Ok, so here's the problem: I want to build a RPi 4 machine for gaming. From what I've read, if I want to attach a 2.5" HDD via usb 3.0 to the Pi 4, it will have to be powered somehow, since the Pi won't be able to power it - at least, not reliably. Now, I'm aware there are several options for this: Y-shaped USB 3.0 cable, powered Sata to USB 3.0 adapters, powered USB hubs, etc. All of these are fine, but they require that 2 power supplies be connected at all times.
I would like to build a case for all this, with a single power supply, for convenience and portability, since I'll probably be lending it a lot to my fiancee.
How can I go about it?
I've been thinking about using a powered hub of some kind and installing it within the case, but I don't know if this is feasible: I've read there are sometimes problems with this kind of hubs, "backpowering", USB-C implementation, etc. I also know NOTHING about electricity, so I actually don't know what "5.1V / 3.0A DC output" means, for instance. In general, I'm not aware of what adapters or options I can use or not.
That's about it. Any help or insight is highly appreciated. Cheers.