Packaging

Even though the Mach Xtreme MX-ES is the companies high-end drive utilizing SLC-based flash, the unit comes wrapped in a plastic mold that is, in turn, glued onto a cardboard sheet. It seems like the company cannot decide on a uniform type of packaging as they employ three different packaging methods for four different flash-drive families. The front of the package lets you see the entire drive and has a sticker that lets you know what capacity drive is found inside. You will find some promotional text and the drive's specifications on the back of the package.

A Closer Look

Before I start off, I would like to voice my opinion about the presentation of Mach Xtreme's flash drives. The company sells four different families of such units: MX-CX, MX-GX, MX-FX, and MX-ES. All four come with different company logos and a different type of labeling. The high-end MX-ES we are reviewing today does, on top of that, utilize a rebrand of the same simple OEM housing used with the MX-CX variant. While this is something that may be forgiven with a value oriented USB 2.0 drive, users may be put off by the simplistic housing of the MX-ES. The casing is, on the other hand, made of aluminum, which is nice and sturdy.


The MX-ES is rather compact for a USB 3.0 device as it is not only thinner but also a bit shorter than many other units. A loophole on the rear allows you to attach the unit to your keychain. Unfortunately, this part is made of plastic and experience has shown that such a piece does not manage to hold long without breaking.


A clear, plastic cap protects the USB connector, which is easily removed. Loosing this cap is a real possibility, especially since it is clear. It would have been nice if Mach Xtreme would have gone with a red aluminum cap instead.


You will find the FCC and CE logo laser-edged onto one side of the connector. The other side holds a number ending with 32G to denote its internal capacity. Mach Xtreme refrains from placing the capacity on drive housing, which is quite unusual.