Dedicated External HDD Enclosure vs. HDD Docking Station

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Clint_8

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Jan 14, 2017
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I couldn't seem to find this question anywhere else on this forum. But, I am looking at external storage, and have noticed two options for building a DIY external drive. Aside from popping a HDD into an aftermarket enclosure (or simply buying a complete external drive), I have noticed the "toaster-like" docking stations. The latter seem very flexible. But, I also think they offer better heat dissipation because the HDD is exposed, and this drive could likely be left running for days or weeks at a time (I do lots of torrenting).
I am interesting getting feedback on using docking stations as a permanent receptacle for HDD storage. Note that I won't be transporting it around, so portability is not an issue. I already have a WD Passport for that. Rather this drive will sit on my desk and alternate being connected to one of my two desktops (one Windows and the other Ubuntu.) Is there any problem with using a docking station like that?
Another question I have is how is external HDD performance impacted by having a dedicated power source, versus using power from the USB connection? I've noticed some external HDD enclosures have external power supplies whereas others do not have a power supply.
 
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ArtPog

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Sep 17, 2014
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As to a "docking station" vs. a USB external enclosure, when all is said & done it's a matter of taste.

We work with both types of devices and by & large in terms of performance there's little to choose between them. We're not particularly fond of the bulk of the docking station since space is a premium around here.

Assuming we're working with an external USB enclosure/docking station that has capability for accmmodating both 2.5" & 3.5" drives is that the power switch is either on the front or the top of the device. It's a deal-breaker for us if the power switch is on the rear (back) of the case (as so often you find with docking stations). Now that may not be an important consideration for you, but it is for us.

Our primary advice to PC users seeking a USB external HDD/SSD device is NOT to purchase a commercial "one-piece" unit, rather, purchase a USB external enclosure of a type that suits them, together with a HDD or SSD of their choice, ensuring that the USB external unit can accommodate both 2.5" & 3.5" drives.

We are unconcerned with "heat dissipation" issues since in all the years we've been working with a wide variety of USB external enclosures of one type or another, it's never been an issue. Ditto re "power source". If you're working with an external enclosure that accommodates 3.5" HDDs you'll be using a power supply.

By & large we've found very little difference in performance from one USB external enclosure to another. The associated HDD or SSD in the enclosure can, of course, make a difference.

Nearly needless to say, we're talking USB 3.0 here, right?
 
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Clint_8

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Jan 14, 2017
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Thanks for your response, as well as your comment about the ergonomics of the on/off switch. I hate reaching behind things and fumbling for something I cannot see. I will be setting up my SFF desktop rotated sideways and sitting under the monitor, so I don't have to reach all the way behind the thing to access it's rear USB ports.
Yes, we are talking about USB 3.0, which is an essential feature, for obvious reasons. I'm glad to hear that heat is not quite the threat to HDD reliability that I thought it could be.

 
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