Recomendations for PCIe USB 3.0 controller

[NTAC]

Hi guys,

Looking to purchase an external USB 3.0 HDD and my Mobo unfortunately is USB 2.0 only, so I'm looking for recommendations on a PCIe USB 3.0 controller that will satisfy my needs.

I would prefer to pay under $30 if possible and I'd like to purchase from Amazon since I have a $50 gift card.

2 ports should be sufficient for my needs, I only really plan on using 1 port, so its probably ok if the 2 ports share the bandwith.

Also will the speed difference between USB 2.0 external HDD and USB 3.0 be noticable? Should I just go with USB 2.0?

Thanks!

 

[RU482]

hoping someone will comment on this...

They're all the same NEC/renesas controller...no?

 

[NTAC]

I see such a huge range in pricing that I just want to get some opinions before I pull the trigger on anything.

I see $10 or less and then I see close to $100...

I definitely don't want something that claims USB 3.0 but can't deliver 3.0 speeds, that's really the main thing I'm concerned about.

 

[groberts101]

Many cntrollers are similar(aside from the interface..ie; PCI or PCI-E) and you're often paying for name, support, and driver/bundled software development in the end. I always start by combing the support forums for the particular mfgrs you may be looking at. If those support forums are non-existent or give poor overviews?.. I move along to the next mfgr and don't waste my time regardless of how good the price may be. From there I go to reviews and search others input who actually use them. Using terms like.. "problems with Rosewill USB 3.0 PCI Express Card".. can lead to finding potential issues with your exact hardware config and keep you from running into issues after purchase. I have 3.0 built into most of the hardware that I would need that extra speed for so I can't help by specifically rec'ing a particular model.. but hopefully some idea's here are usefull in helping you get a "good one". Good luck on the hunt.