ReviewFinder External Hard Drives

WD Elements Desktop

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4 Verified Hands-On Reviews

To combat fake reviews we only accept video reviews from verified channels. Each review must show the product and the face of the reviewer.

Expert reviews [4]

84
Total expert reviews: 4
  • with a score: 1
  • without a score: 3

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
ReviewFinder: authentic product reviews summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

The WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is a reliable and efficient storage solution for both macOS and Windows devices, offering a range of storage capacities and compatibility with PlayStation 4 and Xbox video game consoles, but may not be suitable for those who require USB-C or Thunderbolt connectivity.

The WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is a reliable and efficient storage solution for both macOS and Windows devices. It offers a range of storage capacities from 1TB to 14TB, making it an attractive option for those looking to extend their desktop or MacBook storage or routinely back up their large media file library.

The device is highly compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, and can be easily reformatted for dual-purpose exFAT flexibility. It is also compatible with PlayStation 4 and Xbox video game consoles, allowing users to store games and media files on it and free up space on their internal hard drives.

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive has varying read and write speeds depending on the testing method and platform, with an average write speed of 150-176MB/s and a maximum write speed of 214. 2MB/s. The device performs well on both macOS and Windows devices and can be easily formatted for dual-purpose exFAT flexibility.

The WD Elements Desktop is a durable external hard drive that is suitable for everyday use and provides reliable storage for personal or professional data. It is ideal for users who need a reliable and durable external hard drive for storing and backing up their data, as well as professionals who work with large files, such as photographers, videographers, and graphic designers.

However, it may not be suitable for those who require USB-C or Thunderbolt connectivity.

Storage capacity

The WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive offers a range of storage capacities up to 14TB, fast read and write speeds, and is a reliable and efficient storage solution for both macOS and Windows devices.

The WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive offers a range of storage capacities from 1TB to 14TB, making it an attractive option for those looking to extend their desktop or MacBook storage or routinely back up their large media file library. The higher storage capacity options offer faster performance than its Seagate competitor and require little or no formatting to work with.

The read and write speeds at its maximum storage capacity are around 218 MB/s and 214. 2 MB/s, respectively. This makes it a suitable option for users who need to transfer large files quickly. The prices of the different storage capacity options vary, with the 10TB version being the most popular and retailing for around $186.

Overall, the WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is a reliable and efficient storage solution for both macOS and Windows devices.

What is the maximum storage capacity offered by the WD Elements Desktop?

The WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is available in several storage capacities, ranging from 1TB to 14TB, depending on the model. So, the maximum storage capacity offered by the WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is 14TB.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the available storage capacity options for the WD Elements Desktop external hard drive?

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive comes in a range of storage capacities including 1TB, 2TB, 3TB, 4TB, 6TB, 8TB, and 10TB.
Based on 7 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the different storage capacity options and prices available for the WD Elements Desktop external hard drive?

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive is available in various storage capacities ranging from 1TB to 14TB. The 6TB version, for example, retails for around $129, while the 10TB version (the most popular) retails for around $186. The prices may vary slightly depending on the seller and location.
Based on 6 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What additional features or benefits come with the higher storage capacity options for WD Elements Desktop?

The higher storage capacity options for WD Elements Desktop offer an attractive amount of storage capacity for those looking to extend their desktop or MacBook or routinely back up their large media file library. According to a product review on Lifewire, the WD 10TB Elements Desktop performs faster than its Seagate competitor and requires little or no formatting to work with. While I wouldn't say that data transfers are lightning-fast, the performance is respectably speedy on both macOS and Windows devices. Additionally, according to a product review on PocNetwork Tech, the kind of capacity that these drives offer will cure your nerves for a long time (hopefully).
Based on 6 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the read and write speeds of WD Elements Desktop at its maximum storage capacity?

According to reviews on goughlui.com and Lifewire, the maximum read speed of the WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is around 218 MB/s and the maximum write speed is around 214.2 MB/s. However, these speeds may vary depending on the test platform and specific usage scenario.
Based on 7 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Compatibility

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive is a versatile and reliable storage solution that is highly compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, can be easily reformatted for dual-purpose exFAT flexibility, and is compatible with the latest USB 3.0 devices and backward compatible with USB 2.0 devices, making it suitable for storing any type of file, including documents, photos, videos, music, and more, as well as being compatible with PlayStation 4 and Xbox video game consoles.

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive is highly compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, and can be easily reformatted for dual-purpose exFAT flexibility. It does not require any specific software or drivers to be installed for compatibility and is compatible with the latest USB 3.

0 devices and backward compatible with USB 2. 0 devices as well. There are no limitations on the file types or sizes that can be stored on the device, making it suitable for storing any type of file, including documents, photos, videos, music, and more. Additionally, it is compatible with PlayStation 4 and Xbox video game consoles, allowing users to store games and media files on it and free up space on their internal hard drives.

Overall, the WD Elements Desktop external hard drive is a versatile and reliable storage solution for a wide range of users, including those who need to store large files, work across multiple operating systems, or use gaming consoles.

Is the WD Elements Desktop compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems?

Yes, the WD Elements Desktop is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. According to a review on Lifewire, the device comes pre-formatted with the Windows NTFS file system, but it can be easily reformatted for dual-purpose exFAT flexibility. The review also notes that reformatting the device on a MacBook only took about 13 seconds and that there were no issues moving back and forth between systems.
Based on 4 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the WD Elements Desktop require any specific software or drivers to be installed for compatibility?

No, the WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is ready to use right out of the box. It does not require any specific software or drivers to be installed for compatibility. According to TechEBlog, it is compatible with the latest USB 3.0 devices and backward compatible with USB 2.0 devices as well.
Based on 7 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Are there any limitations on the file types or sizes that can be stored on the WD Elements Desktop external hard drive?

No, there are no limitations on the file types or sizes that can be stored on the WD Elements Desktop external hard drive. You can store any type of file, including documents, photos, videos, music, and more. The drive supports a variety of file systems, including NTFS, which is compatible with Windows operating systems.

Can the WD Elements Desktop be used with gaming consoles or devices?

Yes, the WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is compatible with PlayStation 4 and Xbox video game consoles, according to TechEBlog's product review. You can store games and media files on it and free up space on your internal hard drives.
Based on 5 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Speed

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive has varying read and write speeds depending on the testing method and platform, with an average write speed of 150-176MB/s and a maximum write speed of 214.2MB/s, making it a reliable and speedy storage solution for users who need a simple and straightforward option.

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive has varying read and write speeds depending on the testing method and platform, with an average write speed of 150-176MB/s and a maximum write speed of 214. 2MB/s. The maximum read speed is about 218MB/s with an average of 161. 3MB/s. The size and type of files being transferred can affect transfer speeds, but the impact is dependent on the specific hardware and software being used.

The WD Elements Desktop does not have any additional features that may affect its speed, such as caching or encryption. The device performs well on both macOS and Windows devices and can be easily formatted for dual-purpose exFAT flexibility. Overall, the WD Elements Desktop is a reliable and speedy external hard drive suitable for storing large files and backing up data.

It is ideal for users who need a simple and straightforward storage solution without any additional features or complexities.

What is the maximum read and write speed of the WD Elements Desktop?

According to a review on Lifewire, the maximum read speed is about 218 MB/s and the write speed is about 118 MB/s using CrystalDiskMark. Another review on goughlui.com reported sequential read of 213.3MB/s and sequential write of 214.2MB/s. However, the actual speed may vary based on individual drive-to-drive density/head-platter match variations.
Based on 8 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the read and write speeds of the WD Elements Desktop external hard drive and are there any factors that may affect these speeds, such as file size or type?

According to product reviews on PocNetwork Tech, Lifewire, and goughlui.com, the read and write speeds of the WD Elements Desktop external hard drive vary depending on the testing method and platform. The average write speed is anywhere between 150-176MB/s, with maximum write speed of 214.2MB/s according to goughlui.com. The maximum read speed is about 218MB/s with an average of 161.3MB/s according to goughlui.com. As for factors that may affect these speeds, the size and type of files being transferred can have an impact. Large files may take longer to transfer than smaller files, and certain file types may require more resources to transfer. However, the impact of file size and type on transfer speeds is dependent on the specific hardware and software being used.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the WD Elements Desktop have any additional features that may affect its speed, such as caching or encryption?

According to a product review on goughlui.com, there is no discernible physical or performance difference between the WD Elements Desktop and the My Book models, which are encrypted. Therefore, it is likely that the WD Elements Desktop does not have any additional features that may affect its speed, such as caching or encryption.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Are there any differences in speed when using the WD Elements Desktop on different devices or operating systems?

According to a review on Lifewire, the WD Elements Desktop performed respectably speedy on both macOS and Windows devices. The device is ready to go with your PC since it’s Windows NTFS-formatted. If you primarily use a MacBook or want the option of using this device with Windows and macOS, it is simple enough to achieve. Formatting this device for dual-purpose exFAT flexibility is a very speedy process. It took just about 13 seconds to complete on a MacBook, and there were no issues moving back and forth between systems.
Based on 7 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Durability

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive is a reliable and durable option for everyday use, but users should handle it carefully to avoid tipping over.

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive is built with shock tolerance and long-term reliability, all covered in a durable enclosure designed for style as well as protection. However, some users have reported that the drive has a tendency to tip over very easily when upright, so it is advised to handle the drive carefully.

The product does not have any additional features like water resistance or dust protection. The WD Elements Desktop comes with a 2-year warranty and customer support is available via phone, email, and live chat on their website. Overall, the WD Elements Desktop is a durable external hard drive that is suitable for everyday use and provides reliable storage for personal or professional data.

It is ideal for users who need a reliable and durable external hard drive for storing and backing up their data.

What materials are used in the construction of the WD Elements Desktop?

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive has an all-plastic enclosure that is black in color. According to a product review on PocNetwork Tech, the design of the Elements drives is nearly identical to many of WD’s external models in the past, including their MyBook series.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Is the WD Elements Desktop external hard drive designed to be shock-resistant and able to withstand drops?

Yes, according to a product review on TechEBlog, the WD Elements Desktop drive is built with shock tolerance and long-term reliability, all covered in a durable enclosure designed for style as well as protection. However, it's still important to handle the device with care to avoid any damage.
Based on 4 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the WD Elements Desktop have any additional features that contribute to its durability, such as water resistance or dust protection?

The WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is built with shock tolerance, which makes it durable. However, it doesn't have any additional features like water resistance or dust protection. According to a review on TechEBlog, it is designed for style as well as protection, but there's no mention of water or dust resistance.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Are there any reported issues with the durability of WD Elements Desktop?

According to the review on TechEBlog, the WD Elements Desktop is built tough and has shock tolerance and long-term reliability, all covered in a durable enclosure designed for style as well as protection. However, some users have reported that the drive has a tendency to tip over very easily when upright, as mentioned in the review on Lifewire. So, it is advised to handle the drive carefully.
Based on 7 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the warranty and customer support offered for the WD Elements Desktop in regards to durability?

According to a product review on Lifewire, the WD 10TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive comes with 2 years of warranty protection, which is an additional year compared to the Seagate Expansion Desktop. As for customer support, Western Digital offers customer support via phone, email, and live chat on their website. In terms of durability, the WD Elements Desktop is built tough with shock tolerance and long-term reliability, all covered in a durable enclosure designed for style as well as protection.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Connectivity

The WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is a reliable option for storing and transferring large amounts of data between USB 3.0 devices, but does not support USB-C or Thunderbolt connectivity.

The WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive has a micro B to USB 3. 0 port and an AC power jack, making it compatible with the latest USB 3. 0 devices and backward compatible with USB 2. 0 devices. However, it does not support USB-C or Thunderbolt connectivity, and an adapter would need to be purchased separately.

The transfer speeds for each port are not specified in the reviews. Overall, the WD Elements Desktop is a reliable external hard drive for those who need to store and transfer large amounts of data between USB 3. 0 devices. It is ideal for professionals who work with large files, such as photographers, videographers, and graphic designers.

However, it may not be suitable for those who require USB-C or Thunderbolt connectivity.

What types of ports are supported by the WD Elements Desktop?

The WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive has a micro B to USB 3.0 port and an AC power jack. It is also backward compatible with USB 2.0 devices. According to a , it comes with compatibility with the latest USB 3.0 devices.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Is the WD Elements Desktop compatible with USB 3.0?

Yes, the WD Elements Desktop is compatible with USB 3.0 devices for fast data transfers and also offers backward compatibility with USB 2.0 devices.
Based on 13 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the WD Elements Desktop support USB-C or Thunderbolt connectivity?

The WD Elements Desktop comes with a micro B to USB 3.0 port and an AC power jack. It is not designed to support USB-C or Thunderbolt connectivity. However, you can use an adapter to connect it to a USB-C port, but you will need to purchase the adapter separately. According to a product review on Lifewire, no USB-C-compatible cord is provided with the device.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the supported ports for the WD Elements Desktop and what are the transfer speeds for each port?

The WD Elements Desktop comes with a micro B to USB 3.0 port and an AC power jack, as per the product review on TechEBlog. The USB 3.0 port provides faster transfer speeds than USB 2.0, which is also backward compatible with USB 2.0 devices, as per the same review. However, the exact transfer speeds for each port are not mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Design

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive has a simple and durable design, with a rectangular enclosure and a rounded front, and connects to a computer or gaming console via USB 3.0.

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive has a simple and minimalistic design, with a rectangular enclosure and a rounded front, made of black plastic. It is similar to many of WD's external models in the past, including their MyBook series. The drive is built tough with shock tolerance and long-term reliability, covered in a durable enclosure designed for style as well as protection.

It measures 6. 5 x 1. 9 x 5. 3 inches and weighs 2. 09 pounds. The drive connects to a computer or gaming console via USB 3. 0 and has a micro B to USB 3. 0 port and an AC power jack. The USB cord is USB 2. 0 backward-compatible, but no USB-C-compatible cord is provided.

The design is not necessarily unique, but it is reliable and durable. It is suitable for users who need a large amount of storage space for their files and want a reliable and durable external hard drive. It is also suitable for users who want a simple and minimalistic design that can blend in with their workspace.

What are the dimensions and weight of the WD Elements Desktop external hard drive?

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive measures 6.5 x 1.9 x 5.3 inches (16.51 x 4.83 x 13.46 cm) and weighs 2.09 pounds (0.95 kg).
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the color scheme and design aesthetic of the WD Elements Desktop external hard drive?

The WD Elements Desktop external hard drive has a simple and minimalistic design, with a typically rectangular enclosure and a rounded front. The enclosures are made of plastic and are black in color. According to the product review on goughlui.com, the drive arrived in a mostly-white box with black text and blue accents, with the drive itself labeled as "Basic Storage".
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the design features or elements that make WD Elements Desktop unique compared to other external hard drives?

The design of the WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is very similar to many of WD's external models in the past, including their MyBook series. It is a typically rectangular enclosure with a rounded front, with your connections in the back. The enclosures are all plastic and black in color. While the design is not necessarily unique, the drive is built tough with shock tolerance, and long-term reliability, all covered in a durable enclosure designed for style as well as protection.
Based on 7 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What type of connectivity options does the WD Elements Desktop offer for connecting to a computer or gaming console, and how does this impact its design?

The WD Elements Desktop has a micro B to USB 3.0 port and an AC power jack, which means it connects to a computer or gaming console via USB 3.0. The USB cord is USB 2.0 backward-compatible, so it can also work with older machines. However, no USB-C-compatible cord is provided, so if you’re using a newer MacBook, you’ll need to use an adapter. The design of the WD Elements Desktop is a rectangular enclosure with a rounded front, with all connections in the back. The enclosure is all plastic and black in color.
Based on 5 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

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Price
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Price
Expert consensus not yet generated.
Expert consensus not yet generated.
Expert consensus not yet generated.
The WD Elements external hard drive is a reliable and versatile storage device with varying storage capacities, drop-resistant design, USB 3.0 connectivity, and sleek and compact design, suitable for personal and professional use.
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