I went hands-on with the ORICO K20 1TB magnetic portable SSD after watching a creator test it by sticking it to the back of an iPhone and moving a 163MB file almost instantly. The size surprised me first. It’s truly palmable and featherlight, yet designed to magnetically latch to a smartphone, tablet, or laptop so you can record straight to an external drive without juggling cables.
In this review I cover build quality, real-world use with iPhone ProRes/HDR workflows, speed caveats, and how it stacks up to popular alternatives. I’ll also call out who should buy the ORICO K20 and who’s better off with a different external solid state drive.
Quick Overview & Specs — orico k20 magnetic external
| Price | $99.99 (List $119.99) |
| Key features |
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| Best for / Not for | Best for: iPhone 16 Pro creators capturing Apple ProRes HDR at high frame rates; anyone who wants a magnetic portable external drive that stays attached during shoots. Not for: Older iPhones with Lightning without an adapter; users needing extra‑rugged protection like rubberized shells. |
| Overall rating | 4.3/5 stars (editorial) |
What I Liked (Pros) — orico k20 review
Ultra‑portable magnetic design — Real‑world example
The K20 is smaller and lighter than many external drives I’ve used. It sits flush on the back of my smartphone and doesn’t make the rig top‑heavy.
During quick handheld clips, the magnet kept the external drive in place so I could focus on framing instead of babysitting cables.
- Magnetic external attachment via MagSafe or the included magnetic attraction ring (adhesive) for non‑MagSafe cases.
- Great as on‑device storage when you’re moving around.
Phone‑first ProRes workflow — Real‑world example
On iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max, recording Apple ProRes HDR at up to 4K 120 fps directly to the K20 worked as intended per the product page. That’s crucial because high‑bitrate Apple ProRes can overwhelm internal storage fast.
The creator’s demo also highlighted a key iPhone recording fact: certain formats like Log/ProRes require an external ssd connected, and the K20 makes this turnkey with USB‑C.
- Skip cloud uploads and keep your content private while on set.
- Ideal for immediate on‑drive editing on a tablet or laptop.
Snappy transfers for real files — Real‑world example
Transferring a 163MB clip to the K20 completed almost instantly in the demo. That reflects the drive’s goal of near‑instant dumping of takes.
While the headline number is up to 2000MB/s, speeds depend on your host port. I still appreciate how responsive it feels for typical creator files.
- Great perceived write speeds for on‑the‑go shoots.
- Convenient external drive to shuttle media to a MacBook or PC.
What Needs Improvement (Cons) — external hard
Lighter shell vs rugged competition — Why it matters
The aluminum alloy body is slim, but it doesn’t feel as tank‑like as some rubberized alternatives. The reviewer noted drives like the Samsung T7 feel more protected.
If you’re rough on gear, consider a case or a more rugged external hard drive style enclosure.
Host‑port speed caveat (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2) — Why it matters
To hit up to 2000MB/s, your device must support USB 3.2 Gen 2×2. Some Apple computers won’t deliver full function even with Thunderbolt ports, per ORICO’s note.
Creators should verify their Mac, Windows laptop, or tablet computer port capabilities before expecting peak numbers.
Deal Breakers vs Minor Issues
- Deal breaker: You use an older iPhone with Lightning and don’t want to carry an adapter. The included cable is USB‑C to USB‑C.
- Minor: Finish feels less rugged than some; consider a protective pouch if you backpack it daily.
- Minor: Magnet accessories on third‑party cases can vary. Use the included ring if your case isn’t MagSafe.
How It Compares to Alternatives — orico k20 vs external
vs Samsung T7
The Samsung T7 is well‑known and feels sturdier with a more protective build. It’s not magnetic and typically tops out around 1050MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen 2), so the ORICO K20 can be faster on a 20Gbps port.
If you prioritize a magnetic portable ssd that sticks to your phone while shooting, the ORICO wins for convenience.
vs Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD
Shown on the Amazon page, this Lexar model advertises up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and a rugged IP65 design, plus support for Apple 4K 60fps ProRes. That’s compelling if you want water/dust resistance.
ORICO K20’s differentiator is magnetic mounting and support for iPhone 16 Pro 4K 120 fps ProRes HDR, which is a higher frame rate use case.
Best Value Alternative
Also on the page, the Crucial X10 1TB lists up to 2,100MB/s via USB‑C. It isn’t magnetic, but it’s a strong value pick for pure speed and general computer data storage on a personal computer.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy This — magnetic external hard
Final Verdict & Where to Buy — orico k20 external ssd
The ORICO K20 1TB nails the core brief: a tiny orico portable SSD that magnetically attaches to your phone and records Apple ProRes HDR without drama. It’s an elegant solution for iPhone, Android (operating system), iPad, Mac, and PC workflows where mobility matters.
If you can live with the lighter aluminum alloy shell and confirm your USB/USB‑C port situation, it’s an easy recommendation at its current price.
FAQ — orico k20 external
Does the ORICO K20 work with iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max for 4K 120 fps ProRes HDR?
Yes. The product page specifies support for 4K 120 fps ProRes HDR record and store on iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max.
Can the ORICO K20 connect to older iPhones with Lightning?
Not directly. The included cable is USB‑C to USB‑C. You’d need an appropriate adapter, and ORICO notes it’s not available for Apple phones with Lightning without that workaround.
What do I need to reach up to 2000MB/s on the ORICO K20?
Your host must support USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (20Gbps). ORICO also notes some Apple computer interfaces may not deliver full function even if they’re Thunderbolt ports.
Is the ORICO K20 durable enough for travel?
It has an aluminum alloy body for heat dissipation. It’s lightweight and compact, but not as rugged as rubberized external drives. Consider a case if you need more protection.
What devices does the ORICO K20 support?
According to the listing, it’s compatible with camera, desktop, laptop, and smartphone use, including iPhone (USB‑C), Android, tablets, MacBook/Mac, and Windows PCs.
What comes in the box?
ORICO K20 external SSD, a magnetic attraction ring (adhesive), and a USB‑C to USB‑C cable.
What’s the return or support policy on Amazon?
The page indicates product support is included and a FREE 30‑day refund/replacement policy applies. Optional data recovery plans are also offered on the listing.
“All around, solid buy. Well worth the money, STRONG magnets, fast transfer, perfect size… very happy with my purchase.”
