Using old 3.5" HDD for storage/backup

nzaptx · 2 Dec 2017 at 14:21

Hey,

So i have an old 3.5" SATA HDD (500gb) that I'm trying to find a way to use as storage and have come across USB docks/cases that you plug the HDD in and can use like a external HDD, I've also seen SATA to USB cables.

Does anyone have any experience of using such docks/cables and which one is the best?

NeverWinter · 5 Dec 2017 at 15:57

I've just received a Fideco dual USB 3.0 dock (handles both 3.5" and 2.5"), I haven't had much of a play yet so can't really comment too much on it.

I also have a case that I put an old 3.5" drive in to use an external storage but ended up using it more like the dock I've just bought - they do the job but a 3.5" drive will require external power so be wary of that.

bremen1874 · 5 Dec 2017 at 16:03

Hardly worth the effort for a 500GB 3.5" drive (IMO).

NeverWinter · 5 Dec 2017 at 16:12

bremen1874 said:
Hardly worth the effort for a 500GB 3.5" drive (IMO).

I'd agree.

pete_agreatguy · 5 Dec 2017 at 17:24

If you have space for a 5.25" hot swap drive bay, that might be worth investing in. Otherwise I'd recommend a hard drive caddy; Inatec do some good USB 3.0 ones.