Seagate Expansion 22TB External Hard Drive HDD - USB 3.0, with Rescue Data Recovery Services (STKP22000400)
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AI Verdict
This 22TB mechanical hard drive with USB 3.0 is for data hoarders needing massive, stationary storage for backups and media libraries.
This drive is a strong fit for anyone needing a massive amount of stationary storage. Its 22TB capacity and USB 3.0 interface are ideal for archiving large datasets or backing up multiple devices, especially given its desktop form factor. The included data recovery services add significant value for long-term data preservation.
If you need faster transfer speeds for frequent large file access, look for external SSDs with USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt connectivity.
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Pros
- Offers 22 terabytes of storage capacity, suitable for large media collections and extensive backups.
- Includes Rescue Data Recovery Services, providing an extra layer of confidence in case of drive failure.
- Achieves read speeds around 253-266 MB/s and write speeds around 256 MB/s over USB 3.0.
- Features a simple plug-and-play setup for Windows and Mac, requiring reformatting only for Apple Time Machine.
- Comes with an 18W power adapter and multiple international plugs for global use.
Cons
- Requires external power, which can be inconvenient for a minimalistic setup.
- The drive is bulky and weighs 1.2 kg, making it unsuitable for frequent portability.
- Users report it can produce a 'thudding' noise on startup and sometimes during operation.
- Lacks advanced features like hardware encryption or dedicated backup software.
- The included warranty is limited, often to one year in the US.
Dimension Scores
Achieves around 250-266 MB/s read and 256 MB/s write over USB 3.0, which is typical for a 7200 RPM mechanical drive but not as fast as newer interfaces or SSDs.
Includes Rescue Data Recovery Services and is generally reported to contain CMR Barracuda drives, which are considered dependable for archival storage.
At 22TB, this drive offers an exceptionally large amount of storage, making it a top choice for users with massive data hoarding needs.
Works out of the box with Windows and Mac, though Mac users need to reformat for Time Machine, and it uses the widely available USB 3.0 interface.
Best For
- Archiving large video, photo, or music libraries.
- Creating comprehensive system backups for desktop computers.
- Expanding storage for a home server or media center.
- Users who prioritize high capacity over portability or speed.
Not Recommended For
- Frequent travel or on-the-go data access due to its bulk and external power requirement.
- Performance-intensive tasks where SSD speeds are critical.
- Users who require built-in advanced security features like hardware encryption.
Watch Out For
- The drive requires external power, so you'll always need an available outlet, unlike bus-powered portable drives.
- While compatible with Mac, you'll need to reformat it for use with Time Machine, adding an extra setup step.
- Some users report a 'thudding' noise on startup, which might be noticeable in quiet environments.
- The internal drive is likely a Barracuda (ST22000DM000-3Y6103), which, while CMR, isn't Seagate's highest-tier drive for continuous heavy use.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0DW8ZW47C |
| Brand | Seagate |
| Color | DESKTOP |
| Series | Expansion |
| Voltage | 28 Volts |
| Language | French |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. |
| Hard Drive | 22 TB Mechanical Hard Disk |
| Item Weight | 2.64 pounds |
| Manufacturer | SEAGATE CLOUD SYSTEMS |
| Special Feature | Data Recovery Service |
| Flash Memory Size | 22 |
| Installation Type | External Hard Drive |
| Item model number | STKP22000400 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Product Dimensions | 1.65 x 7.04 x 4.92 inches |
| Hard Disk Interface | USB 3.0 |
| Hard Drive Interface | USB 3.0 |
| Hard Disk Description | Mechanical Hard Disk |
| Hard Disk Form Factor | 3.5 Inches |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 1.65 x 7.04 x 4.92 inches |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Digital Storage Capacity | 22 TB |
| Hard Drive Rotational Speed | 7200 |
What Buyers Say
Many users are buying this 22TB drive specifically for its high capacity and often for 'shucking' the internal drive for use in NAS systems, as the internal drive is frequently a CMR Barracuda. While transfer speeds around 250 MB/s are generally accepted for a mechanical drive, some find it not as fast as they'd hoped for large transfers. The requirement for external power and its bulky nature mean it's best suited for a stationary setup. There are mixed reports on noise, with some hearing a 'thudding' on startup and others noting it's quiet during operation.
“I just needed a ton of space for my movies and backups, and this thing delivers, but man, it's a brick and sometimes makes a little thud when it spins up. Still, 22TB for this price? Can't really complain too much.”
Common Praise
- Provides a massive 22TB of storage capacity for extensive data archiving.
- Offers straightforward plug-and-play functionality with both Windows and Mac systems.
- Achieves consistent file transfer speeds around 250 MB/s for large data sets.
- Includes Rescue Data Recovery Services, adding peace of mind for data loss scenarios.
- The internal drive is often a CMR Barracuda, making it suitable for continuous use in certain setups.
Common Complaints
- Requires an external power source, limiting placement options.
- Can be noisy during startup or sometimes during operation, described as a 'thudding' sound.
- Its physical size and weight make it impractical for portable use.
- Lacks advanced features like hardware encryption or integrated backup software.
- The warranty period is often limited to one year, which some users find insufficient for a storage device.
Ownership Tips
- The drive can get warm during extended use, but typically stays within operating temperatures due to its vented design.
- The included USB 3.0 cable is 18 inches long, which might be short for some desktop setups.
- The power adapter comes with interchangeable plugs for different regions, which is handy if you travel or move.
- While it's recognized by Windows and Mac, Mac users will need to reformat for Time Machine, which takes a bit of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this drive require external power?
Yes, this Seagate Expansion 22TB drive needs to be plugged into a wall outlet using the included 18W power adapter. It's not bus-powered.
Is this drive compatible with Mac computers?
Yes, it's compatible with Mac. However, for use with Apple Time Machine, you will need to reformat the drive.
What kind of speeds can I expect from this drive?
You can expect read speeds around 253-266 MB/s and write speeds around 256 MB/s when connected via USB 3.0.
Can I remove the hard drive from its enclosure ('shuck' it)?
Yes, users have reported that the drive is shuckable, meaning you can remove the internal hard drive. However, doing so might void your warranty.
What type of internal drive is typically inside?
The internal drive is commonly reported to be a Seagate Barracuda, model ST22000DM000-3Y6103, which is a 7200 RPM SATA/600 mechanical hard disk.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at external hard drives, especially ones this big, think about what you're actually going to do with it. If it's just sitting on your desk backing up files or holding your movie collection, then a mechanical drive like this is probably fine. But if you're moving it around a lot or need to access files super fast for editing, you'll want to consider something else. Also, always check if it needs its own power supply, because that changes where you can put it.
Capacity (22 TB)
This is how much data the drive can hold, like how many books a bookshelf can fit. 22 terabytes is a massive amount, enough for thousands of movies or millions of photos, making it ideal for archiving everything you own.
Interface (USB 3.0)
This is the connection type, like the highway for your data. USB 3.0 is a common and reasonably fast highway for mechanical drives, allowing for speeds around 250 MB/s, but it's not the fastest option available if you need SSD-level performance.
Drive Type (Mechanical Hard Disk)
This tells you how the data is stored. Mechanical drives use spinning platters, like old record players, which makes them slower and more susceptible to physical shock than solid-state drives (SSDs), but they offer much more storage for your money. They also tend to be bulkier and require external power.
Alternatives
If you need faster data access for applications or gaming, look for external SSDs with USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt. If portability is key, consider smaller, bus-powered external HDDs or SSDs with rugged enclosures.
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