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Gli.Net Comet 5G Review – The ‘ALL-IN’ KVM?

Par : Rob Andrews
23 février 2026 à 16:00

Gl.iNet Comet 5G Review – The ULTIMATE ALL-ACCESS KVM?

The GL.iNet Comet 5G is a remote KVM built to provide keyboard, video, and mouse control of a connected computer from power on through BIOS, rather than relying on a working operating system like traditional remote desktop tools. It accepts HDMI input from the host and offers HDMI passthrough so a local display can remain connected, with support up to 4K at 30 fps or 1080p at 60 fps, plus 2 way audio. Connectivity is where the Comet 5G differentiates itself most clearly in this product line: it can be managed over Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6, but it also includes a nano SIM slot for 5G RedCap with 4G LTE fallback, intended for out of band access when the site network is down, segmented, or simply not trusted. It also supports a local AP mode that broadcasts its own wireless network for nearby management sessions without joining the surrounding LAN. In day to day use, the device is mainly aimed at remote maintenance tasks such as OS installs, recovery and imaging, BIOS changes, and support work on machines that lack built in management like iDRAC or iLO. Compared with the Comet Pro, it keeps the same general platform and interface approach, but adds the cellular path, the AP mode, a larger 3.69 in touchscreen, and 64 GB of eMMC storage for ISO and file staging. The key questions for a review are less about raw compute, since the core platform is similar to the Comet Pro, and more about whether the extra connectivity options, storage capacity, and on device usability justify its higher price for the way it will actually be deployed.

Gli.Net Comet 5G KVM Review – Quick Conclusion

The GL.iNet Comet 5G is essentially the Comet Pro style KVM experience with a stronger connectivity toolkit rather than a major jump in raw performance: you still get reliable BIOS level access, HDMI passthrough so a local screen can stay connected, and flexible access from a browser across different operating systems, but the main reason to choose it is the extra ways it can be reached when the local network is unavailable or not trusted. The nano SIM support (5G RedCap with 4G LTE fallback) gives an out of band route that can keep access available even when Ethernet or Wi-Fi are misconfigured, and the AP mode adds a direct nearby connection for quick point to point management without joining the site LAN, which can be genuinely useful in field work, segmented networks, or recovery situations. It also doubles the internal storage to 64 GB, which makes it easier to keep several ISO images and tools ready to mount remotely, and the larger 3.69 in touchscreen makes local setup and status checks less cramped. The trade offs are mostly about expectations: storage speeds remain modest, so uploading and copying large files is not fast; USB based storage expansion exists but is limited by USB 2.0, can require reboots, and drive compatibility is not always consistent; and while the device supports multiple paths and is marketed around failover, the current interface does not expose deep, router style controls for tuning how those paths behave. If you mostly run KVM over a stable wired or Wi-Fi network, the Comet Pro will usually cover the same core tasks for less money, but if you want a small KVM that gives you more options to regain access when networks are awkward or failing, the Comet 5G is the more complete tool as long as you accept the storage and configuration limitations.

SOFTWARE - 9/10
HARDWARE - 9/10
PERFORMANCE - 8/10
PRICE - 8/10
VALUE - 8/10


8.4
PROS
👍🏻Cellular out of band access via nano SIM (5G RedCap with 4G LTE fallback) adds a separate path when the site LAN is down or misconfigured
👍🏻Nearby Control via AP mode enables direct point to point access without joining the surrounding network, useful for local BIOS work and isolated environments
👍🏻HDMI passthrough plus capture keeps a local monitor active while still providing remote KVM access (up to 4K 30 fps, 1080p 60 fps)
👍🏻Browser based management and access works across Windows, macOS, and Linux without requiring a dedicated client
👍🏻64 GB eMMC provides more room for ISO images and utility files than the 32 GB model, reducing how often media needs to be rotated
👍🏻3.69 in touchscreen makes on device setup and status checks less cramped than smaller panel implementations
👍🏻Multiple remote access approaches are available (LAN, relay, and VPN style options like Tailscale and ZeroTier), allowing different trust and routing models
👍🏻Low complexity deployment with passive cooling and a small footprint makes it viable as a 24/7 appliance when powered independently
CONS
👎🏻Storage performance is modest, and remains closer to mid range eMMC speeds than fast removable storage
👎🏻External storage expansion has caveats, including USB 2.0 limits, possible reboots, and inconsistent compatibility depending on the USB drive and power draw
👎🏻Failover and cellular controls are not deeply tunable in the current UI, so users expecting router grade policy controls may find configuration limited

Buy the Gl.iNet KVM 5G from Amazon Below: Buy the Gl.iNet Comet KVM ($219) from the Official Store Below:

Gli.Net Comet 5G KVM Review – Design & Storage

The Comet 5G follows the same general design language as the Comet Pro, but it is physically larger and more deployment focused. It measures 128 × 93 × 33 mm and weighs 285 g, which makes it more of a bag sized tool than something that disappears behind a monitor without planning. The casing relies on passive ventilation rather than active cooling, and in normal use it is intended to be left running continuously, provided it is powered independently rather than from the host machine.

A practical difference in the Comet 5G design is the addition of external antennas to support its wireless roles.

This includes cellular and Wi-Fi antennas, and the unit is clearly built around the expectation that it may be used away from a stable wired network, whether that is via the SIM slot or via a direct nearby wireless connection. In a fixed desk setup the antennas can feel like overkill, but for temporary installs and field support they suit the intended use case.

On the front, the Comet 5G uses a 3.69 in touchscreen, which is notably larger than the Comet Pro’s 2.22 in panel. In practice, that extra size does not materially change the experience of mirroring the host display on the device itself, since you remain limited by the source resolution and scaling.

Where it does help is in the local management interface, where menus and status screens have more room and are less cramped, particularly during setup or when checking network state and service toggles directly on the unit.

Storage is expanded to 64 GB eMMC, and the main advantage is capacity rather than speed. In use, the internal storage is primarily for keeping ISO images, recovery media, and utility files that can be mounted remotely as virtual media or exposed to the host as a remote drive.

File transfers to and from the internal storage typically sit in the same general performance range as the Comet Pro, which means it is functional for staging installers and smaller toolsets, but slow for moving large data sets.

A newer software feature available across the platform also allows external storage via a USB drive, but it comes with constraints that affect how usable it is in practice. Adding a drive can require a reboot, compatibility varies between drives, and the management interface tends to treat partitions individually rather than offering straightforward full disk handling.

Because the port involved is USB 2.0, external storage is more about adding space for additional ISOs than achieving a meaningful improvement in transfer speeds.

Gli.Net Comet 5G KVM Review – Connectivity

The Comet 5G keeps its I/O layout simple, with the core KVM connections built around full sized HDMI input and HDMI output for passthrough. This avoids adapter reliance and makes it easier to drop into existing setups where monitors and capture paths already use standard HDMI cabling. In a permanent install, passthrough is the more important part of that arrangement, since it allows a local user to keep working on the attached screen while remote access remains available in the background.

For host control, the unit presents USB based keyboard and mouse emulation over its USB-C connection, while power is also supplied via USB-C at 5V/3A with PD compatibility.

In practical terms, powering it from an independent adapter is the safer approach, because drawing power from the host machine can remove KVM access when the host is powered off, rebooting, or in a state where USB power is unstable.

Wired networking is provided by a 1 GbE RJ45 port, which is the most consistent option for image quality and responsiveness when the site network is stable. Alongside this, the Comet 5G supports Wi-Fi 6 on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, and it also includes an AP mode that allows a direct nearby wireless connection without joining the surrounding LAN.

That AP mode is best understood as a local management path rather than a general purpose hotspot, and it is primarily useful when you want a quick point to point session for BIOS work or initial configuration.

The main connectivity addition over the Comet Pro is the nano SIM slot for cellular access, supporting 5G RedCap with 4G LTE fallback. This is positioned as an out of band route that can keep the management channel available when Ethernet and Wi-Fi are unavailable or misconfigured, and it also reduces dependence on VLAN routing rules and other site side constraints.

In the current software experience, the cellular side is exposed through its own configuration section, but it does not offer the same depth of policy and failover tuning found on GL.iNet’s router products.

Gli.Net Comet 5G KVM Review – Internal Hardware

Internally, the Comet 5G is built around a quad core ARM Cortex-A53 SoC paired with 1 GB of DDR3L memory, which is broadly the same class of platform used by the Comet Pro. In review terms, this means the Comet 5G is not trying to win on raw compute, but on connectivity and deployment options, because the core processing headroom is similar. The A53 class CPU is adequate for running the management services, handling multiple control sessions, and keeping the on device UI responsive, but it is not aimed at heavier workloads outside the core KVM functions. The OS is Linux 6.1, and the device behaves like a small embedded appliance rather than a general purpose system you would extend with additional packages and services.

The video path is designed around HDMI ingest and H.264 hardware encoding, with the remote stream adapting to available bandwidth and quality settings in the client interface. Support is listed up to 4K at 30 fps and 1080p at 60 fps, with HDMI passthrough keeping a local monitor active while the unit captures the same signal for remote viewing.

Audio is supported in 2 directions, but the device itself is not treated as a standalone audio endpoint, so the practical experience depends on how the host exposes audio over HDMI or USB and how the client session is configured. Input is handled via USB based HID emulation, which is why copy and paste and keystroke injection can sometimes behave differently between applications depending on how they interpret simulated typing versus clipboard shortcuts.

The storage subsystem uses 64 GB eMMC soldered to the board, and in practice it is tuned for predictable, mid range throughput rather than high performance. Real world transfer rates observed during ISO uploads and mounted storage tests typically sit around the mid 20s to mid 30s MB/s range, which aligns with the Comet Pro experience and reflects the limits of the flash and controller rather than a network bottleneck.

That makes it usable for staging installers, recovery media, and driver packs, but not ideal for repeated large image transfers or heavy file shuttling. Expansion is possible via a USB drive using the USB 2.0 Type-A port, but that is primarily a capacity extension, because USB 2.0 limits both bandwidth and available bus power, and drive compatibility can vary depending on the enclosure controller and power draw.

Gli.Net Comet 5G KVM Review – Software, Services & Performance

The Comet 5G uses the same GLKVM software family as the earlier Comet devices, with access provided through a browser interface, a desktop client, and a mobile app. In testing, the browser UI is the most straightforward for configuration and for working across different operating systems, and it also exposes most of the device settings without needing to install anything locally.

Firmware maturity differed slightly between units during side by side use, with the Comet Pro running a stable 1.8 release build while the Comet 5G was still presented as beta, though the overall layout and feature set were close enough that the differences felt tied to hardware options rather than a separate software branch.

#

Account and session security options are built into the platform, including 2 factor authentication and passkey support at the account level, plus the ability to apply an additional password gate per device before entering a remote session. Remote access can be handled locally over LAN, through GL.iNet’s relay service, or through peer to peer options. Tailscale support is part of the platform, and newer software revisions have also introduced ZeroTier support, which addresses earlier feedback around relying on a single remote access option.

For users who prefer not to use relay services, these VPN style paths can provide remote reachability without opening ports or depending on the vendor’s cloud beyond account management.

Where the Comet 5G differs in day to day software behavior is how cellular and nearby access are exposed. Cellular configuration appears as a dedicated section for SIM based connectivity, while the Wi-Fi settings include an AP mode that allows direct nearby connections without joining the site WLAN. In practice, these features improve the chances of reaching the device when the surrounding network is misconfigured or inaccessible, but the management interface does not currently provide the same depth of routing, policy control, or visible failover logic that GL.iNet includes in its router products. Multi path behavior is present at a feature level, but there is limited opportunity to tune it beyond selecting the available connection modes.

Performance during remote control sessions depends mainly on the network path and the host workload rather than differences between the Comet 5G and Comet Pro hardware. Video quality controls and stream settings allow the session to be made more stable on weaker links, and the general desktop experience remains usable for BIOS work, OS installs, and troubleshooting.

A copy and paste stress test with a large block of text showed both devices could transfer long input sequences, but the Comet 5G produced fewer odd spacing issues in the final pasted document during that run. On mobile, both devices provide touch mode and cursor mode plus access to a software keyboard, and external Bluetooth keyboards and mice can be used, but fluidity and compression artifacts were more noticeable when the phone was on cellular data compared with a local Wi-Fi or wired path.

Gli.Net Comet 5G KVM Review – Verdict & Conclusion

The Comet 5G works as a continuation of the Comet Pro platform rather than a clean break. The remote session experience, general interface layout, and core feature set remain familiar, because the underlying compute and encoding approach is broadly the same, and both devices are aimed at the same type of work: BIOS access, OS installs, recovery tasks, and remote troubleshooting where standard remote desktop tools are not enough. The areas that do change the day to day ownership experience are mostly around how you can reach the device when things go wrong. The SIM based 5G RedCap and 4G LTE fallback adds a separate management path, and the AP mode provides a direct nearby connection that avoids relying on the site LAN. The larger 3.69 in screen also makes the on device menus easier to use, even if it does not transform the usefulness of live video mirroring on the panel itself.

On the positive side, the Comet 5G is more adaptable in awkward environments, such as networks with strict VLAN boundaries, unreliable Wi-Fi, or unknown cabling, and it gives you more ways to regain access without a site visit. The 64 GB eMMC storage is also easier to live with if you keep multiple ISO images or toolkits available, although transfer speed remains limited and does not materially improve over the 32 GB model. On the less positive side, the cellular and multi path story is currently presented more as a capability than as a deeply configurable system, so users expecting router style failover policies and detailed controls may find the options relatively basic. The external storage expansion feature helps with capacity, but it is constrained by USB 2.0, requires reboots in some situations, and drive compatibility can be inconsistent, which limits how predictable it is as a long term workflow.

Overall, the Comet 5G is easier to justify when you expect to use the cellular connection or the nearby AP mode regularly, because those are the main reasons it exists and the main differences you will notice. If the device will live on a stable wired network most of the time and you only need a straightforward remote KVM for routine maintenance, the Comet Pro will usually cover the same core tasks for less money. If your priority is having multiple ways to reach the box when the local network is down or not trusted, the Comet 5G is the more complete tool, but its value depends on those deployment realities rather than any large jump in raw performance.

Buy the Gl.iNet KVM 5G from Amazon Below: Buy the Gl.iNet Comet KVM ($219) from the Official Store Below:

Gl.iNet Comet 5G KVM Pros Gl.iNet Comet 5G KVM CONs
  • Cellular out of band access via nano SIM (5G RedCap with 4G LTE fallback) adds a separate path when the site LAN is down or misconfigured

  • Nearby Control via AP mode enables direct point to point access without joining the surrounding network, useful for local BIOS work and isolated environments

  • HDMI passthrough plus capture keeps a local monitor active while still providing remote KVM access (up to 4K 30 fps, 1080p 60 fps)

  • Browser based management and access works across Windows, macOS, and Linux without requiring a dedicated client

  • 64 GB eMMC provides more room for ISO images and utility files than the 32 GB model, reducing how often media needs to be rotated

  • 3.69 in touchscreen makes on device setup and status checks less cramped than smaller panel implementations

  • Multiple remote access approaches are available (LAN, relay, and VPN style options like Tailscale and ZeroTier), allowing different trust and routing models

  • Low complexity deployment with passive cooling and a small footprint makes it viable as a 24/7 appliance when powered independently

  • Storage performance is modest, and remains closer to mid range eMMC speeds than fast removable storage

  • External storage expansion has caveats, including USB 2.0 limits, possible reboots, and inconsistent compatibility depending on the USB drive and power draw

  • Failover and cellular controls are not deeply tunable in the current UI, so users expecting router grade policy controls may find configuration limited

 

 

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Démarrer son PC à partir d’une clé USB ou d’un CD/DVD

Par : Pierre Caer
14 janvier 2026 à 16:00
Démarrer un PC à partir d’une clé USB ou d’un CD/DVD est une manipulation indispensable à connaître lorsque l’on utilise un ordinateur. Que ce soit pour installer ou réinstaller un système d’exploitation (Windows, Ubuntu, etc.), réparer un PC qui ne démarre plus, lancer un outil de dépannage ou tester un système en mode live, vous … Lire la suite

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Sharge Disk Pro Review

Par : Rob Andrews
31 octobre 2025 à 18:00

Review of the Sharge Disk Pro Mobile Hub and Docking Station

The Sharge Disk Pro is a compact external SSD and multifunction USB hub aimed at users who need additional high-speed storage and connectivity for their mobile or desktop devices. Measuring roughly the size of a credit card and just 11mm thick, it merges solid-state storage, data transfer, and video output within a single enclosure. The device is equipped with an integrated USB-C cable, a fan-assisted thermal system, and a magnetic mounting design that allows it to attach securely to compatible smartphones, handheld gaming consoles, or laptops. Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB versions, it uses 162-layer 3D TLC NAND flash and supports sustained 10Gbps transfers via USB 3.2 Gen 2. The Disk Pro also includes active and automatic fan modes designed to regulate temperature during extended operation. Unlike a standard enclosure, it has no option for user-upgradeable storage, with Sharge citing the closed design as essential for cooling performance. The product is currently being crowdfunded through Kickstarter, with early pricing beginning at $189 for the 1TB model and scaling to $469 for the 4TB version, and retail availability expected after the campaign concludes.

Sharge Disk Pro Review – Quick Conclusion

The Sharge Disk Pro is a compact 10Gbps external SSD and USB hub that stands out for its active cooling system, magnetic mounting, and integrated cable design. It delivers sustained read and write speeds of around 800–900MB/s without thermal throttling, even under prolonged load, thanks to its effective fan-assisted cooling. Its multi-port layout, including HDMI 2.1, USB-C PD, and USB-A connectivity, makes it suitable for both laptops and mobile devices, functioning as a miniature docking station. However, it has several trade-offs: the internal SSD cannot be upgraded or replaced, there is no hardware encryption, and the fixed USB-C cable limits repairability. Noise from the fan is noticeable during heavy use, and while its 10Gbps limit caps peak performance, overall reliability and heat management make it a strong all-in-one solution for portable data and connectivity needs.

Note – The Sharge Disk Pro is NOW LIVE HERE

Sharge Disk Pro Review – Design and Storage

The Sharge Disk Pro adopts a slim, rectangular chassis with a transparent, cyberpunk-style exterior typical of the brand’s product line. At just 11mm thick and weighing approximately 150g, it remains small enough to slip into a pocket or attach directly to the rear of a device via its magnetic backplate. Sharge provides several self-adhesive magnetic rings that enable mounting on laptops, smartphones, and handheld consoles, including MagSafe or Qi2-compatible models. This mounting flexibility is particularly useful when connecting the device to mobile systems with limited space or single-port connectivity, allowing it to remain flush with the device body during use rather than dangling on a cable.

Internally, the Disk Pro integrates TLC NAND flash storage that is permanently sealed within the casing. It comes in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB configurations, but does not support user replacement or expansion. Sharge has stated that opening the casing would compromise the structural integrity of the fan-assisted cooling system, which directs airflow directly across the SSD and controller. While this closed design limits user flexibility, it contributes to improved durability and controlled thermals during sustained data operations, addressing a common weakness in other compact SSDs that tend to throttle under heavy load.

Externally, the unit uses an aluminium frame combined with a transparent plastic shell that reveals parts of its internal structure. The materials provide both aesthetic appeal and heat dissipation, with the aluminium core helping to channel heat away from the NAND and controller components. The integrated USB-C cable is short and reinforced, designed for use with laptops, tablets, and mobile phones without introducing unnecessary slack. Although the compactness is one of the Disk Pro’s strongest traits, it does come at the cost of expandability and limited repair potential due to the permanently sealed housing.

From a storage standpoint, Sharge’s choice of 162-layer 3D TLC NAND provides a balance of endurance and sustained performance, suitable for large data transfers, video capture, or use as external storage for gaming devices. Each model is preformatted for exFAT to ensure cross-platform compatibility between Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux systems. The inclusion of integrated power management also means the SSD can draw adequate power even when connected to low-output ports, with the fan and SSD operating efficiently under mobile conditions.

The Disk Pro’s overall form factor and integrated features place it closer to a high-performance portable hub than a simple external SSD. Its sealed construction, integrated active cooling, and additional connectivity are intended to reduce heat buildup, protect data integrity, and simplify on-the-go workflows. For professionals working with large 4K or 8K media files, or gamers seeking extended storage without extra cables, this design approach represents a different balance of portability and utility compared with most standard SSD enclosures on the market.

Sharge Disk Pro Review – Ports and Connections

The Sharge Disk Pro is built around a compact yet functional hub layout that integrates five active ports alongside the internal SSD. These include one HDMI 2.1 output, one USB-C port, one USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 port, and one USB-A 2.0 port, all managed by independent controller chips to prevent bottlenecks when multiple peripherals are in use. The inclusion of an HDMI 2.1 output enables video output up to 8K at 30Hz or 4K at 144Hz, depending on the connected device’s bandwidth. This makes it suitable for use with laptops, tablets, and compatible gaming consoles where both data access and display output are needed simultaneously. The USB-C port provides up to 100W input for power delivery passthrough, while the SSD and downstream ports can output up to 80W, allowing users to charge connected devices while maintaining full data and display functionality.

The built-in USB-C cable is one of the device’s defining physical features. Permanently attached to the chassis, it eliminates the need for separate cabling, reducing potential signal degradation and clutter. The short length ensures a secure connection with minimal strain, making it well-suited for handhelds and mobile phones where portability is essential. However, because it is non-removable, users have no option to replace the cable if it wears out or becomes damaged. The Disk Pro operates entirely over USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps), meaning it cannot exceed around 1GB/s transfer speeds, but remains fast enough for sustained high-volume workloads and video file handling.

Sharge also includes a 100W USB Power Delivery pass-through system designed for multi-device setups. When connected to a charger, the Disk Pro can simultaneously power a laptop or smartphone and operate as an SSD hub. The system manages current allocation automatically between the SSD, active ports, and the connected host device, maintaining stability under load. Users can switch the SSD off using a built-in hardware toggle to conserve NAND lifespan or operate solely as a docking station. This is a useful inclusion for those who primarily use the Disk Pro as a connectivity bridge rather than as continuous storage.

Despite its small dimensions, the hub’s port spacing and layout are designed for accessibility. Each connection point is positioned to avoid cable overlap, which can be problematic in other compact hubs. The HDMI port sits at the rear next to the USB-C power input, while the USB-A ports are side-mounted to support accessories such as flash drives, keyboards, or game controllers. This arrangement allows the device to function as both a desktop companion and an attachable expansion unit for mobile platforms.

  • Interface Standard: USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps)

  • Integrated Cable: Built-in USB-C, fixed length

  • USB Ports: 1 x USB-C PD (100W input / 80W output), 1 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x USB-A 2.0

  • Video Output: HDMI 2.1 supporting 4K 144Hz / 8K 30Hz

  • Power Delivery: 100W input passthrough, 80W total output

  • Controller Architecture: Three independent controller chips for port load management

  • SSD Disable Switch: Hardware button to disable SSD for hub-only use

Sharge Disk Pro Review – Performance Tests

In practical testing, the Sharge Disk Pro delivered performance that closely aligned with its stated specifications. Using AJA System Test on a Windows 11 PC, sustained read speeds averaged between 800 and 900 MB/s, while write speeds remained consistent at around 700 to 800 MB/s across multiple test cycles. These results are in line with expectations for a USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) interface, which typically caps out at 1,000 MB/s due to bus limitations. During repeated five-minute transfer tests using 256MB file blocks, there was no noticeable performance degradation or thermal throttling, confirming that the integrated fan and heatsink design effectively maintained stable throughput even under extended workloads. Sequential transfers performed best, while random 4K operations showed typical limitations of USB-based external drives, making it more suited for large media file transfers rather than small transactional data.

Thermal performance was a key focus of Sharge’s design, and testing showed the fan to be highly effective at maintaining low SSD temperatures. With the fan disabled, idle temperatures hovered around 35–37°C, rising only slightly during short file operations.

When the fan was activated in Auto mode, the device maintained temperatures around 34–35°C externally, and the SSD’s internal sensors never exceeded 40°C during prolonged testing. In Turbo mode, which spins the fan up to 10,000 RPM, the system achieved an additional reduction of around 5°C compared to passive cooling. For comparison, typical compact SSDs of similar capacity can reach over 60°C under similar workloads, confirming that active cooling provides tangible longevity and stability benefits for the NAND and controller components.

Noise measurements taken during operation showed moderate but noticeable levels. With the fan off, the Disk Pro was entirely silent, as expected for a solid-state design. When active cooling was engaged, noise levels ranged between 42 and 43 dBA at a one-meter distance, roughly equivalent to a quiet office environment. Although audible, it was far from intrusive and balanced against the benefit of consistent thermal performance. The fan’s automatic speed curve effectively adjusted to thermal demands, rarely ramping to maximum unless under sustained high-intensity transfers. Users who prioritize silence can manually disable the fan when operating in cooler environments or when using the device primarily for intermittent transfers.

The internal SSD uses 162-layer 3D TLC NAND with a proprietary controller tuned for consistent throughput rather than peak burst speeds. The design choice ensures reliable operation across mixed workloads such as 4K video capture, game installation, and system backups. The integrated power delivery circuitry also maintained stability under simultaneous port loads, allowing the SSD and connected peripherals to perform consistently without power drops. While the lack of hardware encryption may be a drawback for enterprise or security-focused users, the drive remains fully compatible with software encryption solutions available on Windows, macOS, and Android.

  • Interface Speed: USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps, ~1,000 MB/s theoretical)

  • Measured Read Speed: 800–900 MB/s sustained

  • Measured Write Speed: 700–800 MB/s sustained

  • NAND Type: 162-layer 3D TLC NAND (BiCS6)

  • Cooling System: Active fan with Auto (7,000 RPM) and Turbo (10,000 RPM) modes

  • Operating Temperatures: 34–40°C under sustained load

  • Noise Levels: 42–43 dBA under fan operation, 0 dBA passive

  • Power Draw: 60W power input for device and fan operation, 100W passthrough charging support

Sharge Disk Pro Review – Verdict and Conclusion

The Sharge Disk Pro represents a deliberate departure from conventional external SSDs, offering a hybrid approach that merges high-speed storage with full USB hub functionality in a portable form factor. Its sealed, magnetically mountable chassis and integrated fan system address the common issue of heat buildup in compact SSDs, maintaining reliable performance over long transfers. While its 10Gbps interface limits absolute throughput to around 1GB/s, the consistent sustained speeds and controlled thermals make it suitable for demanding use cases such as 4K editing, live data capture, or console game storage. The fixed internal SSD and integrated cable limit upgradeability and repair potential, but they also contribute to its streamlined design and compact efficiency.

For users seeking a versatile storage expansion that also replaces a traditional docking station, the Disk Pro’s multi-port setup and cooling design provide clear practical benefits. However, those wanting modular storage or hardware encryption will find its closed system less appealing. Ultimately, it’s a well-engineered portable hub that balances mobility, temperature management, and performance more effectively than most devices in its class. If the retail version maintains the same build and stability demonstrated in testing, it will fill a distinct niche for creators and professionals needing fast, thermally stable external storage in a highly compact form.

Sharge Disk Pro PROS Sharge Disk Pro CONS
  • Compact, magnetically attachable design ideal for mobile and laptop use.

  • Integrated active cooling system maintains SSD temperatures below 40°C during sustained transfers.

  • Delivers consistent 800–900MB/s read and 700–800MB/s write speeds over USB 3.2 Gen 2.

  • Includes HDMI 2.1 port supporting up to 8K 30Hz or 4K 144Hz video output.

  • Built-in USB-C cable and multiple ports (USB-C PD, USB-A 3.2, USB-A 2.0) provide hub-level versatility.

  • Hardware switch to disable SSD extends lifespan and allows hub-only operation.

  • Sturdy construction with efficient thermal design and magnetic mounting accessories included.

  • Non-upgradeable internal SSD limits long-term flexibility.

  • Noticeable fan noise (around 42–43 dBA) under heavy cooling load.

  • Lack of hardware encryption may deter professional or security-focused users.

 

 

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How to Disable USB Ports on Windows 11: Top Ways

19 mars 2024 à 18:44

USB ports make your computer more accessible. You may use them to transfer files or extend connections to other devices. However, there are a few occasions when you may want to disable USB ports in Windows 11.

This may be necessary to protect against data leaks, reduce the chance of malware exposure, or prevent unnecessary access to certain features like printing. This guide shows you all possible ways to disable the Windows 11 USB ports.

1. Disable Windows 11 USB Ports from the Device Manager

You can use Windows’s Device Manager to monitor and control connected hardware devices. It is the easiest way to enable or disable ports in Windows 11. Follow the steps below.

1. Right-click the Start menu and click Device Manager.

Open Device Manager

2. Expand Universal Serial Bus Controllers, right-click USB Root Hub, and click the Disable device option.

Disable USB in Device manager - disable USB ports Windows 11

3. Confirm your choice, and the ports should be successfully disabled.

2. Disable Windows 11 USB Ports Using the Command Prompt

On Windows devices, the Command Prompt is an interface for communicating with the operating system via text-based commands. You may run specific commands that will disable the USB ports on your computer.

1. Press Windows + R to open your Run dialog.

2. Type cmd and hit the Ctrl + Shift + enter keys to launch the Command Prompt.

Opening cmd

3. Type the command below and hit Enter.

reg add HKLMSystemCurrentControlSetServicescdrom /t REG_DWORD /v “Start” /d 4 /f.
Running disable command - disable USB ports Windows 11

You may run the command below to re-enable the ports.

reg add HKLMSystemCurrentControlSetServicescdrom /t REG_DWORD /v “Start” /d 3 /f

3. Disable the Portts via the Registry Editor

On Windows 11, the Registry Editor is a hierarchical database of configurations and settings for the operating system and applications. You may edit certain keys to disable ports in Windows 11.

1. Open the Run dialog by pressing Windows + R.

2. Type regedit and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.

Open the registry editor

3. Navigate to the path below:

Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\USBSTOR

4. Double-click Start in the right pane, edit the value data to 4, then click OK.

Updating value data for Start key - disable USB ports Windows 11

5. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

4. Disable the Windows 11 Ports via the Group Policy

Group policies are often used for administration of groups of devices or users. You may edit the port policy to ensure they are disabled. Follow the steps below.

1. Open the Run dialog by pressing Windows + R.

2. Type gpedit.msc and hit Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.

Open the gp editor

3. Navigate:

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\System\Removable Storage Access.

4. In the right pane, double-click Removable Disks: Deny execute access.

Port execute access - disable USB ports Windows 11

5. Click Enabled, then Apply, and OK.

disable USB ports Windows 11

6. Return to the Group Policy Editor and double-click Removable Disks: Deny read access. Then, follow the process in Step 5.

5. Using The BIOS to Disable Windows 11 Ports

The last option for disabling ports is using the Windows BIOS. The BIOS starts your computer and basic hardware components and may be used to disable basic hardware initialization, including shutting down the ports.

1. Turn on your computer and keep tapping the BIOS function key to enter the BIOS. This key may be F10 or some other function key.

2. Navigate to Advanced or More options.

3. Navigate to Advanced.

4. Select USB Configuration.

5. Set the USB port to disable.

No More Windows 11 BIOS

That is as much as you need to know. With the solutions above, the USB ports will no longer function on your computer.

What was your favorite solution? Please tell us in the comment section below. If you are interested in what ports your computer supports, you can check out a related guide.

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The post How to Disable USB Ports on Windows 11: Top Ways appeared first on Next of Windows.

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