StarTech.com
StarTech.com 5-Bay USB 3.0 RAID Enclosure
Best multi-drive storage solution for IT professionals and data enthusiasts.
The StarTech.com 5-Bay USB 3.0 RAID Enclosure offers IT professionals a robust solution for managing multiple hard drives. It enables simultaneous access to five individual 2.5" or 3.5" SATA drives through a single USB 3.0 or eSATA connection. Experience rapid data transfers up to 6 Gbps via eSATA or 5 Gbps with USB 3.0 and UASP support. Constructed with durable aluminum and featuring a cooling fan, it ensures optimal drive performance and longevity. This enclosure is ideal for expanding storage, creating backup solutions, or repurposing existing drives, supporting the latest SSDs and hybrid drives.
$181.49
Owner Satisfaction
3.9
/ 5
Category Rank
617
/ 661
#617 in Hard Drive Enclosures & Mounts
Price vs Category Average
+45%
Above average
Number of Bays
5
Who it's for
- Media professionals needing massive capacity for large file libraries
- Data-conscious users prioritizing redundancy without taxing their computer's processor
- General users wanting simple, universal plug-and-play connectivity
Who should skip it
- Power users requiring maximum transfer speeds for heavy workloads
- Quiet-office workers sensitive to consistent fan noise
- Non-technical users intimidated by manual configuration and dip switches
Performance breakdown
Storage Capacity
Five bays provide massive expansion potential for demanding data workflows.
Thermal Management
Aluminum construction and active cooling keep drives running cool under load.
Connectivity Versatility
Dual interface options offer flexible integration with various workstation setups.
Drive Accessibility
Hot-swap trays make drive maintenance and upgrades incredibly straightforward.
Data Throughput
Solid transfer speeds for general storage, though limited by USB 3.0.
Build Durability
Sturdy chassis design feels built to withstand long-term professional use.
Key Specs
Number of Bays
5
Material
Aluminum
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS
RAID Support
No
Power Source
AC Adapter
Cooling Method
Fan Cooled
Mounting Type
External Desktop
Max Data Transfer Speed
6 Gbps (eSATA), 5 Gbps (USB 3.0)
Know before you buy
No, this specific model is designed as a JBOD (Just a Bunch Of Disks) enclosure. It allows you to access five individual drives simultaneously rather than combining them into a RAID array.
Yes, the enclosure is compatible with both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA drives. You can mix and match different form factors and drive types, such as SSDs and HDDs, across the five bays.
No, this is a plug-and-play device. It is OS-independent, meaning it will work immediately upon connection with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS without requiring any proprietary drivers.
The enclosure features hot-swap capability, allowing you to remove or replace drives without powering down the entire unit. The aluminum trays are designed for quick and easy access.
The eSATA connection offers a maximum data transfer speed of up to 6 Gbps, while the USB 3.0 connection supports up to 5 Gbps. If your computer has an eSATA port, it will provide slightly faster throughput for data-intensive tasks.
The enclosure includes a built-in cooling fan designed to maintain optimal temperatures for your drives. While it does produce a low hum typical of active cooling systems, it is generally quiet enough for a standard office or home workspace.
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$181