Buffalo’s latest MiniStation DataVault delivers 500GB of storage space, but unlike other solutions, this model features automatic full disk encryption and a rugged shock-resistant design so that all of your data will be safe and sound.

This one will cost you $244, is USB-powered and will be available this month in Japan. Chances are pretty good that we will see this one in other parts of the world soon after.

Buffalo is launching a new range of portable hard drives as it moves to join Seagate, Western Digital and HP in offering small sized portable storage on the go. The new Buffalo Ministation Metro will come in your choice of three colors; black, red and white, and comes in sizes up to 500GB.

They feature a sleek look and are about the size of a small paperback book. The company is trying to appeal to those folks who always forget to bring the cable with them by including a USB cable as part of the design. When not in use, the flexible cable wraps around and tucks into the drive, which is convenient.