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We liked
The simplicity of the SanDisk Connect Wireless Media Drive is refreshing. The device has similar features to its cousin the Connect Wireless Flash Drive, but boasts an improved web and app interface. The Wi-Fi is also very simple but reliable. It maintained connection throughout all of my tests – no drops, no issues, nothing.
The Lithium battery is amazing. I left the Wireless Media Drive on overnight for over 12 hours connected to my Wireless network and it is still on. That's really impressive. I think that this SanDisk gadget would be great for a long drive on holiday – pop the kids in the back seats and have this in the armrest or glove compartment, and have everyone zone out for up to eight hours.
This device is very compact, and you can turn it on, put it in your pocket, and be a walking streaming content platform. I love the portability of this gadget, and top that off with all of the other features and it's a great deal.
We disliked
There is no HDMI port on the Wireless Media Drive. I think it would be cool if you could stream content to a TV directly from this device, and it's a shame this trick has been missed by SanDisk.
Just like its cousin Flash Drive, the SanDisk Media Drive cannot be connected to via Wi-Fi while it is plugged into the USB port of a computer. This is just annoying because it would be nice to be able to transfer files onto the SanDisk drive while simultaneously being able to stream that content to other devices. Also, why not enable this so you can charge the device and use it at the same time?
Final verdict
The Connect Wireless Media Drive is a great device that fixes some of the issues we had with its cousin, the Connect Wireless Flash Drive. The longevity of the battery on this little pocket-based content server is so efficient that it really lends itself to a lot of real-world scenarios. The wireless capability is also strong and reliable, and we experienced no connection issues or drops.
All in all, the SanDisk Connect Wireless Media Drive is a gadget that might not get a lot of use, but will pull through in situations where you can't access Wi-Fi. I think this device is perfect for people with kids but will also be appreciated by the business traveller who is always on planes. There's no need to load up your mobile device anymore, just carry the Wireless Media Drive with you at all times and you will be a happy camper – or indeed flyer.
