These days, the market is saturated with different SATA cables and it may be tricky to identify the best SATA cables. SATA is fully called Serial AT Attachment.
SATA is an interface that allows a host bus to connect and share information with other devices of large sizes.
With SATA cables, the computer is able to use certain external storage devices for some operations.
Such devices can include optical and hard disk drives. Further, SATA succeeded Pata, the Parallel AT Attachment in 2000.
SATA has since then gone on to dominate the networking world and at a particular time, it was the only interface the global village used.
Comparison Table of The Best SATA Cables
| Brand Name | Details |
|---|---|
| 10. BENFEI SATA Cable III | |
| 9. SSD/SATA III | |
| 8. WEme USB 3.0 | |
| 7. Relper-Lineso 6 Pack | |
| 6. Cable Matters 3-Pack | |
| 5. Cable Matters 3-Pack | |
| 4. Vantec SATA/IDE to USB 3.0 | |
| 3. Monoprice 18-Inch SATA III | |
| 2. Sabrent USB 3.0 to SSD | |
| 1. StarTech USB 3.0 to 2.5” |
As implied earlier, this gave rise to several manufacturers of SATA cables. As usual, qualities always differ and that is why this has been written to help you make the correct pick.
All SATA cables reviewed below are very capable and excellent; your pick will only be due to a minor reason or the other. In essence, you can choose any of the cables below without any hesitation.
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A REVIEW OF THE BEST SATA CABLES (2021 UPDATED)
1. StarTech USB 3.0 to 2.5” SATA Adapter Cable
This is a SATA solid-state (SSD) device, also known as the hard drive (HDD) adapter. This SSD is to connect the host bus to the SATA storage devices through the USB-A port.
Moreover, this cable is produced by StarTech, a reputed company in the computer world. And like always, the standards are not dropped in this cable either.
Hence, this SATA cable allows you to upgrade to an external 2.5 SATA SSD or HDD. Thus, this cable is unlike conventional SATA cables.
With a computer that operates on UASP, you are able to transfer files at a whopping 70% faster rate than other ordinary SATA cables.
It works at a speed of 5Gbps and supports USB 3.0 devices. Subsequently, this cable is very portable and can be carried about in your laptop bag with ease.
It can be connected to your computer anywhere and at any time. This is because it needs no extra power to function.
With this cable, you can have more space on your computer. Again, you can perform better backup options whenever your internal space is not enough.
You are also able to produce disk images, recover your data, and share data between the drive and your computer.
Highlighted Features
- Faster Transfer and Write speed on UASP
- Supports 3.0 USB devices
- Suitable temperature between -10°C to 70°C (14°F to 158°F)
- Plug-and-play requires no extra drivers.
Pros
- 2-year warranty
- Great back up
- Increases speed greatly
Cons
- Expensive than the other options
2. Sabrent USB 3.0 to SSD
This SATA cable is judged by many users to be one of the best. This SATA cable is well suited for all data operations due to the quality of its materials.
Its greatest selling point is its lightning speed. So, you can transfer files very quickly with this Sabrent USB 3.0 to SSD.
With this cable, you are able to share files at the rate of 5Gbps through USB 3.0.
This cable works best on computers that support UASP and these are systems operating on Windows XP, Vista (Version 7, 8, 8.1, 10), and Mac OSX.
Aside from its 5Gbps when connected through a USB 3.0 port, this cable also offers you 480 Mbps when transferring files via a USB 2.0. It also supports USB 1.1.
The Sabrent 2.5 inch SATA I/II/III weighs quite light at just 0.96 ounces and is hence very easy to carry around.
This cable can be ordered with ease on any online shipping company and will come at a weight of 3.2 ounces. This is because it comes with a manual.
Highlighted Features
- Hot-swappable
- Plug and play, no driver required
- Lightweight, no extra enclosure needed
- Led light indicator to show status, either power or activity
- Reverse compatible with USB 2.0 or 1.1.
- Dimensions: 2.8 x 7.1 x 2.4 inches
- Works best on computers that support UASP
Pros
- Great transfer rate
- Very easy to install
- Improved performance
- Great data restoring
Cons
- The plastic housing is not good
3. Monoprice 18-Inch SATA III
Here comes an even better SATA cable! With a truly amazing speed of 6Gbps, this is one of the best SATA cables you will ask for.
This cable is the third revision version of SATA cables and it is the grandest of them all.
Although the cables for the three revision versions appear to look the same and will all be fitted if connected to any SATA drive or controller.
The Monoprice 18-Inch SATA III needs materials of better quality and closer tolerances to work well.
When it is used with compatible devices, this cable works at a breathtaking speed of 6Gbps.
A 90-degree connector is on one end of the cable and the other end uses a straight connector.
Therefore, this feature makes it particularly flexible and is hence useful in tight situations.
This cable also has locks that latch on each end in order to ensure that you don’t experience breaks in your connection. This cable is reverse compatible. At the same time, it works on SATA 3Gbps and also 1.5Gbps.
Highlighted Features
- 6Gbps transfer speed
- Latching locks on each end of the cable to secure connection
- Reverse compatible with SATA USB 3.0 and 1.5
- Weighs just 0.32, which makes it extremely light to take about
- Dimensions: 4.3 x 3.3 x 1.1 inches
- Doubles the speed of other conventional SATA cables
- Third revision version.
Pros
- Great data transfer speed
- Long-lasting
- Great back up service
Cons
- Cable breaks easily
4. Vantec SATA/IDE to USB 3.0
As always, Vantec does not disappoint with this. The Vantec SATA/IDE to USB 3.0 has been built with high-quality materials that make it sit well in the hierarchy of SATA cables.
Some years ago, Vantec made the version of this that connects primarily with USB 2.0. This version was a major hit and this prompted an upgrade on the part of Vantec.
Furthermore, the Vantec SATA USB 3.0 adapter was produced and this newer version has earned glowing reviews.
First, the transfer speed of the cable increased astronomically from 460Mbps to 5Gbps.
When translated to the ordinary language, it means that it sprung from a rate that allowed you to transfer files at 60 MBs per second to a staggering 640 MBs per second.
This has only reinforced Vantec’s peak position. Second, Vantec SATA USB 3.0 adapter has been produced to ensure that in all circumstances.
Even without the barest understanding of technicalities, you can connect drives to your computer or system. So, this SATA cable is a very reliable make.
Highlighted Features
- Suitability to the speed of any operating system, SATA I/II/ III HDD/SSD/ODD
- Portability because of its lightweight and compact design
- Hard drives of 2.5″ & 3.5″ SATA or PATA(IDE) are supported
- Blu-ray drives of 5.25″ Optical CD/DVD/ is supported.
- Self-driven in case of multiple OS
- Plug and play require no rebooting to hot-swap.
Pros
- Easy storage
- Optimized for any speed
- Easily portable
- Great transfer speed
Cons
- The power supply switch is not good enough
5. Cable Matters 3-Pack
Cable Matters did excellent with this product. Coming in a sleek and attractive design. The Cable Matters SATA to 90-Degree SATA III is one of the fastest SATA cables out there.
When connected to a compatible USB port, this cable has an incredible transfer rate of 6Gbps. That is at times so unreal.
This makes the sharing of files very easy and large data sizes can be transferred in seconds.
However, the Cable Matters SATA to 90-Degree SATA III is influenced by the ability of the other subsystems connected to its station.
In cases in which it is used with lower devices, its transfer speed is also low.
What’s more, this cable is capable of connecting Sata Legacy I, II, and the newest III drives with host controllers and internal motherboards.
And so, this makes it particularly useful for gamers who can always increase the storage capacity of their computers and improve their internet connection.
However, this cable also comes with a latching lock that makes sure that your connection is never disrupted.
This cable possesses a 90-degree rotating connector on one of its ends, simplifying the plugging of the cables at some tight angles.
This rotating end also reduces the damage that can be caused by bending and twisting the cable in certain tight situations.
Highlighted Features
- Latching angle connector that makes connection easier in difficult situations
- Cerise bright and colored cables that are easily identifiable
- IT and Diy Tech tool
- Compatible with SATA I, II, and III
- Insulated wires, shielded foils, and tinned conductors of copper
- Dimensions: 5 x 4.5 x 1.1 inches
- Weight: 1.44 ounces
Pros
- High speed
- Compatible with most devices
- Great storage capacity
Cons
- Cable connectors size is big
6. Cable Matters 3-pack 90 degrees Right Angle SATA III 6.0 Gbps
Cable matters 3-pack 90 degrees right angle SATA III 6.0 Gbps is one of the very best of its own classes. It is designed to connect motherboards & host controllers to internal Serial ATA hard drives and DVD drives. This SATA Cable will make your connection more secured & well established.
This SATA cable is a low-profile cable jacket. It has easier routing on your computer. It has tremendous speed and superior performance. In addition, lightweight is another feature.
It runs at a truly amazing speed of 6 Gbps transfer rate. It reaches even in the difficult parts in small cases. Certainly, it is a low-profile SATA data cable. It has a flexible jacket to allow an efficient and organized installation in tight computer cases
This SATA Cable is a very good option for users who may use their computers in a lot of fast-paced activities and may at the same time wish to transfer data.
This cable writes data at more speed than other ordinary SATA cables.
It can fit in any desktop form and thus, it is suitable for all categories of users.
Highlighted Features
- Compatible with the most popular SATA-equipped devices.
- Its flexible jackets allow organized installation.
- Up to 6Gbps rate of transfer
- Cost-effective.
- Light-weight.
- Extra 90-degree cable.
Pros
- Easy-grip surface
- Easier routing
- Effortless installation
- High quality
Cons
- Bulky in size
7. Relper-Lineso 6 Pack
This is also an easily impressive SATA cable. It completely supports SATA 3.0 bandwidth with a mesmerizing transfer rate of 6Gbps.
It works very well with SATA 3.0 and 2.5 hard drives. Also, The Relper-Lineso SATA III cable comes with latching locks to make your connections itch-free.
Speaking of appearance, this cable has a slimmer body design than other SATA cables, thereby making it a lot more flexible than them too.
An end of this cable is straight through while the other end is a 90-degree connector. This cable has a lot of uses.
It is used to install DVD drives along with SATA hard drives. Furthermore, it may be used in some installation processes in a workstation. Relper-Lineso built this cable just for the best uses.
Highlighted Features
- Compatible with mini-tower computers
- 6Gbps transfer rate
- Suitable for 3.0 and 2.5 SATA drives
- Thin, flexible, and attractive
- Compatible with DVD drives, CD drives, Blu-ray, and all other forms of Sata
- Dimensions: 18 x 0.3 x 0.5 inches
- Size: 1.6 ounces
- Fits well in tight angles due to a 90-degree connector on one end.
- Compatible with other lower versions such as SATA revision I and II.
- Latching locks to prevent the cable from being tripped accidentally.
Pros
- Easy to fit hard areas
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Cheap price
- Fastest speed
Cons
- Color is not good
8. WEme USB 3.0 to SATA
WEme has been a favorite for a while now and it has definitely done well with this cable. On any computer, this cable allows you to connect SATA drives of 3.5 or 2.5.
Additionally, this cable performs a variety of functions. You can use it to backup HDD files on your personal computer with lightning ease.
You can move files, you can write, you can read and edit through this cable. On the other hand, the WEme USB 3.0 has the capacity to transfer files at a rate of 5Gbps in a very small while.
Like other SATA cables, however, this speed can be affected by the devices with which it is connected.
The WEme USB 3.0 SATA Cable is also suitable for reverse USB versions. Undoubtedly, It works well with USB ports of 2.0 and 1.1. That means that there are absolutely no worries if you do not have the latest USB port modification.
An appealing fact about this data cable is the possession of a led light for notifications and status.
This cable is compatible with any 2.5″ / 3.5″ HDD, 9.5mm / 12.5mm SATA-I, SATA-II, SATA-III / SSD up to Max. 8TB. It is most suitable for computers running on these systems: Windows 2000/XP, version 10.10 or higher Mac OS, Vista 7, 8, 8.1 (32/64-bit) and server 2003.
Highlighted Features
- Devices of ATA/ATAPI are compatible also
- All DVDs, ROMs, CDs, Flash drives are all connected to using the USB 3.0
- Reverse suitability
- Hot-swap, mere plug and play.
- Dimension: 5.8 x 4.1 x 1.9 inches
Pros
- No drivers are needed
- Maximum data transfer rate
- Easy to use
- Supports all device
Cons
- External power may not work properly
9. SSD/SATA III
This SATA cable is the safest bet for the conversion frame of the Inateck ST1002. It is produced by Inateck, a reputable company in the SATA world.
Connections using power and data through SATA frames are firmly secured with The Inateck SSD/SATA III cable is ideal for the following HDD devices: hard drives, ROM, DVD, Bluray, and CD.
This third generation of SATA cables is able to offer bandwidth up to an astonishing 750 MB/s.
In speed, it operates at a rate of 6Gbps. This cable comes as two, one of them is for data connections and the other is for power connections.
These cables are also good with lower Sata versions like the Sata I and SATA II. Your computer is easily upgraded using this cable, so is your gaming life more enjoyable.
In fact, for all activities relating to data transfer and writing, the Inateck SSD/SATA III cable is sure to give you one of the best transmission processes.
The materials for the manufacturing of this cable are all of the excellent grades. With them, you at guaranteed a totally safe and disruption-free connection. They are very durable cables.
Highlighted Features
- Two power cables and two date cables
- Works well with lower versions of SATA
- Uninterrupted and fast data transmission
- Offers a maximum bandwidth of 750 MB/s
- Durability
- High-quality materials for production.
- Dimension: 8 x 5 x 0.7 inches • Size: 3.52 ounces
Pros
- Top speed
- Compatible with most of the devices
- Hassle-free power transmission
- Ensures maximum bandwidth
Cons
- Cables are short
10. BENFEI SATA Cable III
Benfei requires no introductions. This company has been at the forefront of the development of SATA cables and this product is not inferior in the least.
This cable can come in very handy in emergencies because of its reliability and easy to use make.
This cable comes in 3 packs, with each pack having its designated use. The Benfei SATA Cable for HDD/SSD/CD Writer/ CD Driver is of the third revision and therefore works perfectly with USB ports of 3.0.
However, it has been built to work with lower versions too and Legacy versions of SATA I and II are also compatible with it.
The transfer rate for this cable is an awesome 6Gbps but it should be put in mind that it is determined by the quality of devices it is connected with.
Truly outstanding use of the Benfei SATA Cable for HDD/SSD/CD Writer/ CD Driver is that it can be used to drive CDs and at the same time, write CDs.
That is a really great ability. That apart, this cable also comes with two straight-through connectors at 180 degrees.
There is a latching lock to maintain the connection in case of sudden movements or interruptions.
Highlighted Features
- Connects with motherboards and host controllers
- A transfer rate of 6Gbps
- Locking latch at each end
- Ability to write and drive CDs
- Reliability, it always comes in handy. This is because it comes in three and hence is easily replaceable
Pros
- Ensures secure connection
- 18-month warranty
- Fast data transfer
Cons
- The packaging is not good
Buying consideration Of Best SATA Cables
The following are factors to consider before buying your SATA cable:
Price
This is, of course, the first call with whatever you are buying at this stage. Like all other products, SATA cables have different prices that depend on the companies that produce them.
It is therefore important to consider the prices of certain SATA cables and compare them with each other.
Certainly, you will not settle for a product of lesser quality at a costlier price over a better product at a cheaper price, will you?
However, this does not mean that you just choose the cheapest Cable to buy. Consider your pockets too.
What does your finance say? It is true that these cables don’t cost much but it should be known that little things matter.
Don’t buy blindly. Know your price and settle for that which favors you best.
Weight
This is another obvious point of stop. What do the cables weigh? Which weight will work best for you?
Remember, you are making these considerations in order to choose the SATA cable that will suit your needs the most.
So, choosing the wrong weight may put all things wrong. How do you choose the wrong weight, you may ask?
Let us consider that you are a carefree person that often fails to pay attention to little things, would you buy the lightest SATA cable?
Of course not! You are likely to forget that it is somewhere on you at times and may end up damaging it unknowingly.
Likewise, if you are the type that likes everything light and at the same time is very attentive, then your surest but will be one of the lightest cables. Isn’t it so?
Now, this may be the most important consideration you make before buying.
Before buying your SATA cable, it is the safest thing to do to know what others who have used the same product are saying.
Are they saying that the product does even better than it seems at first or is it below specifications and expectations?
Also, what rating does it have? Are you buying a product with a rating of 0.2 out of a possible 5 or a product with an appealing 4.7 out of 5?
Take your time to consider the ratings and the reviews of verified buyers on the website you are buying from. And if it is physical buying, request for testimonies.
Reliability, suitability, and compatibility
These are obvious. No doubt, you are looking to purchase a product that suits you, is compatible with your computer and, lastly, can always be relied on.
You are seeking to buy a SATA cable that can always come in handy. So, think, are you buying a cable that suits your style? Are you a gamer or movie lover?
Is the car you’re buying good enough for your needs? Can you always rely on it? Also, is it compatible with your system? Will it work well with your computer?
You don’t want to buy a cable that does not suit your style and at the same time is not compatible with your computer. Also, importantly, is the cable reliable?
What are people saying about it? Can it always come in handy? For example, as a gamer, you might be through a lot of vibrations and the SATA cable that will be your likeliest call should be a long one with latching locks, and comes in more than one pack.
Specifications
Before you buy, this is a factor that needs quite some consideration. Here at certain specs, you have to check for before buying your SATA cable:
Speed
What is the speed of the SATA cable? How fast can it transfer files? Will you select a cable of 4Gbps over one of 6Gbps without any underlying reason?
It is always advisable to choose the fastest SATA cable, that is, the one with the fastest transfer rate unless of course you have some reasons best known to you.
Compatible devices
At all times, it is advisable to select devices that have reverse compatibility. Choose a cable that can connect well with other lower USB versions.
Don’t go for one that can only work with the latest version. You may have to manage a lower port sometime when you lose your updated USB version.
Design
It is best to buy a SATA cable with a body design that suits you. Is the cable you need a long or short one?
Should it have a 90-degree rotating end or should both ends be plain straight? Consider and decide.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON SATA CABLES (FAQS)
It is necessary to review some questions that are asked frequently by users of SATA cables.
This will be to find things easy with your cable and what’s better, you don’t need special help when there’s troubleshooting. So, let’s check them out.
Question: Are the best SATA cables of the same quality?
Answer: Mostly, yes. The best SATA cables have been made with materials of very high quality that are hardly different.
It is therefore very rare for them to be of different qualities. A certain SATA cable may be different in little aspects like the transfer rate but that’s about that.
Question: Is Sata III different from SATA I?
Answer: There is no much difference between the SATA III revision and the SATA I.
Although it must be noted that SATA III cables are faster in speed and can at times be more efficient, they are very much similar to the SATA I cables.
Question: Is Sata III different from SATA II?
Answer: Actually no, SATA III cables share a lot of features with SATA II cables. The former is merely a revised version of the latter and that makes it understandable.
In certain situations, however, inferior SATA II cables may make users feel the SATA III cables are better.
Question: Are the best SATA cables as reliable as people claim?
Answer: Absolutely yes! There is this proverb that says, ‘when three people call you an ass, start putting on a saddle.’ The same applies to SATA cables.
Usually, when a product is bad, a lot of users say it without reservations. The same should apply to when products are impressive and that is why a lot of buyers have given glowing assessments on the SATA cables.
Question: Can the best Sata cables be a Sata II?
Answer: This is highly unlikely. This is because the SATA III cables have been produced with a lot of features that the previous revisions did and still do not have.
So, it is quite rare to pick the best from revision I and II.
Question: What does SATA mean? Or is it just SATA?
Answer: No. SATA stands for Serial AT Attachment. It is merely called Sata because a lot of users in the technology world would rather call it that way rather than call it in full.
Many users do not have the patience and time for that.
Question: Once in a while, I’ve heard of Pata when discussing Sata, what is Pata?
Answer: Pata preceded SATA. It was formerly the widely used interface to connect your computer with external storage devices. It was fully called Parallel AT Attachment.
Question: Which is better between Sata and Pata?
Answer: There have been no arguments on it, SATA cables have definitely done better than Pats cables. SATA cables are much better and that is why they have come to dominate the world today.
Question: Are the best SATA cables at the same price?
Answer: No, they are not of the same price. It is common to find similar products at varying prices.
This can be attributed to the producer and the nature of materials that have been put into the production.
All SATA cables are however produced with excellent materials; the producing company might just have some extra reservations.
Question: What is the average speed for the SATA III cables?
Answer: The third revision of Sata is very fast. The average transfer rate will, therefore, be 5Gbps.
These cables have been produced to meet just your needs and that explains how good they are.
Question: Why do many SATA cables these days come with latching locks?
Answer: Many Sata cables these days come with latching locks so users can enjoy a more secure and firmer connection than previously experienced in previous revisions.
You may have a sudden vibration or movement and your connection will still be running because these locks have latched onto their respective ports.
Question: Why do some SATA cables have a 90-degree rotating end?
Answer: Many Sata cables now have a 90-degree end and that is primarily because the producing companies thought and considered users who might be in tight situations and will still want to use the cables.
This end will make it easier to connect the cable with the ports and will not cause unnecessary damages to it.
CONCLUSION
You have now known the best SATA cables that you can buy whenever you need to or feel like it.
However, as we know, it does not matter how closely related the attributes of these cables are, there are still preferences.
Why will you choose The Benfei Sata Cable over The Vantec SATA/IDE USB 3.0 and vice versa?
What are the factors that you consider before buying? These factors have also been considered in our article.
Likewise, the frequently asked questions and their answers are there to help you in terms of certain information you may need about SATA cables at any time.
SATA cables are here to stay, which has been proven already. In the computer world today, these cables are indispensable. It is therefore important to be ahead of several others.
