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