San Disk Professional G Raid Mirror Review
Tired of juggling countless files? Whether you're a photographer drowning in RAW images, a video editor with mountains of footage, or just someone who values long-term data security, the SanDisk G-Raid Mirror might be your storage soulmate. Packed with features and boasting redundancy at an attractive price, it's an excellent choice for archive and backup needs.
What is it?
The G-Raid Mirror isn't your typical speedy editing drive. This uses two 7200RPM drives for tons of storage but at slower speeds. In RAID 1 configuration, every file is placed on both drives so if one crashes, you lose no data.
Redundancy Reigns Supreme:
The G-Raid Mirror shines in its RAID 1 configuration. This means your data is automatically mirrored across two internal hard drives. If one drive fails, your files are safe and sound on the other. It's like having a trusty backup built right in!
Speed Matters (But Not That Much Here):
Let's be honest, spinning hard drives (HDDs) can't compete with lightning-fast SSDs in terms of speed. The G-Raid Mirror tops out at around 250-500 MB/s, depending on the RAID mode and connection (Thunderbolt 3 or USB 3.2 Gen 2). While not ideal for editing 4K footage, it's perfectly adequate for transferring and storing large files.
Pro-Blade Boost:
Need a temporary speed bump for specific projects? The G-Raid Mirror's built-in Pro-Blade slot lets you add a SanDisk Pro-Blade SSD for significantly faster transfers (up to 900 MB/s). Think of it as a nitro boost for demanding tasks!
RAID Reimagined:
Unlike some RAID enclosures, the G-Raid Mirror allows you to switch RAID modes without using any software. But just note when you change RAID modes you will lose all your data. Simply flip the DIP switches on the back, hold a button for 10 seconds, and voila! Your chosen RAID configuration (0, 1, or JBOD) is activated.
Connectivity & Convenience:
The G-Raid Mirror boasts Thunderbolt 3 connectivity for Macs and PCs, while remaining backwards compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 2. Plus, the daisy-chain port lets you connect additional devices like card readers or monitors.
Built to Last:
With a sleek design, a 5-year warranty, and minimal noise (both fan and disk), the G-Raid Mirror is a reliable companion for your data. Plus, it comes in various capacities ranging from 12TB to 44TB, letting you choose the perfect size for your needs.
Pricing Punch:
Compared to an all-SSD setup, the G-Raid Mirror offers compelling value. For instance, the 16TB G-Raid Mirror costs around $800, while getting the same storage with four 4TB Pro-Blades and a Station would set you back a whopping $1600!
So, should you buy it?
It is reliable and high quality, but you need to make a few considerations. The G-Raid Mirror is ideal for:
Backups and archives: Safeguard your precious files with redundancy and long-term storage.
Offloading finished projects: Move completed work from your main drive to the G-Raid Mirror for peace of mind.
Media libraries: Store your music, movies, and TV shows without cluttering your main drive.
However, it's not for:
Demanding editing workflows: The slower speeds won't handle real-time 4K editing smoothly.
Day-to-day work files: Constant file transfers will be faster on a dedicated SSD.
Pro Tip: Combine the G-Raid Mirror with a Pro-Blade for ultimate flexibility. Use the Pro-Blade for active projects and the G-Raid Mirror for secure backups. You can even connect a Pro-Blade Station for an organized workflow.
Ultimately, the SanDisk G-Raid Mirror offers a winning combination of redundancy, affordability, and ease of use. It's the perfect choice for anyone seeking a reliable and cost-effective solution to safeguard their valuable data for years to come.
