
Buffalo External SSD USB-A 1TB
Score: 79/100Buffalo SSD-SAO2.0U3B
Score: 90/100Rankings
A rugged, stick-form factor 2 TB SSD designed for PS5/PS4 gamers. It delivers up to 600 MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2, offers AES-256 encryption and IP55 protection, but is limited to a USB-A interface and can warm under heavy use.

Buffalo's 1 TB SSD-PUT is a thumb-drive-sized external SSD that delivers solid 600 MB/s read performance in a rugged, MIL-STD-810G package, though it needs a firmware update and uses an adapter for USB-C connectivity.
| Attribute | ![]() | Buffalo SSD-SAO2.0U3B |
|---|---|---|
1,000 GB | 2,048 GBbest | |
600 MB/sbest | 600 MB/sbest | |
500 MB/s | 600 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 68 g | 17 gbest |
36 monthsbest | 24 months |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | ![]() | Buffalo SSD-SAO2.0U3B |
|---|---|---|
Capacity(1) | ||
Storage Capacity (GB) | 1000 GB | 2048 GB |
Performance(2) | ||
Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 500 MB/s | 600 MB/s |
Security(1) | ||
Hardware Encryption | false | true |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 68 g | 17 g |
Form Factor | Thumb-drive | stick |
Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Period (months) | 36 months | 24 months |
Power & Connectivity(1) | ||
Power Source | Bus-powered | USB bus-powered |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | PS5, PS4, Windows, macOS, Android |

Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).

Professional reviewers praise the SSD-PUT for its miniaturization, solid-state performance in a thumb-drive form factor, and rugged build, but note its modest PCMark score and the need for a firmware update, positioning it as a portable alternative rather than a high-end external SSD.
Everyday users love the tiny size, speed for file transfers, and durability, especially for gaming consoles and travel, while recurring frustrations focus on the required firmware update and the easily misplaced USB-C adapter.
Professional reviewers consider the BUFFALO SSD-SAO2.0U3B a top-tier external storage option for PS5/PS4 gamers, emphasizing its rugged stick design, reliable 600 MB/s throughput, official console licensing, and strong security with AES-256 encryption.
Everyday users rate the drive highly (average 4.5/5), praising its ease of use, fast load times, tiny footprint and durability for travel.
“So small and fast!”

“Works perfectly with PS5”

“Durable and reliable”

