Conclusion:
Without a doubt devices with eSATA are the best way to go for external devices. In addition to including backwards (more universal) compatibility with USB 2.0, the
Kingwin JET eSATA/USB External Drive Enclosure is a great device. With the option to choose your hard drive size and brand, you should have no reason not to like this enclosure.
The included 80mm fan is silent and helps to keep your hard drive (and it's precious data) in good operating condition. A solid aluminum case will protect the hard drive while it is in transit, and when you get to your destination you can use either USB 2.0 or eSATA to access your data.
As much as I like the enclosure, there are a few complaints. The minor issues are that there is no SATA to eSATA bracket included. You will need to purchase one separately if your system does not include one. I would also like to see a longer eSATA cable for convenience purposes. The last minor issue is the location of the one-touch back-up button, as I personally feel this would be better suited on the front of the enclosure.
If the minor issues were the only complaints on this enclosure, I would feel comfortable giving it a near perfect score. However, the issues I encountered with the software are a show stopper if you want this enclosure to operate as a back-up device. If you are not concerned about the back-up software, then there are no concerns.
A search of
PriceGrabber shows the Kingwin JET eSATA/USB External Drive Enclosure selling for $29.50 at one retailer. This is a reasonable price for an enclosure of this quality.
The
Kingwin JET eSATA/USB External Drive Enclosure is a relatively high quality device, and if the software was updated I would have no problem ignoring some of the minor issues and giving it a rating of of "Recommended", if not "Highly Recommended".
Pros:
» USB 2.0 and eSATA connections
» Fast eSATA connection
» Includes silent cooling fan
» Software compatible with Windows XP and Windows Vista
Cons:
» No eSATA expansion slot bracket
» Short eSATA cable
» Back-up software installation issues
» Back-up software not compatible with eSATA transfers
Special thanks to
Kingwin for providing the Kingwin JET eSATA/USB External Drive Enclosure to Bigbruin.com for review!
