Seagate 4TB IronWolf Pro SATA III 3.5″ Internal NAS HDD (ST4000NT001) Review

Table of Contents:

• Introduction
• Key Features
• Performance Evaluation
• Pros & Cons
• Final Verdict

Introduction

The Seagate IronWolf Pro series has long been a popular choice for NAS users, and the 4TB ST4000NT001 model continues this tradition. This hard drive is designed for demanding environments, boasting high performance, reliability, and impressive endurance ratings. In this review, we’ll delve into its features, performance, and real-world usage to see if it lives up to the expectations of its target audience.

Key Features

The Seagate 4TB IronWolf Pro comes packed with features that are crucial for NAS applications:

• High Capacity: With 4TB of storage space, this drive offers ample room for storing your files, photos, videos, and other data.
• High Performance: The 7200 RPM spin speed and 256MB cache contribute to a maximum data transfer rate of up to 250 MB/s, ensuring smooth operation and fast file access.
• Enhanced Reliability: The IronWolf Pro is designed for 24×7 operation, with a mean time between failures (MTBF) of 2 million hours and a 550TB workload rating, making it a robust and reliable storage solution.
• NAS-Specific Features: It features advanced features like rotational vibration (RV) sensors, AgileArray technology, and improved acoustic management to ensure seamless operation in a multi-drive environment.

Performance Evaluation

We benchmarked the IronWolf Pro using various file transfer tests and real-world scenarios. Here’s a breakdown of its performance:

• Sequential Read/Write Speeds: In benchmark tests, the drive consistently achieved read and write speeds close to its maximum rated performance of 250 MB/s, showcasing its impressive transfer capabilities.
• Random File Access: We observed good performance in random file access scenarios, demonstrating its suitability for workloads that involve frequent file openings and saving, such as video editing and database management.
• Real-World Usage: In real-world usage, the drive delivered reliable and consistent performance while handling large file transfers, streaming media, and multi-user access to a NAS server.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a balanced assessment of the Seagate IronWolf Pro’s strengths and weaknesses:

Pros:

• High capacity, offering ample storage space.
• Fast performance, thanks to the 7200 RPM spin speed and 256MB cache.
• Excellent reliability with a high MTBF and workload rating.
• Specifically designed for NAS environments with RV sensors and AgileArray technology.
• Quiet operation, minimizing noise levels in a home or office setting.

Cons:

• No encryption capabilities built-in.
• Price can be higher compared to standard desktop hard drives.

Final Verdict

The Seagate 4TB IronWolf Pro SATA III 3.5″ Internal NAS HDD (ST4000NT001) is a powerful and reliable storage solution that excels in demanding NAS environments. Its high capacity, impressive performance, and robust features make it an excellent choice for home and business users who require a reliable and durable storage option.

While its lack of built-in encryption might be a drawback for some, its overall performance, reliability, and NAS-specific features make it a strong contender in the NAS drive market. If you’re looking for a high-quality drive for your NAS, the Seagate IronWolf Pro should definitely be on your shortlist.