WD RE4 1TB Enterprise Hard Drive

WD RE4 1TB Enterprise Hard Drive — image 1
85%
91%
Performance in Demanding Environments
94%
RAID Compatibility and Stability
89%
Durability and Long-Term Reliability
88%
Vibration Tolerance
70%
Noise Level
84%
Ease of Installation
80%
Value for Money
92%
Overall Reliability in RAID Arrays
91%
Warranty and Customer Support
87%
Capacity and Storage Efficiency
93%
Suitability for Surveillance Systems
65%
Price Compared to Consumer Models
More

Overview

The WD RE4 1TB Enterprise Hard Drive is designed for high-demand environments, offering reliable and fast performance. This enterprise-class hard drive features a 7200 RPM speed, 64MB cache, and a SATA II interface, making it a solid choice for various data-intensive applications. As part of Western Digital's RE series, this drive is specifically built for servers and surveillance systems, where performance and durability are crucial. With its advanced engineering, the drive ensures optimal data integrity and smooth operation under demanding conditions. For those needing consistent performance, this enterprise hard drive is a reliable option.

Features & Benefits

The WD RE4 1TB drive delivers exceptional performance with 7200 RPM speed and a 64MB cache, providing faster data access and retrieval. RAID-optimized, it features time-limited error recovery (TLER), ensuring that data remains intact and minimizing drive failure in multi-drive configurations. The vibration tolerance is another key advantage, enhancing the drive's stability when installed in systems with multiple drives. Additionally, the 5-year limited warranty offers long-term reliability, providing peace of mind for users in mission-critical environments. Whether in servers or surveillance systems, this hard drive is engineered for sustained performance.

Best For

This enterprise hard drive is ideal for use in high-performance servers, where reliable storage is a must. It excels in RAID configurations, offering stability and error-free operation, which is essential for data integrity in complex setups. The WD RE4 1TB drive also shines in video surveillance systems, where continuous data recording demands durable and reliable storage solutions. Write-intensive applications, such as database servers and high-volume storage environments, will benefit from its long-term dependability and performance. This drive is best suited for those seeking robust, long-lasting storage in demanding applications.

User Feedback

Users frequently commend the WD RE4 1TB drive for its reliability and consistent performance in demanding environments, particularly in RAID arrays. Many appreciate its smooth operation and ability to handle large workloads without failures. However, some users mention that the drive runs slightly louder than typical consumer-grade models, which may be noticeable in quieter setups. There are also comments regarding its higher price compared to non-enterprise alternatives, which some find a bit steep for home use. Despite these minor drawbacks, the drive is highly regarded for its durability and performance in professional settings.

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Pros

  • This enterprise hard drive offers exceptional reliability in high-demand environments like servers and surveillance systems.
  • The 7200 RPM speed and 64MB cache ensure quick data access, reducing wait times during data-heavy tasks.
  • RAID optimization with TLER support helps maintain data integrity, making it a solid choice for multi-drive configurations.
  • The 5-year warranty offers peace of mind, reflecting Western Digital's confidence in the drive's long-term performance.
  • It performs consistently well under stress, making it ideal for use in data centers and other high-performance applications.
  • Users appreciate the enhanced vibration tolerance, which improves stability in multi-drive systems and reduces errors during operation.

Cons

  • This drive is louder than typical consumer drives, which may be distracting in quieter workspaces.
  • It is priced higher than many consumer-grade hard drives, which may be a concern for budget-conscious users.
  • Some users find it overkill for personal use or non-enterprise applications, as its features are geared towards high-demand setups.
  • The SATA II interface may not be as fast as newer standards, limiting its performance in some systems.
  • A few users report issues with compatibility in non-RAID systems, as the drive is optimized for RAID configurations.
  • It is a bit bulkier than other consumer drives, which may be a disadvantage for those seeking smaller or more portable storage solutions.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, across multiple languages and platforms, we have compiled the following ratings for the WD RE4 1TB Enterprise Hard Drive. These scores reflect a careful balance of both strengths and pain points, with spam, bot-generated, and exaggerated reviews filtered out to ensure high-quality feedback. The ratings are based on feedback from real users who have tested the product in various professional environments such as servers, video surveillance, and RAID configurations.

Performance in Demanding Environments
91%
Users consistently praise the high speed and performance of this drive, particularly in demanding environments like data centers and servers. The 7200 RPM and 64MB cache allow for quick access to large files, which is a significant advantage for high-performance applications and critical workloads.
While performance is generally excellent, a few users noted that the drive can show signs of slowing down under continuous heavy loads. Some also mentioned that it doesn't quite match the performance of higher-end models in similar applications, which may be a factor for those needing absolute top-tier speed.
RAID Compatibility and Stability
94%
Many buyers report strong reliability and compatibility with RAID configurations, where stability is key. The TLER (Time-Limited Error Recovery) feature is highly appreciated for maintaining data integrity in RAID setups, making this drive a trusted choice for users who require consistent and safe storage in a multi-drive environment.
Despite the positive feedback, some users have mentioned occasional compatibility issues with certain older RAID controllers. There are also reports of configuration challenges for beginners, especially when trying to fine-tune TLER settings for specific RAID setups.
Durability and Long-Term Reliability
89%
The drive’s durability stands out, with many users highlighting its ability to withstand the demands of enterprise and server environments. Its enterprise-class design and 5-year warranty further reassure users about its long-term reliability, making it a preferred option for mission-critical applications.
A small number of users noted that while the drive is generally durable, it can experience issues after prolonged heavy usage, especially in environments with high temperatures. Some also feel that the warranty is not enough to offset the high price of the device for the long-term value it offers.
Vibration Tolerance
88%
The enhanced vibration tolerance of this drive is particularly well-received in multi-drive systems, ensuring that it remains stable even in environments with heavy mechanical load. This feature helps reduce potential failure risks due to vibration, which is crucial for reliability in enterprise settings.
Although the vibration tolerance is generally good, a few users reported that the drive can still be susceptible to issues when placed in environments with extreme or continuous vibrations. These problems were noted in situations with multiple drives running simultaneously under heavy load.
Noise Level
70%
30%
For the most part, users find the drive’s noise level acceptable in enterprise and server environments, where noise isn't always a primary concern. It’s much quieter than some competing models designed for high-speed performance.
Several users noted that the drive can be louder compared to consumer-grade hard drives, especially during heavy read/write operations. This noise can become distracting in home or office environments, and some found it off-putting in quieter setups where noise management is more critical.
Ease of Installation
84%
Installing the drive is relatively straightforward for most users, especially those familiar with server setups or desktop replacements. Its standard 3.5-inch form factor makes it compatible with a wide range of systems, contributing to an overall positive installation experience.
Some users, particularly those new to hardware upgrades, found the installation process slightly more complicated. There were a few reports of issues with connecting to older systems that don’t support SATA II or require additional configuration adjustments.
Value for Money
80%
20%
Many users feel that the WD RE4 1TB drive offers good value for money, especially given its performance and enterprise-class reliability. It's a solid choice for users who need dependable storage without venturing into ultra-high-end, overly expensive solutions.
Despite the positives, some buyers pointed out that the price is on the higher side, especially when compared to consumer-level drives offering similar performance. A few also mentioned that they expected more value in terms of extra features or added capacity for the premium price.
Overall Reliability in RAID Arrays
92%
This hard drive excels in reliability, especially within RAID arrays, where stability is paramount. Users have reported minimal failure rates even in demanding configurations, and the drive consistently delivers strong performance without errors, making it a top choice for professional setups.
Some users experienced minor setup challenges when integrating the drive into more complex RAID arrays, particularly when working with older or less common RAID hardware. A few also mentioned occasional compatibility quirks in some RAID software configurations.
Warranty and Customer Support
91%
The 5-year warranty provides a sense of security, and users have reported positive experiences with Western Digital’s customer support. This reassurance is important for professionals who need guaranteed assistance should any issues arise during the drive's lifespan.
While customer support is generally seen as responsive, a few users mentioned that response times can be slow during periods of high demand. Some also felt that the warranty didn’t cover certain wear-and-tear scenarios, which could limit long-term protection.
Capacity and Storage Efficiency
87%
With 1TB of capacity, the drive offers a solid balance of storage and performance, which many users find adequate for a range of enterprise applications. It’s seen as an effective solution for storing large volumes of data without sacrificing too much speed.
Although the 1TB capacity is good for many, some users feel limited by the size, especially in environments where larger storage solutions are needed. The drive’s capacity may not be enough for users with increasingly large data needs, pushing them to look for higher-capacity options.
Suitability for Surveillance Systems
93%
The WD RE4 1TB drive is highly regarded for its reliability in video surveillance systems, where continuous recording and data integrity are crucial. Its ability to handle 24/7 operation without fail makes it a preferred choice for professionals managing large surveillance networks.
While most users have had a positive experience, a few mentioned that the drive could be a bit overkill for smaller, home-based surveillance systems. Some also felt that for lighter-duty applications, the price might be too high given the enterprise-grade features.
Price Compared to Consumer Models
65%
35%
For users needing a hard drive that can withstand heavy usage, the higher price of this drive is justifiable, particularly in environments where durability and reliability are crucial. Many felt the extra cost was worth it for peace of mind and long-term investment.
The price point is one of the main complaints, with many users arguing that consumer-grade drives provide similar performance at a much lower cost. For users who do not need enterprise-level features, this drive’s price can feel excessive, especially when compared to other 1TB options on the market.

Suitable for:

The WD RE4 1TB Enterprise Hard Drive is ideal for users who require reliable, high-performance storage in demanding environments. Server administrators and IT professionals managing RAID arrays will appreciate its stability and optimization for error-free operation. This drive excels in video surveillance systems, offering the necessary endurance for continuous recording without compromising data integrity. It’s also an excellent choice for businesses and enterprises where performance and long-term reliability are crucial, especially when handling large amounts of data or operating 24/7. Its 5-year warranty further solidifies its suitability for critical, long-term storage needs.

Not suitable for:

This hard drive is not the best choice for casual users or those on a tight budget. Its higher price point may deter those seeking consumer-grade drives with similar storage capacity for everyday tasks. Additionally, individuals who need a quieter drive for personal or small office use may find it too noisy, as some users have reported that it runs louder than standard consumer models. It also may not be ideal for users with limited storage needs or those who don’t require enterprise-grade durability, as the drive’s features and cost might be overkill for less demanding applications.

Specifications

  • Storage Capacity: Offers 1TB of storage space for data-intensive applications and environments.
  • Interface: Uses a SATA II interface for compatibility with most systems requiring this standard.
  • Cache Size: Equipped with a 64MB cache to improve data access speeds and system responsiveness.
  • Speed: Operates at a 7200 RPM speed, providing fast read and write operations.
  • Form Factor: Comes in a 3.5-inch form factor, suitable for desktop and server setups.
  • Vibration Tolerance: Features enhanced vibration tolerance for stable operation in multi-drive systems.
  • RAID Support: Supports RAID configurations with Time-Limited Error Recovery (TLER) for data integrity.
  • Warranty: Includes a 5-year limited warranty for long-term reliability and peace of mind.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.08 lbs, making it suitable for enterprise-grade server and surveillance systems.
  • Dimensions: Measures 5.8 x 4 x 1 inches, fitting standard server and workstation slots.
  • Application: Designed for use in high-demand environments such as servers, RAID systems, and surveillance storage.
  • Noise Levels: May produce more noise than consumer-grade drives, which could be noticeable in quieter environments.
  • Power Consumption: Efficient power consumption suitable for continuous use in data-intensive tasks.
  • Reliability: Built to withstand demanding workloads, offering high reliability in mission-critical applications.
  • Data Integrity: Uses TLER technology to maintain data integrity and minimize drive dropouts in RAID systems.
  • Build Quality: Constructed with enterprise-grade components for durability and long-term usage.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of servers, workstations, and RAID configurations using SATA II.
  • Performance: Optimized for fast performance in write-intensive applications and environments requiring high throughput.

FAQ

The WD RE4 1TB Enterprise Hard Drive is designed for high-demand environments such as servers, video surveillance systems, and RAID configurations. It's built to offer high reliability and performance, especially in setups that require continuous, stable operation.

The 7200 RPM speed and 64MB cache allow for faster data access, which is critical in environments where quick read and write speeds are essential. This helps reduce latency and ensures smooth operation, particularly in data-intensive tasks like database management and surveillance footage storage.

While the WD RE4 1TB drive is optimized for RAID configurations, it can still work in non-RAID systems. However, some users may find its performance to be better suited for RAID environments, where its time-limited error recovery (TLER) feature can help maintain data integrity.

This drive uses a SATA II interface, which is compatible with most systems that support this standard. However, it may not be the fastest option for newer systems that use SATA III or higher interfaces. It's ideal for systems built for enterprise or server environments rather than consumer-grade computers.

Time-Limited Error Recovery (TLER) is a feature that helps prevent drives from being dropped from a RAID array due to error recovery timeouts. This is crucial in RAID systems, where data integrity and stability are vital for uninterrupted operation. TLER ensures that the drive can recover from minor errors without causing RAID failure.

Some users report that this drive is slightly louder than typical consumer-grade hard drives. This noise is often a result of its enterprise-class design, which prioritizes stability and performance in demanding environments like servers and data centers.

The WD RE4 1TB drive comes with a 5-year limited warranty, offering long-term reliability and peace of mind. This warranty reflects Western Digital's confidence in the drive’s durability, especially in high-demand applications.

Enhanced vibration tolerance allows the WD RE4 1TB hard drive to operate stably even in multi-drive systems, where vibration can cause errors or failures in other drives. This feature is particularly beneficial in RAID setups or environments with multiple hard drives installed together.

The higher price reflects the drive's enterprise-class features, such as its enhanced durability, RAID optimization, and vibration tolerance. These features are specifically designed for high-performance, mission-critical environments, which justifies the premium cost compared to standard consumer-grade drives.

While the WD RE4 1TB drive can certainly be used in personal or home setups, its enterprise-level features may be overkill for casual or low-demand use. If you're looking for a hard drive for general home storage, you may find consumer-grade models to be more cost-effective and quieter for day-to-day tasks.