Seagate Backup Plus: Portable Storage Solutions for the Modern User
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The rise of lightning-fast M.2 NVMe SSDs in laptops has revolutionized performance, but often at the expense of storage capacity. Even high-end gaming laptops often max out at 1TB, while many mid-range models offer a meager 256GB. This limited space can be a significant bottleneck for users dealing with increasingly large files and media. Seagate addresses this challenge with the Backup Plus line of portable hard drives, offering substantial storage in various form factors to suit diverse needs. This review explores the features and performance of these drives, focusing on their practicality for today’s users.
Seagate Backup Plus – Overview
Seagate Backup Plus: Compact, Versatile, and High-Capacity
The Seagate Backup Plus series represents a fundamental and versatile range of portable storage solutions. Similar to Western Digital’s My Passport line, Seagate offers three distinct versions: Portable, Slim, and Ultra Touch, each catering to specific user preferences.
The Portable Option: Maximizing Storage
The Backup Plus Portable prioritizes storage capacity. Despite maintaining a standard 2.5-inch form factor, it accommodates drives up to a generous 5TB, making it ideal for users needing ample space. This increased capacity does come at the cost of a slightly thicker profile compared to the Slim and Ultra Touch models.
Seagate Backup Plus Portable
Seagate Backup Plus Portable – Side View
Seagate Backup Plus Portable – Back View
The Slim and Ultra Touch: Portability and Style
Both the Slim and Ultra Touch versions prioritize a slim profile, sacrificing some storage capacity with a maximum of 2TB. These models are perfect for users who value portability and aesthetics. The 1TB version, reviewed here, provides a balance between storage and portability.
Design and Features: Tailored for Every User
Each Backup Plus model boasts unique design elements reflecting its intended use.
Seagate Backup Plus – Design Comparison
The Portable and Slim versions showcase a brushed aluminum finish with various color options. A soft, impact-absorbing plastic rim protects the internal hard drive from bumps and drops. Seagate’s subtle color palette accentuates the premium aluminum feel, offering a more refined aesthetic.
Seagate Backup Plus Ultra Touch
The Ultra Touch distinguishes itself with a sleek, woven fabric enclosure, providing a touch of sophistication and water resistance. Its slim profile rivals the Slim model while adding a touch of premium style.
Seagate Backup Plus – Connectivity
All three models utilize the standard USB 3.0 interface. The Ultra Touch also includes a USB Type-C adapter, enhancing compatibility with Ultrabooks, Macbooks, and Android devices.
Seagate Backup Plus Ultra Touch – Security
Furthermore, the Ultra Touch offers hardware encryption with 256-bit AES encryption, ensuring data security through password protection.
Performance: Reliable and Efficient
Benchmarking with CrystalDiskMark 7 reveals respectable performance for all three models. While not as fast as SSD-based external drives like the Seagate BarraCuda Fast SSD or KINGMAX KE31, the Backup Plus drives offer solid read and write speeds, outperforming some HDD-based competitors.
Seagate Backup Plus – Benchmark Results
Seagate Backup Plus – Benchmark Comparison
This performance makes them suitable for running games directly from the drive, although loading times might be slightly longer than with internal drives. They offer a valuable solution for gamers with high-performance laptops limited by storage capacity.
Seagate’s Toolkit software simplifies data backups with one-click functionality, enhancing user convenience.
Conclusion: A Comprehensive Storage Solution
The Seagate Backup Plus series offers a compelling combination of storage capacity, design, and performance. Each model caters to different user needs, providing ample space, portability, and security features. These drives are a practical solution for anyone seeking to expand their storage options in a stylish and efficient package.
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