Hard drive with password protection - 3 models
In this practical tip, we present three hard drive models with password protection. If you want to use your storage medium on the go, use it to secure your data against unwanted access.
WD My Passport Ultra: External hard drive with password protection
The Western Digital hard drive models with password protection start at around 57 euros (as of May 2015).
- The cheapest variant has 500 GB of memory, which you can connect to your computer via USB 3.0.
- The storage medium is NTFS formatted and thus initially designed for Windows computers. If you are using Mac OS, you can format the hard drive. With the included software you can set up automatic backups on the hard disk or directly in your Dropbox.
- The external hard drive also includes hardware encryption and password protection.
- With a size of 2.5 inches, the hard drive weighs 200 grams.
Password protection and shockproof: Freecom Toughdrive Sport
The price of Freecom Toughdrive Sport is just under 120 euros for 750 GB.
- You can save up to 750 GB of data via USB 2.0.
- The external hard drive is only suitable for Windows.
- In addition to password protection, the storage medium can withstand drops of up to 2 meters on a flat surface without damage. It is particularly suitable for mobile use.
- The Freecom Toughdrive Sport weighs around 60 grams more at the same size as the WD model.
Canvio Slim: password-protected hard disk from Toshiba
The model from Toshiba costs almost 55 euros upwards with a storage capacity of 500 GB.
- Depending on the type of hard disk, you can save between 500 GB and two TB using USB 3.0.
- You can use the Toshiba external hard drive on Windows and Mac.
- Automatic backups simplify your backup. You can also access the device wirelessly when it is connected to the WLAN.
- The 2.5-inch hard drive weighs around 127 grams.
Conclusion: comparing hard drives with password protection
With all three models, you can create secure backups of your files thanks to password protection. Even in the event of loss, you do not have to worry about data theft. Nevertheless, the hard drives differ depending on the requirements:
- The two models from Toshiba and Western Digital can also be used under Mac OS X. This is not possible with the Freecom Toughdrive Sport. Owners of an iMac or MacBook should therefore use one of these models.
- If you carry your hard drive with you all the time, you won't have to worry about damage with the Freecom Toughdrive Sport. The hard drive can withstand falls from tables and chairs - the board could only get away from two meters.
- If you have ample Dropbox storage, the software of the WD My Password Ultra could be interesting. This creates automatic data backups in the cloud storage.
Alternatively, we will explain how to secure any external hard drives with a password.