LaCie LAC9000298 La Cie Rugged Mini USB 3.0 / USB 2.0 External Hard Drive (9000298)
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AI Verdict
This 2TB USB 3.0 external hard drive offers up to 130MB/s transfers and resists drops up to 4 feet, dust, and rain, ideal for portable data backup.
This drive is a strong fit for users prioritizing physical durability and portability for their data. Its 2TB capacity and USB 3.0 speeds are practical for backing up large files on the go, especially with its resistance to drops, dust, and rain.
If you need faster transfers for large files or demanding applications, look for an external SSD with USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt connectivity.
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Pros
- 2TB storage capacity provides ample space for large file collections.
- USB 3.0 interface enables data transfers up to 130MB/s.
- Shock, dust, and rain resistance protects against drops up to 4 feet.
- Password protection software is built into the drive for data security.
- Crush resistance up to one ton provides additional physical protection.
Cons
- Requires reformatting for full compatibility with Mac operating systems.
- The included Adobe Creative Cloud membership expired January 31, 2020.
- The rubber sleeve can attract dust and lint easily.
- It is water resistant to rain, but not fully waterproof for submersion.
Dimension Scores
The advertised 130MB/s transfer speed is typical for a portable hard disk drive, not matching faster SSD alternatives.
The drive offers shock, dust, and rain resistance, withstanding drops up to 4 feet and one ton of crush resistance, providing above-average physical protection for an HDD.
2TB provides a substantial amount of storage for portable use, suitable for large media files and backups.
It connects via USB 2.0/3.0 to laptops and PCs, but requires reformatting for Mac, which adds an extra step for some users.
Best For
- Photographers and videographers needing field backup for media files.
- Students or professionals transporting data between multiple locations.
- Users requiring data protection against accidental drops or splashes.
- Anyone needing a portable backup solution for Windows or Mac (after reformat).
Not Recommended For
- Users needing primary, high-speed storage for demanding video editing or gaming.
- Individuals who require native plug-and-play compatibility with Mac without reformatting.
- Those seeking a truly waterproof storage device for submersion.
Watch Out For
- Some users report the drive failing after a fall, despite its rugged claims.
- Mac users occasionally experience issues with the drive not responding or freezing after connection.
- The rubber casing, while protective, can attract noticeable dust and lint.
- Actual transfer speeds can be lower than the advertised 130MB/s depending on the host system and file types.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B00IRV005E |
| Brand | Seagate |
| Color | orange |
| Series | LaCie Rugged Mini |
| Language | English |
| Batteries | 1 AAAA batteries required. |
| Hard Drive | 2 TB usb 3 |
| Item Weight | 9.9 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Seagate |
| Special Feature | Portable |
| Operating System | Latest version of Windows® 7 or later / Mac OS® X 10.5 or later (LaCie Private-Public software requires Mac Intel® processor) |
| Flash Memory Size | 2 |
| Hardware Platform | Mac, PC |
| Installation Type | External Hard Drive |
| Item model number | LAC9000298 |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop |
| Product Dimensions | 5.3 x 3.4 x 0.75 inches |
| Hard Disk Interface | USB 2.0/3.0 |
| Hard Drive Interface | USB 2.0/3.0 |
| Hard Disk Description | usb 3 |
| Hard Disk Form Factor | 3.5 Inches |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 5.3 x 3.4 x 0.75 inches |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Number of USB 2.0 Ports | 1 |
| Digital Storage Capacity | 2 TB |
| Hard Drive Rotational Speed | 5400 RPM |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
What Buyers Say
Many users find the LaCie Rugged Mini lives up to its name, appreciating its ability to withstand drops and splashes, making it a trusted companion for travel and field work. However, some Mac users report frustrating issues with the drive freezing or not being recognized, even after reformatting. The bright orange rubber bumper, while protective, is noted for attracting dust and lint. While generally praised for its durability, a few reports indicate that even 'rugged' drives can fail after unexpected tumbles.
“I dropped this thing off my desk twice already and it's still kicking, but my Mac keeps freezing when I try to transfer big video files, so annoying!”
Common Praise
- The orange rubber bumper makes it easy to locate the drive in a bag.
- It feels sturdy and capable of handling rough treatment.
- Compact size makes it easy to carry without adding bulk.
- Offers ample 2TB storage capacity for photos, videos, and backups.
- Fast file transfers with USB 3.0 when connected to compatible ports.
Common Complaints
- The rubber sleeve attracts dust and lint easily.
- Some users experienced drive failure after a fall, despite the rugged design.
- Mac users report issues with the drive freezing or not being properly detected.
- It's water resistant, but not fully waterproof for submersion.
- Some feel it's overpriced for an HDD, with the ruggedness being a marketing point.
Ownership Tips
- The bright orange color is genuinely helpful for spotting it in a cluttered bag.
- The USB cable can be quite short, potentially requiring a longer replacement for flexibility.
- Safely ejecting the drive is crucial to prevent data corruption, especially with portable HDDs.
- While rugged, it's still a mechanical drive; extreme temperatures or rough handling during operation should be avoided.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this drive compatible with Mac?
Yes, it is compatible with Mac, but it requires reformatting the drive before use.
Does the LaCie Rugged Mini require external power?
No, the drive is bus-powered, drawing power directly from the USB connection to your computer.
How fast are the data transfers?
It uses USB 3.0 and can achieve transfer speeds up to 130MB/s, which is about four times faster than USB 2.0.
Is the drive waterproof?
It is water resistant, specifically rain resistant, but it is not designed to be submerged in water.
What kind of cable is included?
The drive typically includes a USB 3.0 cable (USB-A to Micro-B USB 3.0) for connecting to computers.
What is the actual size of the drive?
Despite some specifications, it's described as compact and portable, suggesting a 2.5-inch internal drive within a rugged enclosure, small enough to fit in a pocket.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at portable hard drives like this, you're balancing capacity, speed, and physical protection. This LaCie drive leans heavily into durability, meaning it's built to take a beating from drops and splashes, which is a big deal if you're often on the move. However, because it's a traditional hard disk drive (HDD), its speed won't match solid-state drives (SSDs), so manage your expectations for how quickly large files will move.
capacity
This is how much data the drive can hold, like a digital backpack. 2TB means you can store thousands of photos, hours of video, or countless documents.
interface
This refers to the connection type, like the highway for your data. USB 3.0 is a faster highway than USB 2.0, letting your files travel quicker, but it's still not as fast as newer USB standards or Thunderbolt.
drive_type
This tells you if it's a traditional spinning hard disk (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD). HDDs like this one offer more storage for your money but are slower and more sensitive to physical shock when operating than SSDs.
Alternatives
If you need significantly faster transfer speeds for editing directly from the drive, look for external SSDs with USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt 3/4 interfaces. If maximum capacity for archival storage is your priority and portability isn't as critical, consider larger desktop HDDs.
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