HGST Ultrastar DC HC520 12TB HDD

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86%
89%
Performance
94%
Reliability in 24/7 Use
62%
Noise Levels in Consumer Environments
87%
Energy Efficiency
92%
Build Quality and Durability
80%
Ease of Setup
91%
Value for Money
93%
MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures)
85%
Cache Performance
95%
Compatibility with Data Centers
90%
Long-Term Performance Consistency
78%
Packaging and Shipping
More

Overview

The HGST Ultrastar DC HC520 12TB HDD is a high-capacity hard drive designed specifically for enterprise-level storage solutions. With a 12TB capacity, it provides ample space for demanding applications such as large-scale data centers and cloud environments. This hard drive operates at a solid 7200 RPM, offering optimized performance for high-density storage tasks. Built with helium-sealed technology, the drive minimizes power consumption and ensures longevity, making it a reliable option for continuous 24/7 operation. The Ultrastar DC HC520 is crafted for high-performance workloads that require both efficiency and endurance.

Features & Benefits

The 256MB cache of this 12TB HDD plays a crucial role in accelerating data transfer and reducing latency, crucial for high-demand environments. Additionally, the dual safe firmware provides secure, reliable updates, ensuring data integrity and system stability. Built to handle the rigorous demands of cloud and enterprise storage, this drive boasts an impressive 2.5M MTBF, ensuring long-term reliability. The helium-sealed design further boosts energy efficiency while reducing wear and tear on internal components, making it ideal for consistent, heavy-duty workloads in mission-critical systems.

Best For

This 12TB HDD is perfect for large-scale data centers and hyperscale cloud storage environments that require high capacity and exceptional reliability. It’s also well-suited for extensive video surveillance systems that need to store vast amounts of footage while maintaining fast access speeds. Enterprise users will benefit from the combination of high storage capacity, power efficiency, and durability. If your system demands continuous 24/7 operation without compromising on performance or reliability, this hard drive is a solid choice.

User Feedback

Users consistently report that this hard drive performs reliably in 24/7 operational environments, with many noting its durability in handling constant data access. However, some users have mentioned that the drive may produce noticeable noise when used in consumer-grade systems, where quieter operation is desired. On the positive side, the drive is appreciated for its long lifespan and consistent data integrity, especially in data-intensive applications. For those with high-performance storage needs, the Ultrastar DC HC520 has garnered mostly favorable reviews for its balance of efficiency and capacity.

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Pros

  • Ideal for large-scale enterprise storage with its 12TB capacity and 7200 RPM speed.
  • Designed for 24/7 operations, providing reliable performance over extended periods.
  • The helium-sealed technology improves power efficiency and ensures durability in high-demand environments.
  • The 256MB cache helps to significantly reduce latency and enhance data transfer speeds.
  • Optimized for cloud and data center use, offering long-term reliability with 2.5M hours MTBF.
  • Great for video surveillance systems due to its large storage capacity and consistent data integrity.

Cons

  • Not suitable for consumer use due to its focus on enterprise and data center environments.
  • Some users report noise during operation, making it less ideal for quieter home environments.
  • The drive's large form factor may not be compatible with smaller or consumer-grade systems.
  • It may be overkill for users who only need basic storage or occasional backups.
  • Higher power consumption compared to consumer-oriented drives, which can be a concern in some setups.
  • Its price point is high for users looking for a simple storage solution with minimal features.

Ratings

The reviews for the HGST Ultrastar DC HC520 12TB HDD reflect a mix of positive and negative feedback from verified users worldwide. After analyzing authentic reviews from various platforms and languages, we filtered out spam, bot-generated, and incentivized responses to ensure only high-quality feedback was considered. While this hard drive excels in areas like reliability and performance for enterprise applications, some users have raised concerns about its noise levels in non-industrial settings. The following ratings capture the key aspects that matter most to buyers based on real-world experiences across different environments.

Performance
89%
Users report strong, reliable performance in demanding environments. The high 7200 RPM speed and 256MB cache allow for efficient data transfers, making it well-suited for high-capacity applications. Many buyers also appreciate its stable operation during prolonged use, which is critical for enterprise systems.
Some users have mentioned occasional slowdowns when handling exceptionally large workloads. While most find the drive fast, those with more demanding storage setups may experience some lag under peak conditions.
Reliability in 24/7 Use
94%
The drive performs well under continuous, 24/7 use, which is vital for businesses relying on constant data access. Buyers report minimal downtime, with many using it in data centers without issue. Its longevity and consistent performance help businesses avoid the headache of frequent replacements.
A few users have noted that, while reliable, there can be occasional signs of wear after extended heavy use, especially in environments that push the drive to its limits over several years.
Noise Levels in Consumer Environments
62%
38%
In enterprise settings, the noise levels are not typically a concern, and users appreciate the drive’s overall efficiency. The 7200 RPM speed ensures that large data sets can be accessed swiftly without sacrificing reliability.
Some users in quieter, consumer-grade environments have found the drive to be too noisy. This hard drive is clearly designed for commercial use, and its sound levels may be disruptive in home offices or smaller setups where noise sensitivity is higher.
Energy Efficiency
87%
Thanks to its helium-sealed design, this drive uses less power compared to traditional hard drives, which is particularly appreciated in large data centers looking to reduce energy consumption. Many users highlight the benefits of its low power usage over time, contributing to reduced operational costs.
While the power efficiency is praised, a few users pointed out that other energy-saving features, such as automatic power-down modes, are not as prominent in this model. For those looking for more advanced power management features, this may not be the ideal choice.
Build Quality and Durability
92%
Users are impressed by the build quality of this hard drive, especially its resilience in high-demand, high-stress environments. The sturdy design is built to handle the rigorous demands of data centers and cloud storage solutions. Many have noted its solid, durable construction over time.
Some buyers have experienced issues with drive failure after prolonged use in environments that may have been at the higher end of its operational limits. While rare, these cases can cause disruptions in business-critical operations.
Ease of Setup
80%
20%
The drive is straightforward to install, with compatibility across most data center setups. Users typically report no issues with installation, and it integrates well with both older and modern enterprise systems. No special configuration is needed for most standard uses.
A few users found the setup process to be less intuitive when used in non-enterprise environments. While it is designed for data centers, individuals who aren’t as familiar with professional hardware might need more time to configure it properly.
Value for Money
91%
For the capacity and performance offered, users find the drive to be a great investment, especially for large-scale businesses. The 12TB capacity at this price point is a solid deal, with many considering it a top choice for long-term storage solutions in enterprise settings.
Some buyers feel that the high price tag could be a barrier for smaller businesses or individual consumers who only need smaller storage capacities. While the value is undeniable for enterprise users, it may not fit into everyone’s budget.
MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures)
93%
With a 2.5 million hour MTBF rating, this hard drive offers exceptional reliability, especially in environments where uptime is critical. Many enterprise users find this reliability reassuring, knowing that it can withstand prolonged use without frequent failures.
While the MTBF rating is impressive, some users in high-demand settings have noted that extended wear and tear from heavy loads may eventually push the limits of this drive's longevity. However, such occurrences are rare.
Cache Performance
85%
The 256MB cache improves read and write speeds, which is highly valued in environments that handle large data transfers. This ensures that the drive can keep up with high-volume operations, making it an asset for businesses that require fast data access.
A few users feel that the cache could be larger for even faster performance in particularly intensive workloads. While sufficient for most tasks, those with the most demanding data processing might seek higher cache capacities.
Compatibility with Data Centers
95%
This hard drive is tailored for data center use, with seamless integration into various server and storage systems. Users report smooth compatibility with industry-standard hardware and software, making it a reliable choice for large-scale storage operations.
While it's ideal for data centers, some users with smaller setups or those needing more consumer-friendly solutions might find it too specialized. It’s not a perfect fit for casual or non-commercial use.
Long-Term Performance Consistency
90%
Many buyers highlight the consistent performance over time, with the hard drive maintaining its speed and reliability throughout its lifespan. This longevity is especially appreciated by users who require dependable storage solutions for years without worrying about significant performance drops.
In rare cases, users have experienced degradation in performance after extended use in high-demand scenarios, although this appears to be an isolated issue for a small percentage of buyers.
Packaging and Shipping
78%
22%
Most users find that the packaging is secure enough to protect the drive during transit, ensuring it arrives in good condition. The box is typically well-organized with clear labeling.
Some buyers have reported minor damage to the drive during shipping, though this is likely more of a shipping issue than a product defect. A few wished for more protective materials inside the box to prevent movement during transport.

Suitable for:

The HGST Ultrastar DC HC520 12TB HDD is ideal for enterprise environments, especially data centers and cloud storage providers that need reliable, high-capacity drives for continuous operation. Its 12TB capacity and 7200 RPM spindle speed make it a strong candidate for large-scale storage solutions, particularly for applications like video surveillance or extensive backup systems. Additionally, its helium-sealed technology ensures better power efficiency, making it a solid choice for businesses looking to reduce operational costs in high-demand environments. IT professionals managing heavy data traffic or those in need of robust, long-lasting storage solutions will find this device particularly beneficial, especially in settings that require 24/7 performance consistency.

Not suitable for:

This hard drive is not suitable for home users or those with lighter storage needs. The design is tailored for enterprise-level applications, which means its noise levels and power consumption might be a concern in quieter, consumer-grade environments. For personal use or small-scale setups, its size, price, and technical focus on data centers might make it an overkill. Users who prioritize ease of use, smaller form factors, or quieter operations may find it unsuitable, as it's optimized for large-scale storage in environments with professional-level requirements. Additionally, casual users looking for simple plug-and-play solutions may find this drive's complexity and specifications unnecessary for their needs.

Specifications

  • Capacity: Offers a large 12TB storage capacity, ideal for high-density data centers and enterprise applications.
  • Interface: Uses a SATA 6 Gb/s interface for fast and reliable data transfer.
  • Spindle Speed: 7200 RPM spindle speed ensures fast data access, optimized for large-scale storage applications.
  • Cache: 256MB cache improves data transfer speeds and reduces latency in data-intensive environments.
  • MTBF: With a Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) of 2.5 million hours, this drive offers exceptional durability.
  • Form Factor: 3.5-inch form factor, compatible with most enterprise-grade storage systems and data centers.
  • Helium-Sealed Technology: Helium-sealed design reduces friction and enhances power efficiency, ensuring smoother operation over time.
  • Power Efficiency: The helium-sealed technology results in lower power consumption, making it suitable for energy-conscious environments.
  • Warranty: Comes with a standard warranty offering reliability and peace of mind for enterprise use.
  • Temperature Range: Designed to operate in a wide temperature range, suitable for data center conditions.
  • Usage: Built specifically for enterprise storage, cloud systems, and large-scale video surveillance.
  • Noise Level: Some users report higher noise levels when used outside of its intended 24/7 enterprise setting.
  • Reliability: Known for reliability in continuous, 24/7 operations, with many users reporting long-term stability.
  • Data Integrity: Dual safe firmware ensures reliable data updates and enhances security against data loss.
  • Compatibility: Optimized for data center and cloud environments, though it may not be ideal for consumer desktop use.
  • Security: Supports advanced security features, including reliable updates through dual safe firmware.
  • Vibration Resistance: The drive’s design helps mitigate the effects of vibrations, important for high-density storage racks.

FAQ

The 12TB capacity and 7200 RPM speed make the Ultrastar DC HC520 an excellent choice for large-scale storage environments. Its helium-sealed technology ensures higher power efficiency and greater durability, crucial for 24/7 data center operations.

Helium-sealed drives reduce friction and improve airflow inside the drive, resulting in less power consumption and greater stability over time. This makes the Ultrastar DC HC520 more efficient and reliable for long-term use in enterprise environments.

While the Ultrastar DC HC520 is designed for enterprise and data center use, it may not be the best fit for consumer desktops due to its large form factor and focus on continuous 24/7 operation. You would need to ensure compatibility with your system before use.

This device excels in data centers, cloud storage, and large-scale video surveillance systems. It is built for environments requiring high capacity, continuous operation, and reliable data integrity over time.

Setting up the Ultrastar DC HC520 is straightforward, as it uses the standard SATA 6 Gb/s interface. However, ensure your system is capable of handling such a high-capacity drive and supports 3.5-inch form factors.

The 256MB cache improves the hard drive's data transfer speeds by temporarily storing frequently accessed data. This helps reduce latency and ensures smoother performance during high-demand tasks, like in data centers or enterprise storage.

The Ultrastar DC HC520 is designed to handle 24/7 operations with a Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) of 2.5 million hours, which speaks to its durability and reliability in demanding environments like data centers and cloud storage systems.

Some users have reported that this hard drive can be noisy, particularly when used outside of its intended data center environment. It may not be ideal for quiet home or office settings where noise could be a concern.

While technically possible, this hard drive is overbuilt for home use. Its large capacity, power requirements, and 24/7 durability make it more suitable for enterprise use than for occasional backups or personal video storage.

Maintenance is minimal for this drive, but like any mechanical hard drive, it's essential to ensure proper airflow and ventilation to prevent overheating. Regular monitoring of its health through system management software can help detect early issues.