Western Digital RE 3TB Enterprise Hard Drive

Western Digital RE 3TB Enterprise Hard Drive — image 1
86%
91%
Reliability for 24/7 Use
88%
Data Transfer Speed
85%
Vibration Protection
92%
Durability (MTBF)
72%
Noise Level in High-Vibration Environments
89%
Compatibility with NAS/SAN
87%
Ease of Installation
90%
Long-Term Value
83%
Warranty Support
84%
Price vs Performance
86%
Capacity vs Other Enterprise Drives
88%
Suitability for Surveillance Systems
More

Overview

The Western Digital RE 3TB Enterprise Hard Drive is a high-performance storage solution designed to meet the demanding needs of data centers and enterprise environments. This 3TB drive offers a SATA III interface and operates at a speed of 7200 RPM, providing fast data transfer rates. Built for 24/7 reliability, it is engineered to handle continuous operation with minimal downtime. Ideal for high-capacity storage, the drive delivers enterprise-level durability, ensuring stability even in heavy-duty applications.

Features & Benefits

This WD RE 3TB drive offers several key features to enhance its performance and longevity. With a 64MB cache for quicker data access and sustained speeds, it is optimized for fast read and write operations. The drive also integrates vibration protection technology, which improves its reliability in environments with multiple drives, such as data centers. With a robust MTBF of 1.2 million hours, it ensures exceptional durability and minimal failure rates, making it ideal for critical business applications.

Best For

The WD RE 3TB drive is an excellent choice for environments requiring high-capacity, reliable storage. It is particularly well-suited for data centers that need continuous, high-speed data access. Surveillance systems can also benefit from its consistent performance in demanding conditions. Additionally, it is an ideal option for NAS and SAN users looking for enterprise-grade hard drives that can operate under a heavy workload with minimal risk of failure. Its rugged design ensures it performs well in high-demand setups.

User Feedback

User reviews for this enterprise hard drive are generally positive, especially regarding its reliability in 24/7 operations. Many users have praised its long lifespan and its ability to maintain high performance even under heavy workloads. However, some users have noted concerns about its noise level in high-vibration environments, although this is less of an issue in quieter, more controlled setups. Overall, it’s highly regarded for its durability and low failure rate, making it a strong contender in enterprise storage solutions.

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Pros

  • This enterprise hard drive is highly reliable for 24/7 use in demanding environments.
  • Its 3TB capacity offers ample storage for data centers and multi-drive setups.
  • RAFF vibration protection ensures stability and reduces failure risks in high-vibration settings.
  • With a 1.2 million hour MTBF, this drive is built to last under heavy-duty usage.
  • Users report excellent performance with quick data access thanks to the 64MB cache.
  • This device is a solid choice for NAS and SAN applications where uptime is critical.

Cons

  • Some users find the drive noisy, especially in high-vibration environments.
  • It's relatively expensive compared to non-enterprise options with similar capacities.
  • The drive's performance may not fully meet the needs of users prioritizing speed over capacity.
  • This hard drive is overkill for casual home use or small-scale operations.
  • Setup and integration may be challenging for those without technical experience.
  • A few users mentioned that its size and power requirements make it less suitable for portable applications.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, the feedback for the Western Digital RE 3TB Enterprise Hard Drive reflects a balanced mix of strengths and concerns. Reviews were filtered to exclude spam, bot-driven, and incentivized feedback, ensuring only authentic insights were considered. The scores below represent a well-rounded overview of its performance, durability, and overall user satisfaction in real-world conditions, highlighting both the advantages and potential pain points that users commonly report.

Reliability for 24/7 Use
91%
Users frequently commend this enterprise hard drive for its consistent performance in continuous 24/7 operation. Its ability to maintain reliable data access during non-stop use in demanding environments makes it a strong choice for data centers and other critical applications.
However, a few users mention that despite its overall reliability, there can be occasional issues with long-term wear in certain environments, particularly where there is a significant amount of vibration or heat. Some also report that newer models from competitors seem to offer slightly better performance in high-demand tasks.
Data Transfer Speed
88%
Many buyers are pleased with the high data transfer speeds provided by this hard drive, especially in setups requiring quick access to large volumes of data. The 7200 RPM speed combined with the SATA III interface helps to streamline workflows, even in enterprise-level data storage systems.
That said, a few users feel that while the drive offers decent speed, it's not as fast as some of its newer counterparts, particularly for more intensive tasks like video editing or high-end applications. Some also report occasional lag in multi-drive configurations, especially in larger NAS setups.
Vibration Protection
85%
The built-in RAFF vibration protection technology is often praised by users for reducing the risk of drive failure in multi-drive setups, making this device a solid option for environments with high vibration, such as data centers. This feature enhances both reliability and performance, ensuring smooth operation even under strain.
On the downside, a few users have noted that in certain setups with extremely high vibrations, the vibration protection doesn't always fully mitigate noise or performance dips. Some also feel that it could be more effective in reducing wear and tear on the drive over time, especially in larger or more complex systems.
Durability (MTBF)
92%
The 1.2 million hour MTBF rating is a standout feature that assures users of the hard drive's long-term durability. Many buyers appreciate the peace of mind this gives, knowing the drive is engineered for heavy-duty operations and should last through years of continuous use without major failures.
However, some users report that even with a high MTBF, they’ve experienced early failures after a few years of heavy use, particularly in environments with extreme temperatures or fluctuating power conditions. A small subset of users suggests that the lifespan could vary significantly depending on specific operational conditions.
Noise Level in High-Vibration Environments
72%
28%
Some users have found that the noise level of this drive is acceptable under normal circumstances, and it doesn't generate excessive sound during routine operations. This can be important for setups where noise might be a concern, like in offices or home labs.
However, many users have pointed out that in high-vibration environments, the drive tends to produce noticeable noise. This can be disruptive in server racks or environments with multiple drives running simultaneously. Some users also report that the noise level increases over time with heavy usage.
Compatibility with NAS/SAN
89%
Buyers who use this drive in NAS or SAN configurations generally praise its seamless integration with enterprise systems. The compatibility with these setups makes it a reliable option for those needing consistent, large-scale storage in professional environments.
There are occasional reports of compatibility issues when trying to integrate the drive with certain third-party NAS systems, leading to slower setup or minor configuration headaches. Some users also feel that software support for these systems could be better.
Ease of Installation
87%
Many users find the installation process straightforward, especially in systems that already use standard SATA III drives. The setup is quick, and no additional drivers or complicated configurations are necessary, making it accessible for IT professionals and casual users alike.
Despite the general ease of installation, a few buyers mention that they faced issues when installing the drive in older systems or custom setups. Some had to troubleshoot compatibility problems, which extended the installation time and effort.
Long-Term Value
90%
With its high durability, solid performance, and strong warranty support, this hard drive offers great long-term value for users who need consistent, reliable storage for critical applications. Its longevity and reliability help ensure it remains a worthwhile investment over the years.
However, some users feel that the initial cost may be a bit high compared to other drives offering similar features. A few report that while the drive is built for long-term use, its overall value is slightly diminished by newer, more cost-efficient alternatives entering the market.
Warranty Support
83%
The 5-year warranty is a key selling point for many users, offering reassurance that any issues with the drive will be addressed by the manufacturer. This support is highly appreciated in mission-critical environments where downtime is costly.
While the warranty itself is well-regarded, a few users have expressed frustration with the speed and responsiveness of customer service. Some report delays in processing claims or difficulties in reaching support teams for more specific troubleshooting needs.
Price vs Performance
84%
The price of this hard drive is seen as reasonable by many users given its performance and reliability, especially for businesses that need a dependable solution for 24/7 operations. Buyers often feel they are getting good value for their investment when it comes to uptime and consistent data access.
However, some users feel that while the performance is solid, the price could be slightly lower for the features offered. A few buyers mention that competitors offer similar specifications at a better price point, which may make them reconsider their choice.
Capacity vs Other Enterprise Drives
86%
Users appreciate the 3TB capacity, as it strikes a good balance between performance and storage space for many enterprise applications. It's an ideal choice for businesses that need a reasonable amount of storage without stepping up to much larger, more expensive drives.
Some users feel that 3TB may be limiting in the context of large-scale storage setups. A few note that for growing businesses or data-intensive operations, drives with larger capacities may be more appropriate, making the 3TB size feel somewhat outdated in certain high-demand environments.
Suitability for Surveillance Systems
88%
The drive is highly regarded by users who need continuous, high-speed access to large video files in surveillance systems. Its reliability in handling 24/7 data streaming makes it a great option for security setups that require constant uptime and large data storage.
However, some users report that the drive struggles with very high write-intensive operations in surveillance applications, leading to occasional slowdowns during peak recording times. A few others suggest that the drive could benefit from improved noise management in environments with heavy video traffic.

Suitable for:

The Western Digital RE 3TB Enterprise Hard Drive is ideal for users who require high-capacity, reliable storage in data centers or other environments with demanding workloads. Its 3TB capacity and robust design make it perfect for enterprises that need continuous access to data 24/7, such as in NAS and SAN configurations. Additionally, it is well-suited for surveillance systems where high-speed data transfer and minimal downtime are essential. IT professionals managing mission-critical applications will benefit from its durability and long lifespan, especially in high-vibration or multi-drive environments thanks to the RAFF vibration protection technology.

Not suitable for:

While this hard drive offers excellent reliability, it may not be the best choice for users with lower storage needs or those who prioritize speed over capacity. Casual home users or small businesses might find the 3TB capacity and enterprise-grade features more than necessary, leading to higher costs without fully utilizing the drive's potential. Additionally, those in environments with extreme vibration or temperature fluctuations might encounter some limitations, as the drive's vibration protection, though effective, doesn’t eliminate all performance concerns under such conditions. Lastly, users seeking lower-cost alternatives or smaller, faster drives might find more suitable options elsewhere.

Specifications

  • Capacity: Offers 3TB of storage, suitable for large-scale data storage needs in enterprise environments.
  • Interface: Uses a SATA III (6Gb/s) interface for fast and efficient data transfer between the drive and connected devices.
  • Rotational Speed: Operates at 7200 RPM, providing fast read/write speeds for demanding applications and environments.
  • Cache Size: Equipped with a 64MB cache to improve performance and facilitate faster data access.
  • MTBF: Has a Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) of 1.2 million hours, ensuring long-term reliability in high-demand applications.
  • Vibration Protection: Features RAFF technology for enhanced vibration protection, ensuring stability in multi-drive setups.
  • Form Factor: Comes in a standard 3.5-inch form factor, compatible with most enterprise-grade systems and data centers.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of data center, NAS, and SAN systems that support SATA III drives.
  • Warranty: Includes a 5-year warranty for peace of mind and assurance of product reliability.
  • Use Case: Ideal for high-capacity storage in data centers, surveillance systems, and NAS/SAN applications.
  • Power Consumption: Designed for power efficiency during operation, minimizing energy consumption in 24/7 running environments.
  • Weight: Weighs approximately 720 grams, typical for enterprise-grade 3.5-inch hard drives.
  • Operating Temperature: Supports an operating temperature range of 0°C to 60°C, suitable for most data center conditions.
  • Storage Technology: Utilizes traditional hard disk drive (HDD) technology for reliable, long-term data storage.
  • Noise Level: Generally produces moderate noise levels, with some reports of increased noise in high-vibration environments.
  • Shock Resistance: Designed to withstand typical shock and vibration levels encountered in server and data center environments.
  • Data Transfer Rate: Supports data transfer rates up to 6Gb/s, providing efficient throughput for large data operations.
  • System Requirements: Requires a system that supports 3.5-inch SATA III hard drives for proper installation and performance.

FAQ

This hard drive offers a 3TB storage capacity, making it ideal for high-capacity applications like data centers and NAS setups.

This enterprise hard drive is designed for continuous 24/7 operation, with high reliability backed by its 1.2 million hour MTBF, making it suitable for demanding environments such as data centers and surveillance systems.

The WD RE 3TB drive runs at 7200 RPM, which ensures fast data transfer speeds, making it a good choice for high-performance environments that require quick access to large amounts of data.

The drive uses a SATA III interface (6Gb/s), which is compatible with most modern data centers, NAS, and SAN systems that support SATA connections. Ensure your system supports SATA III for optimal performance.

This drive features RAFF vibration protection technology, which helps maintain reliability in multi-drive setups. It reduces the risk of failure in environments where vibrations are common, such as data centers with multiple hard drives.

While this hard drive is designed for enterprise-level applications, it can technically be used in a home or small office setup. However, its large capacity and enterprise-level features may be overkill for typical personal use.

Some users have reported that the drive can be noisy in high-vibration environments, especially in multi-drive setups, so if noise is a concern, consider placing it in a soundproof enclosure or using it in quieter environments.

This drive comes with a 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind for users in demanding applications where reliability and longevity are critical.

Installing the WD RE 3TB drive is straightforward if your system supports SATA III. Simply connect it to the SATA port, mount it in a 3.5-inch bay, and ensure your system recognizes it during boot-up. Consult the system manual for specific instructions on setting it up in a RAID array if needed.

Yes, this hard drive is an excellent choice for surveillance systems that require continuous, high-speed data access. It is optimized for heavy-duty use, making it a great fit for 24/7 recording and playback in surveillance setups.