Seagate One Touch SSD 1TB Review

As stated in the introduction the Seagate One Touch SSD is a compromise design. One that almost seems to have been designed by picking and choosing features at a buffet. Usually the end result of such “all things to everyone” approach is an epic failure. Thankfully, the Seagate One Touch SSD is the exception that proves the rule.

Put simply, the Seagate One Touch SSD is not intended to compete against high-performance models like the Crucial X8 series. It does not have too. Instead, its compact nature makes the One Touch SSD series arguably the perfect flash/thumb drive replacement for those who value a good blend of performance, portability, and even price. While it is indeed true that it is not as small as the typical thumb drive it is close enough… and close enough is the epitome of this model. Close enough is synonymous with good enough.

Thanks to having the same length and same height as a thumb drive the double width issues is a non-issue for all but the skinniest of skinny jeans. While is true it is use 3.0 / SATA based and is not as fast as NVMe solutions… it doesn’t have to be. It still offers two to four times the performance of even the fastest thumb drive model and is even more portable than typical NVMe enclosure. Mix in and asking price that is more in lines with thumb drives (of similar capacity), and for typical users there is almost no need to ever buy a low performance, high capacity thumb drive again. Instead something like the Seagate One Touch SSD and it’s true SSD controller is what you want.

Now with all that said the One Touch SSD is not perfect. Jack of all trade designs by their very nature cannot be perfect. However, there is imperfection and then there is sub-optimal. For a mere extra dollar or three Seagate could have used a ASMedia or even JMicron USB 3.1 Gen 2 controller. Not doing so is sub-optimal decision making to say the least. A more modern USB 3.1 Gen 2 controller would have eliminated bottlenecking of the SATA controller housed inside. This boost in performance would have made the One Touch SSD an even better choice for an even wider range of buyers. Mix in a plastic case and those looking for true performance or durability to go along with their portability will want to step up a price notch.

In the end the One Touch SSD series may not be perfect or perfectly suited for every potential buyer. What is however is a very good value. A good value for a wide range of buyers. With such models like the One Touch SSD, we cannot imagine saving a few dollars and going for a 1TB Thumb Drive ever again… unless the purchase is meant to be disposable. So, if you are looking for a portable drive that will offer good performance and great portability the Seagate One Touch SSD demands to be on your short list for further consideration.