The original Gnarbox was a unique combination SSD backup drive and mini-computer that was intended to allow photographers and video-producers to leave their laptops at home while venturing into the back-country. Now, the Gnarbox v2.0 looks to improve on virtually every aspect of that goal: it will include increased storage space, more intuitive (and faster) file backup, an LCD screen, better additional apps and integration with more software (including Adobe Premier, LumaFusion, Lightroom CC, and Dropbox) … and all of that in a sleeker, waterproof package with interchangeable batteries.
Four new apps will focus on different parts of your workflow. The “Safekeep” app is for quick, secure file backups (complete with completion confirmation and checksums), while the “Selects” app will help you quickly rate and cull the stored images. “Sequence” is a basic video clip editor to get you started with your next video project before you get back to your workstation, with the ability to export your changes in XML format to be imported directly into programs like Adobe Premier for finishing. Finally, the “Showcase” app allows you to drive a TV or projector to show off your images, wherever you are, without a laptop.These can be seen in the Kickstarter video:
Here’s a quick rundown of the major technical details:
● Intel Quad Core, 2.40GHZ CPU
● 4 Core Intel HD Graphics GPU
● 867mbps 802.11 ac/b/g/n WiFi
● 2/4GB LPDDR3 RAM
● NVMe SSD up to 1TB
● SD Card Backup:75-100MB/sec write speeds
● USB-C Backup: 400-500MB/sec read/write speeds
● USB-C Computer Connect: 400-500MB/sec read/write speeds
● 2x USB-C, SD & microHDMI ports
● 4-6 hour battery life
● 3200mAh 7.4v removable lithium ion battery
● IP67 – Waterproof to 1m for 30minutes
● Dimension – 6.05” x 3” x 1.16” / ~1.1lb
On Kickstarter
Like the original Gnarbox, this version is starting out on Kickstarter (the campaign can be found here) with a goal of $180,000. If all goes well, the new v2 Gnarboxes will go into production in September, and will be shipping by December. I’ve been a big fan of the original Gnarbox, and I’m excited to try out the new version as soon as I can get my hands on one. You can read about my impressions of the original Gnarbox and my comparison of with the WD Wireless Passport HDD.
