Performance: 34 out of 40.
The true performance of this drive is not in its speed it can transfer files to and from the internal Seagate SATA SSD. No, it is in its ability to perform tasks that darn near any other external USB storage device can not do: that does multiple tasks usually requiring a laptop and perform them ‘good enough’ to lighten the load in an already overloaded camera bag. If this does not sound important to you… the Rugged BOSS SSD is not right for you. With that said, a couple more buttons, a better LCD configuration, and better protection would have made it perform these essential tasks more efficiently and effectively.
Technological Innovation: 18 out of 20
While it may not be perfect in its execution the amount of innovative features LaCie has baked into this ‘all in one’ device is indeed impressive. Hopefully future revisions will build upon this firm foundation and create the perfect On-Site Backup Solution.
Build Quality & Warranty: 16 out of 20
Considering how many features LaCie managed to fit in a rather decently sized package we are impressed. Sadly, a bit more protection would have been a good idea. Given the intended customer 3M drop protection and some nod towards water protection should have been included. As it stands the build quality is much like the 3-year warranty: good but with room for improvement.
Value: 15 out of 20
The ‘value’ of this unique series is going to be rather controversial. For those who need/want/desire a lighter camera bag the asking price is rather reasonable. For those looking for a… less professional orientated device will not be able to get over said asking price. We have given the benefit of the doubt and weighted the value more towards its intended customer.
Final Score: 83 out of 100
The LaCie Rugged BOSS SSD in unabashedly focused on a very specific buyer: the professional. If you are not in this narrow window you will never be able to justify the asking price. If you are, it is a ton cheaper than a ruggedized laptop and typical USB external storage device. Mix in the weight savings to go along with the overall cost savings and the end result is we can see a lot of these suddenly appearing the serious professional’s ‘go bag’.
