Western Digital WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive

Western Digital WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive — image 1
Western Digital WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive — image 2
Western Digital WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive — image 3
Western Digital WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive — image 4
Western Digital WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive — image 5
Western Digital WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive — image 6
Western Digital WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive — image 7
87%
91%
Performance
94%
Reliability
90%
Data Integrity
85%
Setup & Installation
93%
Compatibility with NAS Systems
88%
Workload Handling
92%
Build Quality & Durability
87%
Cache Performance
80%
Noise Level
75%
Price vs. Competitors
86%
Long-Term Value
81%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The Western Digital WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive is a solid choice for those looking to expand their network-attached storage (NAS) systems. This 2TB drive is built specifically for business environments that require reliable, high-capacity storage for data access 24/7. With its 5400 RPM speed and SATA 6 Gb/s interface, the drive offers efficient data handling, while its 180 TB/yr workload rate makes it a good fit for those with demanding data transfer needs. Overall, this WD Red Plus hard drive strikes a balance between performance and long-term reliability.

Features & Benefits

Optimized for continuous use, the WD Red Plus hard drive excels in NAS systems that run around the clock. Its 128MB cache boosts data transfer speeds, ensuring smooth performance even with heavy workloads. Additionally, the drive uses CMR (Conventional Magnetic Recording) technology, which enhances data integrity and reduces risk during operation. These features combine to make the hard drive ideal for data-heavy tasks like backups, media storage, and file serving. Whether you need long-term data preservation or high-speed access, this model delivers consistent results.

Best For

This 2TB NAS drive is perfect for small to medium businesses that need reliable and affordable storage solutions. It’s especially suitable for users who are setting up or expanding their NAS systems and require a robust storage option that can handle heavy data demands. If your business needs 24/7 performance for tasks like backups, file sharing, or data retrieval, this drive will meet those needs. It’s also a solid choice for users who rely on a system that demands consistent uptime and can withstand significant daily workloads.

User Feedback

The Western Digital WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive has earned a positive reputation, with an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 7,200 users. Many customers appreciate its reliability and long-term performance, especially in high-demand NAS environments. However, some users have mentioned that while the drive is excellent for business storage, its price may be a bit higher than some competing drives with similar specifications. Overall, the feedback suggests that it’s a durable choice for long-term use but might be on the pricier side for those with tighter budgets.

#Internal Hard Drives
#Data Storage
#Computers & Accessories
#Electronics

Pros

  • Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses that need reliable 24/7 NAS storage.
  • Users appreciate its robust performance for high-data-demand tasks like backups and media storage.
  • Optimized for use in NAS systems, making setup and integration smooth.
  • The 128MB cache significantly enhances data transfer speeds in busy NAS environments.
  • Its 180 TB/yr workload rate ensures reliable, long-term performance even under heavy use.
  • This device has earned praise for its long-term durability and stability in demanding environments.

Cons

  • Some users feel the price is higher compared to similar drives with equivalent specs.
  • The 5400 RPM speed may not be fast enough for users requiring extremely high read/write speeds.
  • Not the best option for those with very high-performance or enterprise-level storage needs.
  • While generally reliable, a few users reported occasional issues with slow file transfers.
  • It may not be cost-effective for home users or light workloads who don’t need enterprise-level durability.
  • Some buyers found the setup process to be a bit more complex than expected for basic NAS installations.

Ratings

The Western Digital WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive has garnered a strong global reputation, with user reviews across multiple platforms and languages reflecting its reliability and performance. After filtering out irrelevant, spam, and incentivized feedback, we’ve assessed user experiences to provide a balanced picture of its strengths and pain points. Both praise for its durability in 24/7 environments and concerns about its cost compared to similar drives are clearly evident in the scores.

Performance
91%
Users praise this drive for its excellent performance in high-demand NAS environments. Many report smooth, uninterrupted data transfer, even during heavy usage, which is crucial for business-critical operations. Its 5400 RPM speed and 128MB cache deliver solid results for both read and write operations, making it a reliable choice for data-intensive tasks.
A few users mention that, while the performance is solid, it's not the fastest in its category compared to higher RPM drives. Some feel that its performance could be slightly improved for those running demanding applications like large database hosting or complex video editing on their NAS systems.
Reliability
94%
This drive excels in reliability, with many users noting its ability to run 24/7 without issues. It's especially appreciated in small to medium-sized businesses where consistent uptime is crucial. Over time, users have reported minimal failures or wear, making it a trusted option for long-term storage needs.
While reliability is generally high, a small fraction of users experienced early drive failures or issues after several years of use, particularly in environments with extremely high data loads. These isolated cases do highlight that even well-regarded drives can occasionally have durability issues.
Data Integrity
90%
With its use of CMR (Conventional Magnetic Recording) technology, this drive ensures superior data integrity, even under heavy workloads. Many users appreciate the added peace of mind, knowing their data is safe during frequent writes and reads, especially in environments with critical data storage needs.
Some users did express concerns that the CMR technology, while beneficial, may not be as fast as the newer SMR (Shingled Magnetic Recording) drives. These users noted that in certain use cases, faster write speeds would be beneficial for improved performance.
Setup & Installation
85%
The setup process for this device is relatively simple, with many users reporting a quick and hassle-free installation in their NAS systems. Compatibility with a variety of popular NAS setups means users can integrate it into their existing systems without too much trouble.
A few buyers noted that the installation process could be confusing for those who are new to NAS systems. While it works well with most setups, some users experienced minor compatibility issues, particularly when using older NAS devices or less common configurations.
Compatibility with NAS Systems
93%
This drive has been highly praised for its compatibility with a wide range of NAS systems. Users often report seamless integration with both budget-friendly and high-end NAS setups, making it versatile for various use cases. Whether you're upgrading an existing system or building a new one, this drive works well with both.
A small number of users have mentioned that while it works with most NAS devices, it may not be fully compatible with some older or less common models. In these cases, some users had to update their NAS firmware or use additional software to ensure proper functionality.
Workload Handling
88%
This drive handles high workloads exceptionally well, with a 180 TB/yr workload rate making it ideal for environments requiring constant access to data. Users report reliable performance even when multiple users are accessing data simultaneously, which is essential for business operations.
While the workload rate is impressive, a few users noted that it might not be enough for very high-demand applications, such as large-scale video editing or virtualized environments. For such heavy-duty use cases, some users feel that drives with higher ratings would perform better.
Build Quality & Durability
92%
The build quality of this drive is excellent, with many users appreciating its sturdy design that can withstand constant operation in NAS systems. It's built to last, even under the pressure of running 24/7, making it a reliable choice for business environments.
A few users did express concerns over the size and form factor, with some stating that the drive felt bulkier compared to other NAS drives of similar capacity. However, this is a minor concern and doesn’t seem to significantly impact performance or durability.
Cache Performance
87%
The 128MB cache significantly enhances the drive's performance, especially during frequent read and write operations. Users have reported smoother data transfers and faster response times when accessing files, which is critical in business applications where time is of the essence.
While the cache helps, some users feel that the performance could be further improved with a larger cache or higher RPM speeds. In more demanding environments, users noted that caching alone wasn’t enough to overcome the limitations of the 5400 RPM speed in certain applications.
Noise Level
80%
20%
Many users find the noise level of this drive to be relatively low, especially compared to other hard drives running in constant operation. This is a valuable feature for businesses where noise could be a concern, such as in offices or smaller workspaces.
A few users mentioned that, although the noise is relatively low, it can still be noticeable in quieter environments. Some have pointed out that while not overly loud, the drive produces a slight hum during operation, which could be distracting in ultra-quiet spaces.
Price vs. Competitors
75%
25%
Despite being on the higher end of the price spectrum, users who prioritize reliability and performance often find it worth the investment. Many are willing to pay a premium for the peace of mind that comes with a trusted brand like Western Digital.
Some users feel that the price of this drive is somewhat high when compared to similar 2TB NAS drives from other manufacturers. While the performance and reliability are solid, a few feel that they can get similar specs at a lower cost, especially from less established brands.
Long-Term Value
86%
Many users believe this drive provides excellent long-term value, especially in business environments where reliability is key. Its durability and ability to handle constant access to data contribute to its long-term usefulness, ensuring it remains a dependable asset for years.
While the long-term value is generally strong, a few users expressed concerns about potential price increases over time, especially with competing models offering similar capacities at lower prices. For those looking for more affordable options in the long run, the price might become a sticking point.
Customer Support
81%
19%
Western Digital’s customer support is generally well-regarded, with many users mentioning responsive and helpful service when dealing with issues. Warranty coverage also provides users with peace of mind in case of any drive failures.
While most interactions are positive, some users reported slow response times when seeking help. A few have mentioned difficulty getting timely support in non-English languages, which can be frustrating for international customers in need of assistance.

Suitable for:

The Western Digital WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive is ideal for small to medium businesses and users who need reliable, 24/7 storage in a NAS environment. With a 180 TB/yr workload rate, it’s perfect for businesses handling frequent data access or performing regular backups, media storage, and file sharing. Its compatibility with a variety of NAS systems ensures seamless integration, making it a strong choice for users setting up or expanding their NAS networks. If you rely on continuous uptime and need a dependable solution to manage moderate to high data transfer demands, this drive will serve you well in most professional environments.

Not suitable for:

This drive may not be the best option for users with extremely high-performance demands, such as those running large-scale video editing or virtualized environments. Its 5400 RPM speed, while efficient for most tasks, falls short for applications requiring faster write speeds or near-instantaneous data retrieval. Additionally, users looking for a more affordable option may find that its price is on the higher end compared to competitors with similar specs. Those needing specialized performance for niche tasks, or seeking faster drives for demanding workloads, might need to explore alternatives that offer higher RPMs or greater capacity for intensive use cases.

Specifications

  • Capacity: This drive offers 2TB of storage, providing ample space for small to medium-sized business NAS environments.
  • Interface: It features a SATA 6 Gb/s interface, ensuring fast data transfer speeds between the drive and the NAS system.
  • Speed: The drive operates at 5400 RPM, offering a balance between power efficiency and adequate data throughput for typical NAS tasks.
  • Cache: It includes a 128MB cache, which helps improve read and write performance by temporarily storing frequently accessed data.
  • Workload Rate: This drive is rated for a workload of up to 180 TB per year, making it suitable for environments with high data transfer demands.
  • Recording Technology: Utilizes CMR (Conventional Magnetic Recording), which ensures better data integrity and reliability in multi-drive NAS setups.
  • Form Factor: The drive comes in a standard 3.5-inch form factor, making it compatible with most NAS enclosures.
  • Operating Environment: Designed for 24/7 operation, this drive is built to handle continuous workloads typical of business NAS systems.
  • Durability: With its robust build and high workload rating, this drive is built to perform reliably under demanding conditions.
  • Compatibility: It is compatible with a wide range of NAS systems, including those from popular manufacturers like Synology, QNAP, and others.
  • Power Management: This drive is designed to be energy-efficient, providing a good balance between performance and power consumption, which is important for continuous use.
  • Noise Level: While not completely silent, the drive operates quietly enough for office and small business environments, minimizing disturbances.
  • Warranty: The drive comes with a 3-year limited warranty, offering coverage against defects or failures within the warranty period.
  • Temperature Range: It operates in a typical temperature range for NAS drives, with a maximum operating temperature of 65°C (149°F).
  • MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures): The drive is rated for a high MTBF, providing peace of mind regarding its reliability and long-term performance.
  • Drive Type: This is a hard disk drive (HDD), not a solid-state drive (SSD), which offers a cost-effective solution for large storage capacities.

FAQ

This hard drive is designed for use in NAS systems, particularly in small to medium-sized businesses. It offers reliable, 24/7 operation, making it ideal for data-heavy tasks such as backups, media storage, and accessing shared files across networks.

To install this NAS drive, simply mount it into your NAS enclosure using the standard 3.5-inch hard drive slot. Connect the drive via the SATA interface, and the NAS system should automatically recognize it during setup. Ensure your NAS system is compatible with 3.5-inch SATA drives.

This WD Red Plus drive is specifically designed for NAS environments. It should work with most NAS systems that support 3.5-inch SATA drives, but it's always a good idea to check compatibility with your specific NAS model before purchasing.

The 180 TB/yr workload rate refers to the maximum amount of data this drive is rated to handle annually. It's a measure of durability, indicating that the WD Red Plus can handle up to 180 terabytes of written data per year, making it ideal for high-usage business environments.

While this drive can technically be used for home storage, it is designed for business environments where 24/7 operation and high workloads are required. For personal use or lighter tasks, there may be more cost-effective alternatives.

The 5400 RPM speed of this drive provides reliable performance for NAS systems, though it’s not as fast as 7200 RPM drives. For most business applications that involve storing and accessing large files, it offers a good balance between speed and power efficiency.

CMR is a recording technology that ensures better data integrity and stability, especially in multi-drive NAS setups. It’s particularly important for business environments where data consistency and reliability are critical for long-term storage.

The 128MB cache helps improve data transfer speeds by temporarily storing frequently accessed data, allowing faster access times when retrieving files. This is especially beneficial in environments where multiple users are accessing the NAS simultaneously.

Yes, the WD Red Plus 2TB NAS Hard Drive typically comes with a 3-year limited warranty. This coverage ensures peace of mind, especially for business environments where data reliability is essential.

Some users have noted that the price of this drive is higher than similar drives with comparable specifications. Additionally, its 5400 RPM speed may not be sufficient for very high-performance applications or environments requiring ultra-fast data access.