External drive enclosure for SSD

[RampantAndroid]

Hi all,

I have a macbook pro now with a 256SSD in it, and want to augment that to do a Windows 8 WTG install in addition to just storing data on an external drive. Ideally it'd be a 256GB SSD since those are finally affordable. How would I best do this? There are tons of USB3 enclosures and no good comparisons. Which will be the best enclosure for speed that needs no external power source?

What about Thunderbolt? I gather I'd gain a little using Thunderbolt, but not enough to warrant the cost from what I've seen?

Thanks!
RA

 

[BrightCandle]

I have been very happy with esata because unlike usb3 it maintains similar random read/write performance. USB 3 has better sustained transfers but seems to loose out otherwise.

 

[RampantAndroid]

I have been very happy with esata because unlike usb3 it maintains similar random read/write performance. USB 3 has better sustained transfers but seems to loose out otherwise.

Yeah, by my rMBP doesn't give me ESATA, so that's out - it pretty much has to be either USB3 or Thunderbolt.

 

[kleinkinstein]

I know their is a strong Vantec following and I've owned a few of their 2.5" and 3.5" but this Coolmax just works, is attractive and quite svelte. It's my favorite and is nearly always at my side.

And right now all external enclosures are 20% off at NewEgg with promo code BTEJNHH22. Sale expires 10/28 so don't procrastinate.