ST8000DM004 vs ST8000NM017B
Seagate ST8000DM004 (8TB) versus Seagate ST8000NM017B (8TB)
Verdict
For a NAS or any RAID array, the ST8000NM017B is the clear pick - it's a CMR drive, while the ST8000DM004 uses SMR recording, which is not recommended for RAID. Only consider the ST8000DM004 for single-drive or archival use.
| ST8000DM004 | ST8000NM017B | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 8 TB | 8 TB |
| Recording tech | SMR | CMR |
| RAID / NAS safe | No | Yes |
| Class | Desktop | Enterprise |
| Spindle speed | 5400 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Cache | 256 MB | 256 MB |
| Noise (idle) | 22 dB | 28 dB |
| Fill | Air | Air |
| Interface | SATA | SATA |
| Failure rate (AFR) | - | - |
| Price / TB | $31.25 | $50.80 |
Highlighted cells mark the stronger spec for a NAS build. Failure rates from Backblaze Drive Stats where available; $/TB shows once live prices are wired.