Conclusion:

This review of the Mapower MAP-AL31CS USB 2.0 + eSATA 3.5" External Enclosure was my first introduction to Mapower and any of their products. Although the USB 2.0 performance was respectable, the heat dissipation was good, and the drive was kept nice and quiet, I was disappointed to see that the eSATA cable was not included with the product. The product advertised the capabilities of the combo of interfaces, but fell short in providing the equipment necessary.


A search of Pricegrabber for the Mapower MAP-AL31CS turned up nothing, and a broader search of the Internet failed to find any retailers with this product either. I found reviews, but no prices.

The main issue I have with the Mapower USB 2.0 + eSATA 3.5" External Enclosure is that no cables are provided to actually use the eSATA connection. Looking at the contents of similar enclosures (such as the Cooler Master X Craft 350) shows that other manufacturers do include all of the accessories you would expect to find.

Other than that my only suggestions would be to have the product more readily available for purchase, and to make sure little touches like typos don't give customers the wrong idea about quality control.

Pros:

» USB 2.0 and eSATA connectivity
» Respectable USB 2.0 performance
» Drive kept cool & quiet
» On/Off power switch

Cons:

» No eSATA cable included

Special thanks to Mapower USA for providing the Mapower USB 2.0 + eSATA 3.5" External Enclosure to Bigbruin.com for review!