Western Digital Ultrastar DC HC590 26TB Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The Western Digital Ultrastar DC HC590 26TB offers high-capacity internal storage with CMR reliability and 7200 rpm speed. If you are searching for western digital wd ultrastar DC hc590 alternatives, you might need a different form factor or interface. This drive is built for servers, but you may prefer desktop units or encrypted portable options for other uses.
We selected 6 similar picks because their specifications overlap with the original drive. You can find larger desktop enclosures, faster Thunderbolt connections, or secure encrypted drives in this list. Each option provides distinct hardware interfaces and capacities. Some models focus on compact aluminum designs, while others emphasize data protection or ease of use. These alternatives cover various needs, from simple backup to professional media workflows. You can compare cache sizes, rotational speeds, and physical dimensions to find the best fit for your setup. The list includes drives from brands like Seagate, SanDisk, and Apricorn. Each product is ranked by its suitability for specific tasks. You will find options that match the original’s performance while offering different features.
Our top pick: Western Digital Ultrastar DC HC590 26TB HDD.
How alternatives compare to HC590
Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 2TB Encrypted SSD
The Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 2TB offers portable encrypted storage via USB 3.0, unlike the internal SATA HC590. It provides robust hardware encryption for sensitive data, making it ideal for professionals needing secure transport. However, you sacrifice massive capacity and server-grade 7200 rpm speed for portability and security. The 2TB limit is significantly smaller than the 26TB internal drive. Choose this if you need validated encryption and mobility rather than bulk archival storage for a server rack.
WD 24TB My Book Duo Dual-Drive Desktop RAID
The WD My Book Duo 24TB provides desktop RAID storage with built-in encryption, contrasting with the single-drive internal HC590. It offers substantial 24TB capacity close to the 26TB target, suitable for desktop backups. The desktop form factor and USB connectivity differ from the internal SATA interface. You gain RAID redundancy and encryption but lose the direct server integration of the HC590. This pick suits users who want high capacity with security features in a desktop enclosure rather than an internal server component.
G-Technology 18TB G-DRIVE Desktop
The G-Technology 18TB G-DRIVE Desktop features a compact aluminum design and USB 3.0 interface, differing from the internal SATA HC590. It offers 18TB capacity, which is less than the 26TB model, but provides a durable, space-saving desktop solution. You give up the higher capacity and server-focused 7200 rpm speed for a portable, rugged external drive. This option fits users needing reliable desktop backup or multimedia storage without the complexity of RAID or internal installation requirements found in the HC590.
Seagate Expansion 18TB Desktop External Hard Drive
The Seagate Expansion 18TB Desktop HDD offers simple plug-and-play functionality via USB 3.0, unlike the internal SATA HC590. It provides 18TB capacity for everyday backups on Mac or Windows, prioritizing ease of use over maximum capacity. You sacrifice the 26TB space and server-grade reliability for straightforward setup. This drive suits users who need a reliable, high-capacity external drive for general backup and media storage without the technical requirements of internal server installation or RAID configuration.
SanDisk Professional 18TB G-DRIVE PRO
The SanDisk Professional 18TB G-DRIVE PRO Thunderbolt 3 delivers enterprise speed with Thunderbolt and USB-C interfaces, contrasting with the SATA HC590. It features 7200 rpm speed for fast transfers and supports daisy-chaining for Mac users. You get 18TB capacity and high performance but lose the 26TB space and internal server form factor. This pick is ideal for creative professionals needing fast external storage and multi-device connectivity rather than bulk internal server archival storage.
ClevX SecureDrive KP Encrypted External Drive
The ClevX SecureDrive KP is a portable encrypted SSD via USB 3.0, offering security over capacity. It provides 500GB HDD or SSD options, significantly less than the 26TB HC590. You gain cross-platform compatibility and data protection but sacrifice massive storage and server-grade performance. This drive suits users prioritizing secure, portable storage for sensitive files on Mac or Windows over the bulk capacity and internal installation of the HC590 server drive.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Western Digital Ultrastar DC HC590 26TB HDD
Best for: High-capacity internal server storage
- Storage Capacity
- 26 TB
- Hardware Interface
- SATA
- Rotational Speed
- 7200 rpm
- Cache Size
- 512 MB
- Recording Technology
- Conventional Magnetic Recording (CMR)
- Dimensions
- 5.78 × 4 × 1.03 inches
The Western Digital Ultrastar DC HC590 is a 26 TB internal hard drive designed for high-capacity storage needs. It features a SATA interface, 7200 rpm rotational speed, and 512 MB cache. The drive uses Conventional Magnetic Recording (CMR) technology for reliable data integrity. You should consider this drive if you need bulk storage for servers or workstations. It is not a portable or external solution.
Pros
- 26 TB storage capacity
- 7200 rpm spindle speed
- 512 MB buffer
- CMR recording technology
Cons
- Requires internal SATA connection
- Not a portable or external drive
- Lacks built-in encryption features
Good fit if
- You need high-capacity internal storage
- You require CMR reliability
- You are building a server
Skip if
- You need portable storage
- You require USB connectivity
- You want external encryption
Verdict: Western Digital Ultrastar DC HC590 26TB is a high-capacity internal drive for servers. It suits users needing bulk storage with CMR reliability.
Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 2TB Encrypted SSD
Best for: secure portable data storage
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Hardware Interface
- USB 3.0
- Dimensions
- 4.75 × 3 × 0.6 inches
- Weight
- 4.16 ounces
View on Amazon: Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 2TB Encrypted SSD
The Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 is a 2TB portable SSD designed for high-security needs. It features USB 3.0 connectivity and FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validation. The drive uses 256-bit AES XTS encryption with separate admin and user modes. Its compact dimensions are 3 inches wide and 4.75 inches long. It weighs only 4.16 ounces. You should consider this drive if you need hardware-encrypted storage for sensitive data.
Pros
- FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validated encryption
- 256-bit AES XTS hardware encryption
- Separate admin and user access modes
- Lightweight at 4.16 ounces
Cons
- Small 2TB capacity compared to 26TB alternatives
- Limited to USB 3.0 interface speed
- No mention of included software suite
Good fit if
- You need portable, hardware-encrypted storage
- You require FIPS 140-2 Level 3 compliance
- You prioritize data security over large capacity
Skip if
- You need high-capacity bulk storage
- You require Thunderbolt or USB 4 connectivity
- You want a non-encrypted drive for general use
Verdict: Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 2TB Encrypted SSD offers robust security features for users prioritizing data protection. It is ideal for professionals handling sensitive information who need portable, validated encryption.
WD 24TB My Book Duo Dual-Drive Desktop RAID
Best for: Desktop RAID storage with encryption
- Storage Capacity
- 24TB
- Hardware Interface
- USB 3.1 Gen 1, USB 3.0
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Dimensions
- 6.3 × 3.94 × 7.09 inches
This WD My Book Duo offers 24TB of storage in a desktop form factor. It supports RAID-0 for speed and includes 256-bit AES hardware encryption with password protection. The drive connects via USB 3.1 Gen 1 and features two USB 3.0 hub ports. It suits users needing high capacity and security for desktop NAS setups.
Pros
- 24TB storage capacity
- RAID-0 ready out of the box
- 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Two USB 3.0 hub ports
Cons
- Smaller 24TB capacity compared to 26TB alternatives
- Larger desktop footprint
- USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface limits speed
Good fit if
- You need large local storage with RAID support
- You require hardware encryption for data security
- You want USB hub expansion for peripherals
Skip if
- You need Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
- You require FIPS validated encryption
- You prefer portable SSD solutions
Verdict: WD My Book Duo 24TB Desktop RAID provides substantial storage with built-in RAID and encryption. It is a practical choice for users prioritizing capacity and security over portability.
G-Technology 18TB G-DRIVE Desktop
Best for: compact 18TB desktop storage
- Storage Capacity
- 18TB
- Hardware Interface
- USB 3.0
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Dimensions
- 7.72 × 5.06 × 1.39 inches
The G-Technology 18TB G-DRIVE is a desktop external hard drive with USB 3.0 connectivity. Its all-aluminum case offers durability and a compact footprint. You get 18TB of storage for large multimedia files. It is Time Machine-ready for backups. This drive suits users needing high capacity in a small, sturdy enclosure.
Pros
- 18TB storage capacity
- USB 3.0 interface
- All-aluminum case
- Time Machine-ready
Cons
- 18TB capacity is lower than the 26TB Ultrastar DC HC590
- No RAID configuration support
- No hardware encryption
Good fit if
- You need 18TB of desktop storage
- You want a durable aluminum enclosure
- You use macOS Time Machine
Skip if
- You need 26TB or more capacity
- You require RAID redundancy
- You need hardware encryption
Verdict: G-Technology 18TB G-DRIVE Desktop is a solid choice for users who prioritize a compact, durable aluminum design over maximum capacity. It fits those needing 18TB for multimedia or backups without RAID complexity.
Seagate Expansion 18TB Desktop External Hard Drive
Best for: simple desktop backup for Mac or Windows users
- Storage Capacity
- 18TB
- Hardware Interface
- USB 3.0
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Dimensions
- 3.03 × 8.35 × 8.58 inches
- Weight
- 3.03 pounds
View on Amazon: Seagate Expansion 18TB Desktop External Hard Drive
The Seagate Expansion 18TB is a desktop external hard drive designed for straightforward data storage. It offers 18TB of capacity via a USB 3.0 interface, ensuring fast file transfers for large media libraries. The unit is compact, measuring 3.03 inches in depth, and weighs 3.03 pounds. It features automatic recognition for Windows and Mac computers, making setup simple for users who need reliable, plug-and-play storage without complex configuration.
Pros
- 18TB storage capacity for extensive file archives
- USB 3.0 interface for fast data transfers
- Automatic recognition for Windows and Mac systems
- Compact desktop form factor at 3.03 inches deep
Cons
- Smaller 18TB capacity compared to the 26TB Ultrastar DC HC590
- Uses mechanical hard disk technology rather than SSD
- Requires reformatting for Time Machine compatibility
Good fit if
- You need a large, plug-and-play storage solution for Mac or Windows
- You prefer a compact desktop drive that fits easily on a desk
- You want automatic computer recognition without manual driver installation
Skip if
- You require the maximum 26TB capacity available in this comparison
- You need Thunderbolt 4 speeds for high-performance RAID setups
- You require hardware encryption for sensitive data protection
Verdict: Seagate Expansion 18TB Desktop HDD is a practical choice for users who prioritize ease of use and automatic setup over maximum capacity or encryption features. It suits those who need a reliable, high-capacity desktop drive for everyday backup and media storage.
SanDisk Professional 18TB G-DRIVE PRO
Best for: Mac users needing fast Thunderbolt 3 daisy-chaining
- Storage Capacity
- 18TB
- Hardware Interface
- Thunderbolt 3, USB-C
- Rotational Speed
- 7200 RPM
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Dimensions
- 8.27 × 5.12 × 1.81 inches
- Weight
- 2.6 pounds
The SanDisk Professional 18TB G-DRIVE PRO is an enterprise-class desktop drive built around a 7200RPM Ultrastar mechanism. It connects via dual Thunderbolt 3 ports and a USB-C port, delivering up to 260MB/s read and write speeds. You get daisy-chaining support for up to five additional devices. It ships pre-formatted for Mac (HFS+) and requires reformatting for Windows use.
Pros
- Enterprise-class 7200RPM Ultrastar drive inside
- Dual Thunderbolt 3 (20Gbps) ports
- Up to 260MB/s read and write speeds
- Daisy chaining for up to 5 additional devices
Cons
- 18TB capacity is smaller than the 26TB option
- Requires reformatting to work with Windows
- Single USB-C port is limited to 5Gbps
Good fit if
- You need high-speed Thunderbolt 3 connectivity
- You want daisy-chaining for multiple devices
- You primarily use Mac computers
Skip if
- You require Windows compatibility without reformatting
- You need more than 18TB of storage
- You prefer USB 3.0 connections over Thunderbolt
Verdict: SanDisk 18TB G-DRIVE PRO Thunderbolt 3 offers enterprise speed and daisy-chaining for Mac users. It fits those needing fast Thunderbolt 3 transfers and multiple device connections.
ClevX SecureDrive KP Encrypted External Drive
Best for: portable encrypted storage for sensitive files
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Hardware Interface
- USB 3.0
- Compatibility
- Mac
- Weight
- 9 ounces
View on Amazon: ClevX SecureDrive KP Encrypted External Drive
This ClevX SecureDrive KP is a 2TB SSD with USB 3.0 connectivity. It features hardware encryption via key or biometrics, requiring no drivers. The drive supports Mac, Windows, and Linux. It includes a splash-proof pouch and one year of antivirus software. This compact, lightweight drive suits users needing portable, encrypted storage for sensitive files across different operating systems.
Pros
- 2TB SSD storage capacity
- Hardware encryption with key or biometric unlock
- No drivers or software required for access
- Includes splash-proof pouch and USB-C/A cables
- Compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux
Cons
- 2TB capacity is small compared to 18TB+ alternatives
- USB 3.0 interface is slower than Thunderbolt 4
- Antivirus protection requires a subscription after one year
Good fit if
- You need hardware encryption for sensitive data
- You use a Mac or mixed OS environment
- You want a compact, portable drive with a pouch
Skip if
- You need large storage capacity over 2TB
- You require high-speed Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
- You prefer a traditional HDD over an SSD
Verdict: ClevX SecureDrive KP 2TB SSD USB 3.0 is a secure, portable option for users prioritizing data protection and cross-platform compatibility over raw storage space or speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Western Digital Ultrastar DC HC590 26TB HDD | Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 2TB Encrypted SSD | WD 24TB My Book Duo Dual-Drive Desktop RAID | G-Technology 18TB G-DRIVE Desktop | Seagate Expansion 18TB Desktop External Hard Drive | SanDisk Professional 18TB G-DRIVE PRO | ClevX SecureDrive KP Encrypted External Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 26 TB | 2TB | 24TB | 18TB | 18TB | 18TB | 2TB |
| Hardware Interface | SATA | USB 3.0 | USB 3.1 Gen 1, USB 3.0 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.0 | Thunderbolt 3, USB-C | USB 3.0 |
| Rotational Speed | 7200 rpm | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 7200 RPM | not specified |
| Cache Size | 512 MB | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Recording Technology | Conventional Magnetic Recording (CMR) | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Form Factor | not specified | not specified | Desktop | Desktop | Desktop | Desktop | not specified |
| Compatibility | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Mac |
| Size | not specified | 2TB | 24TB | 18TB | 18TB | 18TB | 500GB HDD |
| Dimensions | 5.78 × 4 × 1.03 inches | 4.75 × 3 × 0.6 inches | 6.3 × 3.94 × 7.09 inches | 7.72 × 5.06 × 1.39 inches | 3.03 × 8.35 × 8.58 inches | 8.27 × 5.12 × 1.81 inches | not specified |
| Weight | 1.48 pounds | 4.16 ounces | not specified | not specified | 3.03 pounds | 2.6 pounds | 9 ounces |
| Color | black | Information Not Available | Black | Silver | Black | Space Grey | BT - SSD |
| Model | 0F65672-WUH722626ALE6L4 | AFL3-S2TB | WDBFBE0240JBK-NESN | 0G10822-1 | STKP18000402 | SDPH51J-018T-NBAAD | SecureDrive KP |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these alternatives for server storage like the HC590?
Only the Western Digital Ultrastar DC HC590 26TB is designed for high-capacity internal server storage. The other options, such as the WD My Book Duo or Seagate Expansion, are desktop external drives. They use USB interfaces and are better suited for backups or media libraries rather than continuous server operations.
Which alternative offers the highest storage capacity?
The Western Digital Ultrastar DC HC590 26TB provides the highest capacity at 26TB. The next largest options are the WD My Book Duo at 24TB and several 18TB drives from G-Technology, Seagate, and SanDisk. The Apricorn and ClevX drives offer significantly less space at 2TB and 500GB respectively.
Do any alternatives include built-in encryption?
Yes, the WD My Book Duo 24TB includes built-in encryption for security. The Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 2TB also features robust hardware encryption for sensitive data. The ClevX SecureDrive KP is another encrypted option, though it has a smaller 500GB capacity. Other listed drives do not mention encryption.
Which drive is best for Mac users needing daisy-chaining?
The SanDisk Professional 18TB G-DRIVE PRO is ideal for Mac users. It uses Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C interfaces, allowing for fast transfers and daisy-chaining multiple devices. It is the only listed drive with Thunderbolt connectivity, making it distinct from the USB-based alternatives like the Seagate Expansion or G-Technology drives.
Are there portable options similar to the HC590?
The HC590 is an internal drive, but the Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 2TB and ClevX SecureDrive KP are portable. The Apricorn weighs 4.16 ounces and connects via USB 3.0. The ClevX drive weighs 9 ounces. These are designed for transport, unlike the heavier desktop or internal server drives.
Which alternative has the fastest rotational speed?
The SanDisk Professional 18TB G-DRIVE PRO is listed with a 7200 RPM rotational speed. This matches the speed of the HC590. The other desktop drives do not specify their RPM in the provided data. Higher RPMs generally support faster data access for professional workflows.
What form factors are available in these alternatives?
You have a choice between internal and desktop form factors. The HC590 is an internal 3.5-inch drive. The WD My Book Duo, G-Technology, Seagate Expansion, and SanDisk G-DRIVE PRO are all desktop units. The Apricorn and ClevX options are portable SSDs. This lets you choose based on your enclosure needs.