Rankings
The Transcend ESD410 2TB portable SSD delivers blazing 2000 MB/s read/write performance with a rugged, water-resistant design and built-in 256-bit AES encryption. Its sustained write speed falls after the cache is used and full speed is only achievable on USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 hosts. It is ideal for outdoor creators, videographers, and professionals needing fast, durable storage for high-resolution media.
The Samsung T7 Shield 2TB delivers high-speed NVMe performance with rugged IP65 protection and 3-meter drop resistance. Its added durability adds weight and cost, making it less ideal for users seeking the lightest, cheapest option. Best suited for photographers and creators who need fast, secure storage in harsh environments.
The Samsung T9 4TB Portable SSD pushes performance to 2,000 MB/s with a massive 4 TB capacity and rugged drop and shock protection. Its limitations include the need for a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 host and the lack of an IP rating, making it less suited for harsh environments. Ideal for creators who need ultra-fast, high-capacity portable storage and robust durability.
The Samsung T7 1TB Portable SSD delivers fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 performance with strong AES-256 encryption in a lightweight aluminum case. Its main trade-off is occasional heat and the lack of biometric security. Ideal for mobile professionals and gamers who need speed and portability.
The WD Black P40 1TB Game Drive delivers up to 2000 MB/s read speeds and eye-catching RGB lighting in a rugged aluminum case, targeting gamers who need fast portable storage. Its sustained write speeds drop and reliance on the niche USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface limit its value for non-gaming or console use.
The Lexar SL500 1TB Portable SSD delivers near-2000 MB/s read and high-end write performance in a thin, 43 g aluminum case with magnetic iPhone attachment and AES-256 encryption. Its drawbacks include occasional write-speed throttling due to limited cache and heat under heavy loads. Ideal for mobile creators and iPhone 15 Pro users who need fast, secure, and ultra-portable storage.
The SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD, officially licensed for PlayStation 5, provides up to 1,000 MB/s read speeds in an IP65-rated, drop-protected case. Lack of disclosed write speeds and slower performance compared to internal SSDs may hinder heavy write workloads. It's aimed at gamers and users who value rugged, PS5-compatible portable storage.
The Crucial X6 1TB is a lightweight, value-focused portable SSD with hardware encryption and solid drop resistance. Its modest 800 MB/s speed and lack of an IP rating limit its appeal for demanding or harsh-environment use. Best for travelers and casual users who prioritize portability and cost over top-tier performance.
Buffalo's 1TB SSD-PUT1.0U3B provides up to 600 MB/s read speeds in a compact stick design with drop protection and wide console compatibility. Performance may require a firmware update and it lacks hardware encryption, limiting its appeal for security-sensitive tasks. Suited for gamers and creators needing a portable, rugged drive for consoles.
Buffalo's 500 GB SSD-PG500U3B offers 340 MB/s read and 320 MB/s write speeds in a shock-resistant, drop-protected case with versatile USB-A/C connectivity. It lacks an IP rating and its speeds are modest compared to higher-end models. Good for travelers and gamers seeking affordable, durable storage.
The Fikwot 1TB External SSD offers a sleek, magnetic design and solid performance up to about 1050 MB/s, making it convenient for mobile professionals. Its speed claims are overstated and it can run hot under load, with occasional compatibility quirks. Ideal for users who value portability and phone mounting over absolute maximum throughput.
| Attribute | | | | | | | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1,000 GB | 4,000 GBbest | 500 GB | 2,000 GB | 1,024 GB | 1,000 GB | 1,000 GB | 1,000 GB | 2,048 GB | 2,048 GB | 1,000 GB | |
1,050 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | 340 MB/s | 1,050 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | 2,000 MB/sbest | 800 MB/s | 600 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | 1,000 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | |
1,000 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | 320 MB/s | 1,000 MB/s | 1,800 MB/s | 850 MB/s | 800 MB/s | 500 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | — | 1,050 MB/s | |
| ↓ lower better | 58 g | 122 g | 68 g | 98 g | 43 g | 77 g | 40 gbest | 68 g | 65 g | 68 g | 500 g |
3 years | 5 yearsbest | 3 years | 3 years | 5 yearsbest | 5 yearsbest | 3 years | 3 years | 5 yearsbest | 5 yearsbest | 5 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | | | | | | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | |||||||||||
Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 | USB 3.2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
Performance(2) | |||||||||||
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 1050 MB/s | 2000 MB/s | 340 MB/s | 1050 MB/s | 2000 MB/s | 2000 MB/s | 800 MB/s | 600 MB/s | 2000 MB/s | 1000 MB/s | 2000 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 1000 MB/s | 2000 MB/s | 320 MB/s | 1000 MB/s | 1800 MB/s | 850 MB/s | 800 MB/s | 500 MB/s | 2000 MB/s | — | 1050 MB/s |
Build & Design(2) | |||||||||||
Weight (g) | 58 g | 122 g | 68 g | 98 g | 43 g | 77 g | 40 g | 68 g | 65 g | 68 g | 500 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 85x57x8 mm | 88x60x14 mm | 12.7 x 76.2 x 116.84 mm mm | 12.5 x 57 x 86 mm | 7.6×53.3×83.8 mm mm | 107×51×13 mm mm | 69.1×64.0×10.9 mm mm | 10.16 x 22.86 x 68.58 mm mm | 14.5×42×79 mm | 101×53×10 mm mm | 100×50×8 mm mm |
Storage(2) | |||||||||||
Capacity (GB) | 1000 GB | 4000 GB | 500 GB | 2000 GB | 1024 GB | 1000 GB | 1000 GB | 1000 GB | 2048 GB | 2048 GB | 1000 GB |
NAND Type | 3-bit MLC V-NAND | — | — | — | TLC | — | — | — | 3D NAND | — | — |
Power & Compatibility(3) | |||||||||||
Power Source | — | Bus-powered | — | bus-powered | Bus-powered | Bus Powered | USB bus-powered | — | Bus-powered | USB | Bus-powered via USB |
Operating Temperature (°C) | 0-60 °C | — | — | 0-60 °C | — | — | — | — | 0-60 °C | — | 0-70 °C |
Compatible Operating Systems | Windows 7+, macOS 10.10+, Android 5.1+ | — | Windows; macOS; PS4; PS5 | Windows 7+, macOS 10.10+, Android 5.0+ | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, gaming consoles | PC, Mac, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One | PC, Mac, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox, Android, Windows 8.1+ | Windows; macOS; PS4; PS5 | — | PlayStation 5, Windows, macOS | macOS, Windows, Android, iPhone 15/16 Pro, PS5, PS4 Pro, Xbox |
Reliability & Security(1) | |||||||||||
IP Rating | — | — | — | IP65 | IP54/IP65 | — | — | — | IPX5 | IP65 | — |
General(2) | |||||||||||
Warranty (years) | 3 years | 5 years | 3 years | 3 years | 5 years | 5 years | 3 years | 3 years | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years |
Included Accessories | USB Type-C to Type-C cable, USB Type-C to Type-A cable | USB‑C to USB‑C 18 in, USB‑C to USB‑A 18 in | USB Type-A cable, USB Type-A to Type-C adapter | Carabiner Loop | Magnetic case, strap, USB‑C cable | USB‑C cable, USB‑C to USB‑A adapter, Quick start guide, PS5 install sheet, WD Black Dashboard software | USB‑C to USB‑A adapter | USB cable (Type-A), USB Type-A to USB Type-C adapter, Quick Setup Guide with Warranty Statement, Game Consoles Guide | USB Type‑C to USB‑C cable, USB Type‑A to USB‑C cable | — | SSD, USB‑C to USB‑C cable, USB‑C to USB‑A cable |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consistently commend the T7 for its sleek metal chassis, exceptional read/write speeds, robust AES-256 encryption, and effective thermal management that prevents throttling. They also note that the drive's performance hinges on using a USB 3.2 Gen 2 connection and point out minor issues such as inconsistent weight reporting and the lack of fingerprint security found on the T7 Touch variant.
Everyday users praise the SSD's rapid 4K video and game file transfers, its pocket-friendly size, and reliable cross-platform operation. Recurring themes include occasional heat under sustained loads, concerns about cable durability, and speed reductions when paired with older USB ports, while most buyers are satisfied with the overall value and build quality.
“ultra-fast real-world speeds for video editing/backups”
“go-to external device”
“Extremely portable and lightweight, lighter than my car keys.”
Choose the standard T7 for budget-focused, lightweight use; choose the T7 Shield when durability and rugged features are essential
Choose the T7 if you need the fastest USB-SSD performance and a sturdier metal case; choose the X6 for lighter weight and lower cost.
Choose FP70 if you need phone-mountable storage; choose T7 for better thermal performance and universal compatibility.
Professional reviewers commend the T9 4TB for delivering blazing-fast 2,000 MB/s transfers, robust 3 m drop protection, and enterprise-grade AES-256 encryption, while noting that its peak performance is gated by the need for USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 hosts and the lack of an IP rating for environmental protection.
Everyday users rave about the drive's pocket-sized portability and real-world speed gains for video editing and backups, but many express frustration when the device falls back to 1,000 MB/s on older computers and cite the short supplied cables and occasional heat during long writes as pain points.
Professional reviewers and editors are not directly quoted in the available sources; the product is presented mainly through manufacturer and retailer descriptions that highlight its award‑winning status, rugged durability, and high transfer speeds as key selling points.
No consumer reviews or ratings were found in the research, so everyday user sentiment cannot be determined from the available data.
Professional reviewers commend the T7 Shield for marrying the same high-speed NVMe performance of the standard T7 with a rugged rubber shell, IP65 rating, and Dynamic Thermal Guard, making it a reliable workhorse for on-location shooting and editing.
Everyday users love the fast transfer rates, compact form factor, and especially the water-resistance for outdoor use. Praise centers on portability and capacity, while the most common complaints involve occasional connectivity hiccups and the higher price compared to non-rugged SSDs.
Professional reviewers commend the SL500 for its solid single-threaded performance, ultra-slim aluminum build, and convenient magnetic iPhone attachment, but they criticize its inability to consistently hit advertised peak speeds and its lower sustained write performance compared with rivals like the TEAMGROUP PD20 and Lexar SL600.
Everyday users appreciate the drive's pocketable size, magnetic attachment for iPhone, fast transfer times for photos and video, and built-in encryption, while common complaints focus on speeds not reaching advertised maxima, occasional heat during intensive workloads, and limited cache causing throttling.
Professional reviewers agree the WD Black P40 delivers strong random I/O and eye-catching RGB styling, making it a solid choice for gamers who need fast portable storage. However, they criticize the limited sustained write speeds, reliance on the niche USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface, and higher price relative to competitors, noting that console performance gains are minimal due to USB bandwidth caps.
Everyday users praise the drive's speed, portability, and easy setup, often calling it their go-to external storage for games and media. Recurring themes include satisfaction with the fast transfers and durable design, while complaints focus on speed throttling during long writes, occasional warmth, and the lack of water/dust protection.
Professional reviewers commend the X6 for its compact, lightweight build, broad compatibility, and solid durability, positioning it as a value-driven portable SSD.
Everyday users praise the X6's pocket-size portability, ease of use across multiple platforms, and durability, while noting slower transfer speeds and occasional reformatting needs.
Professional reviewers consider the SSD-PUT1.0U3B the top budget external SSD, emphasizing its compact, rugged build, fast post-firmware speeds, and strong console compatibility, while noting the need for a firmware update to achieve advertised performance and the absence of side-by-side competitor testing.
Professional reviewers such as SSD-Tester and Guru3D highlighted the drive's lightning-fast peak throughput-over 2 GB/s in synthetic benchmarks-and its rugged construction that meets MIL-STD-810G and IPX5 standards. They praised its suitability for high-resolution video workflows but cautioned that sustained write speeds dip after the 64 GB pSLC cache is used up and that full performance requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 host.
Professional reviewers commend the drive's fast 1000 MB/s reads, robust IP65 rating, and 5-year warranty, noting it integrates seamlessly with PS5 thanks to official licensing. However, they point out that its performance lags behind the console's internal NVMe SSDs and the lack of disclosed write speeds leaves uncertainty for heavy data tasks.
Professional reviewers commend the drive's fast 1000 MB/s reads, robust IP65 rating, and 5-year warranty, noting it integrates seamlessly with PS5 thanks to official licensing. However, they point out that its performance lags behind the console's internal NVMe SSDs and the lack of disclosed write speeds leaves uncertainty for heavy data tasks.
Professional reviewers appreciate the magnetic phone-mount and rugged build, noting the SSD delivers solid everyday performance at up to 1050 MB/s. However, they criticize the overstated 2000 MB/s marketing, the heat generated under load, and the omission of a high-speed cable in the box, which together make the drive less competitive against similarly priced rivals.
Everyday users love the tiny footprint, magnetic convenience, and plug-and-play simplicity, but many complain about the device heating up during large transfers, speed throttling on non-optimal ports, occasional compatibility hiccups with older consoles, and slow customer support responses.
