Pros: - Paired with a decent CPU, can push an array of SSDs far past most other controllers. - A relatively cheap way to get into 8 ports of 6 GB/s SAS/SATA.

Cons: - Runs kind of hot when you pack two in a case right next to each other (8-12W each, depending on usage). - Doesn't come with any cables so you'll need to add $50-70 to actually use it.

Overall Review: I bought both this and the kit that comes with the two cables. Buy this version if you plan to use an enclosure that doesn't use molded data & power cables.

Pros: - Paired with a decent CPU, can push an array of SSDs far past most other controllers. - A relatively cheap way to get into 8 ports of 6 GB/s SAS/SATA.

Cons: - Included cables have molded power & data and can't be used with most enclosures. - Runs kind of hot when you pack two in a case right next to each other (8-12W each, depending on usage).

Overall Review: The kit version of this card included two breakout cables which have molded power & data plugs that can't be used with most enclosures. This isn't readily apparent from the product images (though you can see it if you look REAL close). Unless you're using this card without a backplane, get the cheaper version that comes without cables and buy your cables separately.

Pros: 1m long is perfect for a full tower or a deep 4U rackmount case.

Cons: 1m long is WAY too long for a mid-tower.

Overall Review: I bought some of these when building a storage server (15 drives in SuperMicro 5-in-3 enclosures) out of a CoolerMaster mid-tower case. For some reason I figured I'd need 1m cables rather than 0.5m. I was wrong. Anyway, -1 egg because they're really firm and can't be easily bent to hide the extra cable. If you order, make sure you actually do need a cable 1m long.