Samsung T5 1TB
Score: 62/100
Samsung T7 Shield 1TB Beige
Score: 81/100Rankings
The Samsung T7 Shield 1TB adds rugged IP65 protection and 3 m drop resistance to the fast T7 platform, keeping the same 1050 MB/s read and 1000 MB/s write speeds in a slightly heavier rubberized case. It lacks biometric authentication and a longer warranty, and its read performance can fall short of the advertised peak.
The Samsung T5 1TB portable SSD offers solid performance at up to 540 MB/s read, AES-256 encryption and a rugged aluminum body that survives 2 m drops. It remains a popular choice for creators needing secure, fast, cross-platform storage, though its speed and warranty lag behind newer competitors.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,024 GBbest | 1,000 GB | |
540 MB/s | 1,050 MB/sbest | |
515 MB/s | 1,000 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 51 gbest | 97 g |
36 monthsbest | 36 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 60 °Cbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Capacity(1) | ||
Storage Capacity (GB) | 1024 GB | 1000 GB |
Performance(3) | ||
Interface | USB 3.1 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 540 MB/s | 1050 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 515 MB/s | 1000 MB/s |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 51 g | 97 g |
Power & Connectivity(2) | ||
Power Source | Bus-powered | Bus-powered via USB |
Included Cable Type | USB-C to USB-C, USB-A to USB-C | USB-C to USB-C, USB-C to USB-A |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, Xbox One | Windows 7+, macOS X 10.10+, Android 5.1+, gaming consoles |
Technical Specs(2) | ||
NAND Type | 3D V-NAND MLC | V-NAND |
Controller | Samsung MGX | Samsung |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the T5 for its fast USB 3.1 Gen 2 performance, solid aluminum construction, and built-in 256-bit AES encryption, noting it sets a high bar for portable SSDs even years after its 2017 launch. Minor criticisms focus on the relatively short 3-year warranty, lack of an endurance rating, and a premium price point, especially for higher capacities.
Everyday users consistently highlight the T5's lightning-quick file transfers, pocket-sized form factor, and reliable encryption, describing it as a go-to drive for travel and creative work. Common complaints revolve around initial macOS compatibility hiccups, the inability to recover data after a forgotten password, and a desire for larger capacity options.
“The T5 is incredibly fast and fits right in my pocket.”
“I wish it had a longer warranty; three years feels short.”
“After a firmware update, the drive got warm but still performed well.”
Professional reviewers praise the Shield's ruggedness, encryption and consistent high-speed performance, but note the lack of DRAM and that read speeds often lag behind the advertised maximum.
Everyday users love the durability and fast transfers for field work, while some complain about the sticky rubber coating and occasional warmth during long transfers.
