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Apricorn 1TB Aegis Padlock USB 3.0 SSD 256-Bit Encrypted Portable Drive (A25-3PL256-S1000)
- 1TB Capacity: External solid state drive providing 1 TB of storage capacity
- AES XTS Security: Aegis Padlock SSD with AES XTS
- USB 3.0 Interface: USB 3.0 host interface for external drive connectivity
- Transfer Rates: Maximum read transfer rate of 160 MB/s and maximum write transfer rate of 145 MB/s
- Included Accessories: Y-auxiliary USB 3.0 Power Cable, Travel Pouch, and Quick Start Guide
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Overview
Specs
Reviews
See all Q & A 
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Overview
The APRICORN MASS STORAGE A25-3PL256-S1000 Aegis Padlock is an external solid state drive with 1 TB of storage capacity, a USB 3.0 host interface, and AES XTS.
Key Features
- 1 TB storage capacity
- External solid state drive design
- AES XTS
- USB 3.0 host interface
- Maximum read transfer rate of 160 MB/s
- Maximum write transfer rate of 145 MB/s
Performance
The drive has a maximum read transfer rate of 160 MB/s, a maximum write transfer rate of 145 MB/s, and an 8 MB buffer.
Design
The external drive measures 0.7 inches in height, 4.7 inches in width, and 3.3 inches in depth. Approximate weight is 6.20 oz.
Connectivity & Compatibility
The drive uses a USB 3.0 host interface and includes a Y-auxiliary USB 3.0 Power Cable.
Specifications
- Brand: APRICORN MASS STORAGE
- Model: A25-3PL256-S1000
- Product Type: External Solid State Drive
- Capacity: 1 TB
- Maximum Read Transfer Rate: 160 MB/s
- Maximum Write Transfer Rate: 145 MB/s
- Buffer: 8 MB
- Host Interface: USB 3.0
- Height: 0.7 inches
- Width: 4.7 inches
- Depth: 3.3 inches
- Approximate Weight: 6.20 oz
What's in the Box
- Aegis Padlock USB 3.0 - Solid State Drive
- Y-auxiliary USB 3.0 Power Cable
- Travel Pouch
- Quick Start Guide
Warranty & Returns
Warranty, Returns, And Additional Information
Warranty
- Limited Warranty period (parts): 3 years
- Limited Warranty period (labor): 3 years
- Read full details
Return Policies
- Return for refund until: January 31, 2027
- Return for replacement until: January 31, 2027
- This item is covered by Newegg.com's Extended Holiday Return Policy.
- Read full return policy for details.
We want to ensure your holiday shopping this year is hassle-free. That’s why we’re automatically extending our return policies on almost every product! For purchases placed between November 1st, 2026 and December 31, 2026 you will have until January 31, 2027 to return your product.
Manufacturer Contact Info
- Manufacturer Website
- Support Phone: 1-800-458-5448
- Support Website
- View other products from Apricorn
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The Apricorn Aegis Padlock A25-3PL256-S1000 is a 1TB external SSD with AES-XTS encryption, suited to people who need portable storage for sensitive files protected by hardware-based security.
Recommended For
- Mobile professionals carrying confidential client, legal, financial, or business files who want the drive to stay encrypted and locked when it is disconnected.
- Organizations or professionals handling sensitive data who specifically need a portable drive with FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validation and PIN entry on the drive rather than on the host computer.
- People who regularly move protected files between supported computers and want keypad-based access without installing unlock software on each computer.
- IT, audit, or investigation teams that need to transfer files securely and can make use of features such as multiple PINs, idle locking, or read-only mode.
Real-World Use Scenarios
- When carrying confidential work or client files between locations, unlock the drive with its keypad before use; the files remain hardware-encrypted while the drive is locked, reducing exposure if it is lost or stolen.
- When moving files between computers where you cannot install encryption software, enter the PIN on the drive and use it as ordinary external storage once unlocked; its software-free operation is designed to work across supported operating systems.
- For transporting a large set of project files or media, use the 1TB SSD as portable working storage; reviewers found it suitable for frequent file transfers, though it is not among the fastest modern portable SSDs.
- When handing sensitive files to a colleague or client, store them on the drive and share the device rather than sending an unlocked copy through an ordinary USB stick; the recipient enters the PIN to access the files.
- For an encrypted extra copy of important files, manually copy them to the drive and keep another backup elsewhere; the drive protects stored data but does not replace a backup plan or provide automatic backup software.
Spec Summary
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Best For | Portable external storage for personal, gaming, or business use with desktop compatibility |
| Capacity And Form Factor | 1 TB portable external SSD in a 2.5-inch form factor |
| Interface And Read Speed | USB 3.0 connectivity with a listed read speed of 350 MB/s |
| Included Accessories | Extension cable, travel pouch, and manual |
| Portability And Color | 0.5 lb and black |
| Model Identifiers | Apricorn Aegis Padlock SSD, model A25-3PL256-S1000 |
Reference Q&A
Q: Should I choose the 1TB Aegis Padlock or the Aegis NVX?
A: Choose the 1TB Aegis Padlock if its USB 3.0/USB-A connection and hardware keypad encryption meet your needs. Choose the Aegis NVX if you want USB-C and higher transfer speeds: Apricorn specifies USB 10Gbps and up to 1,000MB/s for the NVX. Real-world speeds depend on the computer and connection.
Q: Is the Aegis Padlock enough, or do I need the FIPS-validated Fortress L3?
A: Choose the Aegis Padlock when you want PIN-based, hardware-encrypted storage but do not need a FIPS-validated device. Choose the Fortress L3 when your organization requires FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validation. Confirm the exact model’s certification against your organization’s requirements before buying.
Q: How does the Aegis Padlock compare with a regular portable SSD?
A: Choose the Aegis Padlock if you want to unlock the drive using its built-in keypad and use hardware encryption without installing host software. A regular portable SSD may be a better fit if you do not need those built-in security controls; compare the specific drives’ connectors and tested transfer speeds before choosing.
Q: Should I buy the 1TB Aegis Padlock or a higher-capacity version?
A: Choose the 1TB version if it covers the amount of data you plan to carry and you prefer not to pay for unused capacity. Choose a higher-capacity Padlock configuration if your files exceed 1TB or you want more room for future storage. Capacity does not change the core buying trade-off: the Padlock’s keypad access and hardware encryption versus the price and performance of other drives.
Q: Is this a good choice for carrying sensitive work files?
A: It is designed for portable storage with hardware AES-XTS encryption and keypad access. It may suit people who prioritize protecting files if a drive is lost, though entering a PIN adds a step before use.
Q: Can I use it for Mac Time Machine backups?
A: A retailer Q&A for a 1TB Aegis Padlock drive confirms compatibility with macOS Time Machine. Format the drive for macOS as needed, and verify compatibility with the exact computer and setup before relying on it for backups.
Q: Who is this 1TB external SSD best suited for?
A: It is suited to people who need 1TB of portable storage and want hardware-encrypted, PIN-protected access—for example, to carry work files or keep a portable backup. It is less suitable for someone seeking the simplest possible drive access, because unlocking requires the PIN.
Q: Is this Aegis Padlock SSD suitable for sensitive work files?
A: It may suit work use when hardware encryption is a priority; the provided product data lists AES XTS. A Reddit commenter discussing the Aegis Padlock SSD also describes using group encryption in a corporate setting for managing access after an employee leaves. Confirm that the exact SKU supports any required group-management features before buying.
Q: What durability trade-offs should I check before buying?
A: Reddit feedback on the Aegis Padlock SSD is mixed: commenters mention long-term positive use, but one reports USB cable failures and another prefers a removable cable. Check the exact model’s cable design and condition, especially if it will be carried or connected frequently.
Q: Should I choose it mainly for its security features?
A: That is the clearest reason to consider it: the provided product data identifies AES XTS encryption, and Reddit discussion focuses on the drive’s security and corporate use. The discussion does not establish independent security-test results, so verify that the specific model meets your security requirements.