USB 3.0 has been touted as the ultimate in file transfer, but ageing hardware could render it no more powerful than a standard USB 2.0 port. Tests across a variety of laptops, desktop PCs, and ultra-portable computers have shown that data transfer formats such as USB are next to useless when paired with low-end PC hardware and slow hard drive operating speeds.

Tested alongside eSATA – the current alternative found on many high-end laptops – USB 3.0 provided a limited speed boost for file transfers. Several file size tests have revealed that new formats such as eSATA are equally as effective as USB 3.0 for delivering high-speed data on modern PC hardware.

Of course, that’s not to say that USB 3.0 isn’t the future of local file transfers, only that the future could be quite a while away. With 5400RPM hard drives relatively common in laptops, particularly in the popular ultra-portable laptops available today, it could be a while before users see any benefit from new USB technology.

Freecom, a leading manufacturer of USB hard disks and storage units, believes the true potential of USB 3.0 won’t be revealed for several years. Much like the extended period required for computer hard disks to adapt to USB 2.0 – today’s standard file transfer type – the newest form of USB could require a change in computer hardware standards before its benefits become apparent.

However, high-end PC owners and multimedia users are likely to benefit from the changes right away. Many camera, data storage, and technology companies are integrating USB 3.0 support into their devices as standard, shortening transfer times for large video and data files. While home and casual users may have to wait, this is one file transfer revolution that will be appreciated by techies.

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