Performance
While the SimpleSave backup software worked well in our testing, the drive's throughput performance could use some improvement. We tested it with both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 and in both cases, it was among the slowest performers we've seen.
In tests with USB 3.0, the drive averaged 69.4MBps and 83.65MBps for writing and reading, respectively, being the second-slowest on the charts. For comparison, other USB portable drives we've reviewed performed about 25MBps and 35MBps faster in writing and reading, respectively.
In tests with USB 2.0, the drive scored 26MBps for writing and 32.99MBps for reading. These numbers were comparatively better than its USB 3.0 performance, but still really far behind the fastest we've seen.
All in all, though slower than its peers, the HP Portable Hard Drive is still fast enough for most backup jobs, especially since subsequent backups will only involve files that have been changed or added since the last job.
(Longer bars indicate better performance)
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(Longer bars indicate better performance)
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Service and support
HP backs the HP Portable Hard Drive with a two-year warranty, which is standard, although some other drives on the market are covered for three years or even five years. This is disappointing, as with external hard drives, the warranty is the most important factor when it comes to service and support.
Conclusions
The HP Portable Hard Drive is a very good, easy backup option for Windows users. Those who want more advanced backup features, however, should check out other alternatives.
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