18TB Lowest Index Median, 28TB Best Listing
This week's read: 18TB became the lowest-median capacity tier in the index, replacing 12TB, while the sharpest named row is Seagate Exos ST28000NM000C 28TB refurb at BestBuy for $646.99 ($23.11/TB). The tier signal moved, but the best buyable listing still comes from refurb inventory. Data through Jul 31, 2026.
Notable capacity moves
18TB is the lowest current median $/TB capacity tier in the index at $35.50/TB. 18TB posted the clearest 30-day move at -13.1%. The lowest-median index tier is not the same as the cheapest named listing; use the tier view for market shape and the listing rows for actual buy decisions.
Current best-value drives
Current rows with clear condition data: Seagate Exos ST28000NM000C 28TB refurb at BestBuy for $646.99 ($23.11/TB); Seagate Expansion STKP22000400 22TB new at BestBuy for $629.99 ($28.64/TB); Seagate Expansion STKP28000400 28TB new at BestBuy for $849.99 ($30.36/TB); Seagate IronWolf ST12000VN0008 12TB new at BestBuy for $399.99 ($33.33/TB). If recertified or refurbished drives are off the table, compare against Seagate Expansion STKP22000400 22TB new at BestBuy for $629.99 ($28.64/TB) and Seagate Expansion STKP28000400 28TB new at BestBuy for $849.99 ($30.36/TB). These are not interchangeable: condition and recording tech matter before the lowest $/TB row becomes a buyable recommendation.