GamePC has put the Maxtor DiamondMax 9 head to head with the Western Digital Caviar SE drive to see which 160GB monster has got the right stuff. Note that both boast 7200rpm spindle speeds and 8MB buffers.
The basic specifications between the drives are relatively similar, yet the Maxtor DiamondMax 9 Plus utilizes newer 80GB/platter storage technology, whereas the Western Digital Caviar uses 60GB/platter. Technically, this should allow for the Maxtor drive to be manufactured for less, and subsequently create less noise and heat. Besides this difference, the basic specs between the drives are nearly identical.
Source: http://www.gamepc.com/labs/view_cont...&page=1&bhcp=1
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