SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB SSD Review | Great Productivity Partner

SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB SSD is a desktop external solid-state drive designed to cater to the needs of creative professionals, gamers, and data-intensive users. It is an era where high-resolution media, expansive game libraries, and large-scale projects are the norm, and the demand for substantial and reliable storage solutions has never been greater.

Traditional hard drives are slowly being phased out in favor of solid-state drives (SSDs), which offer not only faster speeds but also enhanced durability and quieter operation. With the backing of Western Digital's reputation for quality and innovation, this SSD combines massive storage capacity with commendable performance, aiming to be a dependable companion for those requiring both space and speed.

No matter if you are a content creator working with massive video files, a graphic designer managing complex design assets, or a data enthusiast storing terabytes of information, having dependable and fast external storage is essential.

·         Capacity: Available in 4TB and 8TB variants, with a 16TB model anticipated.

·         Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) with USB-C connector; USB-A adapter included.

·         Dimensions: 99.2 x 99.2 x 40.2 mm.

·         Weight: Approximately 268 grams.

·         NAND Type: BiCS5 112-layer TLC NAND.

·         Controller: In-house Western Digital controller.

·         Power Supply: External 18W AC adapter required.

·         Compatibility: Windows 10/11, macOS 11 and later.

·         Software: Acronis True Image for Western Digital (downloadable).

·         Warranty: 3-year limited warranty

It's designed to occupy minimal desk space while providing maximum storage. The drive's enclosure is constructed from durable plastic, ensuring longevity and resistance to everyday wear and tear.

It has a minimalist and modern aesthetic, featuring a compact, puck-like design that seamlessly integrates into any workspace. Measures 99.2 x 99.2 x 40.2 mm and weighs approximately 268 grams. While it doesn't have any flashy RGB lighting or metal chassis, its simplicity and functionality make it a great fit for both home offices and professional studios.

In benchmark tests, the drive consistently maintained transfer speeds between 930-935 MB/s over extended periods, highlighting its reliability for sustained workloads. Users can expect sequential read speeds of up to 1,000 MB/s and write speeds nearing 900 MB/s.

It is suitable for tasks ranging from large file transfers to real-time editing of high-resolution media. This level of consistency and speed ensures that professionals dealing with 4K video footage, 3D modeling files, or massive photo libraries will find this SSD to be a capable workhorse.

In IOMeter tests, the Desk Drive demonstrated strong performance in sequential 2MB read and write operations, with speeds of 932.4 MB/s and 875.8 MB/s, respectively.

The device is designed with simplicity in mind—a single USB port and power input make for a clean setup. This plug-and-play functionality eliminates the need for additional drivers or software installations.

The inclusion of both USB-C and USB-A cables ensures broad compatibility with a wide range of devices, from newer laptops and desktops to older systems. For users seeking enhanced performance or specific file system features, reformatting to NTFS (Windows) or APFS (macOS) is straightforward.

All of this adds up to a very user-friendly experience that requires minimal setup and maintenance.

Recognizing the importance of data security, SanDisk includes a downloadable version of Acronis True Image for Western Digital with the Desk Drive. This robust backup software offers features such as automated backups, drive cloning, and file recovery, providing users with comprehensive data protection solutions.

Furthermore, users can set up scheduled backups to keep their data current and secure without manual intervention.

Here are some pros and cons that you need to know before buying this SSD:

Pros:

·         High Capacity: It offers substantial storage space, catering to professionals handling large datasets.

·         Consistent Performance: It maintains steady transfer speeds, ensuring efficient workflows.

·         Cross-Platform Compatibility: It has exFAT formatting allows seamless use across Windows and macOS systems.

·         Backup Software Included: Offers Acronis True Image enhances data protection capabilities.

·         Compact Design: It has a Space-saving form factor suitable for desktop environments.

·         Silent Operation: It offers SSD architecture means no noise or moving parts.

Cons:

·         Price Point: Higher cost per gigabyte compared to some alternatives.

·         Portability: Requires external power supply, limiting mobility.

·         Warranty Duration: A 3-year warranty may be shorter than some competitors offering longer coverage.

·         Limited Expansion: No daisy-chaining or hub functionality.

The SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB SSD is a combination of substantial capacity, consistent performance, and user-friendly features, making it a valuable asset for tasks ranging from media editing to comprehensive backups. While its price and reliance on external power may be considerations for some, the drive's overall capabilities position it as a worthy investment for those seeking dependable and efficient storage.