While at CES I was lucky enough to meet with Lexar and learn about some new products in their line-up. One of those is the Lexar® Echo MX Backup Drive. The model that I received for review is the 64gb Echo MX backup drive. The Echo is available in 8gb, 16gb, 32gb, 64gb, and 128gb versions. The larger versions are rated up to 30mb/s which makes for fast data transfer.

Having 64mb in my pocket is great. I am able to carry around important files that I may have to access from work, home, or even when having to borrow a friend’s computer. But even better, the Echo MX comes with backup software to automatically keep your files in sync.

In my post, Online Backup and Storage Options to Protect Your Data, I talked about online backup services and how great they are to insure that your data is safe. The Lexar Echo takes that model one step further. It automatically backs up your data not only to the USB key, but you can also activate Dmailer Online, which comes with 2gb FREE online storage. All in one step, your data is backed up to both places.

Copying files to the drive is fast and smooth. I tested it by loading it up with MP3s to copy to the MyGig system in my van. I have also streamed a movie and music directly from the drive which was smooth.

Features

• Easily-accessible, ultra-portable backup solution
• Activates when plugged in, providing automatic, continuous backup
• High-capacity options to back up and store more files on the go
• High-performance—up to 30MB/s read and 17MB/s write*
• Securely encrypts files
• Easy-to-read, always-on capacity meter displays available backup space
• Convenient, reliable flash-based design
• Compatible with both PC and Mac® systems
• Five-year limited warranty
• 8GB (up to 28MB/s read, 10MB/s write) • 16GB (up to 30MB/s read, 13MB/s write) • 32GB (up to 30MB/s read, 17MB/s write) • 64GB (up to 30MB/s read, 17MB/s write) • 128GB (up to 30MB/s read, 17MB/s write)

Pros

• Large capacity
• Very easy to use
• Fast transfer speed

Cons

• The little sliding cover is not very secure and sometimes slides open on it’s own. Certainly not a big deal though.
• High Price

The Lexar Echo MX Backup drive is a great solution for backing up important files on the go. If you have a smaller, slower USB key for backups, it may be time for an upgrade. The Lexar is a great solution although a bit pricey at $199 for the 64mb model.

Disclosure: Lexar provided me with the Echo MX in exchange for this review.

Kris Cain

Kris Cain, one of our tech editors, is a Chicago area mom to two sets of twins, photography nut, gadget addict, web designer, and blogger who has worked in IT for over 13 years. On her blog, LittleTechGirl.com she writes about her love of gadgets, technology, and her children.

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