Crucial X8 1TB
Score: 71/100
Netac ZX20 512GB
Score: 50/100Rankings
The Crucial X8 1TB Portable SSD offers NVMe-class speeds and a rugged aluminum body at a competitive price, but lacks encryption and sees write performance dip after the cache is used.
The Netac ZX20 512 GB Extreme Portable SSD offers flagship-class read/write speeds in a feather-light aluminum case, but its lack of encryption and occasional thermal throttling keep it from being a universal winner.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,000 GBbest | 512 GB | |
1,050 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | |
1,000 MB/s | 1,700 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 97 g | 82 gbest |
36 monthsbest | 36 monthsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Capacity(1) | ||
Storage Capacity (GB) | 1000 GB | 512 GB |
Performance(3) | ||
Interface | USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 1050 MB/s | 2000 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 1000 MB/s | 1700 MB/s |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 97 g | 82.0 g |
Power & Connectivity(1) | ||
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, Linux, ChromeOS, Android, iPadOS, PS4, Xbox One | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, consoles, smartphones |
Technical Specs(1) | ||
NAND Type | QLC | NVMe |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Reviewers praise the X8 for delivering NVMe-class speeds, solid build, and thermal design, while noting the lack of hardware encryption and activity LED.
Users appreciate the fast transfers and build quality, but frequently mention the drop in sustained write speed and missing activity indicator.
Professional reviewers note that the ZX20's NVMe-based design and USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface place it on par with flagship portable SSDs, highlighting its impressive read/write performance and excellent price-to-performance ratio, while cautioning about potential thermal throttling and unproven long-term endurance.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the drive's speed, pocket-size form factor, and the inclusion of both Type-C and Type-A cables, though some report warm temperatures during long transfers and occasional recognition issues with older hardware.
“solid and stable performance after long-term use.”
“perhaps the fastest SSD with the most storage for the least price.”
“no longer available on the market.”
