Compare FireWire 800 to USB 3.0: Which Interface Reigns Supreme?

When it comes to connecting devices and transferring data, two popular options stand out: FireWire 800 and USB 3.0. Both interfaces have their own strengths and weaknesses, making it essential to understand which one is best for your needs. In this article, we'll delve into the world of FireWire 800 and USB 3.0, comparing their speeds, compatibility, and shock-resistance features.

Speed Comparison: FireWire 800 vs. USB 3.0

FireWire 800 is known for its fast data transfer speeds, capable of reaching up to 800 Mbps. However, it's not as widespread as USB 3.0, which can achieve speeds of up to 5 Gbps (gigabits per second). This means that transferring a 700MB video file with USB 3.0 takes less than 7 seconds, while the same task would take around 25 seconds with FireWire 800.

Compatibility: FireWire 800 vs. USB 3.0

One of the primary advantages of FireWire 800 is its ability to support higher-bandwidth devices. However, it's not as widely adopted as USB 3.0, which has become a standard interface for many devices. On the other hand, USB 3.0 offers more backward compatibility, supporting older devices and interfaces like FireWire 400 and USB 2.0.

Shock-Resistant Design: FireWire 800 vs. USB 3.0

When it comes to ruggedness, both FireWire 800 and USB 3.0 have their own strengths. The LaCie Rugged Triple Hard Disk, for example, conforms to military standard 810-F, making it capable of withstanding drops from up to two meters. This level of shock-resistance is ideal for users who need a reliable hard drive that can withstand harsh environments.

Conclusion: FireWire 800 vs. USB 3.0

In conclusion, both FireWire 800 and USB 3.0 have their own advantages and disadvantages. While FireWire 800 offers fast data transfer speeds and compatibility with higher-bandwidth devices, it's not as widely adopted as USB 3.0. On the other hand, USB 3.0 provides more backward compatibility and faster data transfer speeds.

When choosing between these two interfaces, consider your specific needs. If you require high-speed data transfer and are willing to invest in compatible devices, FireWire 800 might be the better option for you. However, if you're looking for a widely adopted interface with fast speeds and backward compatibility, USB 3.0 is likely the way to go.

* FireWire 800 offers fast data transfer speeds, but is not as widely adopted as USB 3.0.

* USB 3.0 provides faster data transfer speeds and more backward compatibility than FireWire 800.

* The LaCie Rugged Triple Hard Disk conforms to military standard 810-F, making it capable of withstanding harsh environments.

Product Specifications:

* LaCie Rugged Triple Hard Disk

+ Supported interfaces: USB3.0, USB2.0, Firewire 800, Firewire 400

+ Shock-proof design

+ Transfer speed up to 110MB/sec (USB3.0)

+ Capacity: 1TB

Compare firewire 800 to usb 3.0