LaCie Rugged Mini SSD: A Compact Yet Speedy Storage Solution

Introduction to the Rugged Mini SSD

Let's start by taking a closer look at the LaCie Rugged Mini SSD, a portable storage solution that combines durability, speed, and capacity.

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Capacities and Connectivity

The Rugged Mini SSD is available in four storage capacities: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB. What sets this drive apart is its 20 GB/s USB 3.2 Gen2 2x2 interface, promising swift data transfer rates. It ships with a short removable USB-C cable for easy connectivity and offers a three-year warranty, which includes data recovery services (availability may vary by country). In terms of pricing, the Rugged Mini SSD is competitive within the LaCie product lineup, making it an attractive choice for users seeking both performance and rugged durability. For example, the 2TB model, which we tested, is priced at $190.

Speed and SLC Cache

The Rugged Mini SSD proves to be impressively fast in most testing scenarios. However, it's important to note that its performance can vary depending on usage patterns. Our Iometer testing revealed that this drive exhibits slower write speeds once its fast SLC (Single-Level Cell) cache is exhausted. In our tests with an empty 2TB drive, this occurred after approximately 600GB of sustained writes. This characteristic makes the Rugged Mini SSD better suited for users who prioritize quick access and data retrieval over sustained high-capacity writing tasks.

Considerations for Heavy Write Tasks

For users who frequently transfer large video files from fast internal drives to external storage, it's essential to be mindful of the Rugged Mini SSD's behavior under heavy write loads. In such scenarios, where sustained write speeds are crucial, alternatives like the Crucial X10 Pro may be more suitable. The Crucial X10 Pro, categorized as one of the best external SSDs, offers competitive pricing and significantly better sustained write speeds.

Familiar Design with a Removable Twist

If you've encountered a LaCie Rugged drive in the past, the Rugged Mini SSD's design will instantly strike a chord. It proudly flaunts the same iconic orange rubber bumper and silver metal shell that have been synonymous with LaCie drives since 2005. However, there is a notable difference in this model – the rubber cap protecting the USB-C port is not permanently attached. While this design choice enhances portability, it may also raise concerns about the cap being easily misplaced.

Final Verdict: A Compact Powerhouse with Some Caveats

In conclusion, the LaCie Rugged Mini SSD embodies the essence of the Rugged series – it's compact, durable, and showcases a distinctive design. Its USB 3.2 Gen2 2x2 interface ensures rapid data transfer, making it an ideal choice for users on the move who require speedy access to their files. The competitive pricing, especially for the 2TB model, enhances its appeal.

However, it's essential to consider your specific usage patterns before investing in the Rugged Mini SSD. While it excels in most scenarios, it exhibits slower write speeds once its SLC cache is depleted. This characteristic may not align with the needs of users who frequently engage in sustained high-capacity writing tasks. In such cases, exploring alternatives like the Crucial X10 Pro, with its superior sustained write speeds, may be a more prudent choice.

Ultimately, the LaCie Rugged Mini SSD strikes a balance between speed and durability, catering to users seeking a reliable portable storage solution. Its iconic design and competitive pricing make it a noteworthy contender in the world of external SSDs, provided that its performance characteristics align with your specific requirements.