Accessories: 5 out of 5
The Seagate Backup Plus Ultra Touch 1TB sets a new gold standard for value-added features included in the box. So much so their total worth is the same as the asking price. Now that is a good justification to purchase a new shiny toy!
Read performance: 20 out of 25
With its older interface, older controller, and incredibly thin hard drive no one will confuse the read performance of that of a NAND based drive that its form-factor resembles. This is fine. This drive may not be cutting edge fast… but it still is not slow. Instead, its read performance is best described as ‘perfectly adequate’ for its class.
Write performance: 32 out of 40
As with the read performance, a certain amount of lowered expectations has to be taken into account. However, thanks to its advanced cache buffer it is not slow by any stretch of the imagination. So much so it should not be too big a bottleneck in typical real-world scenarios. If it is, then a Slim design is not right for you… even if it is called an ‘Ultra Touch’ this generation.
Warranty: 7 out of 10
A two-year warranty is pretty much the definition of mediocre. We understand the reasoning behind this decision, as Hard Disk Drive external storage is notorious for dying an early death, but it still less than impressive.”
As they don’t get data recovery for free. I thought they did, but they don’t. Which is disappointing.
Value: 19 out of 20
While the obvious claim to fame is basically being ‘free’ after the included bonus software is taken into account this Seagate Backup Plus Ultra Touch 1TB is still a rather decent drive. Its compact dimensions, with upgraded aesthetics, are pretty darn good. Now only if they would use a modern USB 3.1 G2 controller, 7200RPM drive… and maybe a metal chassis and it would be perfect… just like the OG GoFlex Slim series was.
Final Score: 83 / 100
With its unique blend of performance, capacity, aesthetics and value the Seagate Backup Plus Ultra Touch 1TB is certainly impressive. Though it will not be right for everyone and every scenario “those who like it (will) like it a lot”… and those who don’t will still be forced to respect its almost peerless value.
