[tech] Seeking input: Selection of HDD for Backup Servers

[realroyxu at icloud.com]

Hi all,

As part of our backup server rebuilding project, we are in the process of setting up two identical backup servers to replace the existing offsite backup machine. For more details please refer to https://wiki.ucc.asn.au/DellR710 . 

We are now looking for suitable HDDs, current candidates are:
1. Seagate Exos 12TB ST12000NM0008 A$191 each (A$15.91/TB) 
2. Seagate Exos 18TB ST18000NM000J A$287 each (A$15.94/TB)
Reseller is East Digital (Shopify/eBay). Both models are factory recertified (claimed to have 0 usage time), coming with 3yr warranty from the reseller. 

There has been some discussion on discord:
1. Since we are building backups rather than production servers, value is an important factor (more than 50% off compared to brand new).
2. FR drives might have higher failure rates.
3. Capacity: Higher capacity drives can save slots (6 in total) but will increase failure/data loss rate.
4. We have no prior experience with this reseller.

We are keen to hear what you think, and if you have any other ideas or suggestions, please share them on discord or via this list. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Cheers,
Roy [ROY]