How to Make Eufy Camera Record All the Time
Discover how to set up your Eufy camera for 24/7 recording using local storage, HomeBase, or cloud options. This guide covers setup, troubleshooting, and best practices to ensure uninterrupted surveillance.
Key Takeaways
- Continuous recording requires a HomeBase 2 or 3: Most Eufy cameras need a compatible HomeBase hub to enable 24/7 recording via local storage.
- Use a high-endurance microSD card: For direct camera recording, choose a surveillance-grade card to handle constant write cycles.
- Enable “Always Record” in the Eufy app: This setting must be turned on manually in the camera’s recording schedule menu.
- Ensure stable power and Wi-Fi: Continuous recording drains power and bandwidth, so use wired power and a strong network connection.
- Check storage capacity regularly: Full storage stops recording, so monitor and manage your footage to avoid gaps.
- Cloud recording offers off-site backup: While not truly continuous on all plans, cloud storage adds redundancy and remote access.
- Troubleshoot common issues: If recording stops, check power, storage, firmware, and app settings for quick fixes.
How to Make Eufy Camera Record All the Time
So, you’ve got your Eufy camera set up and working great—motion alerts, crisp video, and peace of mind. But what if you want it to record all the time, not just when something moves? Whether you’re monitoring a busy driveway, keeping an eye on pets, or just want full coverage, continuous recording can be a game-changer.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through how to make your Eufy camera record 24/7. We’ll cover the equipment you need, step-by-step setup instructions, tips for optimal performance, and how to troubleshoot common problems. By the end, you’ll have a reliable, always-on surveillance system that never misses a moment.
Why Choose Continuous Recording?
Most Eufy cameras default to motion-activated recording, which saves storage and battery life. But motion detection isn’t perfect. Fast-moving objects, low-light conditions, or subtle movements can be missed. That’s where continuous recording shines.
Visual guide about How to Make Eufy Camera Record All the Time
Image source: justsmarter.net
With 24/7 recording, your camera captures everything—every footstep, every car, every moment. It’s ideal for:
- High-traffic areas like front doors or driveways
- Monitoring pets or children when you’re away
- Security investigations where every second counts
- Creating time-lapse videos or activity logs
But before you dive in, it’s important to understand the limitations and requirements. Not all Eufy cameras support continuous recording out of the box, and doing it right means planning for power, storage, and network usage.
What You Need for 24/7 Recording
To make your Eufy camera record all the time, you’ll need the right setup. Here’s what’s required:
1. A Compatible Eufy Camera
Not all Eufy models support continuous recording. Most indoor and outdoor cameras that connect to a HomeBase 2 or HomeBase 3 hub can record 24/7. Examples include:
- Eufy SoloCam S40 (with HomeBase)
- Eufy Cam 2C Pro
- Eufy Cam E (with HomeBase)
- Eufy Indoor Cam 2K (with HomeBase 3)
Cameras that rely solely on Wi-Fi (like the SoloCam S220) typically don’t support continuous recording due to power and bandwidth limits.
2. A HomeBase 2 or HomeBase 3 Hub
This is the heart of your Eufy system. The HomeBase acts as a local storage server and connects your cameras wirelessly. It supports up to 16 cameras and can store footage on a built-in drive or external USB storage.
HomeBase 3 is the newer model with improved processing, faster data transfer, and support for higher-resolution recording. If you’re serious about 24/7 recording, upgrading to HomeBase 3 is worth considering.
3. High-Endurance microSD Card (Optional)
If your camera has a microSD card slot (like the SoloCam S40), you can insert a card for local recording. But not just any card will do. Standard cards wear out quickly under constant use.
Choose a surveillance-grade microSD card with high endurance ratings. Recommended brands include:
- Samsung PRO Endurance
- SanDisk High Endurance
- Lexar High Endurance
Aim for at least 128GB capacity—larger cards (256GB or 512GB) give you more recording time before overwriting old footage.
4. Stable Power Source
Continuous recording uses more power. Battery-powered cameras (like the SoloCam S220) aren’t designed for 24/7 use and will drain quickly. For non-stop recording, your camera must be plugged into a power outlet.
Most Eufy cameras come with a weatherproof power adapter for outdoor use. Make sure the cable is long enough and the outlet is protected from the elements.
5. Strong Wi-Fi or Ethernet Connection
Even with local storage, your camera needs a stable connection to communicate with the HomeBase and app. Weak Wi-Fi can cause lag, dropped frames, or failed recordings.
If possible, place your HomeBase near your router or use an Ethernet cable for a wired connection. For cameras far from the hub, consider a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network.
Step-by-Step: Setting Up Continuous Recording
Now that you have the right gear, let’s get your Eufy camera recording 24/7. Follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Install and Set Up HomeBase
If you haven’t already, set up your HomeBase 2 or 3:
- Plug the HomeBase into a power outlet and connect it to your router via Ethernet (recommended) or Wi-Fi.
- Download the Eufy Security app (iOS or Android).
- Open the app and tap “Add Device” > “HomeBase.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to pair the hub with your account.
- Insert a USB drive (for HomeBase 3) or use the built-in storage (HomeBase 2) for recording.
Once the HomeBase is online, it will appear in the app dashboard.
Step 2: Pair Your Camera with HomeBase
Next, connect your camera to the hub:
- In the app, tap “Add Device” > “Camera.”
- Select your camera model and follow the pairing steps.
- Hold the sync button on the camera until it flashes, then confirm pairing in the app.
- Wait for the camera to connect to the HomeBase (usually takes 1–2 minutes).
Once connected, the camera will appear in the app under the HomeBase device.
Step 3: Insert a microSD Card (If Applicable)
If your camera supports local storage:
- Power off the camera.
- Open the microSD card slot (usually on the side or bottom).
- Insert a high-endurance card (formatted to FAT32 or exFAT).
- Close the slot and power the camera back on.
The app will detect the card and prompt you to format it if needed.
Step 4: Enable Continuous Recording in the App
This is the most important step. Here’s how to turn on 24/7 recording:
- Open the Eufy Security app.
- Tap on your camera from the device list.
- Go to Settings (gear icon).
- Select Recording Schedule.
- Tap Always Record to enable it.
- Confirm your choice when prompted.
Once enabled, your camera will start recording non-stop. You’ll see a red recording indicator in the live view.
Step 5: Adjust Recording Quality and Storage Settings
Higher quality means clearer video but uses more storage. To balance quality and capacity:
- Go to Settings > Video Quality.
- Choose between “Standard,” “High,” or “Ultra” (if available).
- For 24/7 recording, “High” is usually sufficient.
- Enable Loop Recording so old footage is automatically overwritten when storage is full.
You can also set a recording duration limit (e.g., keep footage for 7 days) under Storage Management.
Step 6: Test and Monitor
After setup, test your system:
- Check the live feed to confirm recording is active.
- Wait a few hours, then review the playback timeline.
- Look for gaps or missed footage.
- Check storage usage in the app (under HomeBase settings).
If everything looks good, your camera is now recording 24/7!
Tips for Reliable 24/7 Recording
Continuous recording works best with the right habits and settings. Here are some pro tips:
Use Wired Power Whenever Possible
Battery-powered cameras are convenient but not ideal for 24/7 use. Even with solar panels, battery life can vary. For uninterrupted recording, plug your camera into a wall outlet.
Optimize Camera Placement
Place your camera where it has a clear view and strong signal to the HomeBase. Avoid obstructions like thick walls or metal objects. For outdoor cameras, use a weatherproof housing and angle the lens to reduce glare from sunlight or streetlights.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Check your system weekly:
- Ensure the camera is powered and online.
- Verify storage isn’t full (the app will alert you).
- Clean the lens with a microfiber cloth to prevent blurry footage.
- Update firmware when prompted (improves performance and security).
Use Cloud Backup for Extra Security
While local storage is reliable, it can be damaged or stolen. Enable cloud recording in the app for off-site backup. Eufy offers cloud plans starting at $2.99/month, which store footage securely online.
Note: Cloud recording is usually motion-triggered, not continuous. But it adds a layer of protection if your HomeBase fails.
Monitor Bandwidth Usage
24/7 recording uses more data. If you have a limited internet plan, consider:
- Lowering video quality slightly.
- Using local storage only (no cloud uploads).
- Connecting HomeBase via Ethernet to reduce Wi-Fi strain.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best setup, problems can happen. Here’s how to fix the most common issues with continuous recording.
Camera Stops Recording
If your camera suddenly stops recording:
- Check the power source—ensure the adapter is plugged in and working.
- Verify the camera is online in the app (green status light).
- Restart the camera and HomeBase by unplugging them for 10 seconds.
- Re-enable “Always Record” in the app—sometimes settings reset after updates.
Storage Is Full
When storage fills up, recording stops. To prevent this:
- Enable loop recording so old files are deleted automatically.
- Use a larger microSD card or USB drive (up to 128GB for microSD, 2TB for USB).
- Manually delete old footage in the app under “Playback” > “Manage Recordings.”
Poor Video Quality
Blurry or pixelated footage? Try these fixes:
- Clean the camera lens.
- Adjust the camera angle to reduce glare.
- Increase video quality in settings (if storage allows).
- Ensure the camera isn’t overheating (move it to a shaded area if outdoors).
HomeBase Not Detecting Camera
If the camera won’t connect:
- Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Move the camera closer to the HomeBase during setup.
- Reset the camera by holding the sync button for 10 seconds.
- Update the app and firmware to the latest version.
Battery Drains Too Fast
Even with “Always Record” off, some cameras drain batteries quickly. Solutions:
- Switch to wired power if possible.
- Disable unnecessary features like night vision or two-way audio.
- Use a solar panel accessory for outdoor cameras.
Conclusion
Setting up your Eufy camera to record all the time is easier than you think—with the right tools and settings. By using a HomeBase hub, high-endurance storage, and stable power, you can enjoy 24/7 surveillance without missing a beat.
Remember, continuous recording isn’t just about turning on a setting. It’s about creating a reliable system that works day and night. Follow the steps in this guide, monitor your setup regularly, and don’t hesitate to tweak settings as needed.
Whether you’re protecting your home, monitoring a business, or just want full visibility, 24/7 recording with Eufy gives you peace of mind. So go ahead—set it up, test it, and enjoy the confidence that comes with always-on security.
