Crucial X6 1TB
Score: 34/100
Samsung T7 Shield 1TB
Score: 72/100Rankings
The Samsung T7 Shield 1TB is a rugged portable SSD with IP65 protection, 3 m drop resistance and AES-256 encryption, delivering up to 1,050 MB/s read speeds. It balances durability and security with solid performance, though it carries a higher price tag and lacks full waterproofing.
The Crucial X6 1TB is an affordable, ultra-light portable SSD with decent everyday performance, but its QLC NAND and DRAM-less architecture prevent it from delivering the high sustained speeds some users expect.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,000 GB | 1,024 GBbest | |
540 MB/s | 1,050 MB/sbest | |
212 MB/s | 1,000 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 40 gbest | 98 g |
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 | 1024 GB |
Performance(3) | ||
Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 540 MB/s | 1050 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 212 MB/s | 1000 MB/s |
Security(1) | ||
Hardware Encryption | false | true |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 40 g | 98 g |
Power & Connectivity(2) | ||
Power Source | bus-powered | Bus-powered |
Included Cable Type | USB-C to USB-C | USB-C to USB-C, USB-C to USB-A |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, consoles | Windows 7+, macOS 10.10+, Android 5.0+ |
Technical Specs(2) | ||
NAND Type | QLC | 3D TLC |
Controller | Silicon Motion SM2259XT | Samsung Pablo |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the X6 a serviceable, budget-friendly portable SSD that works well for everyday tasks but is hampered by its SATA-based internals and DRAM-less design, recommending PCIe-based alternatives for power users.
Consumers appreciate the X6's reliability, pocket-size convenience, and price, though many note that real-world speeds fall short of the advertised 800 MB/s and that performance drops after the cache is exhausted.
Professional reviewers commend the T7 Shield for its rugged IP65 construction, solid drop resistance, and reliable AES-256 encryption, noting that its 1,050 MB/s read speed makes it suitable for on-the-go 4K editing. However, they point out that its performance lags behind non-rugged Thunderbolt or USB-3.2 Gen 2x2 drives, and the absence of immersion protection and a fingerprint sensor keep it from being a universal leader.
Everyday users appreciate the drive's durability, fast transfers, and hassle-free plug-and-play experience, often citing reliable backups and smooth media workflows. Recurring complaints focus on the premium price, the feel of the supplied cables, heat buildup during long transfers, and the desire for full waterproof (IP68) protection.
“smaller than car keys”
“perfect for travel”
“Crucial SSDs have never failed me.”
