Latest news with #storageupgrade
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Unlock Your Apple Mac Mini's Full Potential with These Affordable Storage Upgrades
What if upgrading your Mac Mini's storage could transform how you work, create, or play—but the path to doing so feels like a maze of options and trade-offs? Whether you're running out of space for your growing media library or need faster performance for demanding tasks, the decision to enhance your Mac Mini's storage isn't as straightforward as it seems. With choices ranging from Apple's official upgrades to DIY internal solutions and external storage setups, each option comes with its own mix of benefits, costs, and challenges. For many users, the process raises a critical question: how do you balance performance, convenience, and budget without compromising your Mac Mini's potential? Jeff Geerling breaks down the key considerations for upgrading your Mac Mini's storage, helping you navigate the pros and cons of each approach. You'll discover why Apple's official upgrades are both praised for their seamless integration and criticized for their steep price tags, how DIY internal upgrades can unlock unparalleled speed but demand technical expertise, and why external storage offers a practical middle ground for many users. By the end, you'll have the insights needed to choose the storage solution that best fits your workflow, whether you're a creative professional, a tech enthusiast, or simply someone looking to future-proof their device. Sometimes, the right upgrade isn't just about space—it's about finding the freedom to do more. Mac Mini Storage Upgrade Options Apple's Official Storage Upgrades: High Cost, High Quality Apple's storage upgrades are known for their premium pricing but also for their seamless integration and reliability. For instance, upgrading to a 4TB SSD through Apple can cost over $1,200. These upgrades are designed to work flawlessly with the Mac Mini, making sure optimal performance and compatibility. However, with the advent of PCIe Gen 4 and Gen 5 NVMe drives, third-party options now offer comparable speeds and reliability at a fraction of the cost. While Apple's upgrades are convenient and maintain the warranty, their high price tag can be a significant drawback for budget-conscious users. If affordability is a priority, exploring DIY internal upgrades or external storage solutions may provide better value without compromising functionality. DIY Internal Storage Upgrades: High Performance, High Effort For users comfortable with a hands-on approach, upgrading the Mac Mini's internal storage can deliver exceptional performance. Replacing the internal SSD with a high-capacity NVMe drive, such as a 4TB model, is particularly beneficial for power users who require fast, consistent speeds for tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or running virtual machines. However, this process involves several challenges: Disassembly: Opening the Mac Mini requires careful handling of screws, connectors, and delicate components. Mishandling parts like the power button connector can lead to damage. Opening the Mac Mini requires careful handling of screws, connectors, and delicate components. Mishandling parts like the power button connector can lead to damage. Device Firmware Update (DFU): After installing a new SSD, a DFU restore is necessary to pair it with Apple's proprietary storage controller. This step requires another Mac and can be time-intensive. After installing a new SSD, a DFU restore is necessary to pair it with Apple's proprietary storage controller. This step requires another Mac and can be time-intensive. Warranty Risks: Opening your Mac Mini may void its warranty, so it's essential to weigh this risk if your device is still under coverage. While DIY upgrades offer unmatched performance and customization, they demand technical expertise and a willingness to navigate the complexities of the installation process. Apple Mac Mini Storage Upgrades Guide 2025 Watch this video on YouTube. Check out more relevant guides from our extensive collection on Apple Mac Mini storage upgrades that you might find useful. External Storage Solutions: Convenience and Affordability External storage solutions provide a simpler and less invasive way to expand your Mac Mini's storage. Using a Thunderbolt enclosure paired with a high-capacity NVMe drive can deliver impressive performance, often rivaling internal storage for many tasks. This option is ideal for users who need additional space without modifying their Mac Mini's internal components. However, external storage comes with its own set of limitations: Performance Variability: The speed and reliability of external drives depend on the quality of the enclosure and the NVMe drive used. The speed and reliability of external drives depend on the quality of the enclosure and the NVMe drive used. Cache Constraints: Some external drives may experience slowdowns during large data transfers due to limited cache capacity. Some external drives may experience slowdowns during large data transfers due to limited cache capacity. Port Usage: External drives occupy a Thunderbolt port, which could be a concern if you use multiple peripherals. Despite these drawbacks, external storage remains a practical and cost-effective solution for everyday tasks such as file backups, media storage, and smaller data transfers. It offers a flexible, plug-and-play option for users who prioritize convenience over peak performance. Performance and Cost: Internal vs. External Storage When comparing internal and external storage, internal upgrades generally provide superior performance. Apple's proprietary storage controller ensures seamless operation, making internal SSDs ideal for resource-intensive tasks. External drives, while slightly slower, are more than sufficient for routine activities and offer the added benefit of portability. From a cost perspective, both DIY internal upgrades and external storage solutions are significantly more affordable than Apple's official options. Here's how they compare: DIY Internal Upgrades: Third-party NVMe drives and upgrade kits, which often include tools like thermal pads and screwdrivers, can save you hundreds of dollars compared to Apple's pricing. Third-party NVMe drives and upgrade kits, which often include tools like thermal pads and screwdrivers, can save you hundreds of dollars compared to Apple's pricing. External Storage: Thunderbolt enclosures and NVMe drives are available at competitive prices, offering a budget-friendly way to expand your storage without opening your Mac Mini. By carefully evaluating your needs and budget, you can choose the option that offers the best balance of performance, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. Practical Tips for a Successful Upgrade Whether you opt for an internal upgrade or external storage, proper preparation is key to a smooth process. Here are some tips to help you get started: Internal Upgrades: Follow detailed guides and use the tools provided in third-party kits to carefully disassemble your Mac Mini. Work methodically to avoid damaging sensitive components. Follow detailed guides and use the tools provided in third-party kits to carefully disassemble your Mac Mini. Work methodically to avoid damaging sensitive components. DFU Restore: Be prepared to perform a DFU restore if you're replacing the internal SSD. This step is critical for making sure compatibility with Apple's storage controller and requires access to another Mac. Be prepared to perform a DFU restore if you're replacing the internal SSD. This step is critical for making sure compatibility with Apple's storage controller and requires access to another Mac. External Storage: Invest in a high-quality Thunderbolt enclosure and NVMe drive to maximize performance and reliability. Ensure the enclosure supports the drive's speed capabilities. Taking the time to plan and follow best practices can help you avoid potential issues and ensure a successful upgrade experience. Choosing the Right Storage Upgrade for Your Mac Mini Upgrading your Mac Mini's storage is a practical way to enhance its performance and extend its usability. DIY internal upgrades offer unmatched speed and efficiency but require technical expertise and careful handling. External storage solutions, on the other hand, provide a convenient and cost-effective alternative, making them ideal for users who prefer a plug-and-play approach. Both options are significantly more affordable than Apple's official upgrades, allowing you to expand your storage without overspending. By assessing your specific requirements, technical comfort level, and budget, you can select the upgrade path that best aligns with your workflow and long-term needs. Media Credit: Jeff Geerling Filed Under: Apple, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
7 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Gamers Beware: Why Your Console Storage is Failing You in 2025
Imagine this: you're in the middle of an intense gaming session, your adrenaline is pumping, and then—bam!—a dreaded 'storage full' notification halts your momentum. With blockbuster titles in 2025 pushing storage limits to new extremes, this isn't just an occasional inconvenience; it's a recurring nightmare for gamers everywhere. Did you know that some of the latest games now require over 150GB of space each? For both PS5 and Xbox Series X|S users, the need for a reliable storage upgrade has never been more urgent. If you're tired of juggling game installs or sacrificing performance, it's time to rethink your console's storage strategy. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best storage solutions tailored for your console, whether you're a PlayStation or Xbox enthusiast. From high-speed NVMe SSDs for PS5 to seamless plug-and-play options for Xbox, you'll discover upgrades that not only expand your storage but also enhance your gaming experience with faster load times and smoother gameplay. But which option strikes the perfect balance between performance, compatibility, and cost? Stick around as we break down the pros, cons, and must-know tips for upgrading your console in 2025. Because in the world of modern gaming, running out of space isn't just inconvenient—it's a fantastic option. Console Storage Upgrade Guide Xbox Series X|S Storage Options The Xbox Series X and Series S offer flexible storage upgrade solutions designed to cater to different gaming needs. Understanding these options will help you choose the right upgrade for your setup. Seagate 1TB Expansion Card: Specifically designed for Xbox consoles, this proprietary storage solution integrates seamlessly with the system. It supports the Quick Resume feature, allowing you to switch between games effortlessly, and delivers high-speed performance for next-gen titles. However, its premium price may make it less appealing to budget-conscious gamers. Specifically designed for Xbox consoles, this proprietary storage solution integrates seamlessly with the system. It supports the Quick Resume feature, allowing you to switch between games effortlessly, and delivers high-speed performance for next-gen titles. However, its premium price may make it less appealing to budget-conscious gamers. Seagate Game Drive (External): For those seeking a more affordable option, external drives like the Seagate Game Drive offer up to 2TB of storage. These drives are excellent for storing backward-compatible games and media files. However, they cannot support Quick Resume or run next-gen titles directly, limiting their functionality for newer games. When deciding on an Xbox storage upgrade, consider your priorities. If performance and seamless integration are critical, the Seagate Expansion Card is the best choice. On the other hand, external drives are a cost-effective solution for gamers looking to expand storage for older games without overspending. PlayStation 5 Storage Options The PlayStation 5 offers two primary storage upgrade paths: external drives for backward-compatible games and internal NVMe SSDs for PS5 titles. Each option serves a specific purpose, allowing you to tailor your storage solution to your gaming needs. Seagate 5TB External Drive: This external drive is ideal for storing PS4 games and media files. While it cannot store or run PS5 games, it provides ample space for your legacy library, freeing up internal storage for next-gen titles. This makes it a practical choice for gamers with extensive PS4 collections. This external drive is ideal for storing PS4 games and media files. While it cannot store or run PS5 games, it provides ample space for your legacy library, freeing up internal storage for next-gen titles. This makes it a practical choice for gamers with extensive PS4 collections. Seagate 2TB NVMe SSD: For PS5 games, upgrading your internal storage with a high-speed NVMe SSD is the most effective solution. These SSDs meet Sony's performance requirements, making sure fast load times and smooth gameplay. Installation involves removing the PS5's side panel, inserting the SSD into the designated slot, and formatting it through the system settings. While the process requires some effort, it is straightforward with proper guidance. For PS5 users, an NVMe SSD is the optimal choice for expanding storage while maintaining compatibility with next-gen games. External drives, although limited in functionality, are a cost-efficient way to manage older titles and media files. Best Storage Upgrades For Your PS5 & XBOX in 2025 Watch this video on YouTube. Here are more guides from our previous articles and guides related to console storage that you may find helpful. Installation and Setup The installation process for storage upgrades varies depending on the console and the type of storage solution. Here's what you can expect: Xbox: Both the Seagate Expansion Card and external drives are plug-and-play solutions. Simply connect the device to your console, and it's ready to use. You can even set default installation locations for new games, making the process seamless and user-friendly. Both the Seagate Expansion Card and external drives are plug-and-play solutions. Simply connect the device to your console, and it's ready to use. You can even set default installation locations for new games, making the process seamless and user-friendly. PS5: Installing an NVMe SSD requires a few additional steps. You'll need to remove the PS5's side panel, insert the SSD into the designated slot, and format it through the system settings. While this process is slightly more involved compared to the Xbox, it is manageable with clear instructions and basic tools. Overall, Xbox storage upgrades are simpler to set up, but PS5 users can still handle the process with minimal effort, especially with the availability of detailed installation guides. Performance Considerations Performance is a critical factor when selecting a storage upgrade, as it directly impacts your gaming experience. Each console has unique requirements and limitations that should be considered. Xbox: The Quick Resume feature, which allows you to switch between multiple games instantly, is exclusive to internal storage and the Seagate Expansion Card. External drives, while offering larger capacities, are limited to storing and playing backward-compatible games, making them less versatile for next-gen gaming. The Quick Resume feature, which allows you to switch between multiple games instantly, is exclusive to internal storage and the Seagate Expansion Card. External drives, while offering larger capacities, are limited to storing and playing backward-compatible games, making them less versatile for next-gen gaming. PS5: For PS5 games, only NVMe SSDs deliver the high-speed performance required for minimal load times and smooth gameplay. External drives are restricted to PS4 games and media storage, which limits their utility for next-gen titles. However, they remain a practical solution for managing older content. Understanding these performance considerations will help you choose the right storage solution based on your gaming habits and priorities. Recommendations Choosing the best storage upgrade depends on your gaming preferences, priorities, and budget. Here are the top recommendations for each console: Xbox Users: If you prioritize performance and features like Quick Resume, the Seagate Expansion Card is the ideal choice. For gamers on a budget, external drives provide a cost-effective way to expand storage for backward-compatible games and media files. If you prioritize performance and features like Quick Resume, the Seagate Expansion Card is the ideal choice. For gamers on a budget, external drives provide a cost-effective way to expand storage for backward-compatible games and media files. PS5 Users: An NVMe SSD is essential for expanding storage for PS5 games while maintaining high-speed performance. External drives are a practical and affordable option for managing PS4 titles and media files without compromising your budget. By selecting the right storage upgrade, you can enhance your gaming experience with faster load times, smoother gameplay, and sufficient space to accommodate your growing game library. Whether you're an Xbox or PlayStation user, investing in the right storage solution ensures that your console is ready to handle the demands of modern gaming in 2025. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Playstation, Top News, Xbox Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Gizmodo
02-06-2025
- Business
- Gizmodo
Seagate 20TB External Hard Drive Just $0.01 Per GB, Amazon Rushes to Empty Inventory
The amount of photos, videos and files that we have on our devices makes traditional storage options obsolete. If you have a hard drive that has 2, 3, 4, or even 5TB of space, it is almost useless when a single vacation's worth of high-res photos and video can take up ample space. That's why smart people are looking for big, reliable external drives, and what better time to upgrade to an external drive? Seagate's long history of reliability and durability makes them a great brand to go with: Amazon has the Seagate expansion 22TB external hard drive at a record low (and all time low) price now of $249, over 50% off of the launch price of $599. Both 20TB and 24TB are way more expensive, make sure you get the 22TB before it's gone. See at Amazon Lifetime (Safe) Storage Why take someone's word when here is a drive that could last a lifetime? The Seagate Expansion 22TB is a 'long term investment' in your digital life. If you're a creative professional or just someone who wants to keep every precious memory safe, this drive could last you years of content. Add to that Seagate's reputation for reliability means, you can rest assured that your data will be safe and secure for ages. In comparison to cloud storage, which will run a minimum of $10 a month (and often much higher for larger capacities), this one-time payment option is a bargain. The process of opening the box to setup the Seagate 22TB HDD is fantastically easy: The drive is designed to be very simple to use and you just plug in the included power adapter and USB 3.0 cable and you are all set. USB 3.0 has the added benefit of helping to move files quickly and efficiently with minimal time wasted for large files. Also, it will seamlessly work on either your Windows computer or Mac. What we really liked about this drive is the included Rescue Data Recovery Services. Accidents can happen to anyone, and when they do, having a safety net can be critical. Seagate's data recovery service takes the worry out of it by knowing if something goes wrong, experts could recover your files. Unfortunately, many external drives don't offer you any data recovery protection, so this is a real plus for Seagate. Since Seagate Expansion 22TB is a desktop-type external hard, it works perfectly in a home office, home studio space, and to help anyone centralize their digital file storage. The 3.5-inch size will also provide better performance and reliability than the small-portable external options. Plus, the shape and size of this product looks really nice and easy to manage. If you were going to upgrade your method of backup and storage options, now is the time to do so. See at Amazon
