I'm looking for an SSD to transfer footage that I render on Linux to my Windows setup for editing. Since my machine has a dual boot configuration, I want to avoid shrinking partitions or setting up a shared part for security reasons. I'm considering either an external SSD or a regular NVMe stick with an enclosure since it might be more cost-effective. My budget is quite tight—I need a 256GB drive that costs under $25 and offers decent speeds. I'm okay with SATA as long as it's fast enough, and I plan to use USB 3.2 for the connection. Just so you know, I'm using a laptop, and I can't access the internal hardware because I want to keep the warranty intact.
3 Answers
I might be missing something here, but why not just go for a normal internal SSD? If it’s just for storing files, it should be accessible from both operating systems, no matter which one you're booted into.
Considering your budget, I’d recommend going for the NVMe with an enclosure route. You probably won't find a long-lasting internal SSD + enclosure for $25. Try looking on sites like AliExpress; they can have decent options within your price range.
Have you thought about just installing a second internal drive? It might make accessing your files easier regardless of which OS you're using. Also, what generation of USB 3.2 ports does your laptop have? That could affect your speeds.
True, but I really don’t want to open up my laptop since that would void the warranty. Once the warranty is up, I could just pop an NVMe in there.
Good point, but like I said, I'm on a laptop, and opening it up would void my warranty. An NVMe is also a future-proof option that I can use later.