LaCie Mobile Drive 2TB External Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
If you are looking for laCie Mobile Drive 2TB external alternatives, this guide compares 6 similar drives based on their published specifications. The original LaCie drive offers a slim, cross-platform design with USB-C connectivity, making it a practical choice for travelers using Mac or Windows computers. Its compact dimensions and lightweight build prioritize portability without sacrificing basic transfer speeds.
You might want a different option if you need more storage capacity, faster Thunderbolt 3 speeds, or a desktop form factor for stationary use. Some users prefer the integrated hub features of the Seagate One Touch or the higher capacity of the LaCie 5TB model. These alternatives were selected because their core specifications overlap with the original drive, ensuring they serve similar functions. We compare these picks strictly by their data to help you find the right fit for your specific workflow.
Our top pick: LaCie Mobile Drive 2TB USB-C External HDD.
How each alternative compares
LaCie 2big Dock 8TB External RAID Drive
The LaCie 2big Dock is a desktop unit, not portable. It weighs 4.65 pounds and measures 8.54 inches tall. You get 8TB of storage, which is four times the capacity of the original. It uses Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C for high-speed transfers. This drive supports RAID configurations for data redundancy. It suits video editors who need speed and safety. You lose portability and compact size. It is not for travel. It is a stationary solution for professional workflows where data protection and capacity matter more than carrying the drive in a bag.
LaCie Mobile Drive 5TB Portable HDD
The LaCie Mobile Drive 5TB keeps the portable form factor but increases capacity to 5TB. It is thicker at 0.79 inches and weighs 10.6 ounces. It includes Thunderbolt 3 connectivity for faster transfers than the original USB-C only model. The aluminum chassis offers durability. You gain significant storage space and speed. You sacrifice the slim profile of the 2TB model. It is heavier and bulkier. This option fits users who need more room for large media libraries but still want a portable drive. It is ideal for professionals who prioritize capacity and connection speed over minimal weight.
Seagate One Touch Hub 8TB External Hard Drive
The Seagate One Touch Hub is a desktop drive with 8TB of storage. It measures 7.81 inches long and weighs 2.73 pounds. It includes USB hub ports for connecting other devices. This feature allows you to charge devices while storing data. It lacks the portability of the original LaCie drive. It is designed for a fixed workstation. You gain massive capacity and convenient hub functionality. You lose the ability to easily carry it. This drive suits users who keep their storage at a desk. It is best for those who value integrated backup tools and device charging over mobile use.
YOTUO 320GB Portable External Hard Drive
The YOTUO 320GB drive is much smaller in capacity. It holds only 320GB, which is far less than the 2TB original. It weighs 8.82 ounces and measures 0.67 inches thick. It supports PC, Mac, PS4, and Xbox. It is suitable for basic console game storage or light backups. You gain compatibility with gaming consoles. You lose substantial storage space. It is not for large media libraries. This drive fits casual users needing small, portable storage. It is a niche option for expanding console storage or backing up small files. It is not suitable for high-performance transfers or professional media work.
YOTUO 500GB USB-C Docking Station HDD
The YOTUO 500GB Docking Station HDD combines storage with a docking station. It holds 500GB and includes card reading capabilities. It weighs 10.4 ounces and measures 1 inch tall. It offers extra USB ports for connectivity expansion. You gain the ability to read SD cards directly and connect more devices. You lose the simple plug-and-play nature of the original. It is a niche solution for users who need connectivity expansion. It fits professionals who frequently transfer files from cards. It is not ideal for raw storage capacity. It is best for desk setups where card reading and port expansion are priorities.
WD 2TB Elements Portable Hard Drive
The WD 2TB Elements Portable matches the 2TB capacity of the original. It weighs 4.64 ounces and is thinner at 0.83 inches. It uses USB 3.0 connectivity without USB-C. It supports PC, Mac, PS4, and Xbox. It provides reliable storage for Windows and gaming users. You gain compatibility with gaming consoles and a lighter weight. You lose the modern USB-C port. It is suitable for those who prioritize capacity and portability over modern connectivity. It fits users who need simple, reliable storage for gaming or basic file backup. It is a practical choice for cross-platform use without advanced features.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
LaCie Mobile Drive 2TB USB-C External HDD
Best for: portable cross-platform storage
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Hardware Interface
- USB-C, USB 3.0
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Compatibility
- PC, Mac
- Dimensions
- 0.39 × 3.46 × 4.79 inches
- Weight
- 7.05 ounces
View on Amazon: LaCie Mobile Drive 2TB USB-C External HDD Affiliate link
The LaCie Mobile Drive 2TB is a portable hard drive designed for Mac and Windows users. It features USB-C connectivity for high-speed transfers and includes a USB 3.0 cable for legacy computers. The unit measures 0.39 inches thick and weighs 7.05 ounces, making it slim and travel-friendly. You get 2TB of storage for photos, documents, and playlists in a durable Space Gray finish.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity for media and files
- USB-C interface for fast data transfers
- Includes USB 3.0 cable for older computers
- Compatible with both Mac and Windows out of the box
- Slim 0.39-inch profile for portability
Cons
- Only 2TB capacity compared to larger options
- No included carrying case or protective sleeve
- Requires external power via USB, no battery
Good fit if
- You need a compact drive for Mac and PC use
- You prefer USB-C connectivity for modern devices
- You want a reliable portable drive for travel
Skip if
- You require more than 2TB of storage
- You need a desktop drive with external power adapter
- You want built-in RAID or backup software
Verdict: LaCie Mobile Drive 2TB Space Gray fits users who need a slim, cross-platform portable drive with USB-C speed. It is ideal for travelers with Mac or Windows computers who prioritize compact size over maximum capacity.
LaCie 2big Dock 8TB External RAID Drive
Best for: Desktop video editing and professional media workflows
- Storage Capacity
- 8TB
- Hardware Interface
- Thunderbolt 3, USB-C, USB 3.0, USB 3.1
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Compatibility
- PC, Mac
- Dimensions
- 4.65 × 3.66 × 8.54 inches
- Weight
- 4.65 pounds
View on Amazon: LaCie 2big Dock 8TB External RAID Drive Affiliate link
The LaCie 2big Dock is an 8TB desktop RAID drive built for high-speed workflows. It uses Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C for fast data transfer, reaching up to 440MB/s. You get built-in SD and CF card slots for direct ingestion and a USB hub for charging. It supports RAID 0 or 1 for speed or redundancy. This unit is designed for Mac and PC users who need reliable, high-capacity storage on their desk.
Pros
- 8TB storage capacity for large media libraries
- Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C interfaces for up to 440MB/s speeds
- Built-in SD and CF card slots for direct file ingestion
- Supports RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations
Cons
- Desktop form factor requires a dedicated power outlet and desk space
- Significantly larger and heavier than portable drive alternatives
- Higher price point compared to standard external hard drives
Good fit if
- You need fast Thunderbolt 3 transfer speeds for video editing
- You want to ingest footage directly from SD or CF cards
- You require RAID redundancy for important data protection
Skip if
- You need a portable drive for travel or backpack storage
- You only have standard USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 ports available
- You are looking for a budget-friendly basic storage solution
Verdict: LaCie 2big Dock 8TB Thunderbolt 3 Desktop RAID is a robust desktop solution for professionals who need fast Thunderbolt 3 speeds and direct card ingestion. It suits video editors and photographers who prioritize data redundancy and high capacity over portability.
LaCie Mobile Drive 5TB Portable HDD
Best for: High-capacity portable storage with Thunderbolt 3
- Storage Capacity
- 5TB
- Hardware Interface
- USB-C, USB 3.0, Thunderbolt 3
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Compatibility
- PC, Mac
- Dimensions
- 0.79 × 3.58 × 4.88 inches
- Weight
- 10.6 ounces
View on Amazon: LaCie Mobile Drive 5TB Portable HDD Affiliate link
This LaCie drive offers 5TB of storage in a compact, all-aluminum enclosure. It supports USB-C, USB 3.0, and Thunderbolt 3 interfaces for high-speed data transfer. The device is compatible with Mac and PC systems. Its lightweight design allows for easy portability. You get significant space for photos and videos in a durable, space-gray finish.
Pros
- 5TB storage capacity for large media libraries
- Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C connectivity options
- All-aluminum construction with space gray finish
- Compatible with Mac and PC out of the box
Cons
- Larger and heavier than 2TB portable alternatives
- Requires USB-C port for full bandwidth speeds
- Desktop form factor is less pocket-friendly
Good fit if
- You need more than 2TB of portable storage
- You use a Mac or Thunderbolt 3 device
- You prefer a premium aluminum build quality
Skip if
- You only need 2TB of storage space
- You require a drive that fits in a pocket
- You only have legacy USB 3.0 ports
Verdict: LaCie Mobile Drive 5TB provides substantial storage in a durable aluminum chassis. It suits users who prioritize capacity and Thunderbolt 3 speeds over pocket-sized portability.
Seagate One Touch Hub 8TB External Hard Drive
Best for: desktop storage with device charging
- Storage Capacity
- 8TB
- Hardware Interface
- USB-C, USB 3.0
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Compatibility
- PC, Mac
- Dimensions
- 7.81 × 5.11 × 1.78 inches
- Weight
- 2.73 pounds
View on Amazon: Seagate One Touch Hub 8TB External Hard Drive Affiliate link
This desktop hard drive offers 8TB of storage with a front-facing USB-C and USB 3.0 hub. You can connect and recharge devices directly, even if the computer is off. It includes password protection and Seagate Toolkit software for scheduled backups. The unit measures 7.81 by 5.11 by 1.78 inches and weighs 2.73 pounds. It works with Windows and Mac computers out of the box.
Pros
- 8TB storage capacity
- Front-facing USB hub for device charging
- Password protection included
- Seagate Toolkit backup software
Cons
- Desktop form factor requires AC power
- Heavier and bulkier than portable drives
- Only two-year limited warranty
Good fit if
- You need high-capacity desktop storage
- You want to charge devices from the drive
- You prefer scheduled backup software
Skip if
- You need a portable drive
- You want a longer warranty
- You require a lighter unit
Verdict: Seagate One Touch Hub 8TB Desktop Drive provides ample space and convenient hub ports for users who keep their drives at a workstation. It suits those who value integrated backup tools and device charging over portability.
YOTUO 320GB Portable External Hard Drive
Best for: Basic console game storage and light backups
- Storage Capacity
- 320 GB
- Hardware Interface
- USB 3.0 & USB-C
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Compatibility
- PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox
- Dimensions
- 4.84 × 3.07 × 0.67 inches
- Weight
- 8.82 ounces
View on Amazon: YOTUO 320GB Portable External Hard Drive Affiliate link
The YOTUO 320GB drive offers portable storage via USB 3.0 and USB-C interfaces. It weighs just 8.82 ounces and measures 4.84 by 3.07 inches. The device includes a silicone sleeve for drop protection. You can use it with Windows, Mac, Linux, PS4, and Xbox consoles. This compact drive suits users needing basic file backups or game storage expansion.
Pros
- USB 3.0 and USB-C connectivity
- Patented silicone sleeve for shock absorption
- Compatible with PC, Mac, and gaming consoles
- Lightweight design at 8.82 ounces
Cons
- Small 320 GB storage capacity
- Limited to USB 3.0 speeds
- No mention of encryption software
Good fit if
- You need extra space for PS4 or Xbox One games
- You want a lightweight drive for travel
- You require basic plug-and-play backup for documents
Skip if
- You need high-capacity storage over 1 TB
- You require fast USB 3.1 or Thunderbolt speeds
- You need dedicated backup software features
Verdict: YOTUO 320GB Portable External HDD fits casual users needing small, portable storage for consoles or basic files. It is not suitable for large media libraries or high-performance transfers.
YOTUO 500GB USB-C Docking Station HDD
Best for: users needing storage and card reading in one device
- Storage Capacity
- 500GB
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Hardware Interface
- USB 3.0, USB-C
- Compatibility
- PC, Mac
- Dimensions
- 4.9 × 4 × 1 inches
- Weight
- 10.4 ounces
View on Amazon: YOTUO 500GB USB-C Docking Station HDD Affiliate link
This YOTUO drive combines 500GB of storage with a 7-in-1 docking station. It features USB-C and USB 3.0 interfaces for broad compatibility. The unit includes SD and TF card slots, acting as a hub. Its compact desktop form factor weighs 10.4 ounces. You get a single device that handles data storage and port expansion. It suits users who need to connect multiple peripherals without extra adapters.
Pros
- 500GB internal hard drive capacity
- Built-in SD and TF card reader slots
- Dual USB-C and USB 3.2 connection ports
- Compact desktop form factor at 1 inch height
Cons
- 500GB capacity is significantly lower than 2TB competitors
- No RAID or redundancy features for data protection
- Desktop form factor requires a dedicated desk space
Good fit if
- You need a card reader alongside your storage drive
- You want to reduce cable clutter on your desk
- You require USB-C connectivity for modern laptops
Skip if
- You need more than 500GB of storage space
- You require portable, pocket-sized external storage
- You prioritize high-capacity desktop drives for backups
Verdict: YOTUO 500GB USB-C Docking Station HDD is a niche solution for users who prioritize connectivity expansion over raw storage capacity. It fits professionals who frequently transfer files from SD cards and need extra USB ports on their desk.
WD 2TB Elements Portable Hard Drive
Best for: Windows and gaming storage expansion
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Hardware Interface
- USB 3.0, USB 2.0
- Compatibility
- PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox
- Dimensions
- 3.24 × 4.37 × 0.83 inches
- Weight
- 4.64 ounces
View on Amazon: WD 2TB Elements Portable Hard Drive Affiliate link
The WD 2TB Elements Portable HDD offers 2TB of storage via a USB 3.0 interface. It connects to PC, Mac, PS4, and Xbox systems. The drive measures 3.24 by 4.37 by 0.83 inches and weighs 4.64 ounces. It operates between 5 and 35 degrees Celsius. This compact drive suits users needing extra space for photos, videos, and files on compatible devices.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity
- USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 compatibility
- Compatible with PC, Mac, PS4, and Xbox
- Compact 0.83-inch height
Cons
- Only USB 3.0 interface, no USB-C port
- Requires reformatting for Mac use
- Limited operating temperature range
Good fit if
- You need extra storage for media files
- You use Windows PCs or gaming consoles
- You want a lightweight portable drive
Skip if
- You require a USB-C connection
- You need immediate Mac compatibility
- You operate in extreme temperatures
Verdict: WD 2TB Elements Portable HDD provides reliable 2TB storage for Windows and gaming users. It fits those who prioritize capacity and portability over modern USB-C connectivity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | LaCie Mobile Drive 2TB USB-C External HDD | LaCie 2big Dock 8TB External RAID Drive | LaCie Mobile Drive 5TB Portable HDD | Seagate One Touch Hub 8TB External Hard Drive | YOTUO 320GB Portable External Hard Drive | YOTUO 500GB USB-C Docking Station HDD | WD 2TB Elements Portable Hard Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 2TB | 8TB | 5TB | 8TB | 320 GB | 500GB | 2TB |
| Hardware Interface | USB-C, USB 3.0 | Thunderbolt 3, USB-C, USB 3.0, USB 3.1 | USB-C, USB 3.0, Thunderbolt 3 | USB-C, USB 3.0 | USB 3.0 & USB-C | not stated | USB 3.0, USB 2.0 |
| Form Factor | Desktop | Desktop | Desktop | Desktop | Desktop | Desktop | not stated |
| Compatibility | PC, Mac | PC, Mac | PC, Mac | PC, Mac | PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox | PC, Mac | PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox |
| Size | 2TB | 8TB | not stated | 8TB | 320 GB | 500GB+Docking station | 2TB |
| Dimensions | 0.39 × 3.46 × 4.79 inches | 4.65 × 3.66 × 8.54 inches | 0.79 × 3.58 × 4.88 inches | 7.81 × 5.11 × 1.78 inches | 4.84 × 3.07 × 0.67 inches | 4.9 × 4 × 1 inches | 3.24 × 4.37 × 0.83 inches |
| Weight | 7.05 ounces | 4.65 pounds | 10.6 ounces | 2.73 pounds | 8.82 ounces | 10.4 ounces | 4.64 ounces |
| Color | Space Grey | not stated | Gray | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Model | STHG2000402 | STGB8000400 | STHG5000402 | STLC8000400 | SY-HDD01 | SY-DSHDD01-500 | 103751 |
Frequently asked questions
Which LaCie alternative has the highest storage capacity?
The LaCie 2big Dock offers 8TB of storage, the largest capacity in this list. It is a desktop RAID drive designed for professionals who need data redundancy and high volume. While the original LaCie Mobile Drive holds 2TB, this dock provides four times that space for large media libraries.
Is there a portable option with Thunderbolt 3 connectivity?
Yes, the LaCie Mobile Drive 5TB supports Thunderbolt 3. It provides 5TB of storage in a durable aluminum chassis. This option suits users who want faster transfer speeds and higher capacity than the standard USB-C models, though it is thicker and heavier than the 2TB version.
Can I use these drives with both Mac and Windows?
All listed drives are compatible with both PC and Mac systems. The LaCie Mobile Drive 2TB, the 2big Dock, and the 5TB model all support cross-platform use. Similarly, the Seagate One Touch Hub and WD Elements drives work with both operating systems, ensuring broad compatibility for your setup.
Which drive is best for desktop video editing workflows?
The LaCie 2big Dock 8TB is best for desktop video editing. It features Thunderbolt 3 for fast data ingestion and includes direct card reading ports. Its robust design and high capacity make it suitable for professionals who prioritize speed and redundancy over the portability of smaller external drives.
Are there options that include USB hub ports for charging?
The Seagate One Touch Hub 8TB includes integrated hub ports for device charging. This desktop drive combines ample 8TB storage with the convenience of powering other devices. It is ideal for workstation users who value connectivity expansion alongside backup capabilities, rather than those needing a portable solution.
Which drive is the most compact for travel?
The LaCie Mobile Drive 2TB is the most compact option at 0.39 inches thick. It weighs only 7.05 ounces and fits easily in a bag. The WD 2TB Elements is also slim at 0.83 inches thick but slightly heavier. Both prioritize portability for travelers using Mac or Windows computers.
Is there a drive suitable for gaming consoles like PS4?
The YOTUO 320GB Portable External Hard Drive supports PS4 and Xbox systems. It offers basic storage for console games and light backups. While its 320GB capacity is small, it is a practical choice for casual users who need portable storage for gaming devices alongside PC and Mac compatibility.