The Twopan Portable SSD 2TB has emerged as a notable external storage option designed specifically for use with iPhones and iPads. However, its steep retail price might deter potential buyers, leading us to recommend waiting for a more favorable sale before making a purchase.

When it comes to expanding the storage limits of an iPhone or iPad, users typically have two main options: utilizing cloud storage solutions or attaching an external storage device. While cloud storage is convenient, some users prefer the immediacy and security of physical storage.

To utilize the second option, all you need is an external drive equipped with a USB-C connection, which can be plugged directly into an iPhone, iPad, or even a Mac. Traditional external drives, while functional, can be cumbersome and less suitable for users on the go due to their larger sizes.

The Twopan Portable SSD is part of a new generation of storage devices that prioritize portability and convenience. Measuring just 2.5 inches in width, 1.3 inches in height, and 0.5 inches in depth, this device features rounded corners, making it an aesthetically pleasing addition to your tech collection. The SSD is equipped with a USB-C plug that fits snugly into the port at the base of an iPhone, maintaining a sleek profile with minimal bulk.

While the Twopan SSD is ideal for mobile devices equipped with a single USB-C port, users may face challenges when connecting it to desktop Macs. This is primarily due to the design of Apple's USB-C ports, which are often oriented vertically. As a workaround, using an extension cable is recommended for easier access.

In addition to connecting directly to the base of an iPhone, the SSD can also be attached to the rear MagSafe area of the device with the inclusion of two J-shaped cables, which are conveniently provided in the box. This feature means you wont have to invest in extra accessories to utilize the drive effectively.

The front-facing panel of the Twopan Portable SSD consists of a glossy black surface that features a circular design with the storage capacity labeled to one side. When the device is powered on, it showcases an LCD screen on the left side, along with lights that illuminate around the capacity label. This display allows users to monitor storage usage and power consumption in real-time, a feature that is beneficial in theory but can become bothersome in low-light conditions. Fortunately, the display automatically turns off shortly after use, mitigating some of the potential annoyance.

At the base of the drive, you'll find an additional USB-C port that supports pass-through charging for the iPhone or the connection of additional USB-C accessories. The power support extends to 27 watts, while the data transfer speeds are limited to USB 2.0, which is modest compared to the capabilities of the device.

Despite its compact size, the Twopan Portable SSD is equipped with a small fan to help cool the storage during operation. During our testing, the fan remained silent, which is a significant plus for users seeking a quiet experience.

The Twopan Portable SSD is available in three different storage capacities, ranging from 512GB to 2TB, with the 2TB version being the focus of our review. This increased capacity is particularly advantageous for videographers using iPhone 15 Pro and later models, as these devices can record 4K ProRes video directly to an external USB-C drive, making the Twopan SSD a highly useful accessory for professionals in the field.

According to Twopans marketing materials, the SSD boasts maximum read and write speeds of up to 1000MB/s, a claim that our testing confirmed to be accurate.

In summary, the Twopan Portable SSD fulfills its primary function effectively, allowing for external video recording on an iPhone, which is a key benefit for many users. However, the price point is a significant drawback, especially considering the manufacturer's suggested retail price of $399.99 for the 2TB model. Fortunately, as of our review, Amazon offered a more reasonable price of $279 after applying an on-page coupon, making it a more appealing option.

That said, prospective buyers should remain cautious with pricing; during our evaluation, the SSD was often listed at its full retail price.

Pros and Cons

  • Compact and portable design
  • Sufficiently fast for video recording
  • Display can be distracting in low-light conditions
  • Relatively high price point

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Where to Buy the Twopan Portable SSD

The 2TB model is available directly from Twopan for $399.99. However, we advise against purchasing it at that price. Instead, check Amazon for a more affordable $279 option, especially with the active 20% coupon discount on the $349.99 listing, making it far more competitive with comparable storage solutions from other brands.