iStorage diskAshur2 1TB Encrypted Portable Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

Comparing Similar Secure Drives

iStorage diskAshur3 SSD 1TB

The iStorage diskAshur3 SSD 1TB shares the same brand focus on hardware encryption and PIN-based security. It differs by using a physical keypad for authentication rather than the diskAshur2’s external input method. This drive is slightly larger at 5.16 inches long and 0.82 inches high, making it less pocket-friendly than the original’s 4.72-inch profile. It also weighs more, lacking the 7.62-ounce lightness of the diskAshur2. If you prefer tactile key entry over typing on a connected device, this is a direct upgrade. It maintains the same 1TB capacity and security standards, ensuring compliance with regulations like GDPR. You sacrifice some portability for the convenience of a built-in keypad.

iStorage diskAshur PRO3 1TB Encrypted SSD

The iStorage diskAshur PRO3 1TB Encrypted SSD targets users needing higher security certifications. It features FIPS Level 3 validation, which the diskAshur2 does not list. This drive is significantly heavier at 1.54 pounds compared to the original’s 7.62 ounces, making it less suitable for frequent travel. It shares the same 1TB capacity and hardware encryption approach. The diskAshur PRO3 is larger, measuring 5.16 inches in length. It is designed for environments where regulatory compliance is critical, such as government or financial sectors. You gain stronger certified protection but lose the lightweight, portable form factor. If your priority is meeting strict security standards over carrying convenience, this model is the better choice.

Western Digital 1TB My Passport Portable NVMe SSD

The Western Digital 1TB My Passport Portable NVMe SSD offers a different balance of speed and security. It provides hardware encryption and password protection similar to the diskAshur2. However, it is much lighter at 3.2 ounces and thinner at 0.39 inches, making it easier to carry. The WD drive is also smaller in overall dimensions. It likely offers faster transfer speeds, appealing to users who prioritize performance alongside security. The diskAshur2 focuses on rugged IP56 durability, which the WD My Passport does not explicitly claim. If you need a compact, lightweight drive with strong security and potentially better speed, this is a practical alternative. You trade the diskAshur2’s splash resistance for a more portable design.

iStorage diskAshur PRO2 256GB Secure SSD

The iStorage diskAshur PRO2 256GB Secure SSD is a smaller-capacity option with high security credentials. It includes FIPS Validated hardware encryption, matching the PRO3’s certification level. At 256GB, it holds significantly less data than the 1TB diskAshur2. It is slightly heavier at 7.9 ounces and larger in dimensions, measuring 4.88 inches long. This drive is ideal for users who only need to store small, highly sensitive datasets. It shares the same rugged, secure philosophy as the original. You sacrifice substantial storage space for certified security and a compact, albeit heavier, form factor. If your data volume is low and compliance is paramount, this model fits your needs better than the larger diskAshur2.

Western Digital WD Red SN700 1TB NAS NVMe SSD

The Western Digital WD Red SN700 1TB NAS NVMe SSD is an internal drive, not a portable unit. It uses an M.2 2280 form factor and NVMe interface, designed for installation inside NAS devices. It lacks the external USB connectivity and hardware encryption features of the diskAshur2. This drive is much smaller, measuring 3.15 inches in length and only 0.09 inches high. It is intended for users needing reliable internal storage for virtualization or NAS operations. It does not offer portable security or PIN-based access. You cannot carry it like a portable SSD. If you need internal storage for a network-attached storage system rather than a secure external drive, this is the appropriate choice. It serves a completely different use case.

Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 1TB Gen4 SSD with Heatsink

The Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 1TB Gen4 SSD is an internal M.2 drive for PS5 expansion. It uses the NVMe interface and Gen4 speeds, offering high performance for gaming. It lacks any portable features, encryption, or external connectivity. The drive includes a heatsink, making it thicker at 0.43 inches. It is small in length at 3.15 inches but not designed for external use. This product is for users expanding their console storage internally. It provides no security features like PIN protection or hardware encryption. You cannot use it as a portable drive. If you need fast internal storage for a PS5 rather than a secure external drive, this is the correct option. It is not an alternative for portable security needs.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

iStorage diskAshur2 1TB Encrypted Portable SSD

Best for: secure portable storage with hardware encryption

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 is a 1TB portable SSD designed for secure data storage. It uses hardware encryption with AES-XTS 256-bit protection and requires a 7-15 digit PIN for access. You get read speeds up to 361MB/s and write speeds up to 358MB/s via USB 3.2. The drive is IP56 certified for dust and water resistance. It works without software on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Pros

• AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption
• IP56 dust and water resistance
• Read speeds up to 361MB/s
• No software required for operation
• Common Criteria EAL 5+ certified

Cons

• USB 3.2 interface limits speed compared to NVMe drives
• Heavier build at 7.62 ounces
• No included software management suite

Good fit if

• You need hardware-level encryption for sensitive data
• You work in environments with dust or splash risks
• You use multiple operating systems like Linux or macOS

Skip if

• You require maximum transfer speeds for large files
• You prefer a lightweight, pocket-sized drive
• You need internal M.2 installation for a desktop

Verdict: iStorage diskAshur2 1TB Encrypted SSD offers robust security with IP56 durability and PIN-based access. It is the right pick for users prioritizing data protection and ruggedness over raw speed.

2 Also great

iStorage diskAshur3 SSD 1TB

Best for: secure portable storage with physical keypad

Storage Capacity

1TB

Interface

USB

Form Factor

Portable SSD

Max Read Speed

Up to 448 MB/s

Max Write Speed

Up to 444 MB/s

Security

Hardware Encryption, Password Protection

View on Amazon: iStorage diskAshur3 SSD 1TB

This secure portable drive uses hardware encryption and a physical keypad for data protection. It offers 1TB of storage with read speeds up to 448 MB/s and write speeds up to 444 MB/s. The device requires no software and works with any USB port. It is ideal for users who need reliable, password-protected storage that complies with strict data regulations.

Pros

• AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption
• Physical alphanumeric keypad for PIN entry
• Up to 448 MB/s read speed
• FIPS 140-3 Level 3 compliant firmware
• No software installation required

Cons

• Slower speeds than NVMe alternatives
• Larger form factor than M.2 drives
• USB interface limits maximum performance

Good fit if

• You need physical keypad authentication
• You require FIPS 140-3 compliance
• You store sensitive personal data

Skip if

• You need internal drive installation
• You require PCIe Gen4 speeds
• You prefer software-based encryption

Verdict: iStorage diskAshur3 SSD 1TB is a secure storage solution for professionals who prioritize physical authentication and regulatory compliance over raw transfer speeds.

3 Best premium

iStorage diskAshur PRO3 1TB Encrypted SSD

Best for: Secure portable storage with hardware encryption

Storage Capacity

1TB

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

1.54 pounds

View on Amazon: iStorage diskAshur PRO3 1TB Encrypted SSD

The iStorage diskAshur PRO3 is a 1TB portable SSD with hardware encryption. It offers read speeds up to 448 MB/s and write speeds up to 444 MB/s. The drive uses an alphanumeric keypad for PIN authentication. It is FIPS Level 3 certified. This drive suits users who need secure storage without software installation. It works with various operating systems and devices via USB.

Pros

• FIPS 140-3 Level 3 certified for high security
• Hardware encryption with AES-XTS 256-bit
• Read speeds up to 448 MB/s
• No software required for Windows, macOS, Linux, and more
• Wear-resistant backlit keypad for PIN entry

Cons

• Heavier at 1.54 pounds compared to standard portable SSDs
• Slower speeds than NVMe drives reaching 2000+ MB/s
• Bulky dimensions at 5.16 x 3.27 x 0.82 inches

Good fit if

• You need FIPS Level 3 certified data protection
• You want a drive that works without installing software
• You store sensitive files on a portable device

Skip if

• You prioritize maximum transfer speeds over security
• You need a lightweight drive for frequent travel
• You prefer a compact form factor for small bags

Verdict: The iStorage diskAshur PRO3 1TB Encrypted SSD prioritizes security over speed. It fits users who need FIPS Level 3 certification and hardware encryption. It is less suitable for those needing high-performance bulk transfers.

4 Best budget

Western Digital 1TB My Passport Portable NVMe SSD

Best for: Secure portable storage with high transfer speeds

Storage Capacity

1TB

Interface

USB 3.2 Gen-2

Form Factor

Portable External

Max Read Speed

Up to 1050MB/s

Max Write Speed

Up to 1000MB/s

Security

Hardware Encryption, Password Protection

View on Amazon: Western Digital 1TB My Passport Portable NVMe SSD

This portable external SSD offers 1TB of storage in a compact, red chassis. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write speeds up to 1000MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen-2. The drive includes password-protected 256-bit AES hardware encryption for data security. It is also built to withstand drops up to 6.5 feet. This unit suits users needing fast, secure, and durable external storage.

Pros

• Read speeds up to 1050MB/s
• Write speeds up to 1000MB/s
• 256-bit AES hardware encryption
• Drop resistant up to 6.5ft

Cons

• No FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certification
• No biometric authentication option
• USB-C cable not included in specs

Good fit if

• You need fast external storage for large files
• You want hardware encryption without a password manager
• You require a drop-resistant portable drive

Skip if

• You require FIPS 140-2 Level 3 compliance
• You need biometric fingerprint access
• You prefer an internal M.2 NVMe drive

Verdict: WD My Passport SSD 1TB Red provides high-speed external storage with hardware encryption. It fits users who prioritize transfer speeds and drop resistance over military-grade compliance standards.

5 Best 256gb

iStorage diskAshur PRO2 256GB Secure SSD

Best for: small, highly sensitive data sets

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

View on Amazon: iStorage diskAshur PRO2 256GB Secure SSD

This is a 256GB portable SSD designed for high security. It uses AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption and requires a PIN to access data. It is FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified and features a rugged IP56 rating. Read speeds reach 361MB/s and write speeds reach 358MB/s. It works with Windows, macOS, and Linux without extra software. It suits users who need government-grade protection for small data sets.

Pros

• FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certification
• AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption
• IP56 dust and water resistance
• No software installation required

Cons

• Limited to 256GB storage capacity
• Lower transfer speeds than NVMe alternatives
• Heavier and bulkier than standard portable drives

Good fit if

• You need FIPS 140-2 Level 3 compliance
• You carry drives in rugged environments
• You want hardware-level encryption without software

Skip if

• You require more than 256GB of space
• You need maximum possible transfer speeds
• You prefer lightweight and compact designs

Verdict: iStorage diskAshur PRO2 256GB is a secure, rugged drive for users who prioritize certified hardware encryption and physical durability over raw speed and large capacity.

6 Best m.2 2280

Western Digital WD Red SN700 1TB NAS NVMe SSD

Best for: NAS devices needing Gen3 NVMe endurance

Storage Capacity

1TB

Interface

Gen3 PCIe

Max Read Speed

Up to 3,430 MB/s

Form Factor

M.2 2280

Compatibility

NAS

Dimensions

3.15 × 0.87 × 0.09 inches

View on Amazon: Western Digital WD Red SN700 1TB NAS NVMe SSD

This is an internal M.2 2280 NVMe drive built for NAS environments. It offers 1TB of storage and reaches read speeds up to 3,430 MB/s on Gen3 PCIe. The design supports heavy workloads like virtualization and collaborative editing. You should consider this if you need reliable endurance for multi-user systems. It scales well with larger capacities available in the same line.

Pros

• 1TB storage capacity
• Up to 3,430 MB/s max read speed
• Optimized for NAS reliability and endurance
• Supports virtualization and collaborative editing

Cons

• Limited to Gen3 PCIe interface
• Internal drive requires NAS compatibility
• No encryption mentioned for data security

Good fit if

• You need an internal drive for a NAS
• You require high endurance for multi-user workloads
• You want Gen3 NVMe performance

Skip if

• You need a portable external drive
• You require Gen4 or faster speeds
• You want built-in hardware encryption

Verdict: Western Digital 1TB WD Red SN700 NVMe SSD fits users who need a reliable internal drive for NAS devices. It delivers strong Gen3 speeds for virtualization tasks.

7 Best m.2

Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 1TB Gen4 SSD with Heatsink

Best for: PS5 internal storage expansion

Storage Capacity

1TB

Interface

PCIe Gen4 x4

Form Factor

M.2

Max Read Speed

Up to 7,100MB/sec

Max Write Speed

5,800MB/sec

Cooling

Low-Profile Aluminum Heatspreader

View on Amazon: Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 1TB Gen4 SSD with Heatsink

This Corsair MP600 PRO LPX is an M.2 NVMe SSD designed for PS5 expansion. It offers 1TB of storage with PCIe Gen4 x4 connectivity. Sequential read speeds reach up to 7,100MB/sec, while writes hit 5,800MB/sec. The drive includes a low-profile aluminum heatspreader to manage heat. It fits the PS5 M.2 requirements and helps large game files load faster.

Pros

• Up to 7,100MB/sec sequential read speed
• Pre-installed low-profile aluminum heatspreader
• PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe interface
• Optimized for PS5 storage expansion

Cons

• Only 1TB capacity option listed
• Requires M.2 slot, not portable
• No encryption software mentioned

Good fit if

• You need fast storage for a PS5
• You want high sequential read speeds
• You prefer a low-profile heatsink

Skip if

• You need a portable external drive
• You require hardware encryption
• You want a SATA interface

Verdict: Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 1TB M.2 delivers high-speed Gen4 performance for PS5 users who need quick load times and a low-profile form factor. It is a solid internal upgrade for gamers expanding their console storage.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best gaming desktops with 1TB SSD
• best mini PCs with 1TB SSD