Head-to-Head · Internal Hard Drives

Seagate Skyhawk 2TB (ST2000VXZ17/017) vs Toshiba MG10ACA20TE (20TB)

Seagate Skyhawk 2TB (ST2000VXZ17/017)
$117.56 84 reviews analyzed
Toshiba MG10ACA20TE (20TB)
$824.95 67 reviews analyzed
Scored Dimensions
5.5 Reliability & Endurance 8.8
6.0 Transfer Speed 8.8
7.0 Noise & Heat 7.8
8.5 Value per TB 9.0
5.8 Packaging & Arrival 3.9
2.9 Warranty & Support 3.0
Seagate Skyhawk 2TB (ST2000VXZ17/017)

The Good

  • Installation is consistently reported as easy and straightforward, often a drop-in replacement for existing systems.
  • Exhibits strong compatibility with a wide range of security camera DVR and NVR systems, including Zosi, Swann, Eufy, and Hikvision.
  • Many owners find it offers good value for money, especially when upgrading capacity from older drives.
  • Frequently described as quiet during operation, with minimal or unnoticeable noise.
  • Provides ample storage capacity, with some users reporting weeks of continuous 4K recording.

The Bad

  • A notable number of owners report premature drive failures, some within months or a couple of years of use.
  • Several users express significant frustration with Seagate's warranty and replacement process, citing costs for shipping defective units.
  • Some owners found the drive's transfer speeds to be slow or glitchy, particularly with higher camera counts.
  • Occasional reports of the drive being noisier than expected or making creaking sounds.
  • Packaging during arrival sometimes received criticism for not being adequately protective.
Toshiba MG10ACA20TE (20TB)

The Good

  • Exceptional storage capacity at a competitive price point.
  • Solid and often impressive data transfer speeds for large files.
  • Many owners report excellent long-term reliability and dependable performance.
  • Generally easy detection and installation across various systems.

The Bad

  • Frequent and widespread complaints about inadequate packaging during shipping.
  • Mixed reports on noise levels, with many finding it noticeably loud or prone to vibration.
  • Some users experienced drives arriving dead on arrival or with immediate functional issues.
  • Occasional reports of higher operating temperatures or unreliable temperature sensors.
The Seagate Skyhawk 2TB (ST2000VXZ17/017) Verdict

This Seagate Skyhawk 2TB drive is a solid option for those seeking an easy-to-install and highly compatible storage solution for their video surveillance systems, offering good capacity for the price. However, potential buyers should be aware of reported reliability concerns and a less-than-ideal warranty experience if issues arise.

Read the full Seagate Skyhawk 2TB (ST2000VXZ17/017) consensus →
The Toshiba MG10ACA20TE (20TB) Verdict

For buyers prioritizing massive storage capacity and strong performance at an attractive price, the Toshiba MG10ACA20TE is a compelling option, provided they are prepared for potentially suboptimal packaging and are mindful of its varied noise and heat characteristics.

Read the full Toshiba MG10ACA20TE (20TB) consensus →
The Bottom Line

Our pick: Toshiba MG10ACA20TE (20TB) · 6.9/10

The Toshiba MG10ACA20TE (20TB) wins on points (6.9 vs 6.8), but the Seagate Skyhawk 2TB (ST2000VXZ17/017) costs $707 less for a near-identical owner consensus. Pay for the edge, or pocket the difference.

Seagate Skyhawk 2TB (ST2000VXZ17/017)
$117.56 Best price the consensus found
Check Price →
Toshiba MG10ACA20TE (20TB)
$824.95 Best price the consensus found
Check Price →

ORA Metrics may earn a commission on qualifying purchases made through our links, at no extra cost to you.

How ORA built this: We read recent reviews, remove suspected bot or incentivized entries, off-topic complaints, and reviews describing the buyer's own setup problems rather than the product, then synthesize the remainder into a single unbiased verdict. Read our full methodology →