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:
Buy a way more expensive 8TB SSD and replace the existing one
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 π so a cheaper solution (about 4 times cheaper) is always welcome.
Says on the product page that that Beelink supports a maximum 2TB SSD, so I wouldn't go buying another unless you're sure it can.
As others have said, no USB drives as I've had a failure with one too hence me now having a NAS. I know you said you're allergic to spending money but saving up for one was the best thing I've bought for a while.
USB is slow, and will kill the drive if used 24/7. I know it's hard to expend too much money on a dedicated box for storage but long term you'll thank yourself for investing.
3TB of data I lost and paying to recover that data? Dammit, hindsight is a bitch