When it comes to external hard drives, there are numerous options available on the market. Two popular choices among consumers are the Western Digital WD Elements and the ADATA HD710 Pro. Both of these products offer reliable storage solutions for backing up important files and transferring data between devices. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, performance, and value of these two external hard drives, which are both available as external hard drives under $100.

Design and Build Quality

The Western Digital WD Elements has a sleek and compact design, making it easy to carry around. It measures 4.35 x 3.23 x 0.67 inches and weighs approximately 6.4 ounces. The drive is encased in a durable plastic shell that provides adequate protection against minor bumps and scratches.

On the other hand, the ADATA HD710 Pro has a more rugged design, with a thicker and heavier build (5.12 x 3.31 x 0.87 inches, 9.2 ounces). The drive features a waterproof and dustproof construction, with a rating of IP68, which means it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1.5 meters for 60 minutes. This makes the HD710 Pro a great option for users who work in harsh environments or engage in outdoor activities.

Storage Capacity and Performance

Both external hard drives are available in various storage capacities, ranging from 500GB to 4TB. The Western Digital WD Elements offers sequential read and write speeds of up to 140MB/s and 120MB/s, respectively. In contrast, the ADATA HD710 Pro boasts faster speeds, with sequential read and write rates of up to 170MB/s and 160MB/s.

In terms of real-world performance, both drives deliver fast data transfer rates, making them suitable for backing up large files, such as videos and photos. However, the HD710 Pro's faster speeds give it a slight edge when dealing with demanding tasks like video editing or gaming.

Compatibility and Connectivity

Both external hard drives are compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. The Western Digital WD Elements uses a USB 3.0 interface, while the ADATA HD710 Pro features both USB 3.0 and USB-C connectivity options. This makes the HD710 Pro more versatile, as it can be easily connected to newer devices with USB-C ports.

Security Features

The Western Digital WD Elements does not come with built-in security features, such as encryption or password protection. In contrast, the ADATA HD710 Pro offers AES 256-bit hardware-based encryption, which provides an additional layer of security for sensitive data.

Price and Value

As mentioned earlier, both external hard drives are available as external hard drives under $100, making them affordable options for consumers on a budget. The Western Digital WD Elements typically retails between $50-$80, depending on the storage capacity. The ADATA HD710 Pro is priced slightly higher, ranging from $60-$100.

Considering the features and performance of both drives, the ADATA HD710 Pro offers better value for its price. Its rugged design, faster speeds, and built-in encryption make it a more comprehensive storage solution. However, users who prioritize affordability and don't require advanced security features may find the Western Digital WD Elements to be a suitable option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Western Digital WD Elements and the ADATA HD710 Pro are reliable external hard drives that offer excellent value for their price. While the WD Elements is a more affordable option with a compact design, the HD710 Pro stands out with its rugged build, faster speeds, and built-in encryption. When shopping for external hard drives under $100, consumers should consider their specific needs and priorities to determine which drive best suits their requirements. Ultimately, the ADATA HD710 Pro's robust feature set and durability make it a top choice for users seeking a reliable and secure storage solution.