WESTERN DIGITAL vs Seagate/Maxtor vs Hitachi

[LebronJames23]

As i am purchasing a new computer without any RAID array being set up, i would like to hear any views from the floor with regards to which hdd manufacturer should i purchase my HDD from? I am looking at the 500GB HDD range, e.g. SEAGATE 500GB 7200.11 32MB CACHE, HITACHI 500GB 16MB CACHE, WESTERN DIGITAL 500GB (KS) SE2/CAVIAR GP. In terms of performance, energy reduction, pricetags, reliability. Which of this above-mentioned hdds would be the most value-for-dollar hdd, without compromising on reliability?

 

[lamboman]

Move up to the WD6400AAKS. Not much more, and a faster drive. Sorry to see that this hasn't been replied to earlier.

 

[Seanrb]

Seagate drives are widely regarded as the most reliable drives and the 7200.11's are also some of the fastest 7200rpm drives about, i've got the exact model you are looking at and can't fault it.

 

[borschtBomber[SS]]

I would have to agree on the Seagate, as of right now IMO they are top notch and I love mine. While I can't comment on that specific WD model, seems every WD drive I have had has given me some sort of issue. The new Hitachi's are supposed to be pretty nice, but I have no experience with them at all.