HybridDrive offers up to 2 terabytes of additional storage in a small USB-C plugin for MacBook or iPad Pro. This add-on is also a multi-port USB-C hub with HDMI, dual USB-A ports and SD card readers.
HybridDrive sets out to solve two problems with Apple devices: they come with minimal ports, and adding additional storage capacity to them is expensive. Plug in this one accessory to fix both.
It’s 4.7 inches by 2.0 in. by 0.4 inches, and 2.0 ounces, and clips directly to the side of an Apple laptop or tablet. Or use the included USB-C cable to attach this SSD/hub to other computers.
Add an external SSD with HybridDrive
HybridDrive is available in capacities starting at 128GB for $139, and going up to 2 TB for $459.
For comparison, increasing the storage capacity of the 16-inch MacBook Pro released in 2019 from $512 GB to 2 TB costs $600.
The developers of this accessory promise that it offers data transfers from the SSD at up to 450 MB per second.
And a range of ports too
HybridDrive offers more than additional storage. There’s also a pair if USB-A ports for plugging in legacy peripherals like printers, keyboards, etc. These can handle 10 Gb per second data transfers from USB drives.
An HDMI port can drive a 4K external screen at 60 Hz.
Plus, the accessory can read SD and microSD cards at UHS-II speeds.
Shipping in July
HybridDrive is offered through Indegogo, as the developers of this accessory are offering pre-sales to fund the cost of production.
The project has been more than fully funded, but orders placed today won‘t ship until July 2020. Still, to entice pre-orders, HybridDrive is selling for half price. That makes the 128 GB version just $69 and a 512GB version is $89. Currently, a 1 TG version goes for $139 while a 2 TB one is $219.
A rival offering available today is the Minix Neo Storage. It doesn’t have the SD/microSD reader and is a bit bulkier, but is also an SSD with up to 240GB of capacity.
