Performance: 32 out of 40.
It certainly is not the fastest SSD based external device we have ever seen, but it still is much faster than any Thumb Drive. As such its performance is above average for its weight and dimensions.
Technological Innovation: 19 out of 20
On the surface taking a SATA based SSD with a mini-PCB and pairing it to a micro-sized USB bridge adapter is not all that ground breaking… and yet Seagate is arguably the first to actually to just that. Maybe it is only ‘obvious’ in hindsight, or as Albert Einstein said “The definition of genius is taking the complex and making it simple.” Now if they had only opted for a faster (USB 3.1 gen 2) bridge controller and arguments over it being ingenuous would be moot.
Build Quality & Warranty: 16 out of 20
This is the weak link of the One Touch SSD series. While it is indeed true that underneath all that plastic exterior is an all metal chassis… that is still a lot of plastic. Seagate would have been much better by combining the inner and outer chassis into one solid chunk of alloy. The warranty is also best described as decent but not stellar. The end result is a slightly above average device in these departments, but one that has room for improvement.
Value: 18 out of 20
If the build quality is the weak link, then the overall value of the One Touch SSD series is its core strength. It really epitomizes the phrase ‘good enough’. Good enough performance to satisfy the average buyer. Good enough portability that few will find it difficult to carry. Mix in excellent accessories and the One Touch SSD is not the cheapest, but it does easily justify its real-world asking price… just as long as you ignore the MSRP.
Final Score: 85 out of 100
We usually are not overly fond of compromise designs, but the Seagate One Touch SSD series is the exception. This is because it actually offers tangible reasons to opt for it over most of the competition. Just understand that it is not going to be the best in any one area, rather it is the overall score that gives it great potential value.
