Looking Beyond the Apricorn 22TB Aegis Padlock DT? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How these drives differ

Avolusion PRO-T8 14TB External Desktop Hard Drive

The Avolusion PRO-T8 14TB offers 14TB of storage via USB 3.0, which is less than the Apricorn 22TB but still substantial for desktop use. It measures 6 by 4 by 1 inches and weighs 2 pounds, making it slightly more compact than the Apricorn drive. This model targets Windows desktop users seeking expansion without internal hardware changes. You give up the Apricorn hardware encryption and separate admin modes, but you gain a standard, non-encrypted high-capacity option. If you do not need data protection features, this drive provides a solid, high-speed alternative for general storage needs.

Avolusion 4TB USB 3.0 External Hard Drive

The Avolusion PRO-T5 4TB provides only 4TB of storage, significantly less than the Apricorn 22TB. It connects via USB 3.0 and weighs 3 pounds. Its dimensions are 7 by 5 by 1 inches, similar in footprint to the Apricorn but lighter. This drive is designed for basic backup on Mac or Windows PCs. You sacrifice massive capacity and encryption for a lower price point and simpler functionality. If you only need modest storage for documents and do not require the Apricorn security features, this budget-friendly option fits your needs. It lacks the brute-force defense and admin modes found in the Apricorn model.

Western Digital My Book 14TB External Desktop Drive

The Western Digital My Book 14TB delivers 14TB of storage through USB 3.0, falling short of the Apricorn 22TB capacity. It measures 5.5 by 6.7 by 1.9 inches and is black. This desktop drive is ideal for users with dedicated desk space who prioritize size over portability. You lose the Apricorn hardware encryption and separate user modes, opting instead for a standard high-capacity solution. If you need large storage but do not require strict access controls, this drive is a practical choice. It offers a familiar form factor and reliable performance for desktop expansion without the complexity of dedicated encryption hardware.

Silicon Power 2TB Armor A80 Rugged Hard Drive

The Silicon Power Armor A80 2TB provides only 2TB of storage, a fraction of the Apricorn 22TB. It features a rugged, portable 2.5-inch form factor measuring 5.49 by 3.7 by 0.71 inches and weighs 9.52 ounces. This drive is designed for shock and water resistance, making it suitable for travelers. You give up the Apricorn desktop capacity and encryption for durability and portability. If you need a compact, rugged drive for on-the-go use rather than high-capacity secure storage, this is a better fit. It lacks the brute-force defense and admin modes but excels in physical protection for smaller data sets.

Silicon Power A80 1TB Rugged External Drive

The Silicon Power A80 1TB offers just 1TB of storage via USB 3.0, much less than the Apricorn 22TB. It is a compact 2.5-inch drive measuring 5.5 by 3.7 by 0.7 inches and weighs 10.3 ounces. This model is compatible with PC, Mac, PS4, and Xbox, making it versatile for gaming consoles. You sacrifice the Apricorn encryption and massive capacity for a rugged, portable option. If you need to expand PS4 storage or carry small files securely, this drive is suitable. It lacks the hardware encryption features but provides durability and broad compatibility for users who prioritize portability over large storage volumes.

Apricorn 2TB Aegis Padlock DT Encrypted Drive

The Apricorn 2TB Aegis Padlock DT shares the same encryption features as the 22TB model, including separate admin modes and brute-force defense. It offers only 2TB of storage, significantly less than the 22TB version. The drive measures 7.25 by 4.5 by 1.5 inches and weighs 2.5 pounds, nearly identical in size to the 22TB model. You gain the same robust security but lose 20TB of capacity. If you need strong data protection for smaller datasets, this model provides the same security features in a familiar form factor. It is ideal for users who prioritize access controls over maximum storage volume.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Apricorn 22TB Aegis Padlock DT Hard Drive

Best for: High-capacity encrypted desktop storage

Storage Capacity

22TB

Hardware Interface

USB 3.0

Dimensions

7.2 × 4.5 × 1.5 inches

View on Amazon: Apricorn 22TB Aegis Padlock DT Hard Drive

The Apricorn Aegis Padlock DT offers 22TB of storage via a USB 3.0 interface. It includes 256-bit hardware encryption with separate admin and user modes. The drive supports forced enrollment and data recovery PINs. It features programmable brute-force defense. This unit suits users needing high-capacity, secure external storage for sensitive files on Windows or Mac systems.

Pros

• 22TB storage capacity
• 256-bit hardware encryption
• Separate admin and user modes
• Data recovery PINs

Cons

• No mention of shockproof casing
• No mention of water resistance
• Large physical dimensions

Good fit if

• You need 22TB of encrypted storage
• You require separate admin and user access
• You want brute-force defense protection

Skip if

• You need a portable 2.5-inch drive
• You require shockproof or water resistance
• You prefer smaller form factors

Verdict: Apricorn Aegis Padlock DT 22TB Encrypted Drive provides massive secure storage for users prioritizing data protection over portability.

2 Also great

Avolusion PRO-T8 14TB External Desktop Hard Drive

Best for: Windows desktop backup and expansion

Storage Capacity

14TB

Hardware Interface

USB 3.0

Rotational Speed

7200RPM

Form Factor

Desktop

Compatibility

PC

Dimensions

6 × 1 × 4 inches

View on Amazon: Avolusion PRO-T8 14TB External Desktop Hard Drive

The Avolusion PRO-T8 offers 14TB of desktop storage via USB 3.0. It uses a 7200RPM enterprise drive for consistent performance. The unit measures 6 by 4 by 1 inches and weighs 2 pounds. You get roughly 12TB of usable space after formatting. This drive suits users needing large, reliable backup capacity for Windows PCs without opening their case.

Pros

• 14TB storage capacity provides ample space for large files
• 7200RPM rotational speed ensures fast data transfer rates
• USB 3.0 interface offers high-speed connectivity
• Desktop form factor allows easy expansion without opening the case

Cons

• Usable capacity is approximately 12TB due to formatting overhead
• Limited to Windows OS compatibility
• Heavier and bulkier than portable 2.5-inch drives

Good fit if

• You need massive storage for Windows desktop backups
• You want high rotational speed for large file transfers
• You prefer a desktop drive that does not require opening your PC case

Skip if

• You require macOS compatibility
• You need a portable drive that fits in a pocket
• You are looking for a drive with less than 14TB capacity

Verdict: Avolusion PRO-T8 14TB USB 3.0 Desktop Drive fits users who need high-capacity, high-speed storage for Windows desktops. It is ideal for those who want to expand storage without internal hardware changes.

3 Best budget

Avolusion 4TB USB 3.0 External Hard Drive

Best for: basic Windows and Mac backup storage

Storage Capacity

4TB

Hardware Interface

USB 3.0

Compatibility

Mac

Dimensions

7 × 5 × 1 inches

Weight

3 pounds

View on Amazon: Avolusion 4TB USB 3.0 External Hard Drive

The Avolusion PRO-T5 offers 4TB of storage via a USB 3.0 interface. It measures 7x5x1 inches and weighs 3 pounds. This white drive supports Windows and Mac OS without extra software. It suits users needing affordable, plug-and-play backup for photos and videos. The 2-year warranty covers renewed units. It provides reliable everyday storage for expanding capacity on desktops or consoles.

Pros

• 4TB storage capacity for large file libraries
• USB 3.0 interface for efficient data transfer
• Plug-and-play setup with no software required
• Compatible with Windows and Mac OS

Cons

• 4TB capacity is smaller than the 14TB and 22TB options on this list
• No hardware encryption mentioned in specifications
• Sold as a renewed item rather than new

Good fit if

• You need affordable extra storage for backups
• You use Windows or Mac computers
• You want a simple plug-and-play drive

Skip if

• You require hardware encryption for sensitive data
• You need more than 4TB in a single drive
• You prefer a brand-new unit over renewed

Verdict: Avolusion PRO-T5 4TB USB 3.0 Drive fits users who need basic, affordable storage for Mac or Windows PCs without encryption needs.

4 Best premium

Western Digital My Book 14TB External Desktop Drive

Best for: High capacity desktop storage needs

Storage Capacity

14TB

Hardware Interface

USB 3.0

Form Factor

Desktop

Dimensions

5.5 × 1.9 × 6.7 inches

View on Amazon: Western Digital My Book 14TB External Desktop Drive

This Western Digital drive offers 14TB of storage in a desktop form factor. It connects via USB 3.0 for reliable data transfer. The unit measures 6.7 inches high, 5.5 inches long, and 1.9 inches wide. Its black casing fits standard desk setups. You need a stable surface for this desktop model. It suits users who prioritize capacity over portability.

Pros

• 14TB storage capacity
• USB 3.0 interface
• Desktop form factor
• Black finish

Cons

• Desktop size requires a dedicated surface
• Not portable like 2.5-inch drives
• Renewed condition status

Good fit if

• You need high storage capacity
• You have a stable desk space
• You prefer desktop drives over portable ones

Skip if

• You need a portable drive
• You lack desk space
• You want new condition only

Verdict: WD 14TB My Book Desktop fits users who need large storage and have a dedicated desk. It is not for those requiring portability.

5 Best 2.5 inch

Silicon Power 2TB Armor A80 Rugged Hard Drive

Best for: rugged portable storage under 2TB

Storage Capacity

2TB

Form Factor

2.5"

Hardware Interface

USB 3.1 Gen 1

Dimensions

5.49 × 3.7 × 0.71 inches

Weight

9.52 ounces

View on Amazon: Silicon Power 2TB Armor A80 Rugged Hard Drive

The Silicon Power Armor A80 is a 2TB portable drive with a 2.5-inch form factor. It connects via USB 3.0 for fast data transfers. The unit meets MIL-STD810F drop test standards and holds up to IPX7 waterproof ratings. You get a compact, rugged option for mobile storage. It includes a free backup and encryption widget. The drive weighs 9.52 ounces and fits easily in a bag.

Pros

• 2TB storage capacity in a compact 2.5-inch chassis
• USB 3.0 interface for SuperSpeed data transfer
• IPX7 waterproof and MIL-STD810F shockproof durability
• Includes free SP Widget for backup and encryption

Cons

• 2TB capacity is lower than desktop alternatives
• No hardware encryption button on the drive
• Software-based security requires PC installation

Good fit if

• You need a rugged drive for travel
• You want USB 3.0 speed in a small size
• You prioritize drop and water resistance

Skip if

• You require more than 2TB of space
• You prefer a desktop drive with no cables
• You need hardware encryption without software

Verdict: Silicon Power Armor A80 2TB is a durable, portable choice for users who need shock and water resistance. It fits travelers who value compact size over high capacity.

6 Best ps4

Silicon Power A80 1TB Rugged External Drive

Best for: PS4 storage expansion

Storage Capacity

1 TB

Form Factor

2.5-inch

Hardware Interface

USB 3.0

Compatibility

PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox

Dimensions

5.5 × 3.7 × 0.7 inches

Weight

10.3 ounces

View on Amazon: Silicon Power A80 1TB Rugged External Drive

This rugged 1TB drive uses a 2.5-inch form factor and USB 3.0 interface. It meets MIL-STD-810F drop-test standards for shock resistance. The unit works with PC, Mac, Xbox, and PS4. You get a compact 5.5-inch length and 10.3-ounce weight. The blue casing includes yellow trim. It suits users needing portable storage for gaming consoles or laptops.

Pros

• USB 3.0 interface for data transfer
• MIL-STD-810F shock-resistant build
• Compatible with PS4 and Xbox
• Compact 2.5-inch portable size

Cons

• Only 1TB storage capacity
• No hardware encryption listed
• Limited to 1TB model options

Good fit if

• You need extra storage for a PS4
• You want a shock-resistant portable drive
• You use a PC or Mac for daily tasks

Skip if

• You require more than 1TB of space
• You need hardware encryption for sensitive data
• You prefer desktop-sized drives for stationary use

Verdict: SP Silicon Power Armor A80 1TB is a durable, compact option for PS4 owners. It fits users who prioritize portability and ruggedness over high capacity.

7 Also great

Apricorn 2TB Aegis Padlock DT Encrypted Drive

Best for: Secure storage with strict access controls

Storage Capacity

2 TB

Hardware Interface

USB 3.0

Dimensions

7.25 × 1.5 × 4.5 inches

Weight

2.5 pounds

View on Amazon: Apricorn 2TB Aegis Padlock DT Encrypted Drive

This is a 2 TB external hard drive with a USB 3.0 interface. It features 256-bit hardware encryption and separate admin and user modes. The drive includes a programmable brute-force defense and data recovery PINs. You get a rugged build measuring 7.25 by 4.5 by 1.5 inches. It weighs 2.5 pounds. This unit suits users who need strict access control and data protection for sensitive files.

Pros

• 256-bit hardware encryption
• Separate admin and user modes
• Programmable brute-force defense
• Data recovery PINs

Cons

• Only 2 TB storage capacity
• Heavier at 2.5 pounds
• Larger physical footprint

Good fit if

• You need dedicated admin and user access levels
• You require brute-force attack protection
• You want hardware-level encryption

Skip if

• You need more than 2 TB of space
• You prefer a lightweight portable drive
• You want a larger capacity option

Verdict: Apricorn 2TB Aegis Padlock DT Encrypted Drive offers robust security features like separate admin modes and brute-force defense. It fits users who prioritize data protection over high storage capacity or portability.

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