Seagate Ultra Compact 1TB Portable SSD (STMX1000400): features and specs

The Seagate Ultra Compact SSD (STMX1000400) is a 1TB portable drive about the size of a large thumb drive. It plugs straight into a USB-C port with no separate cable, which makes it handy for moving files between a laptop, phone, tablet or games console. At roughly 2.8 by 0.8 inches and 0.1 lb, it can clip onto a keyring.

Direct USB-C, no cable

Most portable drives need a cable, which is one more thing to lose. This one has the USB-C connector built in, so it works as a plug-and-play device. Seagate lists compatibility with Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, tablets and gaming consoles. The one condition is that the device needs a USB-C port, or an adapter if it only has the older rectangular type.

What up to 1,000 MB/s means

Seagate rates transfers at up to 1,000 MB/s over USB 3.2 Gen 2. In general, that is many times faster than a typical external hard drive, so large video files or game libraries move in seconds or minutes rather than much longer. Maximum speeds usually require a port that supports the same USB standard; slower ports will still work, but at lower speeds.

Protection levels

Seagate lists three durability features: resistance to drops from 3 metres, IP54 dust and water resistance, and a rubber sleeve that adds grip. IP54 means the drive is protected against enough dust to avoid harm and against splashes from any direction. It is not designed for submersion. Because SSDs have no moving parts, they generally tolerate travel better than spinning drives.

Warranty and data recovery

The listing says the drive comes with a 3-year warranty and 3 years of Rescue Data Recovery Services. Check the terms with Seagate, since conditions and regions vary.

Who it suits

It suits people who want portable storage that is always to hand: travellers, students, and phone and tablet users freeing up space. Because the connector is fixed, it's less suited to computers with only older USB ports.

What to check before you buy

• Port type: confirm your devices have USB-C, and think about whether the drive's fixed connector might be blocked by a thick case.
• Capacity: 1TB suits most everyday uses, but heavy video recording fills it quickly.
• Console use: check the console maker's rules about which games can run from external storage.
• Formatting: you may need to reformat the drive to use it across different operating systems.
• Backups: a small drive is easy to misplace, so keep a copy of anything important elsewhere.

The short version

• Thumb-drive-sized 1TB SSD with built-in USB-C connector.
• Rated by Seagate at up to 1,000 MB/s.
• 3 m drop resistance and IP54 dust and water resistance.
• Works with Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, tablets and consoles.
• Includes a 3-year warranty and Rescue Data Recovery Services, as listed.

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