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Updated
Pros
  • Optimized for NAS
  • High workload capacity
  • Reliable performance
  • Great for gaming
  • Fast read/write speeds
  • Reliable
Cons
  • Higher price point
  • Louder operation at high loads
  • Lower capacity options
  • Higher power usage
Bottom Line
Ideal for NAS systems
Top-tier gaming drive
Capacity
4TB - 18TB
1TB - 10TB
Interface
SATA 6.0Gbps
SATA 6.0Gbps
RPM
7200
7200
Cache
256MB
256MB
Height
4 Inches
0.28 inches
Length
1.028 Inches
3.94 inches
Weight
1.5211896078 pounds
0.20282528104 pounds
Width
5.787 Inches
2.75 inches
Part Number
WD161KFGX
WD5000LPLX
Model
WD161KFGX-SPAFPN0
WD5000LPLX

When it comes to internal hard drives, two popular options from Western Digital are the WD Red Pro and the WD Black Performance. Both are high-quality drives designed for specific use cases, but they differ in terms of their features, performance, and intended applications.

WD Red Pro:The WD Red Pro is a line of internal hard drives specifically designed for NAS (Network-Attached Storage) systems and data centers. These drives are built to handle the demands of 24/7 operation, with a focus on reliability, durability, and compatibility. The Red Pro series offers capacities ranging from 2TB to 18TB, with a 7200 RPM spindle speed and 256MB of cache memory.

Key features of the WD Red Pro include:

  • NAS-optimized design for seamless integration with popular NAS systems
  • Robust vibration tolerance to minimize errors and ensure reliable operation in multi-drive environments
  • Error recovery control for improved data integrity
  • Support for up to 16 bays in a single system

WD Black Performance:The WD Black Performance, on the other hand, is designed for high-performance computing applications, such as gaming, video editing, and content creation. These internal hard drives are optimized for speed and responsiveness, with a focus on delivering fast data transfer rates and low latency.

Key features of the WD Black Performance include:

  • High-speed 7200 RPM spindle speed and 256MB of cache memory for rapid data access
  • Dual-stage actuator technology for improved tracking and stability
  • NoTouch ramp load technology to reduce wear and tear on the drive
  • Support for high-performance applications, including gaming, video editing, and content creation

Comparison:When comparing the WD Red Pro and WD Black Performance internal hard drives, several key differences emerge:

  • Intended application: The Red Pro is designed specifically for NAS systems and data centers, while the Black Performance is geared towards high-performance computing applications.
  • Performance: The Black Performance offers faster data transfer rates, with sequential read/write speeds of up to 247MB/s, compared to the Red Pro's 175MB/s.
  • Reliability: The Red Pro is built for 24/7 operation and features robust vibration tolerance and error recovery control, making it a more reliable choice for demanding environments.
  • Capacity: Both drives offer a range of capacities, but the Red Pro is available in higher capacities (up to 18TB) than the Black Performance (up to 6TB).

Conclusion:In conclusion, when choosing between the WD Red Pro and WD Black Performance internal hard drives, it's essential to consider your specific needs and use case. If you're building a NAS system or require a reliable drive for data center applications, the WD Red Pro is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize high-performance computing and need rapid data transfer rates, the WD Black Performance may be the better option.

Ultimately, both drives offer exceptional quality and performance, but their differences in design and features make them suited to distinct applications within the world of internal hard drives.