Seagate Ultra Compact Review: Portable Storage Tested
▼ Summary
– The Seagate Ultra Compact is a pocket-sized USB SSD offering 1TB or 2TB storage with fast transfer speeds, comparable in size to a pack of gum.
– It features a metal casing, drop resistance, and IP54 ingress protection, along with a rubber sheath for grip and dust protection.
– The drive plugs directly into USB-C ports without a cable, enhancing portability but sticking out from devices, which may be inconvenient.
– It delivers strong write speeds (1,000 MB/s) but has mid-tier read speeds, making it less ideal for minimizing game load times.
– Despite minor drawbacks, its compact design, durability, and convenience make it a great choice for portable storage needs.
Portable storage solutions have evolved dramatically, moving far beyond the days of bulky external hard drives and sluggish USB 2.0 flash drives. The Seagate Ultra Compact SSD redefines convenience with its pocket-friendly design and impressive performance, packing up to 2TB of storage into a device no larger than a pack of gum.
This isn’t just another portable drive, it’s a sleek, metal-clad SSD that combines durability with speed. Measuring just 70 x 20 x 12.5 mm, it’s compact enough to slip into any pocket, yet robust enough to survive accidental drops thanks to its 3-meter drop resistance and IP54 rating against dust and splashes. The included rubber sleeve adds grip and protects the USB-C port from debris, though the drive’s ridged top acts as a subtle heatsink, keeping temperatures in check even during heavy use.
Unlike many external SSDs that rely on separate cables, the Ultra Compact plugs directly into USB-C ports, eliminating the hassle of carrying extra accessories. This makes it ideal for quick transfers between PCs, smartphones, or tablets, though its rigid design means it protrudes noticeably when plugged in.
Performance-wise, Seagate promises 1,000 MB/s transfer speeds, and real-world testing confirms it delivers, especially for sequential writes, where it outperforms competitors like the Crucial X9. However, random read speeds are more modest, placing it mid-tier for tasks like game loading. In benchmarks, it consistently stayed cool under 47°C, a notable advantage over plastic-cased alternatives that heat up significantly.
Who should buy it? If portability and convenience top your list, the Ultra Compact is a stellar choice. Its tiny footprint and cable-free design make it perfect for travelers or anyone needing quick access to large files. However, if raw speed is your priority, higher-end SSDs with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support will outpace it.
For gamers, the drive handles Steam libraries well, though slightly longer load times may be noticeable compared to faster alternatives. Still, its durability, compact size, and plug-and-play simplicity make it an excellent companion for on-the-go storage needs. Whether you’re backing up photos or carrying game installs, the Seagate Ultra Compact SSD proves that big performance can come in small packages.
(Source: PC Gamer)
