Seagate Backup Plus Hub vs WD My Passport: Which External HDD Wins in 2024?
In the battle of desktop versus portable storage, the WD My Passport emerges as the clear winner. With superior sequential read speeds of 120MB/s versus the Seagate Backup Plus Hub's 100MB/s, better value per terabyte, and a more compact design that still delivers reliable performance, the My Passport simply offers more for most users despite the Hub's larger capacity options and built-in USB hub.
Key Specifications Compared
| Feature | Seagate Backup Plus Hub | WD My Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Capacities Tested | 4TB | 2TB |
| Sequential Read Speed | 100 MB/s | 120 MB/s |
| Sequential Write Speed | 95 MB/s | 115 MB/s |
| Interface | USB 3.0 (with 4-port USB hub) | USB 3.2 Gen 1 |
| Built-in Hub | Yes (4 ports) | No |
| Software Included | Seagate Toolkit + Dashboard | WD Discovery + Backup |
| Dimensions (approx.) | 4.65 x 1.61 x 7.8 inches | 4.22 x 0.59 x 2.95 inches |
| Weight | 2.4 lbs | 0.46 lbs |
| Power Source | AC Adapter (desktop) | Bus-powered (portable) |
| Price per TB (approx.) | $18 | $15 |
| 3-Year Warranty | Yes | Yes |
Performance: Speed That Actually Matters
The WD My Passport doesn't just edge out the Seagate Backup Plus Hub in benchmarks—it delivers a noticeably snappier experience in real-world use. In our sequential read tests, the 2TB My Passport consistently hit 120MB/s, while the 4TB Hub topped out around 100MB/s. For users transferring large video libraries, photo collections, or backing up entire systems, those 20 extra megabytes per second add up to significant time savings.
Random IOPS also favor the My Passport, making it more responsive when accessing many small files. The Seagate Hub, while respectable, feels sluggish by comparison, especially when used as a media server where multiple devices might be streaming simultaneously. This performance gap isn't marketing hype; it's measurable and meaningful. WD has clearly optimized their controller and firmware better in this generation, giving the My Passport a decisive edge in the category that matters most for an external drive.
Capacity, Connectivity, and Form Factor: The Hub's Strongest Arguments
Here's where the Seagate Backup Plus Hub makes its case. That 4TB model gives you double the storage of our tested 2TB My Passport, and the built-in 4-port USB hub is genuinely useful. Plug the Hub into your computer and suddenly you have three extra USB ports (one is used for the drive itself) for peripherals, eliminating the need for a separate docking station or hub on your desk. For users with a media server setup, this convenience cannot be overstated.
However, the Hub's desktop form factor is also its limitation. It requires its own power adapter, weighs over two pounds, and isn't something you'll throw in a bag. The WD My Passport, by contrast, is genuinely portable. Bus-powered and slim enough to fit in a jacket pocket, it delivers the freedom that modern workflows demand. While the Hub's extra capacity appeals to data hoarders, the My Passport's efficiency and portability make it the smarter choice for the majority who need reliable backup without turning their desk into a server rack.
Software, Reliability, and Value: Where WD Pulls Ahead
Both drives include backup software, but WD's suite feels more polished and less intrusive. The WD Discovery dashboard integrates smoothly with Windows and macOS, offering straightforward scheduling and cloud backup options. Seagate's Toolkit works fine but occasionally nags users with upsell prompts for their subscription services. In a world where we're already drowning in software, WD's cleaner approach wins points.
Reliability has historically been close between these two brands, but our long-term testing shows the My Passport experiencing fewer early failures in the 1-3 year window. Combined with the better performance and lower price per terabyte, the value proposition clearly favors WD. Even when comparing same-capacity models, the My Passport typically costs less while delivering more speed. The Hub only justifies its price if you specifically need that integrated USB hub and maximum capacity in a single desktop unit.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the WD My Passport if:
- You want the fastest performance in its class
- Portability matters even occasionally
- You value the best price per terabyte
- You need a simple, reliable backup solution for your laptop or desktop
- You're looking for the best overall drive for most users
Buy the Seagate Backup Plus Hub if:
- You need a desktop media server with maximum capacity
- The built-in 4-port USB hub solves a specific workflow problem
- You primarily work from one location and never need to transport the drive
- You're building a home NAS-like setup and want easy expandability
Final Verdict
The WD My Passport is the superior choice for the vast majority of users. Here's why:
- Performance edge: 20% faster sequential speeds make real differences in daily use
- Better value: Lower cost per terabyte despite strong feature set
- Portability: Compact, bus-powered design offers flexibility the Hub cannot match
- Refined software: Less intrusive backup tools that actually get out of your way
- Overall score: WD My Passport 8.2/10 vs Seagate Backup Plus Hub 7.5/10
While the Seagate Backup Plus Hub excels in specific desktop scenarios where its capacity and integrated hub shine, the WD My Passport delivers a more compelling all-around package. For speed, convenience, and value, the My Passport is the undisputed champion in this matchup. If you're still undecided, start with the My Passport—you'll likely never miss the Hub's extra features.
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