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Looking to get a USB external portable hard drive. It be great if it was bus powered, but performance it pretty important as itll be used to run applications on from time to time. I realize I can build my own with a separate enclosure and laptop hdd, but Id rather purchase a full package (unless performance is really that much different)

 Any suggestions?

Thanks!

SergeiV:

Well, if you want USB powered, then you'd be stuck with laptop hard drives. This Western Digital Drive might do the trick.

agreed.  Until 3.5" drives no long require 12v power, the only drives you can run with only 5v power will be 2.5" laptop drives.  Fortunately there are lots to choose from and many different storage capacities as well.

Please Note:  For a portable drive you would WANT a 2.5" drive rather than a 3.5" as they are much better at absorbing shocks etc.  You also need to be careful about not moving it much while it is spinning.  Once you unplug it count to ten before moving it and it will last you longer.

Tallon41 

Im absolutely fine with a laptop/2.5'' drive, in fact thats what I was expecting I would get due to my requirements (size and power). So at this point theres the Western Digital and the Cavalry (which doesnt seem to have any user reviews).

 This pretty much the consensus?

 Thanks again!

I buy the drives and shells seperate, and assemble them myself.  You have more control over the quality.

I preferr Hitachi 2.5" drives, and Aluminum shells.  I've used more than a few shells....I also prefer the ones that have a mini-USB connector, and I use a retractable mini- USB  cable for it. similar to this one http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16812150016 

Tallon41