Seagate One Touch, 5TB, Password activated hardware encryption, portable external hard drive, portable external hard drive, PC, Notebook & Mac, USB 3.0, Black (STKZ5000400)
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AI Verdict
A 5TB mechanical hard drive with USB 3.0 and hardware encryption, for backing up large file collections across Windows, Mac, and Chromebook.
This 5TB mechanical drive is a situational fit because its large capacity and hardware encryption are compelling for archival and secure backup needs across various operating systems. However, its mechanical nature means slower transfer speeds compared to SSDs, and there are user reports of encryption issues and drive failures that temper its appeal for mission-critical data.
If you need faster data access and higher durability, look for a portable SSD with at least 1TB capacity and a USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface.
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Pros
- Offers 5TB of storage capacity, providing ample space for extensive file collections.
- Features password-activated AES 256 hardware encryption to secure your data.
- Includes Seagate's Rescue Data Recovery Services for three years, offering a safety net against data loss.
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Chromebook laptops via USB 3.0, with backward compatibility for USB 2.0.
- The enclosure features a minimalist brushed metal finish.
- Weighs approximately 268 grams, making it relatively light for its capacity.
Cons
- Reported data transfer speeds are around 90-95 Mbps for large files, which is typical for a 5400 RPM mechanical drive but slower than solid-state alternatives.
- Some users have experienced issues with the password encryption feature not functioning as advertised.
- Requires a separate adapter for direct connection to USB-C computers.
- The warranty return process may require users to pay for shipping faulty units back to Seagate.
- Several users have reported drive failures and data loss, despite the included recovery services.
Dimension Scores
Reported transfer speeds of 90-95 Mbps for large files are typical for a 5400 RPM HDD but are significantly slower than modern SSDs.
Despite including Rescue Data Recovery Services, multiple user complaints detail drive failures and data loss, raising concerns about long-term dependability.
The 5TB capacity is among the largest available for portable 2.5-inch mechanical drives, offering extensive storage for its form factor.
It offers broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, and Chromebook via USB 3.0, but requires an adapter for USB-C devices.
Best For
- Archiving large video, photo, or document libraries that don't require constant, rapid access.
- Creating local backups for multiple Windows, Mac, or Chromebook devices.
- Users needing hardware-level encryption for sensitive files on a budget.
- Students or professionals needing to transport large amounts of data between different computer systems.
Not Recommended For
- Anyone needing fast file transfers for video editing or large application storage.
- Users who prioritize maximum durability and shock resistance over capacity.
- Those who frequently connect to USB-C only devices without wanting to carry an adapter.
Watch Out For
- The password protection feature has been reported by some users to not function correctly, leading to concerns about data security.
- Several users have experienced drive failures and complete data loss, with one user reporting a new drive erasing data after a restart.
- Transferring a 40GB folder can take around 7 minutes, resulting in speeds of 90-95 Mbps, which can be slow for large data sets.
- Seagate's warranty process may require you to pay for shipping the faulty drive back, adding to the cost of a replacement.
- While advertised as 5TB, the usable space on Windows systems may be closer to 4.5-4.7 TB.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B094R15DYV |
| Brand | Seagate |
| Color | HDD |
| Series | STKZ5000400 |
| Hard Drive | 5 TB Mechanical Hard Disk |
| Item Weight | 9.5 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Seagate |
| Special Feature | Portable |
| Flash Memory Size | 5 TB |
| Hardware Platform | Mac, PC |
| Installation Type | Plug In |
| Item model number | STKZ5000400 |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop |
| Product Dimensions | 4.54 x 3.15 x 0.82 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 | 4.54 x 3.15 x 0.82 inches |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Digital Storage Capacity | 5 TB |
| Hard Drive Rotational Speed | 7200 |
| Standing screen display size | 7 Inches |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
What Buyers Say
The biggest head-scratcher with this drive is the mixed bag of reliability and encryption issues reported by users. While many find it easy to use and appreciate the large 5TB capacity for backups, there are concerning accounts of data loss and the password feature not working as expected. The included data recovery service is a nice perk, but it doesn't negate the frustration of a drive failing or encryption not engaging properly. Transfer speeds are what you'd expect from a mechanical drive, so don't anticipate SSD-level performance.
“Dude, I bought this 5TB drive for all my photos, and it just wiped itself after a week, like, what even is the point of the encryption if it just dies? So mad right now.”
Common Praise
- The 5TB storage capacity is ample for backing up extensive digital libraries.
- It's generally easy to set up and use, often described as plug-and-play.
- The drive's brushed metal enclosure is a visually appealing design element.
- Compatibility with Windows, Mac, and Chromebook systems is a frequently cited positive.
- The inclusion of Rescue Data Recovery Services provides peace of mind for some users.
Common Complaints
- Users report instances where the password-activated hardware encryption feature failed to work or was difficult to set up.
- Several reviews mention unexpected drive failures and complete data loss, sometimes shortly after purchase.
- The data transfer speeds, while typical for an HDD, are considered slow by users accustomed to faster storage solutions.
- Seagate's warranty process, specifically the requirement to pay for return shipping of faulty units, is a point of frustration.
- The need for a separate adapter for USB-C connections is an inconvenience for many modern laptop users.
Ownership Tips
- The drive's physical casing feels sturdy with its brushed metal, but the internal mechanical drive's fragility is still a concern for portability.
- The included USB 3.0 cable is relatively short, which can be awkward for desktop setups.
- The drive can get warm during prolonged transfer operations, which is typical for mechanical drives.
- The bundled software for backups and encryption can be finicky or not work as intuitively as expected for some users.
- Even with the password feature, some users found the setup confusing or the security unreliable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this drive without activating the password encryption?
Yes, you can use the Seagate One Touch without setting up the password encryption. You simply don't enable the Seagate Secure feature.
What are the typical data transfer speeds?
For large files, you can expect transfer speeds around 90-95 Mbps, which is standard for a 5400 RPM mechanical hard drive.
Is it compatible with USB-C ports?
The drive connects via USB 3.0 (Type-A). For USB-C computers, you will need to purchase a separate adapter.
Does it work with Apple Time Machine?
Yes, it is compatible with Time Machine, though reformatting the drive may be required for optimal use.
What is the actual usable storage capacity?
While advertised as 5TB, the formatted usable capacity on Windows systems is typically around 4.5 to 4.7 TB.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at external hard drives like this, you're basically trading speed for massive storage capacity at a lower price. This 5TB drive is a mechanical hard disk, which means it has spinning platters inside, making it slower than an SSD but much cheaper per gigabyte. Think about how often you'll access the data and if you need it instantly. Also, consider if you actually need hardware encryption, as some users have had issues with it on this specific model.
Capacity (5TB)
This tells you how much data you can store. 5TB is a huge amount, enough for thousands of movies or hundreds of thousands of photos. If you're just backing up documents, it's probably overkill, but for large media libraries, it's a lifesaver.
Interface (USB 3.0)
This is how the drive connects to your computer and determines its maximum theoretical speed. USB 3.0 is fast enough for mechanical drives, but it's not the absolute fastest standard out there. If your computer has USB-C, you'll need an adapter, which is a minor hassle.
Drive Type (Mechanical Hard Disk)
This means it has moving parts, like a tiny record player. It's more prone to damage from drops than a Solid State Drive (SSD) and is inherently slower. However, it's also why you get so much storage for the price. If speed is your priority, you'd want an SSD.
Alternatives
If you need significantly faster transfer speeds and better durability for active projects, look for a portable solid-state drive (SSD) with a USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt interface. If you need even more capacity and don't mind a larger, less portable device, consider a desktop external hard drive.
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