Are you tired of sacrificing speed, capacity, or convenience when choosing an external SSD? The ADATA SC735 challenges this compromise, packing impressive performance into a thumb-drive-sized package—all without the hassle of cables. Starting at $189.99 for 1TB and $329.99 for 2TB (as tested), this drive targets creators and travelers who demand both simplicity and speed. But here's where it gets controversial: while the SC735 excels in portability and direct iPhone video recording, it lacks the hardware-based encryption found in competitors like the Crucial X9 Pro, our top overall pick. Does this trade-off make it a dealbreaker for you? Let’s dive in.
Design: Pocket-Sized Powerhouse, Cable-Free Convenience
Weighing just under half an ounce and measuring a mere 0.5 x 1.1 x 2.2 inches, the SC735 is as compact as a USB thumb drive but roughly twice as wide. Available in two color schemes—a predominantly black 'blue' version with diagonal blue stripes and a 'gray' variant with dark gray accents—its textured plastic enclosure feels less premium than metal but meets the MIL-STD-810G 516.6 impact-resistance standard, surviving drops from up to 4 feet. A sliding switch on the bottom extends or retracts the built-in USB Type-C connector, which locks securely into place—a mechanism I found intuitive to use.
Connectivity and Compatibility: Plug-and-Play Versatility
The SC735 supports USB 3.2 Gen 2, ensuring compatibility with Windows, macOS 10.6+, Linux Kernel 2.6+, Android 13+, and recent iPhones, including the iPhone 15 series. Formatted in exFAT out of the box, it’s ready for cross-platform use but can be reformatted as needed. One standout feature? Direct iPhone video recording, ideal for space-hungry formats like Apple’s ProRes. And this is the part most people miss: while it works seamlessly with USB-C devices, you’ll need a C-to-A adapter (not included) for USB Type-A ports.
Pricing and Capacity: Navigating a Turbulent SSD Market
The SC735’s pricing is reasonable for its capabilities, but the SSD market is in flux. A NAND flash shortage, driven by surging demand from AI cloud giants, is pushing prices upward. Industry analysts predict this trend will continue at least until 2027. So, if you’re eyeing the SC735, buying sooner rather than later might save you from higher costs down the line. Notably, it lacks AES hardware encryption and bundled backup software, though it does come with a five-year warranty.
The Competition: Compact Rivals with Extra Perks
The SC735 isn’t alone in the compact SSD arena. The Seagate Ultra Compact SSD, for instance, offers an aluminum casing with a rubberized sheath and includes the Seagate Toolkit for backups and encryption. The Lexar Professional Go SSD with Hub, an Editors' Choice winner, features a detachable hub for multi-device connectivity, IP65 dust and water resistance, and 256-bit AES encryption. Meanwhile, the Corsair EX400U supports USB4 speeds, includes a MagSafe connector for iPhone attachment, and undercuts the SC735’s price—a surprising value proposition.
Performance: A Reliable Gen 2 Contender
In our PC Labs tests, the SC735 held its own among USB 3.2 Gen 2 drives. Its Crystal DiskMark sequential read/write speeds were mid-range, while it placed third in PCMark 10 and second in 3DMark. On a MacBook Pro, it achieved the highest write speed in Blackmagic’s Disk Speed Test but lagged in read speeds. These results align with expectations for a Gen 2 drive, though they don’t break new ground.
Final Thoughts: A Niche Player with Trade-Offs
The ADATA SC735 shines for its portability and direct iPhone recording capabilities, making it a solid choice for creators on the go. However, its lack of encryption and stiff competition from feature-rich rivals like the Corsair EX400U and Lexar Professional Go raise questions. Is convenience worth the compromise? What’s your take? Do the SC735’s strengths outweigh its omissions, or would you opt for a more secure, feature-packed alternative? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your perspective!
