Transcend StoreJet 1TB USB 3.1
Score: 71/100
WD My Passport 4TB
Score: 82/100Rankings
The WD My Passport Ultra 4 TB (Blue) combines high-capacity storage with USB-C connectivity, 256-bit AES hardware encryption and a suite of backup software, targeting users who need secure, portable backup across Windows and macOS. While performance is solid for a mechanical drive, the plastic chassis, heat buildup and lack of native macOS support are notable drawbacks.
The Transcend StoreJet 25M3 1 TB rugged HDD offers military-grade drop protection, built-in 256-bit AES encryption, and a convenient one-touch backup button, making it ideal for field professionals who value durability over raw speed. However, its 5400 RPM mechanical drive and legacy Micro-USB interface limit performance compared with modern SSDs.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,000 GB | 4,000 GBbest | |
113 MB/s | 115 MB/sbest | |
114 MB/sbest | — | |
36 monthsbest | 36 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.227 kg | 0.21 kgbest |
— | 64 MBbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 82.3 mm | 74.93 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 18.8 mmbest | 19.05 mm |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | ||
Interface | USB 3.1 Gen 1 | USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 |
Performance(1) | ||
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 113 MB/s | 115 MB/s |
Power & Connectivity(1) | ||
Power Source | Bus-powered | bus-powered |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS (reformat) |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.2268 kg | 0.21 kg |
Width (mm) | 82.3 mm | 74.93 mm |
Height (mm) | 18.8 mm | 19.05 mm |
Depth (mm) | 129.5 mm | 107.19 mm |
Storage(1) | ||
Storage Capacity (GB) | 1000 GB | 4000 GB |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Cable Type | Micro-USB 3.0 to USB Type-A cable | USB-C to USB-A cable |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the StoreJet 25M3 for its military-grade durability, effective three-stage shock system, and built-in hardware encryption, while noting the performance limits of a 5400 RPM HDD and the lack of a modern USB-C interface.
Everyday users love the drive's toughness-many report it surviving drops from several feet-and appreciate the single backup button and included software, but frustration centers on slower transfer rates, the outdated Micro-USB connector, and occasional software glitches.
“Survived multiple drops”
“The software is clunky and sometimes shows Chinese error messages”
“Transfer speeds are slower than I expected for a USB 3.0 drive”
Professional reviewers praise the My Passport Ultra for its generous 4 TB capacity, built-in 256-bit AES encryption, and user-friendly backup software, noting excellent performance for a mechanical drive and a reassuring 3-year warranty. Criticisms focus on the lack of active cooling, the plastic chassis without shock protection, and the fact that it cannot match SSD speeds for demanding workflows.
Everyday users appreciate the drive's plug-and-play simplicity, strong encryption, and portability, often highlighting successful large-scale backups and the high overall rating, while recurring complaints revolve around heat buildup, the need to reformat for macOS, and the short cable.
