When it comes to storing and backing up large amounts of data, external hard drives are a popular choice. Among the numerous options available in the market, Western Digital WD Elements and Seagate STGX1000400 are two notable products that offer reliable storage solutions. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, performance, and value for money of these two external hard drives, which are both available as external hard drives under $100.

Design and Build

The Western Digital WD Elements boasts a sleek and compact design, making it easy to carry around. It measures 4.35 x 3.23 x 0.82 inches and weighs approximately 6.3 ounces, making it a great option for those who need to transport their data on the go. The drive has a durable plastic casing that provides adequate protection against minor bumps and scratches.

In contrast, the Seagate STGX1000400 has a slightly larger footprint, measuring 4.72 x 3.15 x 0.87 inches and weighing around 7.2 ounces. Although it's still relatively compact, it may not be as portable as the WD Elements. However, Seagate's drive features a more rugged design with a textured surface, which provides better grip and durability.

Storage Capacity

Both external hard drives offer a range of storage capacities, but we'll focus on the 1TB models for this comparison. The Western Digital WD Elements 1TB model provides ample storage space for storing files, documents, photos, and videos. Similarly, the Seagate STGX1000400 1TB model offers equivalent storage capacity, making it an excellent choice for backing up large amounts of data.

Performance

In terms of performance, both drives deliver fast transfer speeds thanks to their USB 3.0 connectivity. The Western Digital WD Elements boasts read and write speeds of up to 480 MB/s, while the Seagate STGX1000400 achieves speeds of up to 140 MB/s. Although the WD Elements has a slight edge in terms of speed, both drives are more than capable of handling demanding tasks such as video editing and data transfer.

Compatibility

Both external hard drives are compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems, making them versatile options for users across different platforms. The Western Digital WD Elements is plug-and-play compatible with Windows 10, 8, and 7, while the Seagate STGX1000400 supports Windows 10, 8, 7, and Mac OS X 10.6 or later.

Power Consumption

The Western Digital WD Elements has a power consumption of around 2.5 watts when in use, making it an energy-efficient option. In contrast, the Seagate STGX1000400 consumes approximately 3.5 watts, which is still relatively low but slightly higher than its competitor.

Warranty and Support

Both manufacturers offer reliable warranty and support options. Western Digital provides a 2-year limited warranty for the WD Elements, while Seagate offers a 1-year limited warranty for the STGX1000400. Additionally, both companies provide online resources, FAQs, and customer support to help users troubleshoot any issues.

Value for Money

Considering the features, performance, and storage capacity of these external hard drives under $100, both options offer excellent value for money. The Western Digital WD Elements is generally priced around $50-$60 for the 1TB model, while the Seagate STGX1000400 is available for around $55-$65. Although prices may vary depending on the retailer and availability, both drives provide a cost-effective solution for storing and backing up large amounts of data.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Western Digital WD Elements and Seagate STGX1000400 are reliable external hard drives that offer excellent storage solutions for users. While the WD Elements has a slight edge in terms of design, performance, and power consumption, the Seagate STGX1000400 provides a more rugged build and comparable storage capacity. When considering external hard drives under $100, both options are worthy contenders, offering great value for money and reliable data storage. Ultimately, the choice between these two products will depend on individual preferences and priorities.