A few years back, many of us would have thought that a computer maker was crazy for not including an optical drive on a notebook. Optical drives were essential for installing software, watching DVDs, and burning CDs. However, today, with the rise of digital downloads, streaming services, and cloud storage, the need for optical drives has significantly diminished. Most netbooks and even many high-end laptops now come without them, making the absence of an optical drive quite common.
If you use a MacBook and rarely use the optical drive, you might find yourself wishing for more storage space. OWC (Other World Computing) has a new product called the Data Doubler that you will be interested in. The device is a bracket that replaces the optical drive with an SSD (Solid State Drive) or HDD (Hard Disk Drive), providing you with additional storage options.
Why Consider Replacing Your Optical Drive?
There are several reasons why you might consider replacing your optical drive with additional storage. First, SSDs offer faster read and write speeds compared to traditional HDDs, which can significantly improve your MacBook’s performance. This is especially beneficial for tasks that require high-speed data access, such as video editing, gaming, and running virtual machines.
Second, having an additional drive can provide you with more storage space for your files, applications, and media. This is particularly useful if you work with large files or have a substantial media library. Instead of carrying around external drives, you can have all your data conveniently stored within your MacBook.
Third, replacing the optical drive with an SSD or HDD can extend the lifespan of your MacBook. Optical drives are mechanical components that can wear out over time, leading to potential failures. By replacing it with a solid-state component, you reduce the risk of mechanical failure and improve the overall reliability of your device.
Installation and Compatibility
Any drive 9.5mm tall can be used in the Data Doubler bracket. This means you have a wide range of options when it comes to choosing the right SSD or HDD for your needs. Whether you prefer the speed of an SSD or the larger capacity of an HDD, the Data Doubler can accommodate your choice.
Full instructions and the needed hardware for the installation are included with the Data Doubler. The installation process is straightforward and can be completed by most users with basic technical skills. OWC provides detailed guides and videos to assist you in the installation process, ensuring that you can complete it without any issues.
OWC makes the brackets to fit just about every MacBook model there is, and the price for the Data Doubler is $79.99. This is a reasonable investment considering the benefits of additional storage and improved performance. Once installed, the Mac OS will recognize the new drive, and you can use it just like you do the normal HDD. You can even set up a RAID configuration for enhanced performance or redundancy.
The shift away from optical drives in modern laptops has opened up new possibilities for enhancing storage and performance. The OWC Data Doubler is an excellent solution for MacBook users looking to replace their seldom-used optical drive with a more practical and beneficial storage option. Whether you need more space for your files or want to boost your MacBook’s speed, the Data Doubler offers a versatile and user-friendly solution.
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