Testing the FastKey
As usual we are using HD Tune Pro for our testing. And because the FastKey works with both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 we have tested both.
Testing in a USB 2.0 Port
As you can see from the testing results below, the average read speed is 33.2 MB/s and write speed is 29.4 MB/s.
Testing in a USB 3.0 Port
So now to run the same tests in a USB 3.0 port – now for this test I am using a USB 3.0 card as the motherboard on my testing machine doesn’t have any USB 3.0 ports.
As you can see, the read speed is 129.4 MB/s (against 33.2 MB/s on USB 2.0) and write speed is 90.7 MB/s (against 29.4 MB/s on USB 2.0). So quite a difference if you can use USB 3.0!
Final Thoughts
What can I say, I love this drive. It’s small, fast, looks cool, and oh yeah, its 120GB! Obviously to get the most speed from the drive you will need to use it via USB 3.0, but until everything you use has a USB 3.0 port, USB 2.0 will do.
The inclusion of disk encryption software was a very welcome addition, and the software is very easy to use. I highly recommend if you are going to use this drive for storing anything personal you use the encrypted partition.
One thing I did notice was the FastKey felt quite warm after using it for a little while, so just watch out for that.
It comes with a little key chain, but given the cost of the FastKey there is no way I am putting it on my keys!
You can learn more about the FastKey from the LaCie website.
There is even a short video LaCie have made you can watch:
Can you compare the speeds against that cheapie Super Talent 3.0 stick?
The 16GB USB 3.0 stick had a read of 51.8 MB/s and a write of 30 MB/s.
Excellent review, thanks Andrew. $475 wow, nice 🙂
it is very nice – but very expensive! I am sure it will come down in price though 🙂