Buffalo SSD-PUT500U3B
Score: 81/100
Lexar ES3 1TB
Score: 70/100Rankings
The Buffalo 500 GB SSD-PUT combines ultra-compact pen-drive dimensions with fast NVMe-over-UASP performance, but its modest PCMark score and lack of a native USB-C port keep it from being a premium choice.
The Lexar ES3 1TB SSD offers ultra-fast USB-C performance in a lightweight metal shell, with software-based 256-bit AES encryption and extensive device compatibility. Its main drawbacks are limited iPhone support and the need to install encryption software.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
500 GB | 1,024 GBbest | |
600 MB/s | 1,050 MB/sbest | |
500 MB/s | 1,000 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 17 gbest | 45 g |
36 monthsbest | 36 monthsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Capacity(1) | ||
Storage Capacity (GB) | 500 GB | 1024 GB |
Performance(3) | ||
Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB-C |
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 600 MB/s | 1050 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 500 MB/s | 1000 MB/s |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 17 g | 45 g |
Form Factor | Pen drive | Portable |
Power & Connectivity(2) | ||
Power Source | Bus-powered | Bus-powered via USB |
Included Cable Type | USB‑A to USB‑C adapter | 2‑in‑1 USB‑C to USB‑C with Type‑A adapter |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | macOS, Windows, Android, iOS, Xbox, PlayStation |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers laud the SSD-PUT for its groundbreaking miniaturization, NVMe-over-UASP performance and excellent price-to-speed ratio, while noting a modest PCMark score, firmware-update requirement, and lack of a native USB-C connector.
Everyday users praise the pocket-size convenience, lightning-fast file transfers, reliable LED indicator and seamless console compatibility, while recurring complaints focus on the optional third-year warranty registration, feel of the retractable connector, and desire for a built-in USB-C port.
Professional reviewers describe the Lexar ES3 as a high-speed, ultra-portable SSD that delivers near-SSD performance in a credit-card-sized metal shell, commending its fast read speed, built-in encryption and plug-and-play experience while noting its console compatibility and warmth under load.
Everyday users rate the drive highly for its speed, build quality and portability, praising the plug-and-play convenience and security features, with complaints about older iPhone incompatibility and cable length.
“Fits in my pocket like a flash drive but performs like an SSD.”
“Transfers large video files in seconds-way faster than my old HDD.”
“Works perfectly with my PS5-reduced game load times noticeably.”
