Buffalo External SSD USB-A 1TB
Score: 79/100
Transcend ESD270C 250GB
Score: 68/100Rankings
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.
The Transcend ESD270 250 GB offers a pocket-sized form factor, solid 520 MB/s read speeds and built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption, making it ideal for users who prioritize security and portability over raw performance. Its slower write speeds and lack of wireless features keep it from being a flagship performer.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,000 GBbest | 250 GB | |
600 MB/sbest | 520 MB/s | |
500 MB/sbest | 460 MB/s | |
| ↓ lower better | 68 g | 35 gbest |
36 monthsbest | 36 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 0 °Cbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Capacity(1) | ||
Storage Capacity (GB) | 1000 GB | 250 GB |
Performance(2) | ||
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 600 MB/s | 520 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 500 MB/s | 460 MB/s |
Security(1) | ||
Hardware Encryption | false | true |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 68 g | 35 g |
Form Factor | Thumb-drive | Credit-card |
Power & Connectivity(2) | ||
Power Source | Bus-powered | bus-powered |
Included Cable Type | USB‑A to USB‑C adapter | USB‑C to‑C, USB‑C to‑A |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS/iPadOS, ChromeOS |
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.
“So small and fast!”
“Works perfectly with PS5”
“Durable and reliable”
Professional reviewers highlight the strong encryption and convenient one-touch backup button, while noting that raw speeds lag behind flagship models and the Android app feels unpolished.
Everyday users love the tiny size, fast backup times and built-in encryption, but they often have to reformat for certain consoles and report occasional hiccups on older USB-A ports.
