You can unlock this secure SSD with the touch of your smartphone
Published: (February 9, 2026 at 04:43 AM EST)
3 min read
Source: ZDNet
Source: ZDNet
Lexar TouchLock Portable SSD – Key Takeaways
- Super‑thin & lightweight – 3.37 × 2.09 × 0.28 in, 1.4 oz.
- NFC unlocking eliminates passcodes and biometrics.
- Performance – Up to 450 Mbps write / 420 Mbps read (fast enough for 4K ProRes 60 fps video).
Why Encryption Matters
Carrying unencrypted data is risky, especially for sensitive or regulated information. The Lexar TouchLock solves this by providing hardware‑based 128‑bit AES encryption that keeps everything encrypted at rest.
Design & Build
- Materials – Lightweight aluminum shell, engineered to survive a 6.5‑ft drop.
- Interface – Single USB‑C port (bottom) plus a MagSafe‑style magnetic ring on the front for easy attachment to iPhones or other devices.
- NFC pad – Located on the back; tap a smartphone to unlock the drive.
The drive feels “space‑age” – tiny, solid, and ready for everyday rough‑and‑tumble.
Performance & Reliability
Lexar uses a custom low‑power controller that generates less heat, favoring reliability over raw speed. Despite that focus, the SSD still delivers:
| Operation | Speed |
|---|---|
| Write | Up to 450 Mbps |
| Read | Up to 420 Mbps |
These speeds comfortably handle 4K ProRes 60 fps video recorded on an iPhone. For a faster, non‑encrypted option, see the Lexar ES3.
Getting Started
- Install the Lexar app
- iOS: (details omitted in source)
- Android: (details omitted in source)
- Unlock via NFC – Tap your phone on the NFC pad; the app will register the device as the “handset” that can unlock the SSD.
- Connect – Use the included USB‑C‑to‑USB‑C cable (or the USB‑C‑to‑USB‑A adapter) to attach the drive to any compatible device.
Once unlocked, the SSD behaves like any standard external drive.
What’s in the Box?
- Lexar TouchLock Portable SSD
- Short USB‑C‑to‑USB‑C cable
- USB‑C‑to‑USB‑A adapter
- Self‑adhesive magnetic ring (for attaching to iPhones or other surfaces)
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ZDNET Buying Advice – Lexar TouchLock Portable SSD
Models & Prices
- 500 GB – $94
Buy on Amazon - 1 TB – $143
Buy on Amazon
Key Points
- Unlock Mechanism – Quick and easy via the companion app.
- Backup Passcode – Required in case you lose your phone or need to reinstall the app.
- Form Factor – Small and lightweight; virtually unnoticeable when attached to an iPhone.
- Performance – More than acceptable for everyday use.
- Thermal Management – Lexar has done a great job keeping the drive cool; it stays comfortably warm even during extended iPhone use, unlike many competing SSDs that become noticeably hot.