Seagate ST500VT000 Video 2.5 500GB Internal HDD

Name: Seagate ST500VT000 Video 2.5 500GB Internal HDD
Brand: Seagate
SKU: ST500VT000

Overview

The Seagate ST500VT000 Video 2.5 HDD brings Seagate's proven video storage expertise into a compact 2.5-inch form factor. Built specifically for set-top boxes and DVRs, this drive is engineered to handle the unique demands of continuous video recording and playback. Unlike general-purpose laptop drives, the ST500VT000 features firmware optimizations that prioritize steady, sequential data throughput — ensuring smooth recording without dropped frames or playback stuttering, even during simultaneous read/write operations.

With 500GB of storage capacity, a 5400 RPM spindle speed, and a Serial ATA interface, this drive strikes a balance between reliable performance and low power consumption. Its industry-leading annualized failure rate of just 0.55% makes it a dependable component for devices that never power down. The 2.5-inch footprint allows manufacturers and consumers to use it in slimmer, more compact entertainment devices where a full-size 3.5-inch drive simply would not fit.

Key Features

Seagate expands video hard drive offerings to a 2.5" platform

Purpose-built 2.5" video drives designed specifically for STB and DVR manufacturers to support 24 x 7 applications

Choose the drive with optimized streaming, recording and playback of your favorite video content

Reliability and performance equal to Seagate Video 3.5 HDDs

Industry leading AFR of 0.55 %

The available storage capacity may vary.

Specifications

Brand

Seagate

Model

ST500VT000

Capacity

500GB

Form Factor

2.5-Inch

Interface

Serial ATA

Rotational Speed

5400 RPM

Annualized Failure Rate

0.55%

Application

STB and DVR (24x7)

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Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

Designed specifically for 24/7 continuous operation without overheating or premature wear.
Compact 2.5" form factor fits space-constrained set-top boxes and DVRs.
Low 0.55% annualized failure rate provides strong long-term reliability.
Optimized firmware ensures smooth streaming, recording, and playback with minimal frame drops.
Low power consumption compared to 3.5" video drives, reducing heat output in enclosed devices.

👎 Cons

500GB capacity limits total recording hours, especially for HD content.
5400 RPM speed is not suitable for general computing or application-heavy workloads.
No built-in encryption or hardware-level data protection features.
Being a mechanical drive, it is more susceptible to shock and vibration damage than solid-state alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What devices is the Seagate ST500VT000 designed for?

This drive is purpose-built for set-top boxes (STBs) and digital video recorders (DVRs) that require continuous 24/7 operation for video recording and playback.

What is the rotational speed of this drive?

The ST500VT000 operates at 5400 RPM, which is optimized for steady streaming performance rather than random access speed, making it well-suited for sequential video workloads.

Can this drive be used as a general-purpose laptop hard drive?

While it uses a standard 2.5" SATA interface, this drive is optimized for streaming video workloads rather than general computing tasks. It will function in a laptop but is not tuned for typical desktop or application use.

What does the 0.55% annualized failure rate mean?

The 0.55% AFR means that statistically, fewer than 1 in 180 of these drives would be expected to fail within a year of continuous use, reflecting strong reliability for always-on video applications.