Apricorn Aegis Padlock Fortress FIPS 140-2 Level 2 Review

Read/Write Performance

During our sequential read/write performance testing on Mac OS, the Apricorn Aegis Fortress achieved a read rate of up to 126.8 MB per second and a write speed of 114.2 MB per second, which was on the higher end of all HDDs we tested.

After switching to Windows, we observed an increase in speed, with a read rate of 134.3 MB per second and a write rate of 125.9 MB per second. However, these figures actually meant it dropped in the ranks, as many other drives also performed better on a Windows operating system.

The Aegis continued to exhibit similar trends after we tested random transfer rates with a queue depth of 64 files. Its read speed on Mac was 0.44 MB per second, and its write speed was 10.07 MB per second. However, when tested on Windows, it jumped to 0.53 MB per second read and 11.51 MB per second write.

Using third-party software to acquire real-time drag and drop speeds, we met some pleasantly surprising numbers.

The Aegis ultimately finished second fastest among all HDDs and fourth overall on macOS, achieving our drag-and-drop test at an average rate of 97.7 MB per second. Once we switched to Windows, it delightfully surpassed all other HDDs and ranked third in our drag-and-drop test, averaging a stellar 117 MB per second transfer rate.

Usability

The Apricorn Aegis Fortress comes with nearly every feature imaginable. Its first and most noticeable attribute is the front and center keypad, allowing 7 to 16-character PIN access. Separate PIN passwords can be programmed for both admin and user profiles, allowing multiple users access under one administrator. After plugging in the Aegis, it took us several minutes to set our password and gain entry.

It has an LED status indicator that lets you know when you are logged in, transferring data, or locked out of the device. However, the plethora of extra features doesn't necessarily make it more convenient and if your device only has a USB-C port, you're going to need an adapter to use this drive. Overall, during setup and throughout our time using this hard drive, it was not as user-friendly as we had hoped, which negatively impacted its overall convenience score.

We discovered that the Aegis is formatted as NTFS by default, which means that it only works with Windows systems until you reformat. Afterward, it is compatible with more platforms than most people would use, including Mac OS, Android, Chrome, Linux, and a long list of other systems. This particular model is also marketed to thrive in environments where other hard drives cannot, such as embedded systems. For an added layer of security, it utilizes 256-bit encryption both when active and at rest, and incorporates AegisWare firmware to lock this drive against malware attacks. We appreciate the integrated USB-A cord, which springs out from a recessed slot on the side for smooth storage.

After all software security details are tallied, this heavily guarded drive meets Federal FIPS 140-2 Level 2 cryptography standards, which are typically utilized by government agencies that handle sensitive information. Beyond that, this incredible hard drive features a hardened epoxy tamper-proof interior, an unattended auto lock, and a self-destruct PIN. The Aegis Fortress is available in a wide range of storage options. HDD versions range from 500 GB to 16 TB, providing a massive amount of storage space, and SSDs are available in high-speed 256 GB and 512 GB sizes. Apricorn's 3-year limited warranty backs all these features and functions, providing added peace of mind. Overall, this high-tech hard drive scored one of the highest marks in this portion of our review and has supreme compatibility, security, capacities, and more.

Portability

The Fortress is larger than most of the other portable options we reviewed, but it remains compact considering the amount of security it packs into its shell. This security-centric drive measures 4.7" x 3.3" x 0.78", only taking up 12.27 cubic inches of space.

At 7.5 ounces, its weight is less cumbersome than that of some of the other heavier-duty options we tested. Despite having its score decreased due to size and weight, the Aegis has numerous other attributes that further bolster its overall tallies.

Beyond size, the Aegis is one of the better safety-rated drives we tested, so you don't have to worry as much about physical mishaps while on the go. It features IP66 dust and water resistance, a durable, tamper-resistant ABS housing, and a polymer-coated, wear-resistant membrane keypad. After compiling this impressive list, we put it to the test by flooding it with water from every direction for 3 minutes. After testing, we let it dry off and then plugged it back in to discover that it worked the same as before. With the addition of a carrying case, the Aegis earned one of the best protection scores among all other HDDs throughout our entire review.

Should You Buy the Aegis Fortress?

If you truly want the best security measures within a hard drive that will stand the test of travel and everyday use, then the Aegis Fortress is just for you. This option offers the best blend of size, durability, and performance, and it truly lives up to its name as an absolute fortress for all your sensitive files. From high-end encryptions to self-destruct PINs, this mighty drive complies with government security standards for leading-edge safety. It has plenty of speed to easily back up and store files, while maintaining a rugged build and an integrated USB cord. This is our number one option for secure hard drives.

What Other External Hard Drives Should You Consider?

For the fastest SSD, we recommend considering the Sandisk Extreme Portable V2, which also offers protection in a rubber-coated housing and a high drop test rating. If you need to stay on a tighter budget and don't require extensive security measures, consider the WD My Passport Portable and the Seagate Portable. They are significantly more affordable and have comparable speeds to the Fortress.