Get ready to dive into the world of external SSDs with a bang! Introducing the ADATA SD820, a tiny yet mighty storage solution that's got some serious style and substance. But here's where it gets controversial: this little powerhouse packs a punch, but at a price that might make you do a double take.
The ADATA SD820 is a sleek and ruggedized external SSD, available in capacities up to a whopping 4TB. With its compact design and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connectivity, it offers lightning-fast speeds, making it a dream for field workers and outdoor enthusiasts. But its resemblance to ADATA's DashDrive Durable HD710 hard drive is where the similarities end.
Design-wise, the SD820 is a stunner. It measures just 0.5 by 1.5 by 2.8 inches, making it incredibly portable. The blue version, in particular, is a head-turner with its rubbery blue diagonal stripes, creating a unique and grippy texture. The black version, with its dark gray stripes, offers a more subtle yet equally stylish option.
Performance-wise, the SD820 is a beast. It boasts sequential read and write speeds of up to 2,000MBps, thanks to its USB-C port supporting the USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 spec. However, to unlock these speeds, you'll need a compatible computer or a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 expansion card. Otherwise, you'll be limited to the still-impressive USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds.
And this is the part most people miss: the SD820 is not just fast, it's also rugged. With an IP68 ingress protection rating, it's certified as dustproof and waterproof up to a depth of 3 feet for 30 minutes. That's a level of durability that's hard to come by in the world of external drives. It's also proven to withstand drops of up to 1.22 meters without a scratch.
But here's the catch: the SD820 comes with a premium price tag. As of now, it's available for pre-order at prices that are on the higher end compared to other USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 SSDs in the same capacity range. The industry-wide shortage of NAND flash memory chips has driven up SSD prices, and manufacturers are shifting their focus to meet the demand for AI.
The ADATA SD820 is backed by a five-year warranty, a standard coverage length for SSDs. However, it lacks hardware-based AES encryption and doesn't include backup software.
In terms of performance, the SD820 shines. It delivered impressive results in our PCMark and 3DMark tests, ranking among the top USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 drives we've reviewed.
So, is the ADATA SD820 worth the premium price? That's a question for you, the discerning consumer. With its unique design, rugged durability, and zippy performance, it certainly has its allure. But in a market where prices are on the rise, is it the best value for your money? That's for you to decide.
What do you think? Is the ADATA SD820 a must-have for your storage needs, or are there better options out there? Let's discuss in the comments!
