The PlexEasy's most unique feature is its ability to function without the need for a computer. With a simple press of a button, users can backup data stored on SD Cards as well as digital devices like tablets, smart phones, hard disks, flash drives, camcorders and digital cameras.

The PlexEasy supports the Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP), an image transfer technology integrated into many models of cameras and smartphones. This means that the drive can be used for burning photos directly from a camera (point-and-shoot or DSLR) or smartphone (iOS, Android, Blackberry etc.).

I had no problems getting the PlexEasy to backup and transfer data from my LG Optimus S (Android) phone and Fuji FinePix XP10 camera. Unfortunately, no matter what I tried, it would not recognize my ASUS Transformer (Android) tablet. 

Backing data up from an SD card or USB storage device is even easier. The PlexEasy automatically detects when either is inserted and will prompt you with a message similar to “SD -> DVD+R. Press OK to Start."  When the writing process is complete, the drive automatically ejects the disc and a “Completed” message appears on the LCD display.

The PlexEasy offers a number of burn options. The drive can be configured to do data verification, multi-session recording and automatically delete source data once the burn process is complete. You can even select individual files if you don't want to backup all of the data stored on a memory card or USB storage device.

The PlexEasy can also be used to transfer files from a CD, DVD or memory card to a USB storage device. You can even use it to rip an audio CD or make a direct copy of an unprotected CD or DVD.

While small in size, the Plextor's new portable DVD writer delivers an impressive number of features. Along with a great looking, compact design, the PlexEasy offers some of the fastest reading and writing speeds available on a portable unit. The drive is capable of 8x DVD±R, 8x DVD+RW, 6x DVD-RW, 6x DVD±R DL and 5x DVD-RAM writing speeds and a maximum DVD read speed of 8x. The PlexEasy also features a special standalone mode which, when used with the built-in USB port and card reader, lets users plug in a memory card, camera, smartphone or mass storage device and burn files directly to disc without the need for a PC. With all this, it's easy to see why the Plextor PlexEasy gets the full 10 points for its features.