WD Elements Desktop 18TB

The WD Elements Desktop is an external hard drive with an enormous amount of storage space that I primarily use as a fixed storage solution on my desk. Thanks to its high capacity, I can effortlessly store large quantities of photos, videos, and backups. I connect the drive via USB and use it directly on my Windows PC without any additional installation.

Plenty of storage space for large files With capacities reaching up to 18 terabytes, I have more than enough space for my files. I use the drive mainly for large media files, such as 4K videos and extensive photo libraries. Full system backups also fit on it easily. As a result, I don't have to worry about running out of storage. When transferring files, I notice that the speed remains stable. I transfer large folders of videos in a relatively short time. The speed averages around 100 to 150 megabytes per second, which is normal for a desktop hard drive. This is fast enough for daily use and backups.

For a fixed workspace The WD Elements Desktop is clearly intended for a fixed location. Due to its larger size and external power cable, I don't often take it with me. On my desk, however, it works very well because the drive sits firmly and doesn't shift easily. I use this hard drive primarily as central storage. For example, for projects I work on regularly or as a backup for important files. The drive makes little noise and remains relatively cool during use.

Handy backup options I use the WD Elements Desktop mainly to back up my files. In combination with Western Digital software, I can easily set up automatic backups. This ensures that my important documents, photos, and videos are regularly saved without me having to think about it myself. This works particularly well on my Windows PC, where I select specific folders that are automatically backed up. For Mac, I use Time Machine after formatting the drive, which also works smoothly. This ensures that my files are stored safely and that I can quickly restore them if something goes wrong. As a result, the drive is suitable not only for storage but also as a reliable backup solution for daily use.

You can't say anything about reliability after a week.. I've had WD HD's that gave up after a month and a year, but also that have still been soliciting happily for 11 years.. What immediately struck me was the considerable vibration of the box. I already have a foam rubber mat under it .. very disturbing. Furthermore, it jumps into sleep mode really quickly and of course it takes a few seconds to get out (long enough to call it disturbing) It is connected to a Mac (in hindsight I would have preferred to have it attached to my Linux server with EXT filesystem) but re-installing 8tb... you don't just do that! Mac has been having a hard time with Samba shares for quite some time now .. so accessing remotely is possible but with a bit of nonsense (not WD's fault) Ultimately, I'm afraid this disc won't last long. Vibration is not a positive property of a hard disk.

It's a big and fast drive for the price and also has an on/off switch. It does make more noise when I compare it to the 2TB Hitachi I have.