Buffalo SSD-SAO2.0U3B
Score: 90/100
Lexar ES5 2TB
Score: 94/100Rankings
The Lexar ES5 2TB Magnetic SSD delivers blazing 2000 MB/s speeds, MagSafe magnetic mounting, and IP65 ruggedness, targeting mobile creators who need ultra-fast transfers on the go. Its performance shines on compatible hosts, but lack of Thunderbolt and occasional thermal throttling keep it from being universally optimal.
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.
| Attribute | Buffalo SSD-SAO2.0U3B | |
|---|---|---|
2,048 GBbest | 2,048 GBbest | |
600 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | |
600 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 17 gbest | 120 g |
24 months | 60 monthsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | Buffalo SSD-SAO2.0U3B | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C |
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 600 MB/s | 2000 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 600 MB/s | 2000 MB/s |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 17 g | 120 g |
IP Rating | IP55 | IP65 |
Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Period (months) | 24 months | 60 months |
Power & Connectivity(1) | ||
Power Source | USB bus-powered | Bus-powered |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | PS5, PS4, Windows, macOS, Android | Windows 7+; macOS 10.6+; iOS; Android 4.4+ |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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.
Professional reviewers consider the Lexar ES5 a high-performance, creator-focused portable SSD, lauding its USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 bandwidth, MagSafe magnetic design, and rugged IP65 build, while cautioning that peak speeds require compatible hosts and noting the absence of Thunderbolt/USB4.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the SSD's blazing transfer speeds, magnetic attachment to iPhones, and rugged, lightweight design for on-the-go video work, though they note slower speeds on many Macs and complain about the lint-attracting silicone casing.
“Game changer for PS5 storage!”
“Incredibly fast loading”
“So small and light!”
