When it comes to external hard drives for Macs, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the LaCie Rugged Mini and the Seagate Backup Plus Slim. Both of these devices offer reliable storage solutions for MacBook users, but they have distinct differences in terms of design, performance, and features.
Design and Build
The LaCie Rugged Mini is designed with durability in mind. It features a ruggedized exterior that can withstand drops of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) and is also resistant to dust and water. The device has a compact size, measuring just 3.5 inches (8.9 cm) long and 0.7 inches (1.8 cm) thick, making it easy to slip into a pocket or bag. The Rugged Mini also comes with a built-in USB-C cable that can be wrapped around the device for convenient storage.
In contrast, the Seagate Backup Plus Slim has a more slender design, measuring just 0.4 inches (1 cm) thick and weighing only 6 ounces (170 grams). While it's not as ruggedized as the LaCie Rugged Mini, the Seagate Backup Plus Slim still features a sturdy metal construction that can withstand normal wear and tear.
Performance
Both devices offer fast data transfer speeds, but the LaCie Rugged Mini has a slight edge. It supports USB 3.0 speeds of up to 5 Gb/s, while the Seagate Backup Plus Slim also supports USB 3.0 with speeds of up to 4 Gb/s. In real-world tests, the LaCie Rugged Mini was able to transfer a 10 GB file in just over 2 minutes, while the Seagate Backup Plus Slim took around 2.5 minutes.
Capacity and Compatibility
Both devices come in a range of storage capacities, from 500 GB to 4 TB, making them suitable for storing large collections of files, including photos, videos, and music. In terms of compatibility, both devices are designed to work seamlessly with Macs, but the LaCie Rugged Mini also comes with a built-in Thunderbolt 3 port, which makes it compatible with newer MacBook models that feature this port.
The Seagate Backup Plus Slim, on the other hand, is compatible with both USB-C and USB-A ports, making it a good option for users who need to connect their external hard drive to multiple devices. Additionally, the Seagate Backup Plus Slim comes with Seagate's Backup Plus software, which allows users to easily back up their files and schedule automatic backups.
Security
Both devices offer some level of security, but the LaCie Rugged Mini has a more robust feature set in this regard. It features AES 256-bit hardware encryption, which provides an additional layer of protection for sensitive data. The device also comes with password protection and is compatible with macOS's built-in encryption software.
The Seagate Backup Plus Slim, on the other hand, does not have built-in encryption, but it does come with Seagate's Secure software, which allows users to create a password-protected folder to store sensitive files.
Conclusion
When it comes to external hard drives for Macs, both the LaCie Rugged Mini and the Seagate Backup Plus Slim are excellent options. However, they cater to different needs and preferences. If you're looking for a ruggedized device that can withstand rough handling and features advanced security features, the LaCie Rugged Mini is the better choice.
On the other hand, if you prioritize slimness and portability, and don't mind sacrificing some of the ruggedization features, the Seagate Backup Plus Slim is a great option. Its compact design and affordable price point make it an attractive choice for users who need a reliable external hard drive that can keep up with their busy lifestyles.
Ultimately, the decision between these two devices will depend on your specific needs and preferences. But whether you choose the LaCie Rugged Mini or the Seagate Backup Plus Slim, you can rest assured that you're getting a high-quality external hard drive that's designed to provide reliable storage for your Mac.
