LaCie Rugged USB 3.0 500 GB

LaCie Rugged... the 4th! After the USB, then USB 2.0 and eSATA versions, here's the latest in the Rugged series: the USB 3.0!

Specifications:

This new version retains the advantages and disadvantages of the previous models:

The cable, specific to each version of the Rugged, only measures 45 cm here. This isn't long enough to connect it easily to a computer under your desk but is easier to put away again when you want to put it in your bag.
The internal drive is a Hitachi Travelstar 7K500 (HTS725050A9A364), which runs at 7200 rpm and has 16 MB of cache, all on an SATA-2 interface.

Performance

Faithful to the Rugged tradition, the USB 3.0 model doesn't disappoint when it comes to speeds. Our tests place it not far behind the eSATA version. The test for large files and for sequential writes even make it one of the fastest drives around currently, rivalling with 3.5-inch format models such as the Verbatim Quad-Interface External Hard Drive.
 

Access times are however mediocre, which isn't a big problem for a drive designed for storage and transport of files:
 

Even though it isn't as tough as with internal drives, the PCMark Vantage index places the Rugged USB 3.0 well. Its score isn't exceptional in comparison to those for SSDs or better HDDs but remains good for an external drive. It could therefore occaisonally do more than simply store files:
 

Transport

The other side of the coin in terms of the Rugged's resistance to water, bangs etc is that it is less easy to transport than smaller USB drives. Volume here is not far off 360 cm3 while small drives are often less than 150 cm3. Obviously without the generous rubber protection of the Rugged USB 3.0. The Rugged also weighs 270g against 180g for the featherweights in the category. All the same 270g is easy to transport but less than most external drives in the 2.5 inch format.