Lexar Armor 700 Portable SSD: Rugged Storage, Completely Redefined

The Lexar Armor 700 emerges as a formidable contender in the portable SSD market, blending robust durability with high-performance capabilities. This compact device challenges the notion that rugged storage must compromise on speed or design.

With its aluminum core, silicone layer, and IP66 rating, the Armor 700 stands ready to face harsh environments while delivering impressive transfer rates.

As professionals and outdoor enthusiasts seek reliable data storage solutions, the question arises: Does the Lexar Armor 700 truly redefine the standards for rugged portable SSDs, or is it merely another entry in an increasingly crowded field?

Key Takeaways

• The Lexar Armor 700 combines durability with high-speed performance, featuring an IP66 rating and transfer speeds up to 2,100 MB/s.
• Compact design with aluminum core and protective silicone layer enhances scratch and drop resistance for rugged use.
• Supports direct writing from cameras and 4K 60 FPS recording, catering to content creators and professionals.
• Offers robust data protection through Lexar DataShield software with 256-bit AES encryption.
• Available in multiple capacities (1TB, 2TB, 4TB) to suit various storage needs while maintaining high-speed performance.

Design and Build Quality

While the Lexar Armor 700 is slightly smaller than its predecessor, the SL600, it maintains a robust and durable design. The drive features a streamlined, minimalistic aesthetic with an aluminum core encased in a protective silicone layer. This combination offers excellent scratch and drop resistance, enhancing its rugged appeal.

Available in blue (exclusive to North America) and black (globally), the Armor 700 measures 86.2 x 54.4 x 13.2 mm and weighs a mere 80g, making it highly portable.

The SSD boasts an IP66 rating for water and dust resistance, ensuring reliable performance in challenging outdoor conditions. However, unlike many rugged drives, it lacks an attachment loop for key rings or gear connection.

Despite this omission, the Armor 700’s compact size and durable construction make it an ideal choice for users seeking reliable storage in demanding environments.

Performance Metrics

Although the Lexar Armor 700‘s rugged design is impressive, its performance metrics truly set it apart in the portable SSD market. Utilizing a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 interface, the Armor 700 achieves read speeds and write speeds up to 2,000 MB/s. These figures are comparable to the Lexar SL600, suggesting similar internal components.

In Blackmagic Disk Speed Test, the drive demonstrates 1,771 MB/s read and 1,630 MB/s write speeds. IOMeter tests reveal performance nearly identical to the SL600, with some results within 1.2 MB/s. A 4-thread IOMeter test approaching 2000 MB/s further confirms its high-speed capabilities.

Notably, the Armor 700 outperforms competitors like essential, LaCie, and Samsung in various speed tests, maintaining consistent performance across multiple testing methodologies.

Storage Capacity Options

The Lexar Armor 700 typically offers three storage capacity options to cater to varying user needs. These options include 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB models, providing users with flexibility in choosing the right amount of storage for their specific requirements.

The 1TB version is suitable for users with moderate storage needs, while the 2TB option offers a balance between capacity and cost. For professionals or users with extensive data storage requirements, the 4TB model provides ample space for large files, high-resolution media, and thorough backups.

These capacity options allow the Armor 700 to serve a wide range of applications, from casual users to content creators and professionals working with data-intensive projects. The availability of multiple capacities guarantees that users can select the most appropriate size for their storage demands without overpaying for unnecessary space.

Durability Features

Designed to withstand harsh environments, the Lexar Armor 700 boasts several durability features that set it apart from standard portable SSDs. The drive’s construction includes an aluminum core for structural integrity, encased in a protective silicone layer that guards against scratches and impacts.

This rugged design contributes to its impressive IP66 rating for water and dust resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use in challenging conditions.

The Armor 700’s thermal management allows it to operate reliably in temperatures up to 122°F (50°C), ensuring consistent performance even under stress.

While the silicone exterior enhances durability, it may attract dust and lint over time.

Despite its robust build, the drive lacks an attachment loop, a feature commonly found in rugged drives for securing to gear or key rings. This omission may limit its versatility for some users requiring additional portability options.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Featuring USB 3.2 Gen2x2 interface, the Lexar Armor 700 offers exceptional connectivity and compatibility across a wide range of devices. This high-speed interface allows for data transfer rates up to 2000 MB/s, making it ideal for professionals working with large files or high-resolution video content.

The drive supports direct writing from cameras and can handle 4K 60 FPS recording from devices like the iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max.

The Armor 700’s broad compatibility extends to various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Its plug-and-play functionality guarantees easy setup without additional software installation.

For users requiring enhanced security, the included Lexar DataShield software provides 256-bit AES encryption, compatible with both Windows and macOS. This combination of high-speed connectivity and wide-ranging compatibility makes the Armor 700 an excellent storage solution for diverse professional and personal use cases.

Security Measures

Security remains a paramount concern for portable storage devices, and the Lexar Armor 700 addresses this issue with robust measures. The drive incorporates Lexar DataShield, a security feature that utilizes 256-bit AES encryption to protect sensitive data. This level of encryption is considered highly secure and is widely used in government and enterprise applications.

The implementation of DataShield allows users to create password-protected vaults on the drive, ensuring that confidential files remain inaccessible to unauthorized parties. This feature is particularly valuable for professionals who frequently transport sensitive information or work in environments where data security is critical.

While the Armor 700 doesn’t offer hardware-based encryption like some competitors, its software-based solution provides a strong balance between security and ease of use, making it suitable for both personal and professional applications.

Market Positioning

The Lexar Armor 700 occupies a unique position in the portable SSD market, catering to users who prioritize both performance and durability. Its rugged design with IP66 water and dust resistance, combined with high-speed transfer capabilities, positions it as an ideal solution for professionals working in challenging environments.

The drive’s ability to support direct writing from cameras and 4K 60 FPS recording makes it particularly attractive to content creators and videographers.

Compared to competitors, the Armor 700 stands out with its streamlined design and color options, offering a balance between aesthetics and functionality. While it lacks an attachment loop, its compact size and lightweight nature enhance portability.

The drive’s performance metrics, which rival or surpass those of established brands like essential, LaCie, and Samsung, further solidify its position as a top contender in the high-performance, rugged SSD segment.

Final Thoughts

The Lexar Armor 700 represents a significant advancement in rugged portable storage solutions. Its robust construction, impressive performance metrics, and wide-range capacity options cater to diverse user needs.

The device’s exceptional durability, coupled with advanced security features, positions it as a top contender in the market.

While excelling in outdoor and challenging environments, the Armor 700 maintains high-speed data transfer capabilities, making it an ideal choice for professionals and content creators requiring reliable, high-performance storage in demanding conditions.