Accessories

3 features to look for before buying an external SSD

It should be fast and pocketable, like the Adata Elite SE880

Published

June 4, 2024

MJ Jucutan

In the era of content creation, storage is the first component that suffers when there are too many files archived.

Most people are fond of deleting their photos and videos once uploaded to their social media accounts. I’m not. I inherently believe that we’re only borrowing the space to upload our content. In a snap, our accounts might be taken away from us.

I take care of my possessions — memories included — which is why even if I have cloud storage, I’d still prefer having an external SSD.

In my quest to find the right external solid state drive (SSD) for me, I stumbled upon the Adata Elite SE880. And I think, it just ticks the right boxes.

Easy to store

The Adata Elite SE880 is unlike most external SSDs. It’s lightweight, compact, and easy to store — even inside your pocket. In comparison, the external display of the OPPO Find N3 Flip is still larger than the Adata Elite SE880.

When compared to usual hard drives, the Adata Elite SE880 is just a quarter of the Spider-Man Special Edition FireCuda External Hard Drive.

Its small size gives it an advantage, since it can fit on any type of pouch you use to organize your gadgets and accessories. And when in a hurry, you can put it inside your pocket or your sleeve — and it’s guaranteed you won’t lose it.

Looks durable without looking rugged

SSDs are naturally durable. Unlike HDDs, a solid state drive can withstand movement and accidental dropping. An SSD doesn’t have a lot of moving parts inside such as magnetic heads, spinning platters, and spindles.

It also uses less energy, so it would allow machines to run cooler — which is also helpful if you have a notebook like the MacBook Air that has few to no vents.

The Adata Elite SE880, even with its tiny frame, feels robust, thanks to its military-grade design. And even if you accidentally drop it, you’ll surely catch it with one hand.

Moreover, it doesn’t look rugged just to exhibit its strength and durability. It’s sleek, slim, and somewhat cute, thanks to its pocketable charm.

Reliable speed

One of the reasons why it’s better to have a portable SSD is its speed in reading and writing data. For someone who does content creation, it allows me to work anywhere even with a time crunch.

The Adata Elite SE880 writes up to maximum of 2,000mbps, maximized through a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port. While I don’t have the same port, I still managed to copy 40,600 photos I took from the last Spartan Race in about 53 minutes.

For a total of 280.33GB, I still find it quick enough as it finished copying while I was still preparing to go out for a night out.

It’s fast enough for most people’s needs, especially for something so small.

What to look for?

While there are a lot of factors to consider before getting an SSD, it’s still best to check your budget and how much you can shell out.

For instance, the Adata Elite SE880 — depending on its storage capacity — starts retailing at US$ 50.

Accessories

CASETiFY relaunches Evangelion collab for 30th anniversary

Fans can now customize their own NERV-ready cases

Published

March 3, 2026

GadgetMatch

The A.T. Field is activated. To mark 30 years of Neon Genesis Evangelion, CASETiFY has relaunched its highly popular Evangelion collaboration. This time, fans control the sync rate.

For the first time, buyers can fully customize their Evangelion cases. The drop lets fans mix and match NERV logos, the 4th Angel, character art featuring Shinji Ikari and Rei Ayanami, and bold background graphics. The result is a case that feels like a personal unit build, straight out of the series’ control room.

The lineup pulls directly from Evangelion iconography. Designs include classic NERV insignias, holographic “A.T. Field” defense graphics, “Active Time Limit” warnings, and the official 30th Anniversary emblem. Each case uses CASETiFY’s signature impact protection, turning your device into a pocket-sized defensive barrier.

The collection goes beyond phone cases. Fans can also pick up matching AirPods cases, MagSafe wallets, watch bands, and laptop and tablet sleeves to complete their everyday tech setup.

Android users are included in the rollout. The collection supports devices like the newly released Samsung Galaxy S26 series, making it a timely drop for those looking to suit up their latest flagship.

The Evangelion collection is now available via the official CASETiFY website.

Accessories

CASETiFY launches Samsung Galaxy S26 collection

Galaxy S26 cases go bold

Published

March 3, 2026

GadgetMatch

CASETiFY has unveiled its full lineup of cases and accessories for the Samsung Galaxy S26, timed with the flagship’s global debut.

The new collection blends protection with personalization. Users can customize cases with photos and text or choose from bold, artistic prints across multiple case styles. The lineup also includes phone charms, body straps, magnetic accessories, screen protectors, and camera lens covers built specifically for the Galaxy S26.

Orders opened on February 25, 2026 via CASETiFY’s website.

Built for protection and everyday use

Leading the lineup is the Impact Ring Stand Magnetic Case ($85). It features a lifted camera ring with a built-in stand that adjusts from 0 to 150 degrees for hands-free viewing. The case carries 6.6-foot drop protection, 3x MIL-STD-810G certification, EcoShock cushioning, and CASETiFY’s Duo-Lock bonding system. It also supports wireless charging and magnetic accessories.

The Impact Magnetic Case ($70) increases drop protection to 8.2 feet with 4x MIL-STD-810G certification. It adds side sockets for charms and a raised bezel for screen protection.

For those who prefer a transparent look, the Impact Clear Magnetic Case ($70) focuses on long-lasting clarity and anti-yellowing materials. It offers 6.6-foot drop protection and 3x MIL-STD-810G certification.

Slim, glossy, and grip-focused options

The Mirror Magnetic Case ($70) adds reflective functionality with 4.9-foot drop protection, while the Compact Magnetic Case ($55) targets users who want a lightweight, slim profile with 4-foot drop protection.

The Glaze Magnetic Case ($70) stands out with a scratch-resistant glossy finish and anti-print peel-off technology, paired with mirror functionality and magnetic compatibility.

Rounding out the collection is the Force Case by CASETiFY ($55), designed for enhanced grip and durability. It delivers 6.6-foot drop protection, 3x MIL-STD-810G certification, Duo-Lock bonding, and full wireless charging support.

With multiple case styles and accessory options, CASETiFY’s Galaxy S26 collection gives users room to match their device to their personality without compromising protection.

Accessories

Xiaomi launches latest ecosystem devices: Watch 5, Redmi Buds 8 Pro, more

Smart, on-the-go products debut

Published

March 2, 2026

GadgetMatch

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

Xiaomi has launched an entire slate of smart, on-the-go devices as part of their major first quarter ecosystem release.

These products, ranging from smartwatches to earbuds to smart home devices and electric scooters, were introduced alongside the flagship Xiaomi 17 series smartphones and Xiaomi Pad 8 series tablets.

All are now available in the Philippines. Here’s a quick rundown.

Xiaomi Watch 5

Price: PhP 18,999

The Xiaomi Watch 5 runs on Wear OS by Google. It has a large 1.54-inch display reinforced by strong sapphire glass.

The watch has a stainless steel middle frame, and a flagship dual-chipset design. Inside are the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 and BES2800 low-power processor.

Users can leverage quick gestures with EMG, IMU, and PPG sensors for essential actions. Such can execute tasks like dismissing calls, silencing alarms, launching workouts, and more.

As usual, there are several sport modes, and advanced health monitoring features, which have been refined to deliver a better experience.

Redmi Buds 8 Pro

Price: PhP 3,999

The wearable leverages a 3-mic system with up to 12 m/s wind noise cancellation and up to 55dB ANC.

Inside are coaxial triple drivers for rich sound complemented by Dolby Audio. There are three color options: Obsidian Black, Cloud White, and Glacier Blue.

Users can enjoy up to 33 hours of playback along with its charging case.

As a quick addition, a Xiaomi Tag is available for PhP 899 for a single piece or PhP 2,799 for the four-pack.

This tool is compatible with Apple Find My or Google Android Find Hub, working within a user’s chosen OS ecosystem.