Abstract: A data storage device includes a data storage medium having a data storage surface. The data storage device also includes a first actuator having a first attached slider with a writer configured to write data on the data storage surface. The writer has a media-confronting surface covered by a first non-magnetic overcoat having a first thickness. The data storage device further includes a second actuator having a second attached slider with at least one user-data reader configured to read user data from the data storage surface and no writer for writing data on the data storage surface. The at least one user-data reader has a media-confronting surface covered by a second non-magnetic overcoat having a second thickness that is less than the first thickness of the first non-magnetic overcoat.