ウエスタンデジタル WD Blue 4TB HDD 5400rpm PC用

This article covers ウエスタンデジタル WD Blue 4TB HDD 5400rpm PC用.

Overview

The Western Digital WD Blue 4TB (model WD40EZAZ-EC) is a 3.5-inch internal hard drive designed for mainstream desktop PCs. With a spindle speed of 5400 RPM and a 256MB cache, it uses Shingled Magnetic Recording (SMR) technology to achieve high storage density at a low cost. It’s a proven choice for users who need large-capacity storage without breaking the bank. While SSDs have become the standard for operating systems and applications, HDDs remain the most cost-effective solution for bulk data storage. This WD Blue drive is ideal for storing media libraries, backups, and archival data. It features low power consumption and quiet operation, backed by a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Compatibility Guide

The drive uses the SATA 6Gb/s interface and fits into any standard 3.5-inch drive bay. It requires a SATA power connector from the PSU. Most mid-tower cases include at least one 3.5-inch bay, making installation straightforward. It is also compatible with most external HDD enclosures and NAS units that accept 3.5-inch SATA drives. Important note: Because this drive uses SMR, it is not recommended for use in RAID arrays (especially RAID 5/6) due to potential performance degradation during rebuilds. For RAID environments, consider CMR-based drives like the WD Red Plus series.

Product Info

The WD Blue 4TB HDD was introduced around 2021 and sits in the entry-to-mid-range segment of Western Digital’s lineup. Its key appeal is low cost per terabyte — roughly ¥6,250 per TB — making it one of the most affordable ways to add 4TB of storage. Power draw is approximately 2.5W idle and 4.5W during read/write, thanks to the 5400 RPM spindle speed and SMR recording. Warranty coverage is 2 years. It is widely available through major retailers and online stores.

Best Use Cases

Bulk Data Storage & Backup : Perfect for storing photos, videos, music collection, and system backups. Pair it with a fast SSD for the OS to get the best of both worlds. Home File Server or Non-RAID NAS : Low power consumption makes it suitable for always-on systems. Ideal for personal cloud storage or media streaming. * Budget-Oriented PC Builds : When building a cost-effective desktop for file storage or media center, this drive offers excellent value for money.

Things to Consider

SMR technology can cause write performance to drop sharply after the 256MB cache is filled during sustained random writes. Therefore, this drive should not be used as an OS drive or for applications that require frequent small-file writes. Always install the operating system on a separate SSD. The 5400 RPM rotational speed results in lower sequential transfer rates (around 150 MB/s) compared to 7200 RPM drives. For gaming or heavy application loads, a 7200 RPM drive or an SSD is recommended. Warranty is 2 years — shorter than some competitors offering 3 years. For long-term archival duty, consider an extended warranty or additional backup strategy. Also, verify that your case has a free 3.5-inch bay and that your power supply has an available SATA power cable.