WD Green 2TB Desktop Hard Drive (WD20EARX)

WD Green 2TB Desktop Hard Drive (WD20EARX) — image 1
84%
91%
Value for Money
94%
Noise Levels
89%
Power Efficiency
82%
Performance for Everyday Use
86%
Reliability
88%
Ease of Installation
84%
Storage Capacity
90%
Compatibility
80%
Build Quality
85%
Long-Term Value
75%
Customer Support
60%
Performance for Heavy Tasks
More

Overview

The WD Green 2TB Desktop Hard Drive (WD20EARX) is a reliable and energy-efficient storage solution designed for everyday computing. This 3.5-inch form factor drive is equipped with a SATA III interface, ensuring easy integration into most desktop PCs. With a 64MB cache, it offers consistent performance for typical use, from file storage to media management. It’s especially known for its power-saving features, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize energy conservation without compromising basic performance needs.

Features & Benefits

The WD Green 2TB drive stands out due to its IntelliSeek technology, which optimizes seek speeds to reduce power consumption and noise. This, coupled with its reduced vibration and low operating temperature, ensures quieter operation compared to traditional hard drives. With a 2TB storage capacity, it provides ample space for most users' files, photos, and media. The combination of energy efficiency and reliable performance makes it an excellent choice for users who need efficient, low-maintenance storage for everyday computing.

Best For

This hard drive is best suited for PC users seeking an affordable and eco-friendly internal storage solution. It is ideal for home and office environments where quiet performance and reliability are essential, especially in noise-sensitive setups. The 2TB capacity offers a sweet spot for users who require sufficient storage for documents, media files, and light applications. While it isn't the best option for high-performance tasks, it provides a solid balance between power savings and overall value.

User Feedback

Users appreciate the WD Green 2TB drive for its quiet operation and low power consumption, making it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce energy costs. Many users report solid performance for everyday tasks such as general file storage and media use. However, some note that it’s not the ideal choice for high-performance applications like gaming or intensive workloads. Overall, this drive strikes a balance between performance and energy savings, though it may not satisfy users with more demanding needs.

#Internal Components
#Computer Components
#Computers & Accessories
#Electronics

Pros

  • This hard drive is praised for its quiet operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments like home offices.
  • Users appreciate the energy efficiency, with reduced power consumption helping to lower electricity costs over time.
  • The 2TB storage capacity offers ample space for general file storage, backups, and media libraries.
  • Its reduced vibration and low operating temperature contribute to overall longevity and quieter performance.
  • PC users seeking an affordable, reliable internal storage solution find this device a solid choice for everyday tasks.
  • The SATA III interface ensures smooth integration into most PC systems without any complicated setup.

Cons

  • Some users find the performance insufficient for high-demand tasks like gaming or video editing.
  • The drive's slower read/write speeds may lead to delays when handling large files or running resource-intensive applications.
  • While energy-efficient, the drive's performance trade-off may not meet the needs of power users requiring faster data transfer speeds.
  • A few customers report that this drive is not suitable for multi-tasking in more demanding professional environments.
  • The drive's form factor limits its use to desktop setups, which makes it less versatile for users needing portable solutions.
  • Not all users are satisfied with its durability under heavy or continuous use, especially in environments with high data throughput.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide across multiple platforms and languages, we have compiled the scores for the WD Green 2TB Desktop Hard Drive (WD20EARX). Spam, bot-generated, and incentivized feedback were filtered out, ensuring that only authentic and high-quality reviews contributed to the ratings. Both strengths and pain points from actual users are reflected in the scores, providing a balanced perspective on this product.

Value for Money
91%
Many users find this hard drive a great value for its price, offering a solid balance of performance and energy efficiency. It's often chosen by those looking for a reliable 2TB internal drive without breaking the bank. Buyers particularly appreciate the overall performance for general tasks and its low power consumption, which helps lower long-term costs.
Some users mention that while it offers good value, it may not be ideal for power users who require high-speed data transfers or intensive workloads. A few felt that the price was slightly higher compared to other budget options, especially for those seeking more performance-centric drives.
Noise Levels
94%
Buyers frequently highlight the quiet operation of this device, especially when used in home or office environments. Users report minimal noise during regular use, making it a great option for those sensitive to loud, distracting sounds. Many appreciate that it doesn’t generate unwanted vibrations, contributing to a quieter workspace.
However, some users note that the drive may still emit a faint hum when under heavy load, although this is rarely disruptive. For those looking for completely silent operation in all conditions, it may not be the ultimate choice, though it performs well for most general use cases.
Power Efficiency
89%
The power efficiency of this hard drive is highly praised by users, with many reporting lower electricity bills due to its reduced consumption. With IntelliSeek technology, it manages to lower power usage significantly compared to similar drives, making it ideal for energy-conscious consumers. Several buyers feel that its eco-friendly design is a standout feature, especially in long-term use.
Despite its energy-saving qualities, some buyers wish for even lower power usage, especially for users running multiple drives or systems 24/7. A few also mention that while the energy savings are notable, it doesn’t significantly outperform other similarly priced drives in terms of sheer energy efficiency.
Performance for Everyday Use
82%
18%
Users find the performance of this drive perfectly suitable for everyday tasks like web browsing, file storage, and light media editing. Many mention it performs well enough for standard desktop applications, providing consistent and reliable access to files. For non-intensive tasks, this drive proves to be a dependable option at an affordable price.
However, a few users point out that it may struggle with more demanding tasks like video editing or running virtual machines. Some reviewers mention slower read/write speeds compared to higher-end drives, which can be noticeable when handling larger files or multitasking with intensive applications.
Reliability
86%
Overall, users report solid reliability, especially for light and medium workloads. The drive seems to hold up well over time, with few complaints about failures or errors during regular use. Several users highlight the consistency of this drive, noting it provides stable performance for years with proper handling and care.
That said, a small percentage of users have encountered failures after extended use, particularly in higher-demand setups. While most reviews are positive, there are occasional mentions of data loss or failure after several months of heavy use, particularly in non-ideal environments or with aggressive workloads.
Ease of Installation
88%
Installation is straightforward, with many users praising how easy it is to set up, especially for those upgrading their desktop PCs. The 3.5-inch form factor and SATA III interface ensure smooth integration with most PC builds. Most users mention that it works seamlessly with little to no configuration needed, making it user-friendly even for those with basic technical skills.
Some users did report minor installation issues, such as needing additional cables or facing compatibility issues with older PC models. While most users don’t face any difficulties, a few have noted that setting it up on non-standard systems could require extra effort or troubleshooting.
Storage Capacity
84%
The 2TB capacity provides ample space for most users, making it suitable for general storage, media libraries, and light backups. Several buyers appreciate that it strikes a balance between price and storage, offering enough space without being excessive for those who don’t need high-capacity drives. This capacity is particularly appreciated by home and office users with moderate storage needs.
However, some power users feel that 2TB may not be sufficient for large-scale operations, particularly for video editing or running virtual environments. A few also mention that more demanding users may find the capacity too limiting as their storage needs grow over time.
Compatibility
90%
The WD Green 2TB drive is compatible with most desktop PCs, making it a versatile choice for various systems. Many users report seamless integration with both newer and older PCs, which is beneficial for a wide range of customers. It also works well with popular operating systems, which adds to its appeal for general desktop use.
A few users did experience compatibility issues with non-Windows systems or older hardware. While it's widely compatible, those with very specific setups (e.g., legacy hardware or specialized operating systems) may need to double-check compatibility before installation.
Build Quality
80%
20%
The build quality is solid for most users, with no major complaints about physical durability or defects. Many mention the drive feels sturdy and reliable once installed in a standard PC chassis. For its price point, users find the overall build quality to be more than adequate for everyday tasks and general use.
Some users mention that the drive feels somewhat less premium compared to higher-end models, with a few reporting minor issues with mounting or securing the drive in certain setups. A handful of buyers noted that it can feel flimsy if not handled properly, though this is not a widespread issue.
Long-Term Value
85%
Many buyers express satisfaction with the long-term value this drive provides, particularly for those who don’t require extreme performance. Its low power consumption and reliable general performance make it a smart investment for long-term storage needs. Several users are happy to use this as a secondary or backup drive for extended periods.
Some users are concerned about the drive’s lifespan in more demanding environments or if subjected to heavy workloads. While it provides good value for casual and light users, some suggest that the drive may not last as long under continuous heavy use.
Customer Support
75%
25%
Some users report decent experiences with customer support, particularly in terms of warranty claims and product troubleshooting. When issues do arise, customers appreciate the support team’s efficiency in resolving basic queries and providing helpful guidance for installation.
On the other hand, a number of reviews mention slow response times or difficulty getting through to support during high-demand periods. A few users had negative experiences with unhelpful or generic responses, which left them feeling frustrated, particularly when dealing with faulty units or technical issues.
Performance for Heavy Tasks
60%
40%
While this drive handles everyday tasks with ease, a few users mention that it performs decently for heavy tasks, but it's far from optimized for high-performance work. The solid reliability for general data storage means it could still serve in mixed-use cases.
However, many users find it underperforms when handling demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing, or heavy file transfers. Users looking for a high-speed experience with large files or multitasking under load may find this drive’s performance lacking compared to faster options available on the market.

Suitable for:

The WD Green 2TB Desktop Hard Drive (WD20EARX) is ideal for users who prioritize energy efficiency and quiet operation, making it a great choice for home and office environments. It's especially beneficial for PC users looking for a reliable, cost-effective storage solution for general tasks such as file storage, media libraries, and backup. For example, students with limited budgets or office workers who need a dependable internal drive for basic use will appreciate the 2TB capacity and low power consumption. Additionally, users who are sensitive to noise will find this hard drive's reduced vibration and minimal sound appealing.

Not suitable for:

However, this drive may not be the best option for power users or those requiring high-performance storage. Gamers, video editors, or professionals running intensive applications may find its performance lacking when handling large files or multitasking under heavy loads. While the WD Green 2TB drive offers solid everyday performance, its read/write speeds and general responsiveness may not meet the demands of users with more performance-oriented setups. For these users, a more robust, high-speed drive would be a better choice for seamless operation in demanding environments.

Specifications

  • Capacity: Provides 2TB of storage space, suitable for general file storage and media management.
  • Form Factor: 3.5-inch size, designed for use in desktop PCs.
  • Interface: Uses a SATA III interface, ensuring smooth data transfer with compatible devices.
  • Cache: Equipped with a 64MB cache for improved performance in everyday applications.
  • Power Efficiency: Utilizes IntelliSeek technology to reduce power consumption by up to 40%.
  • Noise Reduction: Engineered to operate quietly, with reduced vibration and low operating temperatures.
  • Operating Temperature: Low operating temperature designed to minimize heat buildup during use.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.08 pounds, making it a lightweight option for a 3.5-inch desktop hard drive.
  • Dimensions: Measures 5.8 x 4 x 1 inches, fitting standard 3.5-inch drive bays in desktop PCs.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with most desktop PCs that support SATA III interfaces.
  • Reliability: Designed for long-term reliability with low heat generation and quiet performance.
  • Technology: Features IntelliSeek technology to optimize seek speeds and minimize power consumption.
  • Performance: Offers reliable performance for general data storage and light media use.
  • Data Transfer Rate: Supports up to 6Gb/s data transfer rate via SATA III interface.
  • Warranty: Comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty, providing peace of mind for buyers.
  • Vibration Control: Reduced vibration design helps maintain quiet and stable operation during use.
  • Release Date: Released on April 6, 2011, and still a popular choice for general storage needs.
  • Best Seller Rank: Ranked #1,752 in Internal Hard Drives, showing solid sales and popularity in the category.
  • Sustainability: Manufactured with eco-friendly technologies to support energy-saving goals.

FAQ

The WD Green 2TB Desktop Hard Drive is designed with IntelliSeek technology, which reduces power consumption by up to 40%. This makes it an excellent choice for users looking to lower their energy costs while still having sufficient storage capacity for everyday tasks.

Yes, this drive is compatible with most desktop PCs that support a 3.5-inch form factor and a SATA III interface. It integrates easily into typical home or office PC setups, offering reliable storage for everyday use.

Installing this 2TB internal HDD is straightforward. First, power down your PC and open the case. Mount the drive into a free 3.5-inch bay, connect the SATA power and data cables to the drive, then secure the drive in place. Once connected, power up your system, and the drive should be detected automatically by most modern operating systems.

While the WD Green 2TB drive is suitable for general storage, it's not ideal for high-performance gaming or intensive tasks like video editing. It offers solid performance for basic file storage and media use, but users may experience slower load times in more demanding applications due to its slower read/write speeds.

One of the standout features of this drive is its quiet operation. Thanks to reduced vibration and a low operating temperature, users report minimal noise during everyday use, making it a great choice for quiet home offices or personal workspaces.

This hard drive operates within a low temperature range, designed to prevent overheating and contribute to longer lifespan. It remains efficient even under typical home or office workloads, helping reduce the likelihood of heat-related performance degradation.

The WD Green 2TB drive uses a SATA III interface, which offers data transfer speeds up to 6 Gb/s. However, its actual performance is more suited for general storage needs rather than high-speed file transfers or demanding applications.

Yes, this 2TB internal HDD is a solid option for home and office environments, offering energy efficiency, low noise, and sufficient storage for general file management, documents, and media. It's especially recommended for users seeking a reliable drive without the need for high-speed performance.

While this drive excels in power efficiency and quiet operation, its lower performance speed means it may not be suitable for users with high-performance requirements, like gaming or professional video editing. Additionally, its form factor limits its use to desktop PCs, making it unsuitable for laptops or portable setups.

The WD Green 2TB drive is built with durability in mind, thanks to its low operating temperature and reduced vibration. With proper care and usage, users can expect this drive to last many years under typical conditions, though it is always recommended to back up important data regularly.