This article covers Toshiba 1TB USB 2.0.

Overview

The Toshiba PH3100U-1EXB is a desktop external hard drive offering 1TB of storage capacity. It features dual connectivity via USB 2.0 and eSATA, making it compatible with a wide range of older and modern PCs. The drive is built around a 3.5-inch internal HDD and comes with preloaded backup and encryption software. This model can hold up to 200,000 digital photos, 250,000 music files, or 380 hours of video. It includes an internal shock-dampening system for physical protection and password-based encryption for data security. The bundled software supports full system backup and recovery, including connected external drives.

Connectivity & Compatibility

The PH3100U-1EXB offers two connection options: USB 2.0 (480 Mbps) and eSATA (up to 3 Gbps). USB 2.0 works with virtually any PC or Mac, while eSATA provides faster transfers but requires a compatible eSATA port on the host computer. The drive is powered by an external AC adapter, so it is not bus-powered. It is formatted as NTFS out of the box, ideal for Windows users. Mac users will need to reformat to HFS+ or exFAT. The drive is designed for desktop use; its 3.5-inch form factor and external power supply make it less portable than 2.5-inch models.

Product Info

Released around 2010, the Toshiba PH3100U-1EXB is still available through retailers like , often as new old stock or refurbished units. Pricing is very affordable, typically between ¥3,000 and ¥5,000. The standard warranty is one year (varies by seller). Accessories include a USB cable, eSATA cable, AC adapter, quick start guide, and preloaded backup software. Market positioning is entry-level: 1TB is modest by today's standards, but the dual-interface design and bundled software make it a practical choice for basic backup needs on legacy systems.

Best Use Cases

Legacy PC backup: Ideal for older desktops or laptops with only USB 2.0 ports. The included backup software simplifies full-system backups. eSATA users get faster transfer speeds when available. Long-term archiving: 1TB is sufficient for photo libraries, music collections, and document archives. The shock-dampening system and encryption add extra layers of protection for valuable data. Budget-conscious users: At its low price point, this drive offers reliable Toshiba build quality. However, transfer speeds are limited compared to modern USB 3.0/3.1 or Thunderbolt interfaces, so it is not suitable for frequent large-file transfers. Not recommended for: Users needing high-speed external storage, portable drives for travel, or compatibility with USB-C-only devices (adapter required).

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: 東芝(TOSHIBA)
  • Seller: Good Value Online Store
  • Fulfilled by: Good Value Online Store
  • ASIN: B002HWRK66
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.