iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3: 30-second review

The iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3 is essentially an easy way to keep all your digital data safe, whether personal or for business, albeit at a cost. The design is reminiscent of a traditional safe keypad, and the way it works isn't too far removed. Once set up with admin and user passcodes or passwords, you can be assured that the only way back into the ample 2TB of storage is with the correct codes. 

The passcode protection is at the hardware level, and iStorage has built the small drive to withstand brute force attempts to access it, both physically and through software. If someone does find a way to hack their way in, then there are options to erase all data if unauthorized access is attempted, essentially meaning that this drive offers one of the most secure data drive options out there.

When it comes to software protection, the drive is safeguarded by AES 256-bit encryption with FIPS 140-3 validation. This security is coupled with a rugged, tamper-proof casing that will help to ensure your data stays safe, although it's also worth pointing out the while this case is tough it isn't waterproof.

Reflecting the drive's security, the build and design all reflect the nature of this SSD. However, in terms of size, it's only slightly larger than other 2TB portable SSDs on the market and shares a similar USB 3.2 Gen 1 connection. This connection enables quoted data transfer speeds of up to 448MB/s, and in our benchmarking tests, the read speeds we registered weren't too far off that mark.

While speed is important, with the drive enabling access at speeds in excess of 400MB/s through our test, this is relatively slow for an SSD, however, that's more than enough for most documents you want to keep secure. With a decent 2TB of storage space, there should be ample room for a business's corporate documents and any other digital data that needs to be kept secure, and there are options for a larger capacity if your budget allows.

It may not be the best portable SSD we've tested when it comes to speeds, but whether it's for business, personal use, or as a drive you'll be taking with you but need to keep secure, the iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3 is one of the smallest and most secure options out there.

iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3: Price & availability

The iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3 (2TB SSD) is priced at £660. It is available directly from iStorage and includes a semi-hard protective case, USB Type-C and Type-A cables, and a 3-year warranty. The drive is available for purchase in several storage capacities.

• Score: 4/5

iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3: Design & build

The DiskAshur Pro 3's build quality and design completely reflect its intended use as a secure portable SSD. First, the drive's size, at 131 x 83mm x 20.8mm and weighing 257g, makes it ultra-portable and easy to stash in a physical safe if needed. Like other portable SSDs, its small size and weight make it easy to carry, adding little bulk or weight to any bag you might be using. The actual size of the drive is marginally larger than a standard 2.5" portable SSD, although only by a bit, due to the added protection of the case.

Aside from the slight increase in physical dimensions, the main feature that sets this drive apart is the keypad on the front, which has a standard 12-key layout with numbers 0 to 9, along with a shift and lock key. Different key combinations essentially enable you to unlock and access various functions and features.

Alongside the keys are three LED lights that let you gauge exactly what is happening and enable you to set admin and user passwords. It's a very analog approach and enables the drive to be completely independent from the need for a computer, aside from the power draw to the connected device until it's unlocked.

The only other visible physical features are the USB Type-C port on the back, which handles all data transfer, and a Kensington lock, which enables it to be physically secured to a desk with an appropriate cable.

Internally, the drive's construction ensures durability with a tamper-proof epoxy enclosure that prevents physical access, essentially if you try to break it apart the epoxy, as it's removed will inevitably damage the drive. The design also features IP56 protection, which means that drive is dust- and water-resistant, allowing it to withstand more than most.

• Design & build: 4.5/5

iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3: Features

The DiskAshur Pro 3 is designed with security as its primary focus, and every feature of this compact portable SSD reflects that. Starting with the physical keypad on the front, it's designed to allow you to enter PINs ranging from 8 to 64 digits in length to gain access. Through the setup process, which is carried out using combinations of button presses, you can protect against brute force lockouts and set self-destruct PINs. You can also enable backlit illumination for the keypad to use in low-light environments. Additionally, the drive allows for different PIN setups, including admin, user, and one-time pass, offering plenty of flexibility in how the drive can be used.

The drive's physical features showcase its security credentials, which are backed by its successful evaluation and issuance of CAVP certificates, which demonstrate compliance with the latest U.S. government computer security standards for cryptographic modules. These CAVP certificates include Library—Certificate A5501, EC Library—Certificate A5502, RNG Library—Certificate A5500, and Entropy Source Certificate E198. Essentially, it meets very high-security standards, including those government accreditations. Further adding to its secure credentials, it features military-grade FIPS PUB 197 validated AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption.

In addition to the technology that protects the data, the drive itself is encased in a durable epoxy resin layer, which makes it nearly impossible to remove the drive without breaking it apart. A feature that will appeal to many is the ability to format the drive in native file formats for different systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, as well as others. You can also configure the drive to be bootable for Linux or other operating systems. To ensure maximum compatibility, the drive comes with a USB Type-C connector, and the protective semi-hard case includes both Type-C to Type-C and Type-C to Type-A cables.

While the drive isn't built for speed, the USB Type-C connection ensures decent transfer rates, with speeds up to 448MB/s. Once set up, there are plenty of options and protections, including a brute force hack defence mechanism that allows 10 consecutive failed attempts to access the drive before all data is erased. For access, you can set up user, admin, and one-time access, with the option for a self-destruct PIN that will erase the full content of the drive if entered.

Looking at a few of the more physical features of the drive, it includes a backlit keypad that can be switched on or off as needed. The keys themselves are made from ultra-robust, wear-resistant epoxy, ensuring their longevity. It's also worth highlighting that while the drive is rugged, it isn't waterproof but is IP65 certified for dust and water resistance.

When it comes to more advanced features, the drive can be configured to be write-protected, allowing the contents to be viewed but not altered or removed. Additionally, you have three encryption options: AES-ECB 256-bit, AES-CTS 256-bit (default), and AES-CBC 256-bit.

• Features 4.5/5

iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3: Performance

The main feature of this drive is security, but speed is also of interest. With SSD technology and an ultrafast USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 connection, the speeds are relatively decent, though not groundbreaking. In our benchmarking tests, the drive consistently produced results around 400MB/s read and 250MB/s write. While these speeds would be restrictive for any creative use as a working drive, the fact that it offers a huge 2TB of storage means that, if you have client work that needs to be kept secure, it will still back up your content considerably faster than an HDD, even if it takes a bit longer than a standard SSD.

During testing, the drive was carried around for a week in a backpack along with other gear, though always in the protective semi-hard case included with the purchase. The combination of the case, the robust build of the drive, and the solid-state nature of the SSD meant that this test for durability was handled by the drive with ease, as was leaving it on a table during a light rain shower.

When it comes to write speeds, and considering that this is primarily a secure drive rather than one built for outright performance, transfer rates of close to 400MB/s are decent enough as a storage device and good for a bit of light HD video editing if needed. 

On a PC laptop, the drive's performance is solid with no issues. However, on a Mac, the drive can randomly disconnect. In the box, there is a set of instructions that explain how to work around this issue. While for the most part this works, with Apple Silicon and macOS Sequoia, the workaround sometimes required a restart after each time the drive was connected.

The main focus of this drive is security, and in that regard, it is impressive. While for single users the keypad access is simple (essentially functioning like a digital safe), one of the most interesting features is the ability to set up multiple users and one-time users.

This is done through a series of button presses, with confirmation provided by the three lights illuminating in different ways. You follow the instructions, wait for the lights, and proceed. Through various keystroke combinations, you can set up initial admin access, user access, and even one-time access.

This is great for businesses that need to provide sensitive data to their workforce. An IT department can set up admin and user access, and the drive can then be sent out with the content for employees to use. You can, if needed, make the content read-only, so the user can access the content but cannot update it, which is another handy feature.

Additionally, the drive allows you to program one-time access, where a PIN is created and the user can access the drive only once before the PIN becomes void and the drive locks again. It's all very secure, and as long as you take your time to follow the instructions, it's relatively easy to set up.

In terms of security, the way the drive works is quite interesting. Due to the encryption, even when connected, the drive won't do anything. You can check the attached drives, and your computer will show nothing is attach—even if you attempt to access the drive using software designed to decrypt encrypted drives, it remains invisible. Only when the correct code is entered on the keypad does the drive unlock and connect, making it incredibly secure and well beyond any software solution that we have access to.

While the drive may not be the fastest SSD on the market, at 400MB/s it's still fast enough for most tasks. So if you need to use the drive for additional storage for image or video editing, or even for running apps, it will enable you to do so.

In terms of real-world performance, the drive is impressive—fast considering its intended use and, most importantly, exceptionally secure.

• Performance: 4/5

Should you buy the iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3?

The iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3 is completely focused on keeping your data safe, and while the drive isn't the fastest in terms of SSD performance, it's still fast enough for most processes. The security level is impressive, and in testing with all the software we had at our disposal, including EaseUS, the drive remained locked and impenetrable. The fact that it doesn't even mount or attempt to mount before the correct code has been entered makes the usual inroads that software allows void. This truly highlights that this is an ultra-secure drive with military-grade encryption, PIN authentication, and a tamper-resistant design. Of course, this level of security comes at a cost, but if you need your files to be secure, then this is the price you'll have to pay.

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For more storage, we reviewed the best external hard drives and best external hard drive for Mac.

Lexar Professional Go SL400: 30-second review

We first caught sight of the Lexar Professional Go (or Lexar Professional Go SL400 portable SSD with Hub, to give the device it's full title) back at IFA 2024. After a brief demonstration, and a short hands-on, we were impressed with the overall feel and operation of the device. 

And while it's chiefly designed for videographers and content creators using the the iPhone 15, it's fully compatible with any USB-C phone (we know, we checked). But, how does it stack up under our full and extensive testing? We put it to the test. 

At first, this small modular device just looks like any other mobile SSD that enables you to unlock your iPhone's full potential to film the ProRes video format. But it actually enables far more than just boosting storage by enabling video accessories to be directly attached. Something that will appeal to professional users.

The difference between this and our usual pick of the best portable SSDs is the hub section. Essentially, this device is made up of three integral parts: the main SSD, hub, and the small coupling. There's an extra USB cable along with a case in the box. While the drive can be used as a standard plug-and-play expansion drive, it really comes into its own when all units are used together.

In the box, there are two coupling connectors, which essentially enable you to use the SL400 Go with an iPhone case. To set-up the small USB coupling of choice can be plugged into the base of the phone, followed by the hub and then the SSD. It all sits neatly and snugly at the back of the phone, with the best fit being when the phone has its own case. The other coupling can be used when you want to mount the SSD elsewhere and enables you to connect to a USB cable. While that would be it for most SSDs here, the hub then offers two additional USB Type-C ports for attaching other devices, such as a RODE Go, DJI Mic 2 or power supply, before everything is connected to a larger rig.

The design is solid when used with a larger rig system and will appeal to all content creators looking for a pro-level video option that remains small and lightweight. At present, there is no other system that does this. While other SSDs cater to the additional storage needs, no other system also enables a power bank and mic to be attached to enhance audio quality as well as boost battery life.

As a professional solution for iPhone videography, the SL400 Go Portable SSD with Hub is on another level compared to anything else currently available. It's one of those products you'll only realise you need once you start to film and evaluate your video's production values. On its own, it offers greater flexibility, but when partnered with a wireless mic, lights, and power, it will help improve your iPhone video productions to a professional level.

Lexar Professional Go SL400: Price & availability

The Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD is available from retailers and can be purchased directly through the Lexar website, Amazon.com, and many other retail sites.

• Score: 4/5

Lexar Professional Go SL400: Design & build

The Lexar Professional Go with Hub has a quirky design with two parts, with increased functionality as the SSD and Hub are combined. Straight out of the box, the small SSD can be plugged directly into the base of your iPhone and will be instantly recognised and available for use. As is normal with any SSD or mic system that plugs into the base of an iPhone, any existing protective case needs to be removed first. This functionality is much like the bulk of other mobile SSDs on the market, but the size of the SSD does already set it apart, especially considering the huge 2TB capacity.

Where this small device really comes into its own is when it's coupled with the hub. The hub is a slightly larger block that uses a small adapter, which plugs directly into the hub, the SSD and then into the base of your iPhone. This is, again, a bit of a bolt-on, but it all starts to make sense as part of a far larger and more professional rig.

The size and weight of the modules are compact, with the SSD measuring 25.5 x 43.5 x 8.25mm and weighing 13g, while the slightly larger hub comes in at 43 x 43.5 x 8.25mm and weighs 23g. Altogether, along with the coupling, the entire unit weighs 42g with the SSD's rubber case and 38g without. It's worth keeping the rubber case on as it provides a better grip against the phone when everything is in position.

The design means that the hub and SSD are held in place by the USB port, and while this might not seem like the best solution, Lexar has included two small USB couplings that enable you to fit the hub snugly or connect in a USB cable when the SSD is mounted elsewhere. In this review, we used a Mous iPhone 15 case, and when in place, the hub sits snugly and securely. Once the SSD is plugged in, it creates a solid connection that makes everything feel firmly together when handheld.

• Design & build: 4/5

Lexar Professional Go SL400: Features

This device is essentially a very compact SSD with a USB Type-C hub that has been designed modularly so you can adapt it to suit your filming needs. The SSD is available in 1TB or 2TB versions, and once connected, it will enable you to unlock and record ProRes-quality video footage.

While the SSD is small, it's also designed to be robust with IP65 certification, which means it's both water- and dust-resistant. The drive isn't just tough against environmental elements but also comes with 256-AES encryption software to keep the files on the drive secure.

When it comes to connecting to the iPhone, it utilises the standard USB Type-C connector, which enables ultra-fast transfer rates with quoted read speeds of up to 1050MB/s and write speeds of up to 1000MB/s. While the device has been designed for use with Apple iPhones, it's also equally compatible with Android devices as long as they're USB Type-C (3.0 or above) and the phone has OTG functionality with a USB load capacity of above 4.5W.

The hub is where the feature set really gets interesting, with four USB ports—one for the SSD, one for the coupling to the phone and the other two spare for connecting other devices. This includes up to a 30W charging rate if you need longer shooting times.

• Features: 5/5

Lexar Professional Go SL400: Performance

Setting up the SL400 Go Portable SSD with Hub is straightforward, as Lexar has provided everything you need in a soft zip case. This case is a nice touch as it keeps everything together and makes it ultra-portable and easy to slip into a backpack easily.

Assembling the components and connecting to the phone takes less than a minute, with the coupling and hub plugging in along with the SSD. During testing, we generally used the SL400 Go Portable SSD with Hub with the iPhone 15 Pro, using a Mous case. This ensured that the SSD and Hub sat flush against the case, although we found it odd that the SSD features a rubber case while the hub does not.

In use, with or without the rubber case the units sat against the phone snuggly, with the rubber case just giving a little additional purchase when handheld. The connection between the phone and the unit is solely through the USB Type-C connection, and this can feel like a weak point.

In use, it's apparent that the Lexar drive and hub have been designed as a professional piece of kit, and with the right accessories, such as cage, mics, light and power, it certainly feels like a far more substantial rig than the phone alone. Adding in a Neewer cage, a small LED light, and a Rode Go Mic alongside the SL400 Go Portable SSD with Hub provided an instant boost in quality—the phone goes from being something you can snapshot a quick recording with to something altogether far more professional.

Then, there's the potential to add in a wireless mic system, such as the DJI Mic 2. With the hub in place, this can easily be wired in, and if an additional battery is needed, it can also be added, along with the mic. 

Overall, the performance and speed of the small SL400 Go Portable SSD with Hub are impressive, and the fact that it offers so much additional potential makes it a valuable accessory for anyone looking to boost the quality of their video.

• Performance: 4/5

Should you buy the Lexar Professional Go SL400?

The Lexar Professional Go with Hub enables you to shoot professional-grade video on your iPhone and unlocks features like ProRes video recording. The hub also enables you to connect pro-level microphones and other accessories that essentially transform your iPhone into a fully-fledged production rig. 

If you need your iPhone's video to take a step up for business and professional video, then this is a great solution and simple to use. Ultimately, there's no other mobile SSD that packs in a hub that enables this level of expandability and performance. If you need your iPhone for professional video, then the Lexar SL400 Go Portable SSD with Hub is an essential choice. 

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For more storage solutions, we reviewed the best external hard drives

Orico Mecha 2TB portable SSD: 30-second review

The Orico Mecha 2TB portable SSD is a portable hard drive designed to withstand conditions that would cause most other portable SSDs to fail. The drive's overall aesthetic reflects its robust nature, and its triple defence shield ensures that it's waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof, all helping to protect Yata even in harsh environments. 

We've tested out the best portable SSDs and the best rugged hard drives, so we were keen to get our hands on the Orico Mecha to find out what it offers. Performance-wise, the SSD supports speeds up to 20Gbps, with read speeds up to 2050MB/s and write speeds up to 1800MB/s. This makes it suitable for transferring large files, such as video and image files quickly, and can be used as a working drive to both store and edit creative work. As well as the tough outer casing the internals feature advanced electronics with a high-performance SSD chip that features temperature lock technology that will prevent the drive from overheating, and sure enough through the test for short on-site edits of 4K video from the Canon EOS R5 C the drive handle the footage and edit with ease.

Compatibility is worth mentioning with the drive supporting USB 3.2 Gen2x2 protocol, which instantly makes it compatible with various devices, including laptops, desktops, and smartphones. In the box is a 2-in-1 data cable (C to C/A) maximising the options for connection. One issue to note is that if your computer is USB 3.2 Gen 1 or uses Thunderbolt 3 or 4, then the maximum transfer rates will be reduced to that of USB 3.2 Gen 1 which is around 1000MB/s. 

While the price is relatively high for a 2TB drive, the fact that it's quite so robust and, with the right connection, offers outstanding speeds, this is a great option, especially for creative professionals such as photographers and videographers. 

Orico Mecha 2TB portable SSD: Price & availability

The Orico Mecha 2TB portable SSD is priced at £121/$149 and can be purchased from online retailers like eBay and Amazon.

• Score: 4/5

Orico Mecha 2TB portable SSD: Design & build

Orico's SSD features a decidedly outdoorsy and robust design, which reflects its intended use as a portable SSD that can be used in tough environments. The exterior of the drive features a high-strength alloy and silicone shell that you can feel with, providing excellent protection against being dropped, sudden shocks and being bashed around in a kit bag. What's more, with the USB Type-C cable removed, there's a silicon plug that protects the port making the drive completely water-resistant. While Orico states that the drive is waterproof, there is no IP rating for the drive, so although it is well made and seemingly sealed, it's worth taking care over water ingress. 

However, the design is robust, and with the hanging loop, the drive can easily be tethered to the inside of a backpack so it can be located when needed. To connect to a computer, a USB cable with a C to adapter is included. This can be swapped and changed, but it is of high quality and will help to maximise those transfer speeds with the right equipment. 

Overall, the materials used in the construction are all of high quality, and while it may not have any official ratings for water or dust ingress, the drive feels reassuringly durable. 

• Design & build: 4/5

Orico Mecha 2TB portable SSD: Features

This SSD is aimed at professionals working in the field, and in environments that would test most portable SSDs to the point of destruction. Taking a look at the features, it's possible to see just how robust this drive appears to be and raises a high standard for real-world tests. Firstly, the outer shell, made from alloy and silicon, is well-made and finished and feels incredibly durable. There's nothing lightweight or flimsy about the build, and unlike some other metal enclosures, this drive feels solid with no flex.

The alloy case will inevitably aid with the cooling of the drive when put under load editing video and images, but to ensure that the drive doesn't overheat and burn out it features a high-performance chip with temperature lock technology

In order to reach impressive transfer speeds, a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 connection is utilised, which has wide compatibility with various devices. It's worth checking to see if your hardware has this exact configuration, which is mainstream. However, Mac users, along with some high end laptops, may find that the performance will be throttled due to the backward compatibility of thunderbolt ports to USB 3.2 Gen2x1 rather than USB 3.2 Gen2x2.

• Features 4/5

Orico Mecha 2TB portable SSD: Performance

The stated performance is impressive with the quoted speeds highlighting rates of up to 20Gbps. However, tested on a MacBook Pro 16-inch M1 (still one of the best MacBook Pro laptops for our money), those transfer rates looked more like read 989MB/s and Write 919MB/s; this is due to the downgrade in performance for the Gen2x2 connection going through the Thunderbolt 4 ports. However, switching over to one of the best mini PCs - the Intel NUC 9 Ghost Canyon with a PCIe USB 3.2 Gen2x2 card - performance rates were far more impressive. 

In continuous test, the drive was put under strain for several hours in an environment of around 20ºC. The drive continued to perform extremely well, with the transfer speeds keeping up the pace with little overall effect on the performance. 

Switching the testing from the studio to the field, the drive was first used as a backup drive for images and video during a day's shoot. Due to the Thunderbolt to USB 3.2 Gen2x2 downgrade, transfer speeds were slightly slower than expected. However, at nearly 1000MB/s, those speeds were still impressive, enabling 200GB of data to transfer from an OWC CFExpress card in 5 minutes and 37 seconds.

Doing the same on the Intel NUC 9 Ghost Canyon sees a leap in performance, although, in the field, the computers are connected to a Bluetti AC180 with a compact monitor to monitor the download speeds. Here again, with the Thunderbolt 3 connection for the OWC CFExpress to the ORICO Mecha Portable SSD 2TB, the transfer rate is more impressive at 2 minutes 30 seconds.

Switching the drive's use from storage to editing in Final Cut Pro X on the Mac and Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve on the Intel NUC 9, the drive is able to keep up with the demands at an impressive rate. Despite being used as a working drive, the enclosure stays impressively cool, and intermittently checking the transfer rates with AJA System Test Lite shows little, if any, drop in performance. 

With the transfer test completed, it was time to put the drive through a few additional tests, including being dropped from a height and sprayed with water. In both tests, the drive, although cosmetically affected with some slight wear and tear, continued to work well. Overall, it was an impressive all-around performance.

• Performance: 4/5

Should I buy the Orico Mecha 2TB portable SSD?

The Orico Mecha SSD is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a durable, high-performance storage solution that can be used for storage or as a portable working drive. The rugged build quality with the strong alloy to protect the delicate electronics surrounded by the silicon provides an impressive amount of protection, and throughout the test, the high-speed capabilities impressed and proved that this is a great drive for a variety of environments and uses, from the office to the great outdoors. 

Looking at a few points about the drive that are worth considering, while the drive is impressively robust it doesn't have any official certification or rating so some care will need to be taken when using it in adverse conditions, then there's the USB 3.2 Gen2x2 issue, especially for Mac users, although you'll have a fast drive it will be about half of its overall potential. Still, although the price might be a consideration, the SSD's performance and durability do justify the investment.

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For more speed, we checked out the fastest external SSDs available right now

PNY RP60 portable SSD: 30-second review

The PNY RP60 Portable SSD 1TB sports a sleek, matte black rubberized finish with a subtle PNY logo, enhancing its aesthetic and functionality. This finish not only offers protection against the elements with its IP65 rating—making it essentially shower-proof and resilient against harsh dust storms—but also ensures stability. Its non-slip surface allows it to be securely placed on a car or van bonnet, or taped to a tripod or rig without slipping. The drive's size and design make it an ideal solution for expanding the video storage of iPhones and other smartphones, especially useful when filming, as it can be easily attached to the back of the phone.

A standout feature here is the flat USB cable, reminiscent of a computer data ribbon, which facilitates neat routing around any attached equipment. Additionally, the small carabiner loop at one corner allows the drive to be hooked into a bag or case, securing it conveniently and making it easily accessible within a camera bag's internal loops.

Having tested out plenty of the best portable SSDs, performance-wise, the drive holds up solidly when connected to a true USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port with speeds that just exceed those stated by PNY. However, Mac users with Thunderbolt 4 ports will find the performance downgraded, averaging closer to 1000MB/s rather than the expected 1800MB/s. Nevertheless, these speeds are sufficient for editing tasks, including handling 4K Log3 footage from devices like the Canon EOS R5 C and meeting the demands of any of the best video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve.

PNY RP60 portable SSD: Price & availability

The PNY RP60 portable SSD 1TB is widely available at most electronics and photography stores, such as Adorama and B&H Photo, for around $99. There is also a 2TB version of the drive available for $179.

• Score: 4/5

PNY RP60 portable SSD: Design & build

The PNY RP60 Portable SSD 1TB, despite its IP65 certification and drop-proof rating of 3m, isn't marketed as a tough drive. When compared to rugged drives designed to withstand intense physical abuse, the RP60 is clearly a lighter option with added protection rather than built for extreme durability.

Weighing just 55g, the drive feels lightweight. Its rubberized casing is well-enclosed, with the only opening being the USB Type-C port at the base, which is protectively sealed by an attached rubber cover. Although there's a slight flexibility at the top of the case when squeezed, the build quality seems sufficiently robust for both indoor and outdoor use.

The rubberized casing enhances the drive's durability, and being an SSD with no moving parts inherently makes it more robust than traditional mechanical HDDs. However, the rubber port cover's attachment is a weak point—it detaches easily and is tricky to reinsert, likely necessitating reinforcement with tape in field use.

The inclusion of a flat cable is advantageous, allowing for easy mounting by laying it flat against the side of the drive. The cable's connection to the port is secure, enabling the drive to be suspended by the cable without undue stress due to the drive being lightweight. An improvement could be made to reinforce the cable connection, as seen in other models.

The carabiner loop on the top edge is a practical addition, mirroring a trend in drive design. This feature allows the drive to be easily hooked onto a bag loop or securely attached to equipment, a belt, or other items, making it particularly useful in a professional field environment. This simple yet vital feature significantly enhances the drive's utility.

• Design & build: 4/5

PNY RP60 portable SSD: Features

The PNY RP60 1TB SSD boasts an impressive mix of speed, durability, and compatibility, featuring high-speed data transfers with sequential read and write speeds reaching up to 2,000 MB/s and 1,800 MB/s respectively. 

Designed to withstand the rigours of active use, the RP60 incorporates durable materials and design elements that offer protection against water and dust, meet IP65 standards, and can withstand accidental drops from heights up to 3 meters (approximately 9.8 feet).

Despite its design can hardly be considered one of the best rugged hard drives out there. The RP60 remains lightweight at 55g and includes an integrated loop, making it easy to slide into a pocket or securely clip onto a backpack or camera bag.

The RP60 is engineered for compatibility with a broad range of devices, including the Apple iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, iPads, Android smartphones, tablets, as well as laptops, desktops, and gaming consoles, facilitated by its standard USB Type-C connection.

A standout feature of the RP60 is the inclusion of Acronis True Image Data Protection software, providing an additional layer of security. This backup software, intended for PC use, offers backup and data recovery services to help safeguard your data, ensuring it is easily restorable in case of data loss.

• Features 4/5

PNY RP60 portable SSD: Performance

The PNY RP60's design focuses on durability, tailored to the needs of those working in the field. Its rubberized exterior, flat cable, and loop all contribute to its robustness. In our tests, we explored the drive's potential as a storage solution for image and video files, utilizing Acronis True Image for data backup in the studio.

Initial impressions are positive; the rubberized finish ensures the drive stays securely in place whether it's on a desk, a car bonnet, or a rock. Its compact size and weight, combined with a velcro attachment, allow for easy mounting on the back of a monitor, reducing strain on the cable during movement.

A key feature is the flat cable, which is particularly useful when the drive is connected to a rig as a direct storage device for video file recording, compatible with cameras like the Blackmagic 6K Pro and iPhone 15 Pro. The drive maintains the required transfer rates and integrates neatly, allowing the cable to be taped down for a more streamlined setup.

When tested with one what's still of the best MacBook Pro laptops around - the 16-inch M1 model, the RP60 performed well with applications like Photoshop and DaVinci Resolve, handling footage playback without lag. However, after extensive use in video editing, the drive exhibited some heat-related slowdowns, with write speeds dropping to about 450MB/s in the AJA System Test Light after two hours of editing 4K video.

Benchmark tests on both Mac and PC systems revealed a difference in performance levels. The Mac maxed out with read speeds around 1100MB/s and write speeds peaking at approximately 950MB/s—fast, but not as fast as advertised.

Switching over to an Intel NUC 9 Extreme Ghost Canyon with a PCIe USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 card installed the speed accelerated, maxing out with Crystal Disk Mark at 2067.91MB/s read and 1818.60MB/s write, just exceeding the stated speeds from PNY.

Editing footage from the drive in DaVinci Resolve on the PC highlighted the potential of this drive, you just need to be aware that to make the most of the performance you need to be using a dedicated USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port and not a backward compatible Thunderbolt 3 or 4.

• Performance: 4/5

Should you buy the PNY RP60 portable SSD?

The PNY RP60 Portable SSD 1TB is an excellent choice for professionals and adventurers seeking reliable, rugged storage for on-the-go use. With its high-speed data transfer capabilities, robust build quality, and broad compatibility with various devices, it meets the needs of those looking for a versatile storage solution. In real-world tests, the drive's performance for high-demand applications was excellent, making it a great choice for outdoor or challenging environments where durability is essential.

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Lexar SL500: 30-second review

The Lexar SL500 is part of a new generation of ultra-slim portable SSDs that traditionally appeal to videographers and imaging professionals needing to travel light while maintaining sufficient capacity and speed to edit images and video files on the move. Lexar, a company with a long history in the photographic sector, is known for its flash memory cards, which are popular among professionals. 

This SSD stands out as one of the slimmest and most lightweight options available, and for video editors and photographers pairing it with any of the best video editing laptops or best laptops for photo editing, the small form factor and weight are significant advantages. The key selling point is its lightweight design, and the metal casing, while stylish, is reassuringly tough. 

This makes it an excellent choice for linking to cameras that need additional storage, such as the Blackmagic 6K. In an interesting twist, it can also be linked in with the iPhone 15 Pro and Max and used to store Apple Pro Res recording at up to 4K 60FPS—this takes iPhone filmmaking to a new and interesting level. 

When used on a PC, the speeds with the write cache switched off are impressive. We've tested loads of the best portable SSDs, and and even when reformatted for macOS, the transfer speeds here settle around the 1000MB/s mark. Under sustained load, such as editing 4K video, the drive keeps up with the pace, and the transfer speeds ensure smooth editing with plenty of headroom and storage. Heat is well managed, and considering the compact size, this drive delivers impressive performance.

Lexar SL500: Price & availability

The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD is widely available from retailers and can be purchased directly through the Lexar website, Amazon.com, and many other retail sites.

• Score: 3.5/5

Lexar SL500: Design & build

At 4.8mm thick, the main body of the slim portable SSD features a solid aluminium unibody design, giving the drive a smooth, minimalist look and enhancing its durability. The drive includes only a single USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C connector, with a short cable provided in the box. Due to its size and weight, the drive may not initially sit flat on the desktop, with the cable's strength elevating one end. However, a bit of wiggling and rebending the cable can allow the drive to lay flush. 

The lightweight design means that despite some curvature in the drive's design, velcro can easily be attached, enabling the drive to be affixed to the back of, say, the best video editing monitor. This setup offers a convenient way to move around with your laptop with the drive attached without the concern of it dangling freely from the cable and becoming detached. The slight curve of the casing is also practical, making it easy to grip and remove the drive when needed. 

This SSD is one of the smallest portable SSDs available. It measures 85mm x 54mm x 7.8mm, with the thinnest part curving down to 4.8mm, and weighs 43g (excluding the cable). Impressively, the drive comes in various capacities, including 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, and a large 4TB option.

• Design & build: 4/5

Lexar SL500: Performance

What really stands out about this portable SSD is its size. It can slip into a backpack or jacket's side pocket without adding weight or bulk, although the relatively short cable must still be managed. Once connected, the Type-C cable easily links the drive to a Mac or PC, and the included Lexar DataShield software enables password security, a prudent feature for a portable device that might be lost or stolen.

The drive's out-of-the-box transfer speeds are impressive, and it can be reformatted from the ultra-compatible ExFAT to a more secure format for Mac or PC. The drive's speed is notable, with excellent performance in both reading and writing. With write caching turned on (the default setting), transfer speeds reach around 1,000MB/s, below the advertised speeds, but a significant increase is observed once write caching is switched off.

For general file storage, the drive's performance is outstanding, with a 140GB file transfer completed in about three minutes on the Mac, during which the drive remained cool to the touch. For video and image editing tasks in Photoshop, no issues were encountered when handling large files from cameras like the Canon R5 C and Sony A7 IV. In more demanding video editing scenarios with Final Cut Pro X, the drive maintained impressive performance, keeping up with the application's demands even though it did not match the advertised speed. During these intensive tasks, the drive's temperature increased but not excessively.

One of the most interesting features of this drive is that it is fully compatible with Apple iPhone 15 Pro and Max. This means that you can plug it directly into the USB Type-C port to record Apple Pro Res at up to 4K 60FPS. This feature enables far greater flexibility for iPhone film makers when it comes to grading in post with higher-quality video and far greater potential for the footage. Given this compatibility with Apple devices, it may be one of the best external hard drives for Mac users.

Overall, this compact storage solution delivers outstanding performance. Its small size makes it convenient and easy to mount onto the back of a laptop screen without concern.

• Performance: 4/5

Should you buy the Lexar SL500?

As an all-around portable SSD, its small size and variety of capacity options make this a discreet and easy choice. The minimal size and weight will appeal broadly, as it takes up very little room in the pocket of a jacket or bag, making it an ideal partner for imaging professionals.

The cable's weight influences its position on a desktop, but with a little Velcro, this drive can be perfectly attached to the back of a monitor. This feature is particularly beneficial for those on the move, working in various locations like trains, coffee shops, or hotdesking around an office, as it ensures the safety of the driver's connection during movement.

Although small pen drives with large capacity options are available, this dedicated drive offers sustained performance, making it an ideal choice for activities that require fast transfer speeds and reliable access to data. It is particularly suited for those in the video sector who demand reliable file access and need storage that is safe, secure, and lightweight enough to be easily transported in a busy environment without excessive concern about cables disconnecting.

iPhone 15 Pro and Max users will also benefit from the connection to greater storage when shooting video in the Apple ProRes format. This is a superb, slightly unique feature. There's the issue of how to attach the drive comfortably, but ultimately, it pushes the function and features of the iPhone 15 Pro even further. In real terms, the video that you can store on an iPhone with around 70GB of storage goes from 18 minutes to 1,183 minutes with the 2TB drive attached.

Overall, considering the capacity, size, and speed, this is an outstanding SSD that will suit many uses but will find particular appeal with photographers and videographers. 

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