just some guy

Why not split the difference and do both. Hdd for storage and SSD for services/containers. To help with the power load/performance hit I’d recommend using a usb to sata adapter that has external power. Overall though it sounds like a micro optipl x would be great for you. They’re cheap, more powerful, but still sip power, and usually can fit nvme and 2.5" drives together.

Is the Hba in a traditional server case with lots of airflow? My 9207-8i displayed a similar issue bc it didn’t have enough direct cooling (it’s not in a traditional server/case.) it would never show more than 2 drives at a time and they would often vanish. Once I mounted a fan to it, the Hba has been stable and showing every drive I attach

I looked these up too after seeing them mentioned in an interview. Definitely vaporware. Reviews are not good. It’s very limited in its capabilities vs an actual laptop, build quality is meh at best, and the glasses are not very accommodating to the wearer.

Neat premise, not there yet.

You might try https://www.howtoeatmangoes.com/