In May, Western Digital made headlines by releasing the first-ever 6TB portable 2.5-inch external hard drives. This marked a significant milestone in the world of storage technology, as it surpassed the previous 5TB maximum capacity that had been the standard for nearly a decade. The WD My Passport Ultra, priced at $204.99 for the 6TB model, was the first of its kind to hit the market, and it certainly has a lot to offer.
Visually appealing and built to last, the Ultra is slightly larger than its predecessors but still compact enough to fit in your pocket. It comes equipped with a USB-C port and includes a USB-C-to-USB-A adapter for added versatility. Additionally, the drive comes with file management and backup software that offers password protection and supports 256-bit AES hardware-based encryption. All these features combined make the WD My Passport Ultra a top choice for high-capacity portable hard drives.
Capacity: 6TB Is the New 5TB
For nearly a decade, portable hard drive capacity had remained stagnant at 5TB, with manufacturers struggling to push beyond this limit. However, in a surprising turn of events, WD managed to break through this barrier with the release of the 6TB My Passport Ultra. This marked a significant advancement in storage technology and opened up new possibilities for consumers seeking higher capacity portable storage solutions.
Design: Stylish, Time-Honored, and Sturdy
The design of the 6TB My Passport Ultra follows the footsteps of its predecessors, featuring a sleek deep blue top and a matte-black base. The enclosure is a combination of metal and plastic, giving it a sturdy and well-built feel. Measuring 0.9 by 3.2 by 4.3 inches and weighing half a pound, the Ultra strikes a good balance between portability and durability. The inclusion of a USB-C port, along with a USB-C-to-USB-A adapter, adds to the drive’s versatility and convenience.
Testing the My Passport Ultra: Solid Overall Results
In our testing, the WD My Passport Ultra delivered solid overall performance, scoring well in tests like PCMark 10 Data Drive and 3DMark Storage. While its throughput speeds were not the highest among comparable drives, it excelled in real-world performance benchmarks. The drive’s built-in 256-bit hardware encryption and backup software further enhance its appeal, making it a well-rounded storage solution for consumers.
Verdict: Maximum Capacity, Go-Anywhere Capability
The WD My Passport Ultra stands out as the highest-capacity portable platter-based hard drive on the market. With its 6TB storage capacity, USB-C connectivity, and solid benchmark performance, it offers a compelling package for consumers looking for a reliable and spacious storage solution. The drive’s sleek design, sturdy build quality, and added features like hardware encryption and backup software make it a top choice in its category. For these reasons, the WD My Passport Ultra earns our Editors’ Choice award.
In conclusion, the WD My Passport Ultra sets a new standard for high-capacity portable hard drives, combining storage space, performance, and convenience in a single package. If you’re in the market for a reliable and spacious storage solution that you can take anywhere, the My Passport Ultra is definitely worth considering.