iStorage diskAshur DT hard disk review

The drive is easy enough to use when it's unlocked and initialised and the PIN number isn't the only security feature included. Mechanisms are in place to prevent brute force attacks, with these unsophisticated yet common hacking methods stopped in their tracks.

There's also an automatic encryption feature. Any data placed onto the device is kept protected even if the hard disk is compromised.

Plain Design

iStorage has the bases covered when it comes to the drive's physical profile, too. It's a plain-looking device, but it's very much function over form. We've never seen an external hard disk as strong as this one, with no give found in its sturdy metal chassis. With its strength and matte finish, the diskAshur DT will be able to withstand the toughest office environments.

The drive weighs 1.13kg, putting it in laptop range, and making it heavier than other storage devices on the market, but it is still portable.

The device weighs in at 1.13kg and requires a power supply

On the rear is a USB 3.0 socket, which is now the standard for USB devices, PCs and laptops. It comes with a range of enhancements over the previous USB 2.0 standard, including a huge increase in bandwidth.

Transfer speeds can now reach a theoretical maximum of 5GB/s, whereas USB 2.0 hit a ceiling of 480Mbit/s. USB 3.0 also has two data paths so content can be sent and received simultaneously. The interface is capable of sending more power than its predecessor, although the diskAshur DT still needed an external power supply.