We say save some bucks with the 3z unless you need the larger capacities. But the 3.0 is available in capacities up to 480GB as opposed to the 3z’s maximum of 64GB. While the 3z doesn’t really improve on its 3.0 predecessor’s capabilities, the 3z is smaller, about half the weight, and appreciably cheaper-around $20 less for similar capacities. Obviously, the larger capacities offer a lower price-per-gigabyte ratio, but how much of your data really needs to be secured? But that’s life in the secure-keypad lane. It’s not cheap by other standards, mind you: $79 for the 8GB, $99 for the 16GB, $129 for the 32GB, and $159 for the 64GB. Despite that, it’s only $99, which kind of surprised us since corporate-focused hardware tends to be a bit pricey.įor the security and cross-device compatibility it delivers, the Secure Key 3z is a bargain. The downstream port and power connector are on one end, and the whole deal is made of aluminum and is rather hefty. The software and surprisingly affordable USB Configurator hub allows IT departments to configure multiple Secure Keys at the same time.Īs you can see above, the ports on the Configurator are all on top in by far the most convenient location. Don’t buy a super-secure drive if you want scintillating performance-that’s not the point. The 3z proved a decent performer for an external USB thumbdrive, if you keep in mind that all data is being encrypted to the 256-bit AES XTS standard. The unit is warrantied for three years including the battery.
Apricorn says the battery should last about six years under normal use. Even if you somehow let the battery die, don’t worry-you can unlock the drive while it’s being powered and recharged by the USB port.
The 3z has a small rechargeable battery on-board so you can unlock the drive prior to inserting it into the USB port. Repeat the process and you’re good to go. To enable the drive and security, you press the unlock button plus 9, then enter a PIN, which must consist of seven nonrepeating numbers. The lock and unlock function buttons reside below the keypad. There are three status lights above the keypad to tell you whether the drive is locked (red), ready for programming or unlocking (blue), or unlocked (green). Buttons require a firm press, but nothing that should concern any but the most fragile users. The 3z’s keypad is tiny, but quite usable.
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