Review: Enermax Laureate

Although the difference in price between internal and external hard disks has been reduced recently, there’s still a premium to pay for the convenience of having a hard disk in a case so it can be moved around from place to place.

Using an external hard disk also means not having to open up the computer’s case, because it simply plugs into the PC’s USB port.

One way around the price difference is to make your own ­ buy a standard internal hard disk and a case, such as Enermax’s Laureate, then put the disk in the case and you’re away. 

One reason self-built disks are cheaper is because it takes a little bit of work to install them. That said, however, although it’s a technical process, it’s still far easier than opening a PC’s case.

Where the Enermax Laureate is concerned, installation is very straightforward with everything explained in the manual.

The build quality of the Laureate is really solid, much better than similar disk enclosures we've seen. Plus, all the cables you need are supplied in the box.

The Laureate supports both IDE and Serial-ATA hard disks, so whether you have an old disk that you want to convert, or are buying a new disk, it will work with either. Although it doesn’t have any cooling fans, it supports even the latest, fastest hard disks.

Also consider
Western Digital My Book Essential Edition 
Verdict: A 320Gb external hard disk for £150. There's no network port or backup software but it's a stylish storage device.
Rating: 4/5
Price: £150