File transfer/backup from old computer

[Storm Crow]

So I want to backup the files on my current computer but I will be getting a new computer later. So I was thinking of using an external hard drive to back up the files then transfer the files I want off it to my new computer. But I was wondering if I should just buy a cheap HDD as backup for my current computer and then just take it out and use my sata to usb device I already have to transfer my desired files to my new computer.

I sort of feel safer with the hdd inside the old computer as its backup because its old and if it crashes I can just easily switch the hard drive destination to the backup hdd already inside the computer. And if the old hdd crashes i already have a hdd to replace it.

Any feedback is appreciated.

 

[tambeshakunt]

Either will work.

The internal HDD will probably be a bit faster than an external drive.

No need for a SATA>USB adapter. Just connect it to the SATA port on the motherboard.

 

[Storm Crow]

Yeah thats true I dont necessarily need the adapter I just didnt want to have to open up my new computer and connect it, it would be easier to plug it in through the usb and go lol.

 

[tambeshakunt]

The adapter will bring the speed down making it the same as using an external drive.

 

[Storm Crow]

Oh wow I didnt know that. What if I connected the computers through ethernet and transferred files that way. Would that also be no better than external hard drive speed?

 

[tambeshakunt]

Depends on the ethernet connection speed.

SATA is either 3Gb/s or 6Gb/s whereas USB 3.0 is about 3.5Gb/s (usually but advertised to be up to 5Gb/s)

 

[Storm Crow]

I was going to use a cat 6 Ethernet cable because I was going to run the internet up through to my room that way.