Question about replacing/expanding a disk

I have a small mini pc as server similar to [1], which has a super nice small form and has an internal slot for a 2.5" ssd disk. Currently I have a 2TB SSD, but it is filling up rapidly.

My options are:

  1. Buy a way more expensive 8TB SSD and replace the existing one
  2. Buy a much cheaper 8TB HDD + enclosure and connect it via USB.

I wonder what are the pros and cons of each option. I like 1 more because the form factor of the homelab is maintained and I don’t need to plug yet another thing. OTOH I’m allergic to spending money 😆 so a cheaper solution (about 4 times cheaper) is always welcome.

Maybe I’m missing a third alternative? Opinions?

[1] https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BVLS7ZHP/

cc @[email protected] @[email protected]

  • @RestrictedAccount
    2•5 months ago

    I have experienced everything said here about USB drives failing.

    What I do now is I have a pair of identical 6TB USB drives set up as a mirrored RAID.

    So far so good. It has been a couple of years.