6 Best Alternatives to the iStorage diskAshur M2 240GB Encrypted (2026)
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The iStorage diskAshur M2 240GB Encrypted Portable SSD offers hardware-level PIN protection and an IP68-rated enclosure for mobile professionals. If you are searching for istorage diskashur m2 alternatives, you may need a different capacity, a different interface, or a distinct security certification. This drive prioritizes physical ruggedness and certified encryption over raw transfer speeds or large storage volumes. Its 240GB limit and USB 3.2 interface suit users who handle confidential files in harsh environments rather than those needing multi-gigabyte data movement.
We selected these 6 options because their published specifications overlap with the original drive’s focus on security and portability. Some alternatives provide higher capacities, such as the 8TB Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 or the 2TB Western Digital My Passport. Others offer different security standards, like FIPS Level 3 compliance or password-based authentication instead of PIN entry. You might also prefer a different form factor or interface speed. Each listed product meets specific criteria for secure data storage, allowing you to choose based on your exact capacity and certification needs.
How these alternatives compare
iStorage diskAshur PRO2 256GB Secure SSD
The iStorage diskAshur PRO2 256GB uses a larger, heavier chassis measuring 3.31 by 4.88 inches. It weighs 7.9 ounces, which is heavier than the M2. This model offers 256GB of storage, slightly more than the 240GB original. It retains hardware encryption and FIPS validation. You gain FIPS Level 3 security, which is a stricter standard than the M2. However, you lose the IP68 water and dust resistance. The drive is not rated for submersion or extreme physical shock. Choose this if you need higher security certification and do not require rugged portability.
Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 8TB Encrypted SSD
The Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 8TB is a massive upgrade in capacity. It holds 8TB, vastly exceeding the 240GB limit of the iStorage M2. The enclosure is larger, measuring 3 by 4.75 inches, and weighs 1 pound. It features hardware encryption and FIPS validation. This drive is built for high-volume secure storage rather than compact portability. You trade the ultra-slim, phone-sized profile of the M2 for significant data volume. It is ideal for professionals who need to store large datasets securely on the go. It lacks the extreme shock and water resistance of the M2.
iStorage diskAshur PRO3 512GB Hardware-Encrypted SSD
The iStorage diskAshur PRO3 512GB offers double the storage of the original M2. It weighs 1.21 pounds, making it significantly heavier and bulkier. The dimensions are 3.27 by 5.16 inches. It provides FIPS 140-3 Level 3 compliance, which is a newer and stricter standard than the M2. You get hardware PIN authentication and password protection. The drive sacrifices the rugged, IP68-rated durability of the M2. It is not crushproof or waterproof. Pick this if you need more capacity and the latest FIPS certification without needing extreme physical protection.
Apricorn Aegis Padlock 240GB SSD
The Apricorn Aegis Padlock 240GB SSD matches the original capacity at 240GB. It is slightly thicker at 0.5 inches but narrower. It weighs 1.6 ounces, which is much lighter than the M2. This drive is FIPS validated for secure storage. It is designed for harsh conditions, similar to the M2. However, it does not specify IP68 water resistance or the same crushproof rating. You get a similar rugged profile but with a different form factor. Choose this if you prefer a lighter, slightly thinner drive with FIPS validation and do not need the specific PIN-only authentication of the iStorage model.
iStorage diskAshur2 1TB Encrypted Portable SSD
The iStorage diskAshur2 1TB provides four times the storage of the original M2. It weighs 7.62 ounces, which is heavier than the M2. The drive is 3.15 by 4.72 inches. It offers hardware encryption and password protection. Like the M2, it is rugged and portable. However, it does not mention FIPS validation or IP68 water resistance. You gain substantial capacity and maintain the portable form factor. This is a good choice if you need more space and rugged durability but do not require certified security standards or extreme water protection.
Western Digital 2TB My Passport Portable SSD
The Western Digital My Passport SSD 2TB offers significantly more capacity than the original. It holds 2TB, which is far larger than 240GB. The drive is compact, measuring 1.8 by 3.5 inches, and is thinner at 0.39 inches. It weighs less than the M2. It features hardware encryption and password protection. Unlike the M2, it lacks FIPS validation and IP68 water resistance. It is not rated for shock or crush protection. Choose this if you need high capacity and a slim profile for everyday use. It is suitable for users who trust software-based security over certified hardware encryption.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
iStorage diskAshur M2 240GB Encrypted Portable SSD
Best for: Rugged, PIN-protected portable data storage
- Storage Capacity
- 240GB
- Interface
- USB 3.2
- Form Factor
- Portable SSD
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 370MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- Up to 370MB/s
- Security
- Hardware Encryption, FIPS Validated
View on Amazon: iStorage diskAshur M2 240GB Encrypted Portable SSD
The iStorage diskAshur M2 is an ultra-portable external SSD designed for secure data storage. It features onboard PIN authentication using a 7 to 15 digit code, AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption, and read and write speeds up to 370MB/s over USB 3.2. With its IP68 water rating and crushproof build, it suits you if you transport sensitive files.
Pros
- AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption with 7 to 15 digit PIN entry
- IP68 water and dust resistance, submergible up to 1.5m
- Crushproof against 2.7 tons and drop-tested to 4m on concrete
- Weighs 65 grams without sleeve
Cons
- Storage capacity is limited to 240GB
- Transfer speeds max out at 370MB/s
Good fit if
- You need hardware-based PIN access without installing software on host machines.
- You travel in wet, dusty, or rough environments requiring IP68 protection.
- You want an encrypted drive that weighs under 100 grams.
Skip if
- You need external transfer speeds exceeding 370MB/s.
- You require high-capacity storage beyond 240GB for large media libraries.
Verdict: iStorage diskAshur M2 240GB Encrypted SSD delivers hardware-level PIN protection and an IP68-rated enclosure for mobile professionals handling confidential files. It suits travelers who need certified physical security rather than multi-gigabyte transfer speeds.
iStorage diskAshur PRO2 256GB Secure SSD
Best for: FIPS Level 3 secure portable storage
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB
- Interface
- USB 3.2
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 361MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- Up to 358MB/s
- Security
- Hardware Encryption, Password Protection, FIPS Validated
- Dimensions
- 4.88 × 3.31 × 0.79 inches
This iStorage drive uses FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified hardware encryption. You authenticate access with a 7-15 digit PIN. It offers USB 3.2 connectivity with read speeds up to 361MB/s. The unit is IP56 rated for dust and water resistance. It works across Windows, macOS, and Linux without needing extra software. This model is a secure option for portable storage needs.
Pros
- FIPS 140-2 Level 3 hardware encryption
- USB 3.2 interface with 361MB/s read speed
- IP56 dust and water resistance rating
- PIN authentication without required software
Cons
- Limited to 256GB storage capacity
- Heavier at 7.9 ounces compared to standard drives
- Slower write speeds of 358MB/s
Good fit if
- You need FIPS Level 3 certified security
- You require PIN-based access control
- You work in rugged or outdoor environments
Skip if
- You need more than 256GB of space
- You prioritize maximum transfer speeds
- You prefer lightweight portable drives
Verdict: iStorage diskAshur PRO2 256GB provides strict government-grade security for users who prioritize data protection over high capacity or speed. It suits professionals handling sensitive information in varied environments.
Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 8TB Encrypted SSD
Best for: High-capacity FIPS Level 3 secure storage
- Storage Capacity
- 8TB
- Interface
- USB 3.0
- Form Factor
- Portable
- Security
- Hardware Encryption, FIPS Validated
- Dimensions
- 4.75 × 3 × 0.9 inches
- Weight
- 1 pounds
View on Amazon: Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 8TB Encrypted SSD
The Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 is an 8TB portable SSD with USB 3.0 connectivity. It features 256-bit AES XTS hardware encryption and FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validation. The drive includes separate admin and user modes, two read-only modes, and brute-force defense. This rugged drive suits users needing high-capacity, secure storage for sensitive data.
Pros
- 8TB storage capacity
- FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validation
- 256-bit AES XTS hardware encryption
- Separate admin and user modes
Cons
- USB 3.0 interface limits speed compared to USB 3.2
- Heavier at 1 pound
- Larger dimensions than standard portable drives
Good fit if
- You need 8TB of secure storage
- You require FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validation
- You want separate admin and user access modes
Skip if
- You need USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds
- You prefer a lighter, more compact drive
- You do not need FIPS Level 3 validation
Verdict: Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 8TB offers robust security and high capacity for users who prioritize data protection and do not need the fastest transfer speeds.
iStorage diskAshur PRO3 512GB Hardware-Encrypted SSD
Best for: FIPS 140-3 Level 3 compliance
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 448 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- Up to 444 MB/s
- Security
- Hardware Encryption, Password Protection, FIPS Validated
- Dimensions
- 5.16 × 3.27 × 0.82 inches
- Weight
- 1.21 pounds
View on Amazon: iStorage diskAshur PRO3 512GB Hardware-Encrypted SSD
The iStorage diskAshur PRO3 SSD 512GB offers FIPS 140-3 Level 3 certification for high-security needs. It uses AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption and an 8–64-digit PIN keypad. Read speeds reach 448 MB/s and write speeds reach 444 MB/s. It works with Windows, macOS, Linux, and iPadOS without software. This drive suits users needing government-grade security in a portable form factor.
Pros
- FIPS 140-3 Level 3 certified
- AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption
- Up to 448 MB/s read speed
- No software required for setup
Cons
- Heavier at 1.21 pounds
- Larger dimensions than standard SSDs
- Lower capacity than 1TB alternatives
Good fit if
- You need FIPS 140-3 Level 3 compliance
- You prefer hardware PIN authentication
- You store sensitive data on the go
Skip if
- You require higher read speeds
- You need a lighter portable drive
- You prefer larger storage capacities
Verdict: The iStorage diskAshur PRO3 SSD 512GB is a secure choice for users prioritizing FIPS 140-3 Level 3 certification and hardware PIN authentication over raw speed or compact size.
Apricorn Aegis Padlock 240GB SSD
Best for: rugged, FIPS-validated storage in harsh conditions
- Storage Capacity
- 240GB
- Interface
- USB 3.0
- Form Factor
- External Portable
- Max Read Speed
- 230 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 230 MB/s
- Security
- FIPS Validated
The Apricorn Aegis Padlock is a ruggedized, FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validated external SSD. It offers 240GB of storage with read and write speeds up to 230 MB/s. The drive operates in extreme temperatures from -40°C to 70°C and resists shock and vibration. It is ideal for users who need encrypted storage in harsh environments. The compact 2.5-inch form factor makes it portable.
Pros
- FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validated hardware encryption
- Operates in temperatures from -40°C to 70°C
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
- Read/write speeds up to 230 MB/s
Cons
- Lower sequential transfer speeds compared to modern NVMe alternatives
- Smaller 240GB capacity limits large file storage
- Lacks PIN authentication interface found in iStorage models
Good fit if
- You need FIPS 140-2 Level 2 compliance for regulated data
- You work in extreme temperature or vibration environments
- You require a ruggedized drive for field use
Skip if
- You need high-speed data transfer for large video files
- You require more than 240GB of storage
- You prefer PIN-based authentication over hardware keys
Verdict: Apricorn Aegis Padlock 240GB SSD is a rugged, FIPS-validated drive for users in harsh conditions. It suits field workers needing durability and encryption over raw speed.
iStorage diskAshur2 1TB Encrypted Portable SSD
Best for: rugged, password-protected portable storage
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- USB 3.2
- Form Factor
- Portable
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 361MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- Up to 358MB/s
- Security
- Hardware Encryption, Password Protection
View on Amazon: iStorage diskAshur2 1TB Encrypted Portable SSD
The iStorage diskAshur2 SSD 1TB is a password-protected portable drive. It uses AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption and requires a 7-15 digit PIN. You get up to 361MB/s read speeds. The unit is IP56 certified for dust and water resistance. It works with Windows, macOS, and Linux without extra software. This drive suits users needing rugged, compliant storage for sensitive files.
Pros
- AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption
- IP56 dust and water resistance
- Up to 361MB/s read speed
- No software required for setup
Cons
- Lower read speeds than faster NVMe alternatives
- Heavier than standard portable SSDs
- Limited to USB 3.2 interface
Good fit if
- You need hardware encryption without software
- You require IP56 dust and water resistance
- You want compliance with GDPR or HIPAA
Skip if
- You need maximum transfer speeds
- You prefer a lightweight, compact drive
- You want a larger 2TB capacity
Verdict: The iStorage diskAshur2 1TB Red offers rugged, hardware-encrypted storage for users prioritizing data security and physical durability over raw speed.
Western Digital 2TB My Passport Portable SSD
Best for: Users needing 2TB capacity with software encryption
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen-2
- Form Factor
- Portable External
- Max Read Speed
- 1050MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1000MB/s
- Security
- Hardware Encryption, Password Protection
View on Amazon: Western Digital 2TB My Passport Portable SSD
This Western Digital drive offers 2TB of storage with NVMe technology delivering up to 1050MB/s read speeds. It uses password-enabled 256-bit AES hardware encryption for data protection. The portable unit withstands drops up to 6.5 feet and connects via USB 3.2 Gen-2. It suits users needing large, fast, and secure external storage without the complexity of PIN-based hardware keys found in some competitors.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity
- Up to 1050MB/s read speed
- 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Drop resistant up to 6.5ft
Cons
- Requires software for password setup rather than hardware PIN entry
- No FIPS 140-2 validation listed
- Slower than some top-tier NVMe alternatives
Good fit if
- You need 2TB of encrypted storage
- You prefer software-based password protection
- You want a compact, durable drive
Skip if
- You require FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validation
- You need hardware PIN authentication
- You need speeds exceeding 1050MB/s
Verdict: WD My Passport SSD 2TB Gray provides reliable speed and capacity for users who trust software encryption. It is a solid option for those who do not need certified hardware security keys.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | iStorage diskAshur M2 240GB Encrypted Portable SSD | iStorage diskAshur PRO2 256GB Secure SSD | Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 8TB Encrypted SSD | iStorage diskAshur PRO3 512GB Hardware-Encrypted SSD | Apricorn Aegis Padlock 240GB SSD | iStorage diskAshur2 1TB Encrypted Portable SSD | Western Digital 2TB My Passport Portable SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 240GB | 256GB | 8TB | 512GB | 240GB | 1TB | 2TB |
| Interface | USB 3.2 | USB 3.2 | USB 3.0 | not specified | USB 3.0 | USB 3.2 | USB 3.2 Gen-2 |
| Form Factor | Portable SSD | not specified | Portable | not specified | External Portable | Portable | Portable External |
| Max Read Speed | Up to 370MB/s | Up to 361MB/s | not specified | Up to 448 MB/s | 230 MB/s | Up to 361MB/s | 1050MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | Up to 370MB/s | Up to 358MB/s | not specified | Up to 444 MB/s | 230 MB/s | Up to 358MB/s | 1000MB/s |
| Security | Hardware Encryption, FIPS Validated | Hardware Encryption, Password Protection, FIPS Validated | Hardware Encryption, FIPS Validated | Hardware Encryption, Password Protection, FIPS Validated | FIPS Validated | Hardware Encryption, Password Protection | Hardware Encryption, Password Protection |
| Size | 240GB | 256GB | 8TB | 512GB | 240GB | 1TB | 2TB |
| Dimensions | 4.37 × 1.77 × 0.47 inches | 4.88 × 3.31 × 0.79 inches | 4.75 × 3 × 0.9 inches | 5.16 × 3.27 × 0.82 inches | 3.25 × 0.5 × 2.5 inches | 4.72 × 3.15 × 0.59 inches | 3.5 × 1.8 × 0.39 inches |
| Weight | 9.52 ounces | 7.9 ounces | 1 pounds | 1.21 pounds | 1.6 ounces | 7.62 ounces | not specified |
| Color | Black | Graphite | black | Black | Multicolor | Fiery Red | Gray |
| Model | IS-DAM2-256-240 | IS-DAP2-256-SSD-512-C-X | AFL3-S8TB | IS-DAP3-256-SSD-512-F | ASSD-3PL256-240F | IS-DA2-256-SSD-1000-R | WDBAGF0020BGY |
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Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the highest storage capacity?
The Apricorn Aegis Fortress L3 provides the most space with 8TB of storage. It is designed for users who need large volumes of secure data. This model maintains FIPS Level 3 validation while offering significant capacity. It is ideal for professionals managing massive datasets who require certified hardware encryption.
Are there options with FIPS 140-3 Level 3 compliance?
Yes, the iStorage diskAshur PRO3 512GB meets FIPS 140-3 Level 3 standards. It uses hardware PIN authentication to protect data. This drive suits users who require the latest government-grade certification. It balances strict security protocols with a 512GB capacity for secure portable storage.
Is there a rugged drive for harsh field conditions?
The Apricorn Aegis Padlock 240GB is built for rugged use. It is FIPS-validated and designed to withstand tough environments. This drive is suitable for field workers who need durability alongside encryption. Its compact form factor ensures it remains portable while offering robust physical protection for your data.
Can I get 2TB of encrypted storage?
The Western Digital My Passport Portable SSD offers 2TB of capacity. It includes software encryption and password protection for your files. This option is best for users who prioritize high storage volume over certified hardware security keys. It provides reliable speed and ample space for large media libraries.
What is the best budget-friendly secure SSD?
The iStorage diskAshur PRO2 256GB is positioned as the best budget choice. It delivers FIPS Level 3 secure storage at a lower entry point. This drive focuses on strict government-grade security rather than high capacity. It is ideal for professionals handling sensitive information who need reliable protection without premium pricing.
Is there a 1TB option with hardware encryption?
The iStorage diskAshur2 1TB Encrypted Portable SSD offers a 1TB capacity. It features hardware encryption and password protection for enhanced security. This drive is rugged and suitable for users who need more space than the 240GB M2. It prioritizes data safety and physical durability for portable use.