USB-C is the future, and if your computer doesn’t have the connector, I feel sorry for you. While it isn’t a necessity at the moment, it will be eventually. Luckily, you can sometimes leverage adapters and cables to connect a Type-C device to a machine that is Type-A only.
Speaking of USB-C devices, ADATA has a new 3D NAND External SSD that uses that connector. Called “SE730H,” it is the successor to the company’s diminutive “SE730.” Not only does the new model offer higher capacities, but the 3D TLC NAND should lend to improved longevity. While it uses 3.1 gen 2, the drive tops out at 500MB/s for both read and write. The “H” variant retains the same good looks and MIL-STD-810G/IP68 water and dust proofing as the prior model too.
“While previous generation SE730 drives were only available in 250GB, the shift to high quality 3D TLC NAND has allowed ADATA to offer the SE730H in up to 512GB. At the same time, the SE730H maintains is compact footprint as the smallest device in its class (external USB-C 3D NAND SSD). It weighs a mere 33g, and users can choose from gold or red metallic color schemes. With 3D TLC NAND, the SE730H delivers more than just bigger capacity: 3D NAND is also around 25-percent longer-lasting than 2D NAND, and more reliable for the life of the product while consuming less power, a plus for paired device batteries. In terms of performance, the SE730H reaches 500MB/s read and write, or about five times the speed of external mechanical drives,” says ADATA.
The company further says,”The SE730H passes IEC IP68 tests, meaning complete dust-tight protection and water proofing to 60 minutes in 1.5 meters of water. It also meets MIL-STD-810 516.6 impact and shock resistance requirements, resulting in a product that can easily handle active lifestyles to keep stored data safe. The SE730H works in plug n play with no drivers needed on Windows, Mac OS, and Android, allowing for easy content sharing and portability across devices, from smartphones to desktops.”
The SE730H can be purchased in two colors (red and gold) and two capacities (256GB or 512GB). While the drive comes with a USB-C to USB-C cable, you can purchase a USB-C to USB-A cable for connecting to older machines. Such a cable can be had for very little money from a store like Amazon.
While ADATA lists compatibility with macOS, Windows, and Android, it will work with any Linux-based operating system — not just Google’s mobile OS. Users of a distro like Fedora, Ubuntu, or Chrome OS should have no problems at all. In fact, the official specs as seen below lists Linux Kernel 2.6 and above.
| Color | Gold/Red |
| Capacity | 256GB/512GB |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 72.7 x 44 x 12.2mm / 2.8 x 1.7 x 0.4″ |
| Weight | 33g / 1.1oz |
| Interface | USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C |
| Operating system requirements | Windows XP / Vista / 7 / 8 / 8.1 / 10 Mac OS X 10.6 or later Linux Kernel 2.6 or later Android 5.0 or later |
| Op. Temperature | 5°C (41°F) to 50°C (122°F) |
| Op. Voltage | DC 5V, 900mA |
| Accessories | USB 3.1 Gen 2 cable, Quick Start Guide |
| Warranty | 3 years |
While pricing and availability is unknown at this time, the SE730H 3D NAND USB-C External SSD should start appearing at popular retailers like Amazon and Newegg soon. Which color will you buy? (I love the red.) Tell me in the comments below.