External HDD suggestions - or build my own?

[pkz78]

Hi,

I am currently looking to buy an external HDD (1TB). My requirements are
-primary backup (all kinds of files)
-is possible, would like to use on both PC+Mac(probably not possible unless I format, right ?)
-don't want to use external power source
-reliability (could sacrifice a little bit of speed)

(would any Ex-HDD be possible to connect to TV with a USB-3?)

From Amazon, I've found these 2 drives to have pretty good reviews
-Toshiba Canvio Basics
-WD Elements Portable
-WD Passport (Don't need auto backup, so is this better than or same as Elements?)
I've read several reviews/comments that Seagate drives are not very reliable, and I've had mixed results myself, so I am not so sure about buying a Seagate again. My 1TB Seagate HDD (1TB) failed twice in 6 months (new one failed in 4 months, replacement failed in 2 months), but my Seagate Ex-HDD (250GB,500GB) has been working for me with no problems for about 5 years on moderate usage.

I also read here on AnandTech ([1],[2]) that one should build their own Ex-HDD with a good internal drive + USB 3.0 enclosure. I can work with components, and not afraid to assemble my own Ex-HDD if that is the best way to go (i.e will get the best performance, reliability than off the shelf Ex-HDDs), but I would need a walkthrough or a guide or something that can help me build it.

So, what should I do?

Also, what is the current scenario of Ex-HDDs? Most reliable companies? Best drives? (I've already read Backblaze's report - but not sure if they apply to the normal consumer).

 

[UsandThem]

The best thing to do in my opinion is to buy an enclosure and a hard drive. Many (if not most) of the back-up external drives you buy feature encryption on the controller, so if it stops working, you are unable to remove the drive and install it in your computer to access your data. Your data on your drive is simply gone.

External enclosures are so simple to add a drive to. Remove a couple screws, slide in the drive, plug in the power adapter, and then connect cable to a USB 3.0 port. Done.

Edit

If you don't want to use a powered enclosure, you will need to use a SSD or a 2.5" laptop drive as most can be fully powered by your USB port.

 

[pkz78]

The best thing to do in my opinion is to buy an enclosure and a hard drive. Many (if not most) of the back-up external drives you buy feature encryption on the controller, so if it stops working, you are unable to remove the drive and install it in your computer to access your data. Your data on your drive is simply gone.

External enclosures are so simple to add a drive to. Remove a couple screws, slide in the drive, plug in the power adapter, and then connect cable to a USB 3.0 port. Done.

Edit

If you don't want to use a powered enclosure, you will need to use a SSD or a 2.5" laptop drive as most can be fully powered by your USB port.

Thanks for the suggestions!

I think SSDs are a bit expensive now - 1TB would be $$$$ and definitely out of my budget. Can you suggest a good 2.5" laptop HDD and an enclosure?

 

[UsandThem]

I've been happy with my Transcend enclosure:

https://www.amazon.com/Transcend-St...F8&qid=1511629975&sr=8-1&keywords=TS0GSJ25CK3

If I were buying a drive right now, I'd probably go with a 5400RPM (less heat and power) drive like these:

https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Mobile-...ds=2.5+hard+drive&refinements=p_85:2470955011

https://www.amazon.com/Seagate-Barr...ds=2.5+hard+drive&refinements=p_85:2470955011

 

[pkz78]

Cool, thanks again for the suggestions!