The 990 is faster but the PM897 will probably outlive it.

What issue did your hdd have? Did they just believe you and approved the rma? Or they had to run some test?

I used to buy externals but the lower warranty and lower speeds made me rethink my strategy because if they are not cheap enough it is not worth it. My Seagates all developed bad sectors within the warranty period and had a few failed too so now I’m looking for new Ultrastar hdd.