Iomega eGo Portable USB 3.0 review

Slimline external hard drives are an effective compromise between capacity and portability for business users, and Iomega's new range offers a number of advantages over many of the more basic models available.

The eGo series is available in a range of guises and the USB 3.0 version on test allows users to benefit from the new superfast standard that claims speeds of up to 5Gbit/s.

It has also been well designed from a safety and security point of view, and features Iomega's Drop Guard technology to offer shock protection against falls of up to 1.3 metres.

Despite this, the drive does feel a little hollow to the touch and the gloss black exterior will undoubtedly be prone to marks and scratches, so for extra protection it may be worth considering the rubberised Power Grip Band which, for an additional £9, boosts the drop protection to 2.1 metres as well as improving durability.

The eGo comes with a short USB 3.0 cable, but this is all you'll find in the box so those who don't have provision for USB 3.0 will need a suitable adaptor (Iomega sells a PCI Express card for £34.90).

Instead of bundling a CD of related software or pre-loading it onto the drive, you're instead asked to download what is admittedly a comprehensive collection of tools using the links and registration codes provided with the supplied literature.

This shouldn't be a problem for most people but, since many of the applications duplicate the key tasks of backing up and restoring data, it's worth trying out each package to see which best fits your needs.

The software on offer includes Iomega QuikProtect for Windows along with MozyHome Online backup and EMC Retrospect Express for either Windows or Mac.

There's a one-year free subscription to Trend Micro Internet Security thrown in, which could make a nice additional saving for those without system security or if a subscription period is about to expire.