Question Would plugging a SATA 3 SSD into a USB 2.0 port using a SATA 3 to USB 3.0 adapter, work?

[surplus3429]

Can I plug a SATA 3 SSD into a USB 2.0 port using a SATA 3 to USB 3.0 adapter, and it works?

I'm asking because I have an old laptop that only has USB 2.0 ports. And I want to use an internal SSD (SATA 3 interface) as an external one with a SATA 3 to USB 3.0 cable (without external power adapter).

If not, do you guys have any other solutions? (Other than getting an adapter with an external power supply)
This laptop also has an eSATA port, but I'm not sure how that would help.

 

[jeremyj_83]

It should work. I've done things like that before. However, you will be limited to USB2's interface speed of 480Mbps.

 

[surplus3429]

Thanks for the quick reply!
I understand that I'll be getting slower speeds. It's not a problem.
Just want to make sure. So USB 2.0 provides enough power for the SSD?
And if I wanted to plug HDD into USB 2.0 would it still work?

 

[MWink64]

Thanks for the quick reply!
I understand that I'll be getting slower speeds. It's not a problem.
Just want to make sure. So USB 2.0 provides enough power for the SSD?
And if I wanted to plug HDD into USB 2.0 would it still work?

It really depends on the particular port AND the quality of the USB cable between it and the adapter. A decent USB 2.0 port should have no problem delivering enough power for a SSD. Hard drives require more power (especially during spin-up) and it's more hit or miss. Try it and see if it works. If it doesn't work, don't keep trying over and over, you'll risk damaging the drive.

 

[surplus3429]

Got it!
Thanks <3