MDD 20TB 7200 RPM SATA 6.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive Review: A High-Capacity NAS Solution

When it comes to data storage, especially for NAS (Network Attached Storage) systems, having a reliable and high-capacity hard drive is crucial. The MDD 20TB 7200 RPM SATA 6.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive promises to deliver just that. Designed for NAS environments, this hard drive boasts a massive 20TB storage capacity, a 7200 RPM speed, and a 256MB cache for quick data access. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the details based on real customer experiences.

Pros and Cons: What Customers Are Saying

1. Performance and Usability

The MDD 20TB hard drive is designed for NAS systems, and many users have found it to be a reliable performer in this regard. One customer mentioned that they tested the drive using a USB dock and had no issues formatting or assigning drive letters. They also successfully integrated it into their Synology NAS, despite it not being on Synology’s confirmed compatibility list. The drives performed well during a two-day backup of TV shows and movies, maintaining stable temperatures and matching the performance of more expensive NAS-specific drives like WD Reds.

However, not all experiences were seamless. Some users reported issues with formatting, particularly on Linux systems. One customer encountered an "Input/output error" when trying to format the drive, which they attributed to the NAS firmware locking the drive out of desktop use. This suggests that while the drive excels in NAS environments, it may not be as versatile for other setups.

2. Durability and Reliability

Durability is a key factor for any hard drive, especially one designed for NAS systems. The MDD 20TB drive comes with a 1M hours MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) rating and a 5-year warranty, which gives users peace of mind. Many customers praised the drive’s reliability, with one user stating they’ve purchased multiple MDD drives (ranging from 8TB to 20TB) and have had no issues with most of them.

That said, there were a few reports of defective drives. One customer received two out of four drives with I/O errors, leaving their RAID array in a degraded state. Another user mentioned receiving a dead-on-arrival (DOA) drive, though Amazon promptly sent a replacement. These incidents highlight the importance of testing drives immediately upon arrival and ensuring you have a reliable return or replacement process in place.

3. Value for Money

One of the standout features of the MDD 20TB hard drive is its affordability compared to other NAS-specific drives from brands like Seagate and Western Digital. Customers appreciated the cost-effectiveness, with one user describing it as a "more practical, cost-wise solution." For those building large storage arrays, the savings can be significant, especially when purchasing multiple drives.

However, the lower price point does come with some trade-offs. A few customers expressed concerns about long-term durability, with one stating that these drives "will not last you" and comparing them unfavorably to Seagate Exos renewed drives. While the 5-year warranty provides some reassurance, it’s worth considering whether the potential for occasional defects is worth the savings.

4. Compatibility and Setup

The MDD 20TB drive is marketed as compatible with a wide range of devices, including desktops, NAS systems, RAID setups, and surveillance systems. Most users found it easy to install and integrate into their existing setups. One customer successfully used the drive in a 20TB RAID configuration, while another praised its performance in a media storage duplication setup.

However, as mentioned earlier, some users faced compatibility issues, particularly with Linux systems. If you’re planning to use this drive in a non-NAS environment, it’s worth double-checking compatibility and ensuring you have the necessary tools to format and configure the drive.

Conclusion: Is the MDD 20TB Hard Drive Worth It?

The MDD 20TB 7200 RPM SATA 6.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive is a compelling option for those in need of high-capacity, NAS-optimized storage. Its massive 20TB capacity, fast performance, and energy-efficient operation make it an excellent choice for data centers, surveillance systems, and media storage setups. The 5-year warranty adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that your investment is protected.

However, it’s not without its flaws. Some users reported defective drives and compatibility issues, particularly with Linux systems. While the drive performs well in NAS environments, it may not be the best choice for desktop use or other non-NAS setups. Additionally, while the price is attractive, the occasional quality control issues may give some users pause.

Final Verdict: If you’re looking for an affordable, high-capacity NAS drive and are willing to test and potentially replace defective units, the MDD 20TB hard drive is a solid choice. However, if reliability and compatibility across multiple systems are your top priorities, you may want to consider more established brands, even if they come at a higher cost.