DATO Nvme SSDs: 2 Picks Ranked by Specs

Quick picks

Our 2 picks

1 Best overall

DATO External SSD 2TB USB 3.2

Best for: rugged portable storage with high read speeds

Storage Capacity

2TB

Interface

USB 3.2 Gen 2x2

Form Factor

External Portable

Max Read Speed

1,600MB/s

Max Write Speed

1500 MB/s

Cooling

Graphene

View on Amazon: DATO External SSD 2TB USB 3.2 Affiliate link

This DATO external SSD offers 2TB of storage in a palm-sized, rugged form factor. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 1,600MB/s and write speeds up to 1,500MB/s via a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface. The drive features IP67 water and dust resistance and uses graphene cooling to maintain steady performance. It is designed for users needing portable, durable storage for large files or gaming.

Pros

• Sequential read speeds reach 1,600MB/s
• IP67 rated for water and dust resistance
• Graphene thermal design for heat control
• Supports OTG transfer for mobile devices

Cons

• Max write speed is 1,500MB/s, lower than the read speed
• Only includes one 20Gb/s cable and one 10Gb/s cable
• USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 requires compatible host ports for full speed

Good fit if

• You need rugged, water-resistant portable storage
• You transfer large files between Type-C devices
• You want high sequential read performance

Skip if

• You require native PCIe NVMe internal connectivity
• You need write speeds exceeding 1,500MB/s
• You prefer a smaller form factor than 3.5 inches

Verdict: DATO 2TB External SSD provides robust IP67 protection and fast 1,600MB/s reads for users prioritizing durability and portability over maximum write throughput.

2 Best budget

DATO ARES Q3 1TB Magnetic External SSD

Best for: mobile filmmakers using compatible iPhones

Storage Capacity

1TB

Interface

USB 3.2 Gen 2x2

Form Factor

Portable SSD

Max Read Speed

1,600MB/s

Max Write Speed

1,500MB/s

Dimensions

2.52 × 2.52 × 0.47 inches

View on Amazon: DATO ARES Q3 1TB Magnetic External SSD Affiliate link

The DATO ARES Q3 is a 1TB portable SSD with a magnetic back for secure attachment to compatible devices. It uses a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface to deliver read speeds up to 1,600MB/s and write speeds up to 1,500MB/s. The aluminum enclosure weighs 40g and includes a five-year warranty. This drive suits mobile filmmakers needing fast 4K ProRes HDR recording directly to the drive.

Pros

• Magnetic attachment for secure connection to compatible phones
• USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface for high throughput
• Read speeds up to 1,600MB/s
• Write speeds up to 1,500MB/s
• Five-year warranty included

Cons

• Only 1TB capacity available in this specific listing
• Magnetic feature requires compatible iPhone 15 Pro or newer models
• Does not support iPhone 14 and earlier models

Good fit if

• You need fast external storage for 4K ProRes HDR video recording
• You want a drive that attaches securely via magnet
• You require high read and write speeds for quick transfers

Skip if

• You use an iPhone 14 or older model
• You need more than 1TB of storage space
• You prefer a drive without magnetic components

Verdict: DATO ARES Q3 1TB Magnetic SSD offers high-speed data transfer and secure magnetic mounting for compatible devices. It is a practical solution for creators recording 4K ProRes HDR video on the go.

Specifications side by side

DATO NVMe SSD Picks Ranked

DATO offers two distinct external drives for different needs. The DATO External SSD 2TB USB 3.2 provides robust IP67 protection. It measures 1.81 by 0.65 by 3.5 inches. This rugged form factor suits users who prioritize durability. It delivers fast 1,600MB/s reads for portable storage tasks. You can use it with PS5 consoles for expanded capacity. The amber color adds a distinct visual profile to your gear. It is built for rugged environments where shock resistance matters most. The DATO ARES Q3 1TB Magnetic External SSD targets mobile filmmakers. Its magnetic design allows secure mounting on compatible iPhones. This 1TB model weighs 1.41 ounces. It supports high-speed data transfer for 4K ProRes HDR video. You should choose this option if you record video on the go. The silver finish keeps it discreet. It fits seamlessly into a creator’s mobile workflow. Both drives offer reliable performance for their specific use cases.

Who DATO drives suit

DATO targets portable storage needs with two distinct form factors. The 1TB ARES Q3 uses a compact, square design with magnetic mounting. This shape suits mobile filmmakers attaching drives to compatible iPhones. The 2TB model adopts a rectangular, rugged build. It offers IP67 protection for users prioritizing durability. You will find no internal M.2 drives in this lineup. DATO focuses exclusively on external USB solutions. If you need internal storage for a desktop or laptop, this brand does not offer that option. Choose based on your mounting preference and capacity needs.

How to choose the right DATO drive

1. Check interface speed

   You should verify the read speeds listed in the specifications. The top-ranked DATO External SSD 2TB USB 3.2 offers 1,600MB/s reads. This high throughput benefits users who transfer large files frequently. Faster reads reduce wait times during data migration. You must compare these numbers against your workflow requirements. If you move heavy video projects, prioritize the highest read speed available. Slower drives may bottleneck your editing process. Always check the published transfer rates to ensure they meet your minimum performance needs.

2. Match form factor needs

   Consider the physical shape and mounting options carefully. The ARES Q3 features a square design with magnetic mounting. This specific form factor suits mobile filmmakers using compatible iPhones. You can attach the drive directly to your device for stability. The 2TB model has a rectangular rugged build instead. It lacks magnetic features but offers different durability. Choose the shape that fits your carrying method. Magnetic drives require specific device compatibility. Standard drives work with any USB port. Select the form factor that matches your gear.

3. Verify capacity requirements

   You need to select the storage size that fits your data. DATO offers drives in 1TB and 2TB capacities. The 2TB model provides double the space of the 1TB version. You should estimate your monthly file creation volume. Video editors often require more space for raw footage. Gamers may need room for large installations. Choosing the wrong capacity forces you to manage files constantly. Check the listed size for each model. Ensure the selected drive holds your current library and future additions without filling up quickly.

4. Assess durability features

   Look for protection ratings if you travel often. The 2TB model provides robust IP67 protection. This rating indicates resistance to dust and water immersion. You benefit from this feature if you work outdoors. The drive withstands accidental drops or rain exposure. The 1TB model focuses on magnetic mounting instead. It may not have the same rugged enclosure. You must decide which protection level suits your environment. Outdoor creators should prioritize the IP67 rated drive. Indoor users might prefer the magnetic attachment option for convenience.

5. Confirm device compatibility

   Ensure the drive works with your primary devices. The 2TB model is explicitly compatible with PS5. You can use it for console game storage. The 1TB model targets compatible iPhones via magnetic mounting. You must verify your phone supports the magnetic attachment. Not all iPhones have this native feature. Check your device specifications before purchasing. Using an incompatible drive wastes money and time. Match the drive to your ecosystem. PlayStation users should choose the PS5-compatible option. iPhone creators should select the magnetic model for seamless integration.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best DATO nvme SSDs under 300
• best DATO 1TB nvme SSDs