While Apple users reap the many benefits of owning Apple products, one thing that dreads all is the limited expandable storage solution. One could rely on Apple’s iCloud storage, but you only get a meagre 5GB storage for free per Apple ID, and not everyone likes the commitment of paying for extra storage monthly.
Not to mention, it’s worrisome not having a local storage solution besides manual backups to your computer. With this, Western Digital’s SanDisk introduces iXpand, a line focusing on an expandable storage solution for Apple products.
We found the brand’s latest addition, the Sandisk iXpand Base, a very interesting device. Designed to back up while fast-charging your phone at the same time, it’s one to greatly consider if you value your device’s data (e.g. photos of your grandma, videos of your cat and contacts that you don’t even message.)
| Pros | Cons |
| Fast Backup | Pricey |
| Plug-and-play | Bulky power supply |
| Time-saving | Not wireless |
| Literally, worry-free |
What’s in the box and what does it look like?
In the box, you’ll find one iXpand Base, one 15 watt, 5V/3A micro-usb charger with a 6-ft long cable, and one standalone SD card (64, 128, or 256GB). Do keep in mind that a lightning cable is not provided.
The iXpand base is a simple, rounded-square aluminium gadget with a rubberised top, to grip your phone while it rests on the device. Weighing no more than 0.20 kg, it’s highly portable although it cannot function without a power source. Yes, you read that right; you’ll need to plug the base into a power source (or a power bank), only then will it start doing its thing.
Is it difficult to use?
To note, the base is compatible with Apple devices updated from iOS10+ onwards.
First, download the free iXpand Base App off the App Store onto your phone. Then, hook your phone via a lightning cable to the base (with the SD card inserted), and that’s it!
Upon first use, make sure to allow the app to access your phone’s data (photo, videos, contacts and notification). For every session, the phone will start charging and backup data automatically.
Each backup session after is incremental; it backs up additional data without overwriting the previous session’s. Data deleted from your phone will still be retained in the iXpand Base provided it has been backed up before. There will also be notifications to update you of the session’s progress.
So…. Should I get it or not?
With the device, we felt glad at never having to worry anymore about losing data, nor do we need to slave ourselves to back up data onto our computers often. A plus point is that it automatically backs up while fast-charging your phone without any interruption.
While its seamless, simple setup is what’s got us loving the iXpand Base, we did feel the device could have done much more, such as integrating wireless charging, better personalisation settings and being functional on its own. To add, the device lacks security - there’s no password protection or encryption.
Its price can also be an issue. The 64GB version starts from RM 348 at Lazada, which is not exactly cheap. However, you can swap the SD card included to a higher option of your own (up to 256GB).
All in all, we’d recommend the iXpand Base for those who dread manual data backup, and those who fear for iCloud’s security. It’s a straightforward, fuss-free and time-saving device to own for more storage. No more accidental deletes!
Disclaimer: The pricing shown is just a good indication of how much these products are worth. The prices could change based on the e-commerce promotions that are going on. If some of the products are not available, do email us at [email protected]. Thank you!
