Sips'Jun 3, 2024

Does the form factor between 3.5 and 2.5 matter in a NAS server?

https://slrpnk.net/post/10180993

Does the form factor between 3.5 and 2.5 matter in a NAS server? - SLRPNK

Been finding some good deals on 2.5 disks lately, but have never bought one before. Have a couple of 3.5 disks on the other hand in my Unraid server. Wondering how much it matters wether I get a 2.5 or not? What form factor do you prefer/usually go for?

Show threadTaasz/WoofJun 3, 2024

3.5" are cheaper, go up to higher capacities (2.5" maxes out at only 5TB IIRC), and are easier to find cheap in used/refurb formats.

I wouldn’t use 2.5" unless you absolutely had to for some reason.

Show threadpoVoqJun 3, 2024

The 2.5" drives are significantly more power efficient, often by a factor of 10. They also tend to be less noisy and produce less heat.

So in a small form factor NAS that isn’t under heavy load, 2.5” drives are usually the better option.

Show threadCobrachicken
Yes. Chuck some 5TB Seagate externals. They’re way less pain in the ears, cooler and quieter.
Jun 3, 2024 at 2:11pmWeb