Seagate Desktop Drive 8TB
Score: 76/100
Western Digital Elements 8TB
Score: 71/100Rankings
The Seagate Expansion Desktop 8 TB offers huge storage capacity and respectable USB-3.0 speeds, making it ideal for backups and media libraries. Its 5400 RPM drive and modest warranty mean it isn't suited for high-performance or silent-critical environments. Best for home offices and users prioritising capacity over speed.
The WD Elements Desktop 8TB provides massive 8 TB storage in a 3.5-inch desktop enclosure with USB 3.0 connectivity. Its size and need for an external power adapter make it less portable. Suited for home or office backup where space isn't a concern.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
8,000 GBbest | 8,000 GBbest | |
193 MB/sbest | 150 MB/s | |
195 MB/sbest | 150 MB/s | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.102 kg | 0.95 kgbest |
1 years | 2 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 41 mmbest | 165.86 mm |
256 MBbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | ||
USB Version | 3.0 | USB 3.0 |
Warranty & Support(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 1 years | 2 years |
Compatibility(1) | ||
OS Compatibility | Windows, Mac, Xbox, PS4 | Windows, macOS |
Performance(2) | ||
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 193 MB/s | 150 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 195 MB/s | 150 MB/s |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Weight (kg) | 1.102 kg | 0.95 kg |
Thickness (mm) | 41 mm | 165.86 mm |
Form Factor | 3.5" | 3.5 in |
Power & Battery(1) | ||
Power Source | External AC | external |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Expansion Desktop 8TB for its solid 170-195 MB/s sequential speeds, generous capacity, and stable flat design, noting it offers excellent value under $200. They also point out the 5400 RPM spindle and mechanical noise as drawbacks, especially for gaming or high-performance scenarios, and mention that its price is comparable to WD alternatives.
Everyday users appreciate the drive's plug-and-play simplicity, fast media transfers, and huge capacity, often expressing confidence that it will last. Common complaints focus on audible noise, the drive filling up quickly for heavy media users, and the slower speed relative to SSDs or gaming-focused HDDs.
