Review on CalDigit Storage External Drive Enclosure by Charles Salgado

The biggest annoyance with the newer MacBook models is the limited number of ports. Two Thunderbolt 3 ports, one to be used for charging, while one to connect something else, e.g. B. an external drive, remains. Then nothing can be connected and users have to look for various hubs and docking stations. What AV Pro 2 offers is unique. This is the only 3.5"/2.5" SATA enclosure I'm aware of that can also power a MacBook via a USB-C connection (though only 30W). When the device is plugged into a power outlet, it starts charging as soon as the USB-C cable is connected to the MacBook and immediately turns on the drive in the enclosure. When the drive is ejected from the desktop, the drive turns off, but the laptop continues to charge. There's also a built-in two-way USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A hub. You're also permanently connected to the network, so you charge phones or power multiple portable drives. including stable storage case). case and can connect two more drives via a hub. There remains a Thunderbolt port on the MacBook op ru for connecting a card reader, CD/DVD burner or even a fourth drive if I need it. Connecting external drives is so fast that when I plug in the drive and look at the desktop, it's already connected. a complete docking station, for $50 it's a fantastic deal. For the price of many cheap USB 3.2 Gen 1 hubs, you get a well-built case along with a laptop charger and USB hub. This case also supports USB 3.2 Gen 1 connections with the included Type A cable. Of course, this doesn't deliver power, but you still get other benefits. Detachable cart, USB hub, and Time Machine users who need to back up Thunderbolt 3 MacBooks as well as older USB MacBooks can use the same drive. Cons: --- It would have been nice to have USB-A ports on the front of the case for easier plugging and unplugging of devices, but that would require a larger case. Purchasing a USB extension cable or two will do the trick. It came out a few years ago and some users will be annoyed that it doesn't support USB 3.2 gen2. In fact, this is only a problem if you put an SSD in the case and not an HDD. 3.5" and 2.5" SATA only, NvMe SSD users will have to look elsewhere.