by 7 reviews.
Western Digital 2TB WD Purple Surveillance Internal Hard Drive HDD Review: A Reliable Choice for Security Systems
When it comes to surveillance systems, having a reliable hard drive is crucial. The Western Digital 2TB WD Purple Surveillance Internal Hard Drive HDD (WD20PURZ) is specifically designed for 24/7 video recording, making it a top choice for security setups. With features like AllFrame technology, support for up to 64 HD cameras, and a 3-year limited warranty, this hard drive promises durability and performance. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the details based on real customer experiences.
Pros and Cons: What Customers Are Saying
Performance and Usability
One of the standout features of the WD Purple drive is its seamless integration into existing surveillance systems. Customers have praised its plug-and-play functionality, making it easy to install even for those who aren’t tech experts.
- Easy Installation: Many users, including one who installed it in an Amcrest NVR, noted that the drive fit perfectly, with screw holes and cable connectors aligning without any issues.
- Quiet Operation: The drive operates quietly, with no noticeable noise during use. This is a significant advantage for environments where noise levels matter.
- Compatibility: Whether you’re using a Swann DVR or a Lorex HD recorder, the WD Purple drive has proven to be compatible with a variety of systems.
However, some users reported a clicking sound after installation. While this didn’t affect performance, it’s worth monitoring if you’re sensitive to noise.
Durability and Longevity
The WD Purple drive is built for continuous operation, and customers have expressed confidence in its ability to handle the demands of 24/7 surveillance.
- Built for Surveillance: Unlike regular PC hard drives, the WD Purple is optimized for constant small reads and writes, making it ideal for NVR applications. One user mentioned having another WD Purple drive that has been running continuously for four years without issues.
- Temperature Management: The drive doesn’t overheat, even when used in systems that run non-stop. One customer noted that their NVR remained cool during operation, which is a good sign of efficient heat dissipation.
While the drive’s longevity is promising, it’s important to remember that it hasn’t been in use long enough for some customers to fully assess its lifespan. However, the 3-year warranty provides peace of mind.
Packaging and Quality Assurance
The packaging of the WD Purple drive has been a point of discussion among customers.
- Secure Packaging: Most customers received the drive in a padded envelope with additional foam peanuts for protection. The drive itself was sealed in a mylar pouch, ensuring it arrived in pristine condition.
- Retail Packaging Concerns: Some users were initially concerned about the lack of retail packaging, as the drive came in a plain cardboard box. However, this didn’t affect the drive’s performance, and it’s a minor issue for those who prioritize functionality over presentation.
Customer Support and Warranty
Western Digital’s 3-year limited warranty is a significant selling point. Customers appreciate the added security, knowing that they’re covered in case of any manufacturing defects. Additionally, the fast shipping and reliable service from vendors have been highlighted as positives.
Conclusion: Is the WD Purple Drive Worth It?
The Western Digital 2TB WD Purple Surveillance Internal Hard Drive HDD is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their surveillance system. Its ease of installation, quiet operation, and compatibility with various NVR systems make it a reliable option for both small businesses and large facilities.
Pros:
- Designed for 24/7 surveillance with AllFrame technology.
- Quiet and cool operation.
- Easy to install and compatible with multiple systems.
- Backed by a 3-year warranty.
Cons:
- Some users reported a clicking sound.
- Lack of retail packaging may raise initial concerns.
Overall, the WD Purple drive delivers on its promises, offering durability and performance tailored for surveillance needs. If you’re in the market for a hard drive that can handle the rigors of continuous video recording, this is a worthy investment.
Specification Western Digital 2TB WD Purple Surveillance Internal Hard Drive HDD - SATA 6 Gb/s, 64 MB Cache, 3.5" - WD20PURZ:
Comments from Amazon:
My swann security dvr would not record. A symbol on the monitor indicated the hard drive was malfunctioning. Changed the hard drive super easy but the swann would work. Found out the power cord was not giving full power. Changed the power cord and my swann dvr works like brand new...The hard drive super easy to replace and works great...no problems
Thanks for the fast shipping, and the HD Working properly, but just kinda making some noise (Clicking sound) after adding this, so far the recording running fine. will keep it posted after week of use. thanks again.
Got my Lorex HD recorder back up and running. Was a pretty easy replacement. Pretty much plug and play.
Drive arrived in padded envelope. Inside was a cardboard box which was a correct drive package. Opening that unsealed box, I discovered a few foam peanuts in addition to the standard plastic frame that typically holds drives. I was initially concerned that I had received a refurbished or used drive, but the drive itself was in a sealed, mylar pouch with a Western Digital label. This drive was not in retail packaging, which is perfectly fine. It would have been nice to have known this so that I wouldn't have had the initial concerns mentioned above. The drive was perfect and continues to work well. I would buy again from this vendor.
No problems at all 😁💯
This hard drive is made to handle constant, small reads and writes such that a NVR system would do. I have another one that's been running continuously for about 4 years with no issues. A regular PC hard drive probably would not last very long in this sort of environment.
It is a surveillance drive for NVR applications. I am assuming that anyone who knows the difference will understand this & the different build construction of different drives. It is quiet, no obvious noise, I have it running in an Amcrest brand NVR which it fit perfectly, screw holes lined up well, the cable connectors fit perfectly. I cannot measure the temperature during operation, but the NVR does not run hot or even warm, so that is a good sign to me. Longevity - It has not been running for very long, but the WD specs give an expected life (mean measured value, I assume) so I expect it to meet the mean life expectancy. Anything past that is a bonus. Use it for surveillance & it is fine, these are typically important pieces of stored data, but not normally mission critical, if they are, they you are probably an IT expert & you know what to do to back them up anyway (I am NOT an expert, I just have enough knowledge to be dangerous :-)....) Overall I have had good luck with different WD drives over the years & I expect no less from this one I did not get paid, reimbursed, of given anything for free (never do as I am not important enough online!) so you are getting my own unbiased, honest opinion & nothing but that. :-)