Pros

  • Runs reliably 24/7 in UNRAID servers with stable operation and no errors reported over extended periods.
  • Superior longevity and reliability compared to WD Red Plus drives, which have shown early failures and sector errors.
  • Performs well during data rebuilds with good, steady read/write speeds even under constant load.
  • Runs very quietly, practically silent even after years of continuous use.
  • Fits easily into standard 3.nch hard drive bays with straightforward installation.
  • Works seamlessly with NAS setups, including compatibility with LSA HBA cards and popular NAS brands like Synology.
  • Offers great value for its massive 28TB capacity combined with enterprisevel features like Rescue Services.
  • Maintains cool operation under heavy workloads, helping prevent overheating issues common in dense NAS environments.
  • Supports professionaevel uses such as 32-channel NVR systems streaming multiple 4K IP camera feeds smoothly.
  • Backed by excellent warranty and data recovery services in case of failure.

Cons

  • Noise is generally very low but may be noticeable or louder than some might prefer in very quiet environments.
  • Form factor and screw spacing could pose fitment issues in some notandard or proprietary NAS enclosures.
  • Performance, while strong for HDDs, is not comparable to SATA SSDs, especially for small file transfers or random I/O.
  • Speed decreases after SSD cache fills up, which may impact very writeavy workloads.
  • Slightly slower than some premium enterprise drives, but this difference is often marginal given the capacity.

Bottom Line

The Seagate IronWolf Pro 28TB is a top-tier enterprise NAS hard drive that excels in reliability, quiet operation, and enormous storage capacity — perfect for users running 24/7 servers, multi-drive RAID arrays, or demanding surveillance systems. While it won’t match the blazing speeds of SSDs, its value proposition and rescue services offer peace of mind for critical data storage. If you’re looking specifically for maximum endurance and smooth RAID rebuilds over time, this drive stands out as a solid choice compared to recent disappointing experiences reported with competitor WD Red Plus drives. For those considering slightly faster options or with more specific form factor concerns, it’s worth checking other high-capacity NAS drives, but this IronWolf Pro regularly earns praise for its durability and quiet operation.

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