Eufy HomeBase S380 (HomeBase 3) itself, not an internal hard drive. It’s important to understand the HomeBase 3’s role as the central security station that requires an internal 2.5-inch hard drive or SSD for significant storage expansion. This listing reiterates the core product and its capabilities, reminding us that while it comes with 16GB of built-in storage, adding a dedicated drive is essential for leveraging its full local storage potential and AI features over time. Think of it as the ultimate container for your chosen storage device.
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Key Features:
- Central security hub for eufy Edge Security devices
- Supports expandable local storage up to 16TB with a 2.5″ drive
- Designed for a unified security ecosystem
- Robust build for home security integration
- Leverages AI (BionicMind) for smart detection and recognition
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Pros:
- Enables expansive local storage for long-term footage retention
- Foundation for Eufy’s advanced AI security features
- One-time purchase, no recurring cloud storage fees
- Integrated security and monitoring via Eufy Security app
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Cons:
- Initial 16GB internal storage is limited for continuous recording
- Requires a separate purchase and installation of a 2.5″ drive for true expansion
- The HomeBase itself is an investment
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User Impressions: Reviews for the HomeBase 3 consistently highlight its robust features, especially the local storage and BionicMind AI. Users appreciate the ability to custom-fit their storage needs with a 2.5-inch drive, ensuring they have control over their data and recordings.
10. KingSpec 2TB 2.5 SSD SATA III Internal – 550MB/s Read
For those who want substantial storage capacity combined with the peak performance of an SSD, the KingSpec 2TB 2.5-inch SSD is an outstanding choice for your Eufy HomeBase 3. With 2TB, you get ample space for weeks or months of security footage, and the SSD’s high read/write speeds mean swift access to your recordings and smooth operation for the HomeBase 3’s AI functions. It’s built for reliability, offering quiet, cool, and durable storage that’s perfect for a 24/7 security system.
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Key Features:
- 2TB 2.5″ SATA III SSD with 3D NAND flash
- Max Sequential read speeds up to 550 MB/s, write speeds up to 520 MB/s
- High-performance, shockproof, anti-drop, quiet, and low power consumption
- Supports wear leveling, garbage collection, TRIM, S.M.A.R.T, etc.
- Wide compatibility for various systems (including HomeBase 3)
- 3-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support
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Pros:
- Excellent combination of high capacity and rapid SSD performance
- Superior durability and reliability for continuous use
- Completely silent and energy-efficient
- Advanced features ensure stable and long-lasting performance
- Significantly improves HomeBase 3 responsiveness
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Cons:
- Premium price point compared to 2TB HDDs
- While 2TB is great, the HomeBase 3 supports even larger capacities up to 16TB
- Brand recognition might be less than industry giants for some users
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User Impressions: Customers are generally thrilled with the performance and storage capacity of the KingSpec 2TB SSD. They often note a dramatic improvement in system speed and reliability, making it a popular upgrade for power users who demand both space and speed. It’s seen as a solid, cost-effective alternative to more expensive SSD brands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What kind of hard drive does the Eufy HomeBase 3 (S380) support?
A1: The Eufy HomeBase 3 supports a standard 2.5-inch SATA hard drive (HDD) or Solid State Drive (SSD). This is great because it gives you flexibility in choosing between capacity (HDDs) or speed and durability (SSDs).
Q2: How much storage can the Eufy HomeBase 3 hold?
A2: The Eufy HomeBase 3 comes with 16GB of built-in storage. However, you can significantly expand this by adding a 2.5-inch SATA drive, with support for capacities up to a massive 16TB! This allows for extensive local storage of security footage without monthly fees.
Q3: Is it better to use an HDD or an SSD for my Eufy HomeBase 3?
A3: It depends on your priorities!
* HDDs (Hard Disk Drives): Offer more storage capacity for a lower price, making them budget-friendly for large amounts of footage. They are generally reliable but have moving parts, making them slightly more susceptible to shock and generating more noise/heat.
* SSDs (Solid State Drives): Are faster, more durable (no moving parts), silent, and more energy-efficient. They typically cost more per gigabyte but offer snappier performance for accessing recordings.
For continuous 24/7 recording, both can work well, but an SSD might offer a slight edge in longevity and quiet operation.
Q4: How do I install a 2.5-inch hard drive into my Eufy HomeBase 3?
A4: Installing a drive into your HomeBase 3 is usually a straightforward process. You’ll typically need to open a compartment on the HomeBase (refer to your Eufy manual for exact steps), insert the 2.5-inch SATA drive into the bay, and secure it if necessary. Once installed and powered on, the HomeBase 3 software will prompt you to format the new drive, after which it will automatically start using it for recordings.
Q5: Do I need to format the new hard drive before installing it?
A5: No, you don’t need to pre-format the drive on a computer. Once you install the 2.5-inch drive into your Eufy HomeBase 3, the HomeBase’s software will detect the new storage and prompt you to format it directly within the Eufy Security app or HomeBase interface. This ensures it’s correctly set up for your security system.
Q6: Will expanding my HomeBase 3’s storage eliminate monthly fees?
A6: Yes! One of the biggest advantages of the Eufy HomeBase 3 is its support for expandable local storage. By installing your own 2.5-inch hard drive, you can store all your security footage directly on the HomeBase, completely eliminating the need for cloud storage subscriptions and their associated monthly fees.
Q7: Are there any specific brands of hard drives recommended for Eufy HomeBase 3?
A7: While specific “Eufy-branded” hard drives are limited (apart from the BUSlink direct expansion), reputable brands like Western Digital (WD Blue, WD Red for NAS drives can also work), Crucial, KingSpec, and Toshiba are generally good choices. The key is to ensure it’s a 2.5-inch SATA HDD or SSD. Always double-check the physical thickness for HDDs (e.g., 15mm drives might not fit standard 9.5mm slots).
Choosing the right 2.5-inch drive for your Eufy HomeBase 3 is a fantastic way to enhance your security system’s capabilities. Whether you prioritize vast storage with a traditional HDD or prefer the speed and durability of an SSD, there’s a perfect option out there for you. Happy recording!
