You can actually do that between computers that run Windows and Mac OS X operating systems. This also means that when you have two adapters, you can just leave them attached to different computers and move the drive back and forth without having to deal with the cables. This is a great bonus for those who work with a lot of internal drives, such as system builders or technicians, as it spares them from having to invest in another docking solution, like the Ineo USB 3.0 Dock or the Vantec NexStar. This flexible design means that you can use the adapter part of the GoFlex with any internal SATA hard drive, of both desktop and laptop designs.

The drive part of the 4TB GoFlex Desk also works with the adapter from other GoFlex Desk drives. If you want to use it with other connection types, such as eSATA or FireWire, you can purchase additional adapters, which cost around $30 each. It works with both USB 3.0 and previous USB standards.

The 4TB GoFlex Desk comes with a USB 3.0 adapter and a standard Mini-USB 3.0 cable. The adapter part has a male SATA connector, and these two parts can be snapped into each other to form the GoFlex external hard drive. At the bottom, the drive's housing has a small opening to reveal the internal hard drive's standard SATA female connector. The hard drive is basically just the internal hard drive housed in a plastic chassis. The drive comes in two parts: the hard drive and the adapter. Other than the new look that has less rounded corners and the 4TB internal drive on the inside, the 4TB GoFlex Desk is very much the same as the FreeAgent GoFlex Desk. Microsoft Windows (XP, Vista, 7), Mac OS 10.5 or higher USB 3.0 with optional swappable adapter for other connection types.

Seagate goflex desk for mac review