LaCie vs SP Silicon Power NAS Hard Drives: Which Brand Fits You?
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You are comparing the LaCie 2big Triple and the Silicon Power Armor A80. This LaCie vs SP Silicon Power NAS hard drive analysis highlights their distinct roles. Both offer 2 TB of storage. The LaCie unit is a desktop RAID enclosure with multiple interfaces. The Silicon Power drive is a portable, rugged external drive. Their form factors and connection methods differ significantly. You need to choose based on your workflow and space.
Key differences
| Aspect | LaCie 2big Triple 2TB 2-Disk RAID Hard Drive | Silicon Power 2TB Armor A80 Rugged Hard Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Desktop (6.7 x 3.5 x 7.8 inches) | Portable 2.5-inch (3.7 x 0.71 x 5.49 inches) |
| Hardware Interface | FireWire 800, FireWire 400, USB 2.0 | USB 3.1 Gen 1 (USB 3.0) |
| RAID Support | Hardware RAID 1 with auto-rebuild, RAID 0 | Not listed |
| Durability Features | Heat sink metal design | Shockproof, waterproof (IPX7), MIL-STD-810F compliant |
| Weight | 5.73 pounds | 9.52 ounces |
Which one should you choose?
Choose LaCie 2big Triple 2TB 2-Disk RAID Hard Drive if
- You need hardware RAID redundancy for data safety on a desktop.
- You require FireWire 800 connectivity for older Mac or professional setups.
- You prefer a stationary drive with natural metal cooling.
Choose Silicon Power 2TB Armor A80 Rugged Hard Drive if
- You need a portable drive that survives drops and water exposure.
- You want faster USB 3.0 transfer speeds for mobile use.
- You need a lightweight drive that fits easily in a bag.
Verdict: The LaCie 2big Triple suits users who need desktop RAID reliability and legacy FireWire support. The Silicon Power Armor A80 is the better choice for mobile professionals who need rugged, portable storage with modern USB speeds. Your decision depends on whether you prioritize data redundancy or physical durability and portability.
LaCie vs SP Silicon Power Specs
Hardware Interface
The LaCie 2big Triple provides three distinct connection options to suit different computer setups. It features FireWire 800, FireWire 400, and Hi-Speed USB 2.0 ports. This variety allows you to connect to older systems or professional audio/video equipment that relies on FireWire. In contrast, the Silicon Power Armor A80 uses a SuperSpeed USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface. This modern standard offers faster data transfer rates than the USB 2.0 option on the LaCie drive. However, it lacks the legacy FireWire support found on the LaCie unit. If you need broad compatibility with older gear, the LaCie interfaces are more versatile. For newer computers, the Silicon Power USB 3.0 connection is likely sufficient.
Form Factor
These two drives serve completely different physical roles. The LaCie 2big Triple is a desktop enclosure measuring 6.7 inches wide, 3.5 inches high, and 7.8 inches long. It weighs 5.73 pounds and requires a dedicated space on your desk. It houses two removable SATA drives inside a metal chassis. The Silicon Power Armor A80 is a portable 2.5-inch drive. It measures only 3.7 inches wide, 0.71 inches high, and 5.49 inches long. It weighs just 9.52 ounces, making it easy to carry in a bag. The LaCie is built for stationary use with dual bays, while the Silicon Power is designed for mobility. Choose the LaCie for a fixed workstation and the Silicon Power for travel.
Build and Durability
The LaCie 2big Triple uses a heat sink metal design for natural cooling. Its aluminum body helps dissipate heat from the internal drives. It also includes locks for the two removable SATA drives, adding a layer of physical security for your data. The Silicon Power Armor A80 focuses on ruggedness. It meets the US Military Drop Test Standard MIL-STD810F Method 516.5 StepIV for transportation drops. It is also compliant with IPX7 waterproof standards and is dust resistant. The LaCie offers security through locks and thermal management, while the Silicon Power offers protection against physical shock, water, and dust. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize drive security or environmental ruggedness.
RAID and Storage
The LaCie 2big Triple is a dual-bay system that supports hardware RAID configurations. You can set it up in RAID 1 for data redundancy with auto-rebuild capabilities, or RAID 0 for maximum capacity and performance. It holds two removable SATA drives. The Silicon Power Armor A80 is a single-drive portable unit. It does not support RAID or multiple bays. It offers 2 TB of storage in a single enclosure. If you need data redundancy or the ability to combine drives for speed, the LaCie RAID options are essential. The Silicon Power provides simple, straightforward storage without configuration complexity. For critical data protection, the LaCie RAID features are superior.
Software and Features
The Silicon Power Armor A80 includes a free downloadable SP Widget. This software provides backup, recovery, data encryption, cloud connectivity, and efficient data management tools. It is plug-and-use, requiring no external adapter. The LaCie 2big Triple data does not list specific software features or management apps. It focuses on hardware interfaces and RAID configuration. The Silicon Power offers a comprehensive software suite for data protection and management right out of the box. The LaCie relies on its hardware RAID capabilities and standard operating system tools. If you want built-in software for encryption and backup, the Silicon Power provides these features.
Which NAS Drive Suits Your Setup
Users needing desktop RAID redundancy
The LaCie drive offers hardware RAID 1 with auto-rebuild capabilities. This ensures data protection if one of the two removable SATA drives fails. You benefit from a heat sink metal design for natural cooling, making it suitable for always-on desktop environments where reliability is critical.
Users needing portable rugged storage
The Silicon Power drive features a 2.5-inch form factor that is highly portable. It meets US Military Drop Test standards and includes IPX7 waterproof compliance. You get SuperSpeed USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface for faster transfers, along with dust resistance and a shockproof armor body for travel.
Users connecting to older systems
You can connect this LaCie unit via FireWire 800, FireWire 400, or USB 2.0. This variety of interfaces allows compatibility with older computers that may lack modern ports. The hardware RAID options provide structured storage management for legacy systems requiring stable, multi-interface connectivity.
The products compared
LaCie 2big Triple 2TB 2-Disk RAID Hard Drive
Best for: users needing FireWire 800 and RAID 1 redundancy
- Storage Capacity
- 2 TB
- Hardware Interface
- FireWire 800, FireWire 400, USB 2.0
- Dimensions
- 7.8 × 6.7 × 3.5 inches
- Weight
- 5.73 pounds
View on Amazon: LaCie 2big Triple 2TB 2-Disk RAID Hard Drive Affiliate link
This LaCie drive offers 2 TB of storage in an aluminum chassis. It supports FireWire 800, FireWire 400, and USB 2.0 interfaces. The hardware RAID 1 feature ensures data safety with auto-rebuild capabilities. You can also use RAID 0 for maximum capacity. The heat sink metal design helps with natural cooling. It is suitable for users needing reliable, redundant storage via legacy or high-speed connections.
Pros
- Hardware RAID 1 with auto-rebuild for data protection
- FireWire 800 interface for high-speed data transfer
- Heat sink metal design for natural cooling
Cons
- Only supports USB 2.0, lacking modern USB 3.0 speeds
- Heavier at 5.73 pounds compared to portable drives
- Larger footprint with 7.8-inch length
Good fit if
- You need hardware RAID 1 for data redundancy
- You have a FireWire 800 port available
- You prefer passive cooling without fans
Skip if
- You require USB 3.0 or faster connections
- You need a compact, portable drive
- You want a lightweight storage solution
Verdict: LaCie 2 TB 2big Triple RAID Drive is a robust option for users prioritizing data redundancy via FireWire 800 or USB 2.0, though its size and weight limit portability.
Silicon Power 2TB Armor A80 Rugged Hard Drive
Best for: rugged portable storage and travel
- 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 Affiliate link
This SP Silicon Power A80 is a 2TB portable hard drive with a 2.5-inch form factor. It connects via USB 3.1 Gen 1 for fast data transfer. The black aluminum body meets military drop test standards and offers IPX7 waterproof resistance. You get a 3-year warranty and free software for backup and encryption. This rugged drive suits users who need portable, durable storage for travel or outdoor use.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity
- USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- MIL-STD810F drop test compliance
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- 2.5-inch form factor limits internal NAS use
- USB connection only, no network connectivity
- Single drive without RAID capabilities
Good fit if
- You need portable, rugged storage for travel
- You want USB 3.1 speeds for large files
- You require waterproof protection for outdoor use
Skip if
- You need a network-attached storage device
- You want RAID redundancy for data safety
- You prefer internal 3.5-inch drive bays
Verdict: SP Silicon Power A80 2TB Portable Drive is a rugged, portable option for users who prioritize durability and speed over network features. It fits those needing secure, on-the-go storage rather than a stationary NAS solution.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | LaCie 2big Triple 2TB 2-Disk RAID Hard Drive | Silicon Power 2TB Armor A80 Rugged Hard Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 2 TB | 2TB |
| Form Factor | not stated | 2.5" |
| Hardware Interface | FireWire 800, FireWire 400, USB 2.0 | USB 3.1 Gen 1 |
| Size | 2 TB | 2TB |
| Dimensions | 7.8 × 6.7 × 3.5 inches | 5.49 × 3.7 × 0.71 inches |
| Weight | 5.73 pounds | 9.52 ounces |
| Color | Aluminum | Black |
| Model | 301256U | SP020TBPHDA80S3K |
Frequently asked questions
Is the LaCie 2big Triple suitable for portable use?
No. The LaCie 2big Triple is a desktop RAID enclosure. It measures 6.7 by 7.8 inches and weighs 5.73 pounds. These dimensions and weight limit portability. It is designed for stationary setups where you need FireWire 800 or USB 2.0 connections with RAID 1 redundancy.
Does the Silicon Power Armor A80 support network connections?
No. The Silicon Power Armor A80 uses a USB 3.0 hardware interface. It is a 2.5-inch portable drive. It does not include network features. It fits users needing secure, on-the-go storage rather than a stationary NAS solution. You connect it directly to a computer.
What interfaces does the LaCie drive offer?
The LaCie 2big Triple provides FireWire 800, FireWire 400, and Hi-Speed USB 2.0 ports. This variety allows you to connect to older systems or professional audio and video equipment. It does not use USB 3.0 or Ethernet for its primary connections.
How does the Silicon Power drive protect against drops?
The Silicon Power Armor A80 is built for rugged portable storage. It features a durable exterior suitable for travel. The 2.5-inch form factor and 9.52-ounce weight make it easy to carry. It prioritizes durability and speed over network capabilities for mobile users.
Can the LaCie drive rebuild data automatically?
Yes. The LaCie drive offers hardware RAID 1 with auto-rebuild capabilities. This ensures data protection if one of the two removable SATA drives fails. You benefit from a heat sink metal design for natural cooling in a stationary desktop environment.
Which drive is better for traveling?
The Silicon Power Armor A80 is better for traveling. It is a 2.5-inch portable drive that weighs only 9.52 ounces. The LaCie 2big Triple is a heavy desktop unit. It is not designed for frequent movement or on-the-go storage needs.
What is the maximum storage for these models?
Both models offer 2 TB of storage. The LaCie 2big Triple provides this capacity in a dual-disk RAID configuration. The Silicon Power Armor A80 provides 2 TB in a single portable unit. Neither model offers higher capacities in this specific comparison.