If you’re a proud owner of the Eufy HomeBase 3, you already know it’s the brain behind your smart security system. It’s fantastic for local storage, but sometimes the built-in capacity just isn’t enough, especially if you’re rocking multiple cameras or want continuous recording. That’s where upgrading your eufy HomeBase 3 hard drive comes into play!
Adding a compatible hard drive or solid-state drive (SSD) can vastly expand your storage, letting you keep more footage for longer without worrying about cloud subscriptions or running out of space. But with so many options out there, which one should you choose? Don’t sweat it – we’ve done the legwork for you.
We’ve rounded up 7 top hard drive and SSD options that are either directly compatible or good alternatives for general surveillance needs, helping you pick the perfect storage solution to beef up your Eufy system. Let’s dive right in!
Why Upgrade Your Eufy HomeBase 3 Storage?
Before we get to the reviews, let’s quickly touch on why an upgrade is a smart move:
- Extended Video Retention: Keep weeks or even months of footage, not just days. Perfect for reviewing past events or having evidence ready.
- Continuous Recording: For compatible Eufy cameras, a larger drive allows for 24/7 recording, ensuring you don’t miss a single moment.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your critical security footage is safely stored locally gives you unparalleled peace of mind.
- Improved Performance (with SSDs): While HDDs are great for capacity, SSDs offer faster access times, which can subtly improve overall system responsiveness, especially during video playback.
Top 7 Hard Drives for Your Eufy HomeBase 3
Here are our top picks to consider for expanding your HomeBase 3’s storage capabilities:
1. Samsung 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive
The Samsung 870 EVO isn’t just any SSD; it’s a performance powerhouse. Known for its exceptional reliability and lightning-fast speeds, this 1TB solid-state drive is an excellent choice if you’re looking to give your HomeBase 3 a serious speed boost. While the HomeBase 3 doesn’t fully leverage SSD speeds for raw video throughput, the 870 EVO’s durability and superior handling of constant read/write cycles make it a very robust option for long-term surveillance storage.
Key Features:
– THE SSD ALL-STAR: Indisputable performance, reliability, and compatibility built upon Samsung’s pioneering technology.
– EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMANCE: Maximizes SATA interface limits with 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds.
– INDUSTRY-DEFINING RELIABILITY: Up to 600 TBW under a 5-year limited warranty.
– MORE COMPATIBLE THAN EVER: Tested for major host systems and applications, including NAS and video recording devices.
– UPGRADE WITH EASE: Simple plug-and-play into standard 2.5-inch SATA form factor.
– SAMSUNG MAGICIAN SOFTWARE: Helps manage your drive, monitor health, and enhance performance.
– WORLD’S #1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND: In-house production of all firmware and components.
– S.M.A.R.T. Support: Yes.
– AES 256-bit Encryption (Class 0), TCG/Opal, IEEE1667 (Encrypted drive).
Pros:
– Exceptional reliability and long lifespan for continuous operation.
– Faster performance for smoother system responsiveness (though HomeBase 3 specific gains may vary).
– Low power consumption and silent operation.
– Trusted brand with a strong warranty.
Cons:
– Higher price point per gigabyte compared to traditional HDDs.
– Overkill for raw video storage capacity if speed isn’t a primary concern.
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the 870 EVO for its rock-solid performance and reliability. Many note how it breathes new life into devices, making it a favorite for those who value speed and longevity.
2. Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
The Crucial BX500 is another fantastic 2.5-inch SSD option for your Eufy HomeBase 3. It’s designed to make your system boot up faster and load files quicker, significantly improving overall responsiveness. Crucial is a well-respected name in memory and storage, and the BX500 offers a compelling balance of performance and affordability, making it a great value pick if you want the benefits of an SSD without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
– Boot up faster. Load files quicker. Improve overall system responsiveness.
– 300% faster than a typical hard drive.
– Improves battery life because it’s 45x more energy efficient than a typical hard drive.
– Micron 3D NAND – advancing the world’s memory and storage technology for 40 years.
– Crucial 3-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Significant speed upgrade over traditional hard drives.
– Energy-efficient, contributing to lower heat generation.
– Reputable brand with a decent warranty.
– More budget-friendly than some high-end SSDs.
Cons:
– May not offer the absolute peak performance of more premium SSDs.
– Still more expensive per TB than HDDs.
User Impressions: Customers often highlight the noticeable speed improvements and ease of installation. It’s widely regarded as a reliable and cost-effective upgrade for various devices, including NAS setups.
3. BUSlink HB4TBHDD 4TB Hard Drive Expansion for Eufy HomeBase 3
This is the one designed specifically for the Eufy HomeBase 3! The BUSlink HB4TBHDD is a tailor-made eufy HomeBase 3 hard drive expansion, offering a generous 4TB of storage. Its plug-and-play simplicity means you won’t be fumbling with complex settings or compatibility checks. If you want a no-fuss, guaranteed-to-work solution that maximizes your HomeBase 3’s video storage potential, this is probably your best bet.
Key Features:
– Capacity: Expands your HomeBase S380 (HomeBase 3) to 4TB.
– Compatibility: Designed specifically as an expansion drive for the HomeBase S380 (HomeBase 3).
– Easy Installation: Simply plug and play into your HomeBase S380’s available drive bay.
– Compatible with HomeBase 3 for S330 eufyCam (eufyCam 3), S300 eufyCam (eufyCam 3C), eufyCam E330 (Professional).
Pros:
– 100% guaranteed compatibility with Eufy HomeBase 3.
– Easy plug-and-play installation.
– Ample 4TB storage capacity for extensive video history.
– Specifically optimized for Eufy HomeBase 3 use cases.
Cons:
– Potentially a proprietary solution, limiting choice if you prefer other brands.
– Price might be higher due to specialized compatibility.
User Impressions: Users who have this drive appreciate its seamless integration and the sheer volume of storage it provides for their Eufy system, calling it a “must-have” for serious Eufy users.
4. Western Digital 1TB WD Blue SA510 SATA Internal Solid State Drive
The WD Blue SA510 is a solid, reliable 1TB SSD from Western Digital, a brand synonymous with storage. This 2.5-inch internal drive offers a good balance of performance and cost-effectiveness for general computing and would serve well as a eufy HomeBase 3 hard drive upgrade. It provides faster data access than traditional HDDs, which can be beneficial for managing and reviewing your security footage.
Key Features:
– Storage Capacity: 1 TB.
– Drive Interface: SATA.
– Drive Type: Internal.
– Form Factor: 2.5″.
– Wireless LAN: No.
Pros:
– Reputable Western Digital quality and reliability.
– Faster performance compared to traditional hard drives.
– Good capacity for a decent amount of video footage.
– Standard 2.5-inch form factor ensures compatibility.
Cons:
– Not specifically optimized for surveillance, though it works fine.
– SSDs are still more expensive per TB than HDDs.
User Impressions: WD Blue drives are generally well-received for their consistency and dependable performance. Users find them easy to install and reliable for everyday use.
5. Western Digital 1TB WD Blue Mobile Hard Drive HDD – 2.5″ Internal
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to get 1TB of storage, the Western Digital 1TB WD Blue Mobile Hard Drive is a classic choice. As a traditional HDD, it offers a great balance of capacity and affordability. While not as fast as an SSD, its reliable everyday computing performance makes it a perfectly viable option for expanding your HomeBase 3’s video storage, especially if budget is a primary concern.
Key Features:
– Reliable everyday computing.
– WD quality and reliability.
– Free Acronis True Image WD Edition cloning software.
– WD F.I.T. Lab certified to work with a wide range of high-performance PC configurations.
Pros:
– Very affordable per gigabyte.
– Proven reliability from Western Digital.
– Good for general video storage where extreme speed isn’t critical.
– Standard 2.5-inch form factor.
Cons:
– Slower read/write speeds compared to SSDs.
– Generates more heat and noise than an SSD (though minimal).
– Less resistant to physical shock than SSDs.
User Impressions: WD Blue HDDs are known workhorses. Users appreciate their consistent performance for general storage needs and their reputation for longevity.
6. Seagate Skyhawk 4TB Video Internal Hard Drive HDD – 3.5 Inch
The Seagate Skyhawk series is built from the ground up for video surveillance systems like DVRs and NVRs. This 4TB drive offers massive capacity, designed to handle the demanding, continuous workloads of multiple security cameras. It excels at maintaining performance in multi-bay systems and offers features like SkyHawk Health Management.
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR EUFY HOMEBASE 3 USERS: The Eufy HomeBase 3 requires a 2.5-inch internal drive. This Seagate Skyhawk is a 3.5-inch drive and will not fit directly inside the HomeBase 3’s internal drive bay. This drive is fantastic for dedicated surveillance NVRs/DVRs, but not for direct internal installation in your Eufy HomeBase 3.
Key Features:
– Built for video DVR and NVR security camera systems.
– SkyHawk delivers video-optimized storage.
– Support workloads of up to 180TB/year—that’s 64 simultaneously streaming HD cameras with zero dropped frames.
– Built-in RV sensors allow drives to maintain performance in multi-bay systems.
– Lower power consumption reduces heat emissions and improves reliability.
– Drives can easily be monitored with SkyHawk Health Management.
– Enjoy long-term peace of mind with 1M hours MTBF, an included three-year limited warranty, and three-year in-house Rescue Data Recovery Services.
Pros:
– Specifically designed and optimized for 24/7 video surveillance.
– High capacity (4TB) for extensive footage retention.
– Robust performance for multiple camera streams.
– Excellent reliability with health management features.
Cons:
– Incompatible with Eufy HomeBase 3’s internal 2.5-inch drive bay. (Major con for this specific use case).
– Not suitable for direct plug-and-play with the HomeBase 3.
– Larger 3.5-inch form factor.
User Impressions: For actual NVR/DVR systems, the Skyhawk is a go-to. Users laud its performance in handling continuous video streams and its reliability in dedicated surveillance setups.
7. Seagate Barracuda ST4000LM024 4 TB 2.5″ Internal Hard Drive
The Seagate Barracuda ST4000LM024 offers a massive 4TB of storage in a 2.5-inch form factor, making it a strong contender for expanding your HomeBase 3’s capacity. While it boasts a large capacity, it’s important to note its 15mm thickness. The Eufy HomeBase 3 is known to support 2.5-inch drives up to 15mm, making this a viable, high-capacity mechanical hard drive option for your setup. It’s a great choice if you prioritize sheer storage volume without going for an SSD.
Key Features:
– 4 TB Capacity.
– 2.5″ Internal Hard Drive.
– 15mm thickness.
Pros:
– Very high storage capacity (4TB) in a 2.5-inch form factor.
– Cost-effective storage solution.
– Suitable for large video libraries.
– Fits the HomeBase 3’s 15mm thickness allowance.
Cons:
– Slower performance compared to SSDs.
– 15mm thickness might be an issue for some ultra-slim laptops (but fine for HomeBase 3).
– Traditional HDD characteristics (more fragile than SSDs, some noise/heat).
User Impressions: Users love the Barracuda for its spacious capacity and reliability as a storage drive. It’s a popular choice for external enclosures and devices that can accommodate its thickness.
What to Consider When Choosing a Eufy HomeBase 3 Hard Drive
Ready to pick your eufy HomeBase 3 hard drive? Here’s a quick checklist:
- Form Factor: The HomeBase 3 exclusively supports 2.5-inch SATA drives. Ensure your chosen drive is 2.5 inches.
- Thickness: The HomeBase 3 can accommodate drives up to 15mm thick. Most 2.5-inch SSDs are 7mm, while HDDs can range from 7mm to 15mm.
- Capacity: How much footage do you need to store? Drives range from 1TB to 4TB+. More cameras or continuous recording means you’ll want higher capacity.
- SSD vs. HDD:
- SSD (Solid State Drive): Faster, more durable (no moving parts), silent, lower power consumption. More expensive per TB. Good for faster access and longevity.
- HDD (Hard Disk Drive): More affordable per TB, available in higher capacities. Slower, has moving parts (less durable for constant movement), generates some noise/heat. Great for raw storage volume.
- Reliability & Warranty: For continuous recording, a reliable drive is key. Look for reputable brands and good warranty periods.
- Specific Surveillance Features (for HDDs): For HDDs, some, like Seagate Skyhawk (though 3.5″ and incompatible internally), are optimized for 24/7 video recording. While not a must for the HomeBase 3, it’s a bonus for a 2.5″ HDD if you find one.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Eufy HomeBase 3’s storage is a smart move that vastly enhances your security system’s capabilities. Whether you opt for the speed and durability of an SSD or the cost-effective, high-capacity storage of an HDD, there’s a perfect drive out there for your needs. Always double-check the 2.5-inch SATA form factor and the 15mm thickness limit to ensure seamless compatibility.
With one of these top picks for your eufy HomeBase 3 hard drive, you’ll enjoy longer video retention, better performance, and ultimately, greater peace of mind. Go ahead and give your HomeBase 3 the storage upgrade it deserves!
FAQ Section
Q1: What type of hard drive does the Eufy HomeBase 3 use?
A1: The Eufy HomeBase 3 uses a 2.5-inch SATA internal hard drive or solid-state drive (SSD). It supports drives with a thickness of up to 15mm.
Q2: Is it better to use an SSD or an HDD for the Eufy HomeBase 3?
A2: Both SSDs and HDDs work. SSDs offer faster performance, lower power consumption, and better durability (no moving parts), but are generally more expensive per gigabyte. HDDs are more cost-effective for large capacities but are slower and less durable. For simple video storage, an HDD is usually sufficient and more budget-friendly, but an SSD will offer a snappier overall experience.
Q3: How much storage capacity do I need for my HomeBase 3?
A3: The ideal capacity depends on how many cameras you have, their recording settings (e.g., continuous recording vs. motion-activated), and how long you want to retain footage. A 1TB drive can typically store weeks of footage for a few cameras, while 4TB can last for months. Eufy HomeBase 3 supports up to 16TB.
Q4: How do I install a new hard drive in my Eufy HomeBase 3?
A4: Installation is quite straightforward. Power off your HomeBase 3, open the bottom cover (usually by twisting or sliding), locate the drive bay, insert your 2.5-inch SATA drive, secure it if necessary, and replace the cover. The HomeBase 3 will typically format the new drive automatically upon boot-up.
Q5: Will installing a new hard drive void my Eufy warranty?
A5: Eufy officially supports user-installable storage. Therefore, installing a compatible 2.5-inch SATA drive in the designated bay should not void your HomeBase 3 warranty. Always follow the instructions in the HomeBase 3 manual.
Q6: Can I use an external hard drive with the Eufy HomeBase 3?
A6: As of now, the Eufy HomeBase 3 does not officially support external hard drives for local video storage. The storage expansion must be an internal 2.5-inch SATA drive.
Q7: What happens to my old footage when I install a new drive?
A7: When you install a new drive, the HomeBase 3 will format it, erasing any previous data on that new drive. Your old footage stored internally on the HomeBase 3 will be inaccessible once you swap the drive, so be sure to back up any critical footage beforehand if needed.
