So, you’ve invested in the awesome eufy HomeBase 3 (or you’re planning to!), and you’re loving the peace of mind it brings with its BionicMind AI and seamless security ecosystem. But what happens when that 16GB of built-in storage starts looking a little… small? That’s where expanding your storage comes in!
Whether you’re recording multiple cameras, holding onto months of footage, or simply want to future-proof your setup, finding the right storage solution is key. You’re probably wondering about the best eufy HomeBase 3 hard drive recommendations out there. While the HomeBase 3 itself supports up to a massive 16TB of storage, directly recommending a specific hard drive can be tricky as eufy primarily integrates these capabilities into its bundles.
But don’t worry! We’ve done the digging to highlight the best eufy products and compatible solutions that make expanding your HomeBase 3 storage simple and effective. Let’s dive into some top options that ensure your security footage is always safe and accessible without those annoying monthly fees.
Understanding eufy HomeBase 3 Storage
Before we jump into the specific eufy HomeBase 3 hard drive recommendations, it’s helpful to know how the HomeBase 3 handles storage. It comes with 16GB of internal storage, which is a good start. However, its real power lies in its expandability. You can pop in an external 2.5-inch SATA hard drive or SSD (up to 16TB!) to greatly increase your local recording capacity. This is fantastic because it means all your footage stays private and secure, right there in your home, with no subscription fees.
Our Top Picks for eufy HomeBase 3 Storage Solutions
Here are our top picks, focusing on products that either are the HomeBase 3 itself (highlighting its expandability) or specific storage expansions designed for it.
eufy Security HomeBase S380 (HomeBase 3)
This is the brain of your eufy security system, and it’s where all your footage gets stored locally. What makes the HomeBase 3 stand out is its incredible expandability – it comes with 16GB of built-in storage, but you can easily upgrade it with an internal 2.5-inch hard drive or SSD up to a staggering 16TB. This means you can keep years of security footage without paying a dime in monthly fees, all while benefiting from its powerful BionicMind AI for smart recognition and proactive deterrence.
- Effortless Recognition, Every Time: BionicMind empowers your home security with 99.9% facial recognition accuracy, ensuring a welcoming experience for friends and family while keeping unwelcome visitors at bay with smart AI tracking.
- Seamless Security Ecosystem: Enjoy the convenience of monitoring your entire home with a unified system, as HomeBase 3 connects all compatible eufy Security devices through the intuitive eufy Security app.
- Uncompromised Privacy Protection: Rest easy knowing personal data is shielded with dual-layered AES-128 and RSA-1024 encryption, accessible only by the user.
- Proactive Intruder Deterrence: Stay ahead of security breaches with HomeBase 3’s 100dB alarm siren, automatically triggered by AI tracking motion detection.
- Smart Storage without the Fees: Save on additional costs with 16GB of inbuilt storage, expandable up to a massive 16TB, ensuring ample space for all security footage with zero monthly fees.
Pros:
– Central hub for all compatible eufy devices.
– Massive 16TB expandable local storage capacity.
– No monthly fees for storage.
– Advanced AI (BionicMind) for smart detection.
– Robust privacy and security features.
Cons:
– Requires compatible eufy devices to maximize potential.
– Initial setup of an external hard drive may require basic tech comfort.
User Impressions: Users frequently praise the HomeBase 3 for its powerful AI features and the significant cost savings due to no monthly fees. The expandable storage is a huge win, offering peace of mind that all events are recorded and saved locally.
BUSlink HB4TBHDD 4TB Hard Drive Expansion for Eufy HomeBase
When it comes to specific eufy HomeBase 3 hard drive recommendations, the BUSlink HB4TBHDD is one of the few dedicated options designed specifically for seamless integration. This 4TB internal hard drive is a straightforward plug-and-play solution, making it incredibly easy to boost your HomeBase 3’s recording capacity. If you’re looking for a simple, no-fuss way to add significant storage without needing to research compatible drives yourself, this is an excellent choice.
- Capacity: Expands your HomeBase S380 (HomeBase 3) with a 4TB capacity.
- 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.
- Broad Device Compatibility: Works with HomeBase 3 for S330 eufyCam (eufyCam 3), S300 eufyCam (eufyCam 3C), and eufyCam E330 (Professional).
Pros:
– Specifically designed for HomeBase 3, ensuring compatibility.
– Plug-and-play installation for ease of use.
– Offers a substantial 4TB of additional storage.
– Reliable performance for continuous recording.
Cons:
– Limited to 4TB, though you can choose higher capacity drives if you source them yourself.
– May be pricier than generic hard drives of the same capacity.
User Impressions: Customers love the BUSlink drive for its “it just works” simplicity. Many appreciate not having to worry about compatibility issues and find the 4TB ample for typical home security needs.
eufy Security eufyCam S3 Pro 3-Cam Kit, Solar Camera
While not a standalone hard drive, this kit is an excellent option if you’re building out your eufy security system and want to ensure you have the HomeBase 3’s expandable storage from the get-go. This kit comes complete with the HomeBase S380 (HomeBase 3) and three 4K solar-powered cameras, ready to record to its 16GB built-in storage and whatever hard drive you choose to add. It highlights how the HomeBase 3’s storage capabilities are central to eufy’s advanced camera systems.
- Nighttime That’s as Bright as Day: Harness the power of a 4K camera combined with MaxColor Vision technology for exceptionally detailed surveillance footage.
- Reliable Solar Power System: Experience peace of mind year-round with continuous, reliable security powered by SolarPlus 2.0 technology (includes backup solar panel).
- Radar-Powered Detection Alerts Only What Matters: Dual motion detection (radar and PIR) accurately identifies human movement, reducing false alerts by 99%.
- Local Security, No Monthly Fee: 16GB of on-device storage and up to 16TB of expandable storage without monthly fees, controlled by HomeBase S380’s self-learning AI.
- Smart Home Integration: Compatible with HomeKit, Alexa, and other voice assistants.
Pros:
– Includes HomeBase 3 with all its expandable storage benefits.
– High-quality 4K cameras with excellent night vision.
– Solar-powered cameras offer continuous operation.
– Advanced motion detection minimizes false alarms.
– Comprehensive security solution out of the box.
Cons:
– Higher initial investment due to being a full kit.
– Still requires a separate hard drive for significant storage expansion.
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the crystal-clear 4K video quality and the convenience of solar charging. The inclusion of the HomeBase 3 and its expandable storage capacity is a major selling point for those wanting robust local recording.
eufy Security Video Doorbell E340 HomeBase S380 (HomeBase 3)
This bundle brings the power of the HomeBase 3’s expandable storage to your doorstep security. The Video Doorbell E340 is unique with its dual-camera setup, providing both a front-facing and a downward-facing view, ensuring you don’t miss a single detail – from packages to people. Paired with the HomeBase S380, you get 16GB of built-in storage, ready to be expanded up to 16TB with your choice of hard drive. This ensures that every delivery, visitor, or suspicious activity is recorded and stored securely, right at home.
- Dual Cameras, Double Security: Two cameras work together to deliver advanced viewing, focusing on people and filling in gaps with a view of the floor.
- Color Night Vision for a Clear View: Industry’s first dual-light system paired with advanced light capturing for clear nighttime viewing up to 16 ft (5 m).
- See What Matters in 2K Full HD Clarity: 2K clarity reveals more details at your doorstep.
- Expandable Local Storage, No Monthly Fee: Save recordings locally with no ongoing costs; 16GB built-in and expandable up to 16TB.
- BionicMind Empowers Your Security: Provides facial recognition, self-learning AI for 99.9% accuracy, and auto-categorized security reports.
Pros:
– Unique dual-camera doorbell provides comprehensive coverage.
– Excellent 2K video clarity and advanced color night vision.
– Comes with HomeBase 3, enabling up to 16TB of local storage expansion.
– No monthly fees for video recording.
– Integrated BionicMind AI for smart alerts.
Cons:
– The doorbell itself requires an existing doorbell wire for power or a separate battery.
– Thumbnail previews for push notifications may use temporary cloud storage.
User Impressions: The dual-camera feature is a game-changer for many, providing unparalleled visibility at the doorstep. Users appreciate the robust local storage provided by the HomeBase 3, ensuring all doorbell events are captured and easily accessible without subscription fees.
eufy Security eufyCam S330 (eufyCam 3) 3-Cam Kit, Security
Similar to the S3 Pro kit, the eufyCam S330 (eufyCam 3) 3-Cam Kit is another fantastic way to get started with a powerful security system that fully leverages the HomeBase 3’s impressive storage capabilities. These 4K cameras boast “Forever Power” with integrated solar panels, meaning they’re essentially self-sustaining. Paired with the HomeBase 3, you get 16GB of built-in storage and the potential to expand up to a massive 16TB with your own choice of a portable hard drive. This combination offers unparalleled local storage for your 4K footage, ensuring you capture every detail.
- See 4K Detail Day and Night: Spot tiny features on any potential trespasser with 4K clarity, enhanced by a Starlight photosensitive system for color night vision.
- Forever Power Durability: Self-sustaining in any outdoor environment with an integrated solar panel only needing 2 hours of daily sunlight.
- Local Expandable Storage: Control your own data with advanced encryption; 16 GB built-in storage with the ability to expand up to 16 TB with a portable hard drive (not included).
- BionicMind AI Empowers Your Security: Differentiates between family and strangers with self-learning AI.
- Put Yourself in Control: Convenient voice activation via Alexa and the Google Assistant, plus clear two-way audio and activity zones.
Pros:
– Includes HomeBase 3 for expandable local storage (up to 16TB).
– Self-sustaining 4K cameras with solar panels.
– Excellent night vision with color capability.
– Advanced BionicMind AI for smart detection.
– Voice assistant integration and two-way audio.
Cons:
– A portable hard drive needs to be purchased separately for expansion.
– Higher upfront cost as it’s a complete camera system.
User Impressions: The “Forever Power” feature of these cameras is a huge hit, eliminating the need for constant recharging. Users appreciate the high-resolution 4K footage and the ability to store it all locally on the HomeBase 3, making it a truly self-sufficient and privacy-focused security solution.
Frequently Asked Questions about eufy HomeBase 3 Hard Drives
Q1: What type of hard drive does the eufy HomeBase 3 support?
The eufy HomeBase 3 supports a 2.5-inch SATA hard drive (HDD) or Solid State Drive (SSD). This is the standard size often found in laptops.
Q2: What is the maximum storage capacity I can add to HomeBase 3?
The eufy HomeBase 3 can be expanded with a hard drive or SSD up to a massive 16TB (terabytes). This allows for a significant amount of local video storage, potentially months or even years of footage depending on your camera count and recording settings.
Q3: Do I really need to add a hard drive to my HomeBase 3?
While the HomeBase 3 comes with 16GB of built-in storage, adding an external hard drive is highly recommended, especially if you have multiple cameras, want to record 24/7 (where supported by cameras), or simply desire to keep a long history of footage. The 16GB will fill up quickly with high-resolution recordings.
Q4: Is it better to use an HDD or SSD for the HomeBase 3?
For most users, a traditional HDD (Hard Disk Drive) is sufficient and more cost-effective, especially for larger capacities. HDDs are generally good for sequential writes (like video recording) and offer a lower price per gigabyte. SSDs (Solid State Drives) are faster and more durable (no moving parts) but significantly more expensive for the same capacity. For continuous video recording, the speed benefit of an SSD isn’t usually critical, so an HDD is often the more practical choice.
Q5: How do I install a hard drive in the eufy HomeBase 3?
Installing a 2.5-inch SATA drive in the HomeBase 3 is quite simple. There’s a dedicated drive bay on the bottom of the HomeBase 3. You just need to slide the hard drive into the slot until it connects, then secure it with any provided screws if necessary (though many are tool-less). Once installed, the HomeBase 3 should automatically detect and format the drive. Always consult your HomeBase 3 manual for specific instructions.
Q6: Are there any monthly fees associated with using a hard drive for HomeBase 3?
No, one of the biggest advantages of the eufy HomeBase 3 is its support for expandable local storage. Once you’ve purchased and installed your hard drive, there are absolutely no ongoing monthly fees for recording or storing your video footage. This offers significant long-term savings compared to cloud-based storage solutions.
Q7: Can I use any 2.5-inch SATA hard drive, or do I need a specific type?
While the HomeBase 3 is generally compatible with most 2.5-inch SATA HDDs and SSDs, it’s always recommended to use drives designed for surveillance (like WD Purple or Seagate SkyHawk) as they are built for continuous writing and offer better longevity. However, many standard consumer-grade 2.5-inch SATA drives will also work, especially for casual home use. Ensure the drive is 2.5-inch and SATA interface.
