- OWC’s hardware level encryption is immediately activated without dragging your computer’s performance down under transfers
- Randomized touch screen keyboard helps block espionage eyes and shoulder surfers trying to steal passwords
- Encrypted or not, ows Guardian SSDS speed of 1000 MB/s is fast enough for 4K video editing
OWC has announced Guardian, a compact portable SSD focusing on providing strong hardware encryption and fast transfer rates.
OWC Guardian connects via USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) and delivers up to 1000 MB/SI the real world reading and writing speeds, enabling it to handle 4K video files, media archives and fast backups.
The Guardian is designed with 256-bit AES Opal hardware encryption and handles hardware level data protection.
Seamless encryption without slowdown
The encryption process starts automatically when data is written and reversed (decrypt) when accessed by an authorized user.
This avoids dependence on host system resources and retains performance even during large data transfers.
It is one of the few devices in its price range that combines both speed and encryption without requiring software installation that can place it among the best safe drives for routine professional use.
OWC says the device is compatible with macos, Windows, Linux and even iPados.
It includes a touch screen interface that acts as the primary method of user authentication through PIN or password, but also provides access to additional features such as multi-User profiles, write-protected mode, auto-timeout, secure deletion and a randomized keyboard layout.
Physically, anodized aluminum for improved heat drainage and general durability.
However, unlike some of the best robust hard drives, Guardian lacks an IP assessment for dust or water resistance.
This can limit its reliability in field conditions or outdoor environments where environmental protection is a priority.
The Guardian comes with a 1TB OWC AURA PRO IV NVME SSD (960 GB usable), but is also available in higher capabilities, including a 4TB version.
The internal firmware reserves part of space for data correction and redundancy.
It is formatted in APFs to Apple devices by default, but can be reformatted into Windows or Android using OWC’s Drive Guide Utility.
However, full cross-platform requires read/writing access separate software like MacDrive.
“We designed OWC Guardian for anyone who needs simple, reliable data protection on the go, but without the typical trouble,” said Larry O’Connor, CEO and founder, Second World Computing (OWC).
“Whether you are transferring a huge file in the boardroom, backing up data at the local coffee shop, or editing a 4K video to your latest drop in content, you should not have to choose between security, speed and ease of use. OWC Guardian delivers all three, in a robust, intuitive design built to travel.”
Pricing starts at $ 219.99 for the 1.0 TB model, while 2.0 TB and 4.0 TB models cost $ 329.99 and $ 529.99 respectively.
