The ADATA SC735 is a game-changer in the world of external SSDs, but is it a compromise-free dream come true? The quest for the perfect balance between size, speed, and convenience is a challenging one, and ADATA aims to conquer it with this tiny yet mighty device.
But first, let's address the elephant in the room: price. Starting at $189.99 for 1TB, it's not the most budget-friendly option, especially with the current NAND flash shortage driving SSD prices skyward. Industry analysts predict this trend will continue until at least 2027, so catching a price drop might be a long shot.
Design-wise, the SC735 is a featherweight marvel, weighing under half an ounce and measuring just 0.5 by 1.1 by 2.2 inches. It's available in two color schemes, 'blue' and 'gray', though the blue version is predominantly black with blue stripes, and the gray version has dark gray stripes. The textured plastic enclosure feels less robust than metal but meets the MIL-STD-810G 516.6 impact-resistance standard, surviving drops from up. And here's a unique feature: a built-in USB Type-C connector, eliminating the need for a cable.
But here's where it gets interesting: the SC735 supports direct iPhone video recording, a boon for creators and travelers. Imagine shooting videos and storing them directly on the drive, especially useful for Apple's ProRes format, which gobbles up iPhone storage. It's compatible with iPhones from the iPhone 15 onwards, ensuring a seamless connection.
However, the SC735 isn't without its trade-offs. It lacks hardware-based encryption, a feature found in top external drives like the Crucial X9 Pro, which also boasts better ruggedization and capacities up to 4TB. ADATA also doesn't include backup software for this model, which might be a deal-breaker for some.
When it comes to performance, the SC735 holds its own. Our tests on a PC Labs storage testbed revealed Windows results typical of USB 3.2 Gen 2 drives, with middle-of-the-pack scores in Crystal DiskMark sequential read and write tests. On a Mac, it achieved the highest write speed in the Blackmagic Disk Speed benchmark but fell short in read speed.
The SC735 is a compelling choice for those seeking a compact, high-performance SSD, but it's not the only player in the game. Competitors like the Seagate Ultra Compact SSD and the Lexar Professional Go SSD with Hub offer additional features such as comprehensive software, ruggedization, and encryption. The Corsair EX400U even supports the latest USB4 standard and includes a MagSafe connector for direct iPhone attachment.
So, is the ADATA SC735 the ultimate external SSD? It's a strong contender, but the competition is fierce. What do you think? Is the SC735's unique design and iPhone compatibility enough to sway your decision, or do you prioritize other features? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
