Eufy Not Recording 24/7? Understanding Your Camera's Capabilities
One of the most common questions from new Eufy Security camera owners is, "Why can't I find the 24/7 recording option?" You might have expected your camera to capture a continuous stream of footage, only to find it saves short, motion-activated clips instead. This can be confusing and lead you to believe there's a fault with your device or setup.
However, for the majority of Eufy's product line, this is the intended behaviour. This guide explains why most Eufy cameras don't record 24/7, which models do offer this feature, and what you need to enable it.
The Main Reason: Battery Conservation
The core of the Eufy security ecosystem, especially the popular EufyCam series, is its fantastic battery life, often lasting for months on a single charge. This is only possible because the cameras are not recording all the time.
- How it Works: Battery-powered Eufy cameras exist in an ultra-low-power standby state. They only activate and begin recording when their passive infrared (PIR) sensor detects the heat and motion of a person or animal. After a short clip is recorded, the camera returns to standby mode.
- The Power Drain Problem: Recording and transmitting video is extremely power-intensive. If a battery-powered EufyCam were to record 24/7, its battery would be depleted in hours, not months, making it completely impractical as a wireless security solution.
Therefore, for any battery-powered Eufy device, 24/7 recording is not a feature. They are designed from the ground up to be "event recorders."
Which Eufy Cameras CAN Record 24/7?
Continuous Video Recording (CVR) is a feature reserved for specific Eufy cameras that have a constant, uninterrupted power source. This means cameras that are plugged into a mains power socket.
Typically, this feature is found on:
- Eufy Indoor Cams: Many models in the wired indoor camera range support 24/7 recording.
- Some Powered Outdoor Cams: Certain outdoor cameras that require a permanent wired connection may also offer this functionality.
It is essential to check the specifications for your exact model. Do not assume that because a camera is plugged in, it automatically supports CVR. Check the product page on the Eufy website or your user manual.
How to Enable 24/7 Recording (On Supported Models)
If you have confirmed that your specific Eufy camera model supports continuous recording, you will need to configure it correctly. This feature almost always relies on local storage, not the HomeBase or the cloud.
Step 1: Install a High-Quality MicroSD Card
- Purchase the Right Card: You will need a high-endurance microSD card. These cards are specifically designed for the constant writing and rewriting required by security cameras. A standard microSD card may fail quickly. Look for a "Class 10" or "V30" card from a reputable brand.
- Check Capacity: Ensure the card's capacity is supported by your camera (e.g., up to 128GB).
- Install the Card: Power off your camera before inserting the microSD card into the designated slot.
Step 2: Format the MicroSD Card in the Eufy App
- Power the camera back on.
- Open the Eufy Security app and navigate to your camera's settings.
- Find the Storage or Local Storage menu.
- You should see the microSD card listed. Select the Format option. This will erase the card and prepare it for use with the camera.
Step 3: Enable Continuous Recording
- Within the camera's settings, look for a Recording Settings or a similar menu.
- You should see an option to choose between "Motion Events" and "Record Continuously" (or "Continuous Recording").
- Select the continuous recording option.
- The camera will now record 24/7, typically overwriting the oldest footage when the microSD card becomes full.
Important Note: The Eufy HomeBase is used for storing motion-triggered clips from battery-powered cameras. It does not store 24/7 footage. The CVR footage is stored directly on the microSD card within the camera itself.
Conclusion: The Right Camera for the Right Job
The lack of 24/7 recording on most Eufy cameras isn't a flaw; it's a feature that allows for incredible battery life and installation flexibility. If you need a camera for general monitoring of key areas, the event-based recording of the EufyCam series is highly efficient. If you absolutely require a complete, unbroken record of all activity in a specific location, you must choose one of Eufy's mains-powered indoor or outdoor models that explicitly supports continuous recording and pair it with a high-endurance microSD card.