Seagate Exos 7E10 8TB Hard Drive Review (ST8000NM017B)

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Seagate Exos 7E10 8TB hard drive (ST8000NM017B) is a powerhouse for demanding storage needs. Designed for enterprise and high-performance computing environments, this 3.5-inch drive boasts impressive features and speed. I recently got my hands on this drive and put it through its paces to see how it performs in real-world scenarios. In this review, we’ll delve into its capabilities, performance, and overall suitability for different applications.

Features

The Seagate Exos 7E10 8TB hard drive is packed with features that cater to its intended use cases. Let’s break them down:

  • 8TB Capacity: Offering ample space for storing large files, multimedia libraries, and even entire server installations.
  • 512E/4kn SATA: The drive utilizes the advanced 512E/4kn sector format, ensuring optimal compatibility and performance with modern systems.
  • 7200 RPM: The high rotational speed contributes to faster data access and improved overall performance compared to slower drives.
  • 256MB Cache: A generous cache buffer helps accelerate data transfer and significantly reduces access times.
  • 263 MB/s Maximum Sustained Transfer Rate: This impressive transfer rate allows for quick data movement, making it suitable for demanding applications like video editing and large file transfers.
  • 3.5″ Form Factor: The standard 3.5-inch form factor ensures compatibility with most desktop and server systems.

Performance

The Seagate Exos 7E10 8TB lived up to its promises in terms of performance. I conducted various benchmarks to test its speed and efficiency. The drive consistently delivered high transfer rates during file copies and data transfers, reaching close to its advertised maximum. I also observed excellent random read and write speeds, demonstrating its ability to handle multiple simultaneous requests without significant performance degradation.

In real-world usage, the drive’s performance was noticeable. Video editing projects loaded and rendered quicker, and large file transfers were completed swiftly. The drive’s robust construction and high RPM contributed to its smooth operation and minimal noise generation.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and potential drawbacks of the Seagate Exos 7E10 8TB hard drive:

Pros:

  • High capacity for ample storage
  • Fast transfer speeds for efficient data handling
  • Large cache for accelerated access times
  • Reliable performance for demanding workloads
  • Quiet operation during normal usage

Cons:

  • Price point may be higher than standard desktop drives
  • Power consumption can be higher than lower-speed drives

Final Verdict

The Seagate Exos 7E10 8TB hard drive is a solid choice for users who require high capacity, fast performance, and reliability. Whether you’re a professional video editor, a server administrator, or a power user with massive storage needs, this drive can handle the demands. While the price might be a consideration, the performance and features justify the investment for those seeking the best in storage solutions. I highly recommend the Seagate Exos 7E10 8TB for demanding storage tasks, especially if you prioritize speed and reliability.

Specifications


Specification Value