Seagate One Touch, 2TB, Password activated hardware encryption, portable external hard drive, portable external hard drive, PC, Notebook & Mac, USB 3.0, Black (STKY2000400)
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AI Verdict
This is a 2TB mechanical hard drive with USB 3.0 connectivity and password-activated hardware encryption for basic backups.
This drive offers 2TB of mechanical storage with USB 3.0 and hardware encryption, making it suitable for basic data backups and users who value the bundled software. However, recurring user complaints about reliability, software glitches, and slower-than-expected speeds suggest it's not a universal recommendation.
If you need faster transfer speeds and greater reliability, look for an external solid-state drive (SSD) with a USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt interface.
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Pros
- Offers 2TB of storage capacity for files and photos.
- Features password-activated AES-256 hardware encryption for data security.
- Connects via USB 3.0, providing plug-and-play functionality with Windows, Mac, and Chromebook systems.
- Includes a one-year Mylio Create subscription and a four-month Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan membership.
- Does not require an external power source, drawing power directly from the USB port.
- Comes with Rescue Data Recovery Services for peace of mind.
Cons
- Utilizes a mechanical hard disk, resulting in slower data transfer speeds compared to solid-state drives.
- Requires a separate adapter for use with USB-C computers.
- Reformatting may be necessary for compatibility with Apple Time Machine.
- Users report issues with the Seagate Toolkit software for password protection, including 'Unlocker device not found' errors.
- Some users experienced the drive operating at USB 2.0 speeds on USB 3.0 ports.
- Reports of the drive overheating during use, raising concerns about its longevity.
Dimension Scores
As a mechanical hard disk drive with USB 3.0, it offers slower transfer rates compared to solid-state drives, with some users reporting speeds as low as USB 2.0.
Multiple user reports describe drives failing to be detected, experiencing USB 2.0 speeds on USB 3.0 ports, and dying completely within a short period.
2TB provides ample space for general document, photo, and video backups, fitting typical user needs for an entry-level external drive.
It offers broad plug-and-play compatibility with Windows, Mac, and Chromebook systems via USB 3.0, though USB-C requires an adapter and Linux compatibility is limited.
Best For
- Individuals needing 2TB of storage for general document, photo, and video backups.
- Users who want basic hardware encryption for their stored data.
- Windows, Mac, or Chromebook users seeking a simple, bus-powered backup solution.
- Those who can benefit from the included Mylio Create and Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan subscriptions.
Not Recommended For
- Users requiring fast data transfer speeds for large files or frequent access.
- Individuals with only USB-C ports who prefer not to purchase an additional adapter.
- Linux users, as limited compatibility has been reported.
- Anyone needing highly robust, mission-critical data storage due to reported reliability concerns.
Watch Out For
- The drive has been reported to fail detection by devices, sometimes requiring multiple replacements.
- Some users encountered 'Unlocker device not found' errors with the password protection software, preventing data access.
- Reports indicate the drive can run at USB 2.0 speeds even when connected to USB 3.0 ports.
- Overheating issues have been noted during operation, potentially impacting the drive's lifespan.
- Mandatory registration with personal information is required to activate the encryption feature.
- Poor packaging has been reported, leading to potential damage during shipping.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B094QZLJQ6 |
| Brand | Seagate |
| Color | HDD |
| Series | STKY2000400 |
| Batteries | 1 AAAA batteries required. |
| Hard Drive | 2 TB Mechanical Hard Disk |
| Item Weight | 5.2 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Seagate |
| Special Feature | Password Protection |
| Flash Memory Size | 2 TB |
| Hardware Platform | Mac, PC |
| Installation Type | External Hard Drive |
| Item model number | STKY2000400 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop, Laptop |
| Product Dimensions | 4.52 x 3.07 x 0.46 inches |
| Hard Disk Interface | USB 3.0 |
| Computer Memory Type | DIMM |
| Hard Drive Interface | USB 3.0 |
| Hard Disk Description | Mechanical Hard Disk |
| Hard Disk Form Factor | 2.5 Inches |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 4.52 x 3.07 x 0.46 inches |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Digital Storage Capacity | 2 TB |
| Hard Drive Rotational Speed | 7200 |
| Standing screen display size | 7 Inches |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
What Buyers Say
The most striking finding from user feedback is the recurring concern about this drive's reliability, with multiple reports of units failing to be recognized or dying prematurely. Many users also struggled with the Seagate Toolkit software for password protection, encountering errors like 'Unlocker device not found'. While the 2TB capacity and included software trials are appreciated, the mechanical drive's speed limitations and reported overheating issues are consistent points of frustration.
“Honestly, I bought this for the password thing and it barely works, then the drive just stopped showing up on my laptop after like 6 months, lost a bunch of vacation photos, super frustrating.”
Common Praise
- Compact size and portability make it easy to carry around.
- Simple plug-and-play setup for Windows, Mac, and Chromebook systems.
- Includes complimentary subscriptions to Mylio Create and Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan.
- Does not require an external power adapter, powered directly by USB.
- Offers 2TB of storage, which is sufficient for many users' backup needs.
Common Complaints
- Drives failing to be detected by computers or dying after a few months of use.
- Password protection software (Seagate Toolkit) often malfunctions, preventing access to data.
- Experiencing USB 2.0 transfer speeds even when connected to USB 3.0 ports.
- The drive gets noticeably hot during operation, raising concerns about its lifespan.
- Poor packaging has led to damaged drives upon arrival for some buyers.
- Mandatory registration is required to use the encryption feature, which some users dislike.
Ownership Tips
- The drive can get quite warm to the touch during extended transfer sessions.
- The included USB cable is short, which can be inconvenient for some setups.
- The brushed metal enclosure can show fingerprints easily.
- The password protection software often requires reinstallation or troubleshooting after system updates.
- Actual transfer speeds can fluctuate significantly, sometimes feeling much slower than expected for USB 3.0.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this external hard drive require an external power source?
No, the Seagate One Touch is a bus-powered device, meaning it draws all the necessary power directly from your computer's USB Type-A port.
Is it compatible with USB-C computers?
It connects via USB 3.0 (Type-A); for USB-C computers, you will need to purchase a separate adapter.
Can I use it with Apple Time Machine?
Yes, it is compatible with Mac systems, but reformatting the drive may be required for use with Time Machine.
What software subscriptions are included?
The drive includes a one-year complimentary subscription to Mylio Create and a four-month membership to the Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan.
How do I activate the password protection?
To use the password protection feature, you must download Seagate's Toolkit software, though some users have reported difficulties with this process.
Buying Guide
When looking at external drives, you need to decide if you prioritize speed or capacity for your budget. Mechanical drives like this one offer more storage for less money but are slower and more fragile. Consider how often you'll move large files and if you need robust physical protection. Hardware encryption is a plus for security, but check user reviews on how well the software actually works.
Capacity (2 TB)
Interface (USB 3.0)
Drive Type (Mechanical Hard Disk)
Alternatives
If this drive doesn't fit your needs, look for external drives with a solid-state drive (SSD) type for faster speeds and better durability, and consider a USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt interface for quicker data transfers.
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