Question 3,5 " External drive plastic case: design gimmick, practical or both?

[ditrate]

Various storage vendors ( WD, Seagate etc.) have a different external drive product lines (My Book, or My Passport, etc), with a different plastic case designs. Is it for design purpose only or it adds to the g-shock resistance of the drive within it ?

 

[COLGeek]

Probably a bit of both (design and protection). I would also suggest cost as a factor, plastic is less expensive than more durable materials.

 

[ditrate]

Probably a bit of both (design and protection). I would also suggest cost as a factor, plastic is less expensive than more durable materials.

I can understand plastic for a 2,5" (350 g-shock), but not for 3,5" (70 g-shock)

 

[COLGeek]

I can understand plastic for a 2,5" (350 g-shock), but not for 3,5" (70 g-shock)

I suppose it depends on the actual internal mounting of the HDD and the density/type of plastic being used for the enclosure.

 

[Ralston18]

And I will suggest that if g-shock is the concern then the case design and or materials (plastic or metal) is somewhat moot.

What are the requirements - where/how will the external drive be actually used?

Search for cases that are truly rated for g-shock, harsh environments, rough travel, etc..

FYI:

https://www.techradar.com/news/best-rugged-hard-drives

Never let form get in the way of function.