While both testing tools are excellent, they are different.
Thebootableversion of SeaTools is more powerful, but is a bit more difficult to use.
SeaTools for Windows or Linux isn’t as full-featured, but it’s much easier to install.
Both programs are completely free and are highly recommended.
This review is of SeaTools Bootable and SeaTools for Windows v5.
Pleaselet us knowif there’s a newer version we need to review.
You may need toreplace the hard driveif it fails any of your tests.
External drivesare also supported like those that work viaUSBorFireWire.
To get started, visit theSeaTools download pageand choose the link calledSeaTools for Windowsunder theDownloadssection.
The download is anEXEfile calledSeaToolsforWindowsSetup.exe.
Setup isn’t confusing at all and installs the program quickly.
Another version,SeaTools for DOS, is similar, but don’t let thefor DOSpart scare you away.
It works with any kind of PC, no matter what operating system is installed.
Visit theSeagate Support US pageto find theSeaTools for DOSdownload link.
It will download as anISOfile calledSeaToolsDOS223ALL.ISO.
The tests are basic, easy to run, and generally pretty fast in our experience.
This test can really save you a lot of time if you think your hard drive is making noise.
It will spin the drive down until it’s completely idle, making the drive nearly silent.
If you no longer hear the strange noise, the hard drive was the culprit!
