Seagate Exos X24 24TB Enterprise Internal Hard Drive HDD Review: A Powerhouse for Data Storage

The Seagate Exos X24 24TB Enterprise Internal Hard Drive (ST24000NM002H) is a high-capacity, enterprise-grade HDD designed for data-intensive environments like hyperscale data centers and cloud storage. With a massive 24TB storage capacity, 7200 RPM speed, and helium-filled design, this drive promises reliability, efficiency, and performance. But how does it hold up in real-world use? Let’s dive into the details based on customer experiences.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced Look

Performance and Speed

The Seagate Exos X24 shines when it comes to performance. Customers consistently praise its fast data transfer speeds, with rates reaching up to 285MB/s. One reviewer noted, "I bought two of these drives to back up data from a server, and I can say that they are fast and not terribly noisy." The 7200 RPM ensures low latency, making it ideal for applications like data analytics and cloud storage.

However, some users mentioned that the drive’s noise level increases significantly during large data transfers. "They are silent until a couple of seconds into a large data transfer. After that, they start to make some noise, and it is significant," shared one user. This makes it less suitable for environments where noise is a concern, such as quiet offices or home setups.

Capacity and Efficiency

With 24TB of storage, the Exos X24 is a beast when it comes to capacity. It’s perfect for enterprises needing to store vast amounts of data without compromising on rack space. One reviewer highlighted its cost-effectiveness, stating, "They have great capacity for the money."

However, it’s worth noting that the formatted capacity is less than advertised due to the difference between decimal (1000) and binary (1024) calculations. As one user explained, "The formatted capacity is based on 1000 instead of 1024 as is used in computers, so you will get 16.3TB out of this 18TB drive." This is a common issue across all hard drives but is something to keep in mind when planning storage needs.

Durability and Reliability

The Exos X24 is built for enterprise-grade durability, with a 2.5M-hour MTBF and a 5-year limited warranty. Most users reported excellent reliability, with one stating, "Bought several of these nearly two years ago, and they’re still working great."

That said, there are occasional reports of defective units. One user shared, "The drive reads/writes fine, but it has tons of sound and vibration even when powered on and not connected to the file system." While Seagate’s quality control is generally good, it’s essential to test the drive thoroughly upon arrival to catch any issues early.

Noise and Vibration

Noise levels are a mixed bag. Some users find the drive quiet during normal operation, while others report significant noise during heavy workloads. As one reviewer put it, "They are silent until a couple of seconds into a large data transfer. After that, they start to make some noise, and it is significant."

Vibration is another concern for some users. One customer noted, "The drive immediately started to make a loud humming sound. I have used these drives for years, and it’s not the typical sound it makes under normal operation." This suggests that while the drive is generally reliable, there may be occasional quality control issues.

Packaging and Seller Issues

A recurring complaint among buyers is the poor packaging by some sellers, particularly on Amazon. One user shared, "Amazon shipped FOUR of these drives in plastic envelopes with NO padding of any kind... just bare drives. This is unacceptable." Improper packaging can lead to physical damage, so it’s crucial to inspect the drive upon delivery.

Additionally, some sellers have strict return policies, including requiring the original packaging and charging high restocking fees. One frustrated customer warned, "The seller’s terms are made so you only have 30 days to return a product, and return requirements often will exclude/limit your ability to return a product." Always check the seller’s return policy before purchasing.

Conclusion: Is the Seagate Exos X24 Worth It?

The Seagate Exos X24 24TB Enterprise Internal Hard Drive is a high-performance, reliable storage solution for enterprise environments. Its massive capacity, fast speeds, and durability make it an excellent choice for data-intensive applications. However, potential buyers should be aware of its noise levels during heavy workloads, occasional quality control issues, and the importance of proper packaging and seller policies.

Final Verdict: If you’re looking for a high-capacity, enterprise-grade HDD and can overlook the noise and occasional defects, the Seagate Exos X24 is a solid investment. Just be sure to purchase from a reputable seller and test the drive thoroughly upon arrival.