Features & Specifications

The WD_BLACK WD4006FZBX shares many characteristics with its 6TB sibling (WD6004FZBX), being part of the same performance-oriented product line:

• Capacity: 4TB, offering significant storage for a large collection of games, media, and other demanding applications.
• Form Factor: 3.5-inch, the standard size for internal desktop hard drives.
• Interface: SATA III 6 Gb/s, providing a fast connection to your system’s motherboard.
• Rotational Speed (RPM): 7200 RPM, a key indicator of its performance, as this is faster than the more common 5400 RPM drives found in many standard consumer HDDs. This contributes to faster data access and loading times.
• Cache: 256MB DRAM cache. A larger cache helps improve overall drive responsiveness by storing frequently accessed data for quicker retrieval.
• Data Transfer Rate: Up to 267 MB/s, which is a strong performance metric for a traditional HDD.
• Dual-Core Processor: Features a dual-core processor to enhance drive performance and efficiency in handling data.
• StableTrac Technology: This technology helps stabilize the motor shaft, reducing system-induced vibrations and improving tracking accuracy and reliability, particularly in models 2TB and larger.
• Dynamic Cache Technology: Optimizes caching algorithms in real-time to efficiently allocate and utilize the cache for both read and write operations, minimizing bottlenecks.
• Reliability: Comes with an industry-leading 5-year limited warranty, reflecting its robust design and Western Digital’s confidence in its durability.
• Applications: Suited for high-performance desktop PCs, gaming rigs, and workstations where large-capacity, relatively fast, and reliable storage is needed, often alongside an SSD for the operating system and most critical applications.

Performance & User Experience

The WD_BLACK 4TB (WD4006FZBX) is generally praised for its speed among HDDs and its ample storage capacity. Users report good sequential read and write speeds, making it suitable for storing and loading large game files.

However, the WD_BLACK series can be notably louder. This is common among high-performance HDDs. Expect more noise than quieter drives or SSDs, especially during active operation (read/write cycles). Some users even report a “clicking” or “thumping” noise when the drive is idle. This might come from head parking or other internal mechanisms. For users with noise-sensitive setups, this is a key factor to consider. Users suggest solutions like proper mounting to reduce vibration. Alternatively, placing the drive in an external, isolated enclosure can help

Despite the potential for noise, its performance, large cache, and long warranty make the WD_BLACK 4TB a popular choice for users who prioritize HDD speed and capacity for their gaming or workstation needs. It’s often recommended as a secondary storage drive alongside a faster SSD for optimal overall system performance.