LaCie’s Rugged SSD Gets a Major Speed Upgrade
▼ Summary
– Seagate has released the updated LaCie Rugged SSD4, which features design tweaks and significantly improved transfer speeds.
– The drive is available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities, with prices starting at $134.99 and going up to $479.99.
– It has a brushed aluminum finish, a centered USB-C port, and supports speeds up to 40Gbps with 4,000MB/s read and 3,000MB/s write.
– The SSD4 is not as fast as the Rugged SSD Pro5 but is sufficient for capturing ProRes 4K footage at 120fps on a USB-C iPhone.
– It has an IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance and an orange bumper that protects against drops from nearly 10 feet.
For professionals and creatives who demand both speed and durability from their storage solutions, the latest release from LaCie delivers a significant performance leap. The new LaCie Rugged SSD4 builds on the brand’s legacy of robust design while dramatically enhancing data transfer capabilities, making it a compelling upgrade for photographers, videographers, and field-based users.
Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB configurations, the drive retains the iconic orange protective bumper that has become synonymous with the Rugged series. While the physical dimensions remain unchanged, the exterior now sports a refined brushed aluminum finish. A more centered USB-C port replaces the slightly off-center placement of the previous model, contributing to a cleaner aesthetic.
Where the Rugged SSD4 truly shines is in its performance. It now supports transfer speeds of up to 40Gbps, with read speeds reaching 4,000MB/s and write speeds hitting 3,000MB/s. That’s double the maximum read performance of its predecessor, the Rugged Mini SSD, which capped out at 2,000MB/s. Though not as blisteringly fast as the flagship Rugged SSD Pro5 introduced earlier this year, this model is more than capable of handling demanding workflows, including direct recording of ProRes 4K footage at 120fps when connected to a compatible USB-C iPhone.
Durability remains a cornerstone of the product’s identity. The drive carries an IP54 rating, offering protection against dust ingress and water splashes. It’s important to note, however, that the device is not fully waterproof—submersion should be avoided. The shock-absorbing orange shell provides defense against drops from heights of up to 10 feet, though users are still advised to handle the drive with care.
Priced at $134.99 for the 1TB model, $249.99 for 2TB, and $479.99 for the 4TB variant, the LaCie Rugged SSD4 balances premium build quality with impressive speed, positioning itself as a reliable companion for those working in unpredictable environments.
(Source: The Verge)
