5 Best USB to SATA Adapters [2023 Updated]

Have you ever needed to access data from a hard drive without installing it in a computer? The solution is simpler than you think: a USB to SATA adapter.

These handy tools bridge the gap between your computer’s USB port and a SATA hard drive, allowing for easy access to your data.

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a professional, or just someone with a need to retrieve files from an old drive, understanding the best USB to SATA adapters available can be a game-changer.

Here are our top picks:

	StarTech	UGREEN	JSAUX	Unitek	Cable Matters
Supported Interfaces	2.5″ SATA SSD or HDD	2.5″/3.5″ SATA SSD or HDD	2.5″ SATA SSD or HDD	2.5″/3.5″ SATA, IDE HDD, Optical Drives	2.5″ SATA I/II/III SSD or HDD
Data Transfer Speed	Up to 5Gbps	Up to 5Gbps	Up to 5Gbps	Up to 5Gbps	Up to 6Gbps
USB Version	USB-A 3.0	USB-A 3.0	USB-C 3.1	USB-A 3.0	USB-C 3.1
UASP Support	Yes	Yes	No	No	Yes
External Power Required	No	Yes (for 3.5″ drives)	No	Yes (for 3.5″ drives)	No
Plug and Play	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Cable Length	20″	20″	10″	16″	10″
Special Features	None	High power for 3.5″ drives	Smartphone compatible	One Touch Backup, Multiple drives	Thunderbolt 3 compatible

StarTech.com SATA to USB Cable

Key Takeaways:

• Fast data transfer with UASP support.
• Monitors drive health via S.M.A.R.T status.
• Compatible with most 2.5″ HDDs and SSDs.
• Plug-and-play simplicity, no extra software needed.
• Supports up to 2TB drives, 2-year warranty.
• 20″ total cable length.

When we first tried the StarTech.com SATA to USB Cable, it was clear that this adapter was built for efficiency and ease of use. Designed specifically for 2.5″ drives, it promises fast data transfer without the complexities of more expensive options. We put it to the test using a variety of SSDs and HDDs, and it consistently delivered on its promises.

One of the features we were eager to test was its UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) support. This technology is a game-changer, especially for those who need quick file transfers. It’s compatible with major operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux, which means versatility for different users.

In our tests, we noticed write speeds were up to 50 percent faster compared to traditional USB 3.0. Transferring large files, which can be a time-consuming task, felt significantly quicker.

However, it’s not just about speed. The StarTech adapter also monitors the S.M.A.R.T status of connected drives. For us, this was a crucial feature. It’s like having a health check-up for your drive, alerting you to any potential issues before they lead to data loss. This feature was particularly helpful in assessing older drives, giving us a heads-up to back up important files.

While testing, we kept in mind the feedback from some users about compatibility issues with certain Samsung drives. To counter this, we used drives in AHCI mode, which worked well. It’s also important to note that this adapter supports drives up to 2TB, which covers a wide range of common storage sizes.

In terms of design, the StarTech adapter shines with its plug-and-play functionality. There’s no need for complex setups or additional software, making it accessible even to those who aren’t tech-savvy. We appreciated its straightforward approach – it simply works, and works well. The 20″ cable length is nice – much longer than most.

StarTech’s reputation for creating reliable products is well-deserved, and this adapter is no exception. The two-year warranty adds an extra layer of confidence in the purchase.

While it may not have fancy features like one-touch backup or multi-drive support, its performance, ease of use, and reliability make it a top choice for those looking for a straightforward SATA to USB adapter.

UGREEN SATA to USB Adapter Cable

Key Takeaways:

• Supports both 3.5″ and 2.5″ SATA drives.
• Fast data transfers with 5Gbps and UASP technology.
• Plug-and-play, no driver installation needed.
• Wide compatibility, up to 20TB drive support.
• 20″ cable length.

The UGREEN SATA to USB 3.0 Adapter Cable is another great option. We were eager to see how it would perform with various hard drives. It promises easy access to both 3.5″ and 2.5″ SATA SSDs and HDDs, making it a great tool for anyone needing to expand storage, upgrade systems, or recover data.

One of our first tests involved booting up an old 3.5″ hard drive that had been sitting in a drawer for years. The process was incredibly straightforward. We just connected the hard drive to our computer using the UGREEN adapter.

It was a relief not having to worry about installing drivers or housing the drive in an enclosure. The plug-and-play simplicity is a big plus, especially for those who aren’t tech-savvy.

The adapter’s performance with data transfer was impressive. Thanks to its support for 5Gbps data transfer speed and UASP technology, we noticed a significant speed boost. Files moved swiftly between the hard drive and the computer, much faster than with traditional USB 3.0.

When we compared this to the StarTech, the UGREEN adapter held its own, especially in terms of speed and ease of use. In fact, it shares the same 20″ cable length, which offers plenty of reach.

Another key feature we tested was the included 12V 2A power adapter. This is crucial for using the adapter with larger 3.5″ hard drives, as they require more power. In our test, the power adapter ensured stable performance without any hiccups.

This feature sets the UGREEN adapter apart from some other models, like the StarTech adapter, which doesn’t require an external power source but is limited to 2.5″ drives.

The wide compatibility of this adapter is another strong point. We tried it with various systems including a PS4, an Xbox, and a Windows 10 PC. It worked flawlessly across all devices, proving its versatility. Its support for up to 20TB drives is a significant advantage for those needing to access large amounts of data.

JSAUX SATA to USB-C Cable

Key Takeaways:

• Fast USB 3.1 data transfer up to 5Gbps with UASP support.
• Plug-and-play, no driver installation required.
• Durable, over 10,000 bends, corrosion-resistant design.
• 10″ short cable length.
• Only for 2.5″ SATA SSDs or HDDs.
• Plugs directly into smartphone or tablet (OTG must be supported).

The JSAUX SATA to USB-C Cable is very well made. The burly, modern cable is designed to connect a 2.5″ SATA SSD or HDD to a laptop, and it boasts a USB 3.1 interface for high-speed data transfer.

Our first test involved transferring a large batch of photos from an old laptop’s SSD to a newer one. We were pleased to find that the process was as straightforward as it gets.

Like others, the plug-and-play feature meant we didn’t have to fumble around installing drivers. Just plug the cable into the SSD and laptop, and you’re good to go. With UASP support, the transfer speeds were impressive, clocking in close to the maximum 5Gbps promised by the USB 3.1 interface.

The design of the cable is worth mentioning. It’s slim and portable, yet robust. The high-quality materials, including a corrosion-resistant aluminum shell, add to the durability. We were particularly impressed with the cable’s flexibility and strength, rated for over 10,000 bends. This build is a step up from some other adapters we’ve tested, like the StarTech and UGREEN models, which don’t emphasize durability quite as much.

One of the coolest features is its ability to be used to watch movies and transfer data directly to your phone. While your phone must support OTG, it’s a fast and unique method to enjoy content from your drive. We tested this out and it worked perfectly with out Samsung Galaxy S10.

The JSAUX cable comes in a choice of red (USB-A version) or grey, which is a nice touch for those who appreciate a bit of style in their tech accessories. However, it’s important to note the limitations of this cable. It’s not compatible with 3.5″ hard drives or other interfaces like ATA(IDE), MSATA, and M.2. So, it’s essential to check your hard drive type before purchasing.

In terms of user experience, we found the JSAUX cable to be a reliable tool for tasks like cloning and transferring data between drives. However, some users have reported issues with device recognition and the 10-inch cable length being a bit short for their setup.

Unitek USB to IDE and SATA Converter

Key Takeaways:

• Supports SATA, IDE HDDs, SSDs, and optical drives.
• Operates three HDDs simultaneously.
• High-speed data transfer up to 5 Gbps.
• One Touch Backup feature for easy data security.
• Short 16″ USB cable, but long power cord included.

The Unitek USB to IDE and SATA Converter is a well-rounded pick that can read/write to three drives simultaneously. Although a bit more expensive than the others, it’s not just an ordinary adapter.

In fact, it supports a wide range of drives including 2.5″ and 3.5″ SATA HDDs and SSDs, as well as IDE HDDs and various optical drives. This broad compatibility immediately set it apart from other adapters we’ve tested, like the JSAUX and StarTech models, which are limited to SATA connections.

One of the first scenarios we tested was retrieving data from an old 3.5″ IDE hard drive. The dual-head IDE connector, which includes both 40pin and 44pin, made this possible. We were able to connect the drive and start transferring files without any hassle.

The data transfer rates, peaking at 5 Gbps, were on par with our expectations. This speed is particularly impressive considering the variety of drives the Unitek adapter supports.

The ability to operate three HDDs simultaneously is a significant advantage, especially for users dealing with multiple drives. In our test setup, we connected two SATA drives and one IDE drive simultaneously, and the adapter managed them all without any issues. This feature is a game-changer for tasks like data migration or backups involving multiple sources.

Speaking of backups, the One Touch Backup (OTB) feature is a standout. While the OTB software is not compatible with Mac OS and Linux, it worked seamlessly on our Windows setup.

The backup button on the adapter initiated the backup process effortlessly. This is a thoughtful addition for those who regularly back up their data. However, the OTB feature’s usefulness is somewhat limited by the short length of the USB cable, which is only 16 inches.

The included 12V 2A power cable, necessary for using 3.5″ IDE drives, provides a stable power supply. We found the length of the power cord (59 inches) to be quite generous, offering flexibility in setup locations. The Unitek adapter’s design, while feeling a bit delicate, didn’t pose any durability issues during our tests.

Cable Matters USB-C to SATA Adapter

Key Takeaways:

• Connects 2.5″ SATA drives via USB-C.
• Supports 6 Gbps SATA data transfer with UASP.
• Thunderbolt 3 compatible.
• Bus-powered, no external power needed.
• Compatible with modern laptops and MacBooks.
• Limited to 5Gbps on Apple Silicon Macs.
• 10″ short cable length.

We also had the chance to test out the Cable Matters USB-C to SATA Adapter. This adapter is designed to connect a 2.5 SATA SSD or HDD to a computer via a USB Type-C port, making it a handy tool for anyone with modern hardware like the latest MacBook Pro or Dell XPS models.

Our test involved using the adapter to upgrade a laptop with a new SSD. The process was surprisingly straightforward. We connected the SSD to the adapter and then plugged it into the laptop’s USB-C port. The adapter’s very short 10-inch length was just right for our setup, keeping things neat without too much excess cable.

One of the key features of this adapter is that it’s bus-powered, meaning it doesn’t require an external power source. This is a big plus for portability and ease of use compared to some other adapters we’ve used, like the Unitek, which requires a separate power cable for larger drives.

The data transfer speed was another highlight. The Cable Matters adapter supports the full SATA 6 Gbps data transfer rate and is enhanced with UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) support. In our tests, file transfers were swift and efficient, a noticeable improvement over older or more basic adapters. In addition, it’s Thunderbolt 3 compatible to offer the best speeds and reliability on macOS systems.

We also appreciated the wide range of compatibility with popular SSDs like the Samsung 860 EVO and WD Blue 3D. However, we did encounter a limitation when using the adapter with an Apple Silicon Mac. Due to compatibility issues, the adapter’s speed fell back to 5Gbps, which is still fast but not as quick as we had hoped.

For those looking for a sleek, simple and modern cable to adapt SATA drives to USB-C, the Cable Matters is a prime choice. While it does have some minor compatibility issues with Mac and the length is quite short, most users shouldn’t run into any issues using it.

USB to SATA Adapters FAQs

What is a USB to SATA adapter?

A USB to SATA adapter is a device that connects a SATA hard drive or solid-state drive to a computer through a USB port. It’s used for accessing, transferring, or backing up data from the drive without installing it inside a computer. These adapters are useful for data recovery, drive cloning, or simply using a SATA drive as external storage.

Can USB to SATA adapters power all types of SATA drives?

USB to SATA adapters can power 2.5-inch SATA drives directly through the USB connection. However, larger 3.5-inch drives require an external power source due to their higher power needs. For best results, check the adapter specifications to ensure it meets the power requirements of your specific drive.

Do USB to SATA adapters support all operating systems?

They generally support major operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux. However, specific features like UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) for faster data transfer may have limited support depending on the operating system. Always verify compatibility with your OS before purchasing.

Are drivers required for using USB to SATA adapters?

Most USB to SATA adapters are plug-and-play, meaning they don’t require additional drivers to be installed. The operating system typically recognizes the adapter and installs any necessary drivers automatically. However, certain special features like one-touch backup may require additional software.

What is UASP, and why is it important for USB to SATA adapters?

UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) is a protocol that allows for faster data transfer between a USB-connected storage device and a computer. It’s important for USB to SATA adapters because it significantly increases transfer speeds, especially for SSDs. Ensure that both the adapter and your computer’s USB port support UASP to take full advantage of its speed benefits.

Can I use a USB to SATA adapter to clone my hard drive?

Yes, you can use a USB to SATA adapter to clone your hard drive. Connect the target drive to your computer using the adapter, and use cloning software to copy the contents of the existing drive to the new one. This is a common way to upgrade a laptop or desktop drive to a larger capacity or to an SSD.

Are USB to SATA adapters compatible with both HDDs and SSDs?

Yes, most USB to SATA adapters are compatible with both traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). The key factor is the drive’s interface, not its type. As long as the drive uses a SATA interface, it should be compatible with a standard USB to SATA adapter.