To study the seismic performance of embedded column base with low embedment ratio, eight column bases with a scale ratio of 1∶2 were designed to carry out experiments. The effects of parameters such as stud, embedment ratio, axial load, and flange thickness on the failure mode, hysteretic curve, skeleton curve, ductility, stiffness degradation, and energy dissipation capacity of the column bases were analyzed. Results show that the embedded column base with low embedment ratio had two failure modes, i.e., the secondary pouring surface failure of the concrete and the buckling failure of the bottom of the steel column. The failure modes of the embedded column base could be effectively improved by arranging studs or applying axial pressure, which could transform the secondary pouring surface failure into the buckling failure of the steel bottom and improve the energy dissipation capacity of the column base. When the embedded column base was under no stud and no axial load, the increase of the embedment ratio from 1.0 to 1.5 reduced the damage degree of the secondary pouring surface and ensured its continued bearing capacity, but could not change the failure mode. In engineering design, studs should be set when the embedment ratio of the embedded column base is equal to 1.0.