This is the most recent version (2013 FZEX) of Western Digital's best performing consumer storage drive, its predecessor was the WD1002FAEX which is now four years old. With average sequential read/write speeds of 150 MB/s this version outperforms its predecessor by a whopping 50%. Small file random 4K speeds have remained broadly unchanged with average read/write rates of 0.9/2.19 MB/s. Overall the 2013 WD Black has a very good performance profile and it also represents reasonable value for money, at least in the 1TB category. There are some good alternatives to the 2013 Black including the 2012 Blue. Looking at the 2013 Black vs 2012 Blue shows that both drives have similar performance. Power consumption (6.8/6.1 Watts active/idle) and noise levels (29.5 dBA) are also identical making it a tough call between the two. There is however, as always, better value amongst the larger capacities. [Feb '14HDrivePro]
The 3TB Hitachi Deskstar 7K3000 once delivered performance that rivaled the long established class leaders in this capacity (WD Black included) and at an extremely competitive price. The drive was special in that it had 5 platters (vs the usual 3) and ran at 7K rpm despite having a relatively high capacity. The new design worked fantastically well resulting in a class leading product at launch. That was nearly three years ago. With peak sequential speeds of 95 MB/s and 4K speeds of 1 MB/s the Deskstar 7K3000 can no longer compete and clocks in around 35% slower than its modern day competitors. There are far better deals to be had elsewhere at this time. [Oct '12HDrivePro]
We calculate effective speed which measures performance for typical consumers. Effective speed is adjusted by current cost per GB to yield value for money. Our calculated values are checked against thousands of individual user ratings. The customizable table below combines these factors to bring you the definitive list of top HDDs. [HDrivePro]
Welcome to our PC speed test tool. UserBenchmark will test your PC and compare the results to other users with the same components. You can quickly size up your PC, identify hardware problems and explore the best value for money upgrades.