Western Digital 8TB Ultrastar DC HC320 SATA HDD

Western Digital 8TB Ultrastar DC HC320 SATA HDD — image 1
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86%
91%
Performance
89%
Reliability
87%
Durability
94%
Capacity
85%
Data Transfer Speed
65%
Noise Level
90%
Vibration Protection
80%
Ease of Use
92%
24/7 Operation Suitability
91%
Value for Money
88%
Compatibility
78%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The Western Digital 8TB Ultrastar DC HC320 SATA HDD is a high-performance storage solution designed for demanding enterprise environments. This 7200 RPM hard drive offers large-capacity storage with a robust 256MB cache for fast data transfer. The Ultrastar DC HC320 is engineered to operate continuously, ensuring that your system remains up and running around the clock. Whether for data storage, backup, or more, this drive delivers reliable performance under intense workloads.

Features & Benefits

With its substantial 8TB capacity, this 8TB hard drive provides ample space for high-volume storage needs. The SATA 6Gb/s interface ensures fast data transfer, while the 256MB cache speeds up access times, making it ideal for large-scale data management. It also incorporates vibration protection and error recovery features, enhancing durability and ensuring data integrity during heavy use. Whether you're running intensive tasks like data analytics or media streaming, this drive is optimized for demanding environments.

Best For

This Western Digital HDD is perfect for businesses needing reliable storage for enterprise data backup and management. It excels in environments that require continuous operation, making it an excellent choice for media streaming, database storage, and backup solutions. Users who prioritize high-capacity, dependable internal storage will find this hard drive to be an invaluable asset. Its 8TB size provides the flexibility to store large amounts of data, ideal for those looking to avoid frequent drive replacements.

User Feedback

The feedback for this 8TB hard drive has been generally positive, with users praising its reliability and fast data transfer speeds. Many have found it suitable for their backup tasks, appreciating its large capacity and stable performance over time. However, some users have raised concerns about the noise produced during heavy data reads and writes. Despite this, the overall consensus is that this drive provides excellent value for businesses in need of a high-performance storage solution.

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Pros

  • Ideal for high-capacity storage needs, with 8TB of space for large data volumes.
  • Reliable performance with fast data transfer speeds, thanks to the 7200 RPM speed and 256MB cache.
  • Perfect for 24/7 operation in demanding enterprise environments, handling continuous workloads.
  • Vibration protection and error recovery features enhance durability for long-term use.
  • Works well for media streaming services that require high-volume, constant access to data.
  • Users appreciate the ease of setup and installation, making it ideal for data backups.

Cons

  • Some users report noticeable noise during heavy use, which may be disruptive in quieter environments.
  • This device may be overkill for users with smaller storage needs, making it less cost-effective for casual use.
  • Not the best option for home setups due to its noise and large form factor.
  • Can be slower during high-read-write operations compared to SSDs, which may impact speed-sensitive applications.
  • Lacks a cooling fan, which may lead to higher temperatures under heavy loads, especially in confined spaces.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback from diverse sources and languages, we've compiled the ratings for the Western Digital 8TB Ultrastar DC HC320 SATA HDD. The scores reflect a broad range of real-world experiences, filtered to exclude spam, bot-driven, or incentivized reviews. Both the strengths and the challenges users have encountered are represented in these ratings, offering a balanced view of the product's performance and reliability in demanding environments.

Performance
91%
Users appreciate the solid performance of this drive, especially its speed and reliability in handling large amounts of data. Many buyers noted that the 7200 RPM speed ensures fast access and smooth data transfer during high-demand tasks like data backup and media streaming.
A few users mentioned occasional performance dips under heavy load, especially in environments with excessive vibration or when used in a multi-drive setup. However, these issues seem to occur mainly in highly demanding or non-optimized systems.
Reliability
89%
This hard drive earns high marks for its overall reliability. Many customers reported trouble-free, long-term operation in their enterprise setups, often running 24/7 without experiencing failure. The error recovery and vibration protection features contribute to its dependable performance in critical environments.
While generally reliable, a small group of users had concerns regarding the drive’s long-term durability when exposed to extreme operating conditions. A few noted early signs of wear after several years of non-stop use, particularly in high-heat data centers.
Durability
87%
Many buyers have highlighted the robust build quality of this hard drive. With built-in features like vibration protection and error recovery, it performs well in enterprise environments where constant operation is essential. Users who needed a drive for high-demand applications found it consistently durable even during intense usage.
Some users reported noise and minor mechanical issues after long periods of continuous use. In environments with fluctuating temperatures, the drive seemed more susceptible to wear, especially in setups where cooling is inadequate.
Capacity
94%
The 8TB capacity is widely praised by users for its ability to store large volumes of data, making it an ideal choice for enterprise and backup solutions. Customers found the ample storage space helped eliminate the need for frequent data migrations or upgrades.
A few users felt that while the drive’s capacity was more than sufficient, the drive could be overkill for smaller personal projects or casual home use. These users found the size excessive for their needs, leading to a higher price tag than what they were looking for.
Data Transfer Speed
85%
The 7200 RPM speed delivers fast data transfer, making it well-suited for tasks such as data analytics, media streaming, and backup. Many users mentioned that the drive offered quick file read/write speeds, which allowed their systems to run more efficiently and with minimal lag.
However, some users expressed disappointment with occasional slowdowns when handling particularly large file transfers or when multiple applications were using the drive at once. A few noted that while the speed is solid, it’s not exceptional compared to some solid-state options.
Noise Level
65%
35%
For the most part, the noise level was tolerable for many users, especially in industrial settings where the drive is placed in server rooms or other noise-insensitive environments. Most buyers found it suitable for such operational conditions.
Several users reported that the drive emitted noticeable noise, especially during heavy use or when operating in smaller, quieter workspaces. While not a dealbreaker for many, those in more sensitive environments found it disruptive, particularly in multi-drive setups.
Vibration Protection
90%
Many users appreciate the built-in vibration protection, which helps reduce mechanical failure risks in environments with multi-drive setups or where vibrations are common. The hard drive’s ability to maintain consistent performance in such conditions is a strong selling point for enterprise users.
Though vibration protection is effective in many cases, a few users working in high-vibration environments reported that it wasn't always enough to prevent minor degradation over time. Some of them felt that more active protection could have been beneficial in these scenarios.
Ease of Use
80%
20%
The drive is generally easy to install and set up, especially for users familiar with enterprise hardware. Several buyers found it straightforward to integrate into their existing systems without the need for specialized knowledge.
On the downside, a small number of users found the setup process cumbersome, particularly those less familiar with enterprise-grade storage solutions. The lack of detailed instructions or a simple plug-and-play design was noted as a barrier for some less experienced users.
24/7 Operation Suitability
92%
Designed for 24/7 operation, this hard drive excels in environments where constant access to data is critical. Many enterprise users were pleased with how the drive handled continuous operation without issues like overheating or unexpected failure.
While generally praised for its ability to run around the clock, some users reported experiencing occasional slowdowns after long periods of uninterrupted use. These instances seemed isolated, but they did raise concerns among users relying on consistent uptime.
Value for Money
91%
Buyers see strong value in the drive’s combination of performance, capacity, and durability. For those needing a high-capacity storage solution for enterprise or data backup, the price is considered competitive, especially when compared to other drives in the same class.
Some customers felt the drive was overpriced compared to other 8TB drives, especially considering the noise concerns and occasional performance dips. While the quality is there, a few users believe the cost could be better justified with a more premium experience across the board.
Compatibility
88%
This drive is widely compatible with many systems, making it easy to integrate into various enterprise environments. Users have found it works seamlessly with both modern and older setups without requiring special drivers or software.
Despite broad compatibility, a few users in highly specific or legacy systems experienced issues with full integration. Compatibility with older systems, particularly those with non-SATA interfaces, was occasionally mentioned as a challenge.
Customer Support
78%
22%
When customers did reach out, support was generally helpful in addressing technical concerns, and replacement processes were straightforward for defective units. Many found the representatives knowledgeable and responsive.
Several users reported delays or difficulty getting adequate support for more complex issues, such as data recovery. A small portion of customers expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of proactive assistance or follow-up after initial inquiries.

Suitable for:

The Western Digital 8TB Ultrastar DC HC320 SATA HDD is a strong choice for users seeking a reliable, high-capacity hard drive for enterprise environments, such as IT professionals, data centers, and businesses requiring robust storage for large-scale backups. Its 8TB storage and 7200 RPM speed make it ideal for users dealing with high-volume data transfers, like media streaming services or database administrators. The drive is well-suited for 24/7 operations and can handle demanding workloads, making it a solid option for users who need dependable, constant data access in professional setups.

Not suitable for:

This hard drive may not be the best fit for casual home users or individuals with lower storage needs. Those who only require smaller capacities or occasional use might find the drive’s size and price excessive. Additionally, users in quieter home environments or small office settings might be put off by the noise generated during heavy use. While its reliability is commendable in enterprise settings, the Ultrastar DC HC320 may not offer enough value for users seeking a low-cost, compact, and quiet solution for personal storage or light-duty tasks.

Specifications

  • Capacity: This hard drive provides 8TB of storage, suitable for large-scale data storage and backup tasks.
  • Interface: Equipped with a SATA 6Gb/s interface for fast data transfer and broad compatibility.
  • Rotational Speed: The drive operates at 7200 RPM, ensuring optimal performance for high-demand applications.
  • Cache Size: Includes a 256MB cache to support fast read and write operations.
  • Form Factor: Has a 3.5-inch form factor, making it suitable for desktop or enterprise-class storage systems.
  • Error Recovery: Features error recovery protection to prevent data loss during read/write processes.
  • Vibration Protection: Designed with vibration protection to ensure reliable performance in multi-drive environments.
  • 24/7 Operation: Built for continuous 24/7 operation, making it ideal for enterprise and server use.
  • Durability: Engineered for high durability, suitable for demanding workloads and constant data access.
  • Workload Optimization: Optimized for demanding workloads like data analytics, media streaming, and large-scale backup.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with most systems that support SATA interfaces, including Windows and macOS devices.
  • Weight: Weighs approximately 1.5kg (3.3 lbs), making it heavier compared to consumer-grade hard drives.
  • Power Consumption: Designed to operate efficiently with low power consumption during idle and active states.
  • Temperature Range: Can function in a wide temperature range, typically from 0°C to 60°C, suitable for various operating conditions.
  • Dimensions: The drive measures 26.1mm (1.03 inches) in height, 101.6mm (4 inches) in width, and 147mm (5.79 inches) in depth.
  • Warranty: Comes with a limited warranty, ensuring peace of mind for long-term enterprise use.
  • MTBF: Boasts a high Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF), offering increased reliability for critical data storage.

FAQ

This hard drive offers 8TB of storage, making it ideal for users with high-volume data storage needs, such as enterprises or media servers.

The 8TB Ultrastar DC HC320 operates at 7200 RPM and includes a 256MB cache, ensuring fast data transfer speeds, especially for large files and backup tasks.

While the Ultrastar DC HC320 is designed for enterprise use, it can work in home setups that need large storage. However, it may not be the best fit for casual users due to its size and noise under heavy use.

Yes, this hard drive is specifically built for 24/7 use in demanding enterprise environments, making it a reliable option for continuous data storage and backup.

To install this hard drive, simply mount it in a compatible 3.5-inch drive bay, connect it to your system using a SATA interface, and follow your operating system’s drive setup procedure.

Yes, the Ultrastar DC HC320 includes error recovery and vibration protection features, ensuring data integrity and durability, even in environments with constant usage and movement.

Yes, the drive is compatible with both Windows and macOS, as long as the system supports SATA drives. It can be formatted for use with any operating system that recognizes SATA 6Gb/s interfaces.

Some users have reported that the Ultrastar DC HC320 can be noisy, especially under heavy load. It’s ideal for server rooms but may be less suitable for quiet office spaces or home use.

This drive is optimized for high-demand workloads such as data analytics, media streaming, and large-scale data storage and backup, making it ideal for enterprise environments.

While the Ultrastar DC HC320 offers excellent value for high-capacity storage, it’s slower than solid-state drives (SSDs) for tasks that require fast read/write speeds, such as video editing or gaming. However, it excels in large-scale data storage and backup tasks.