WD Elements 2TB
Score: 54/100
WD Elements 6TB
Score: 58/100Rankings
The WD 6TB Elements Portable HDD delivers massive storage in an ultra-light, eco-friendly package, ideal for budget-conscious users needing bulk backup, though it lacks speed and security features of SSDs.
The WD Elements 2 TB Portable HDD offers affordable, high-capacity storage in a lightweight, bus-powered package, suitable for everyday backups and media transfers but lacking security features and a robust warranty.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
2 TB | 6 TBbest | |
100 MB/s | 120 MB/sbest | |
95 MB/s | 120 MB/sbest | |
2 yearsbest | 2 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.13 kg | 0.045 kgbest |
5,400 RPMbest | 5,400 RPMbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Physical(1) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.13 kg | 0.045 kg |
Storage(1) | ||
Storage Capacity (TB) | 2 TB | 6 TB |
Performance(2) | ||
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 100 MB/s | 120 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 95 MB/s | 120 MB/s |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the Elements for its large capacity, low price and versatile plug-and-play nature, noting adequate USB 3.0 speeds but criticizing the lack of encryption and relatively short warranty.
Everyday users appreciate the immediate Windows compatibility, reliable backup performance, and compact form factor, while recurring complaints focus on the need to reformat for macOS, limited durability, and trial-only backup software.
Professional reviewers label the 6TB Elements as a top-value pick, highlighting its low price per terabyte, reliable mechanical design, two-year warranty, and eco-friendly enclosure, while noting it is unsuitable for speed-critical workloads and lacks hardware encryption.
Everyday users praise the straightforward Windows setup, dependable long-term backup, and portable form factor, but complain about the attached Micro-USB cable wearing out, occasional early failures, and the need to reformat for macOS.
“Easy setup and immediate recognition on Windows”
“One user reported internal damage after air travel ("shifted inside")”
“Great value for the storage you get”
