Samsung T5 1TB
Score: 68/100
Samsung X5 2TB
Score: 76/100Rankings
The Samsung X5 is a Thunderbolt 3-only, NVMe-based portable SSD delivering flagship-class speeds in a rugged magnesium case. It targets professionals who need ultra-fast transfers and built-in security, but its lack of USB compatibility and higher weight limit its appeal to casual users.
The Samsung T5 1 TB Portable SSD delivers reliable 540 MB/s read speeds, solid aluminum construction, and built-in 256-bit AES encryption. It remains a benchmark for portable SSDs despite its modest capacity options and lack of an endurance rating.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,000 GB | 2,000 GBbest | |
540 MB/s | 2,800 MB/sbest | |
515 MB/s | 2,300 MB/sbest | |
3 yearsbest | 3 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 51 gbest | 150 g |
| ↓ lower better | 10.4 mmbest | — |
| ↓ lower better | 73.9 mmbest | 119.38 mm |
| ↓ lower better | 57.4 mm | 20.32 mmbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Interface | USB 3.1 Gen 2 | Thunderbolt 3 |
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 540 MB/s | 2800 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 515 MB/s | 2300 MB/s |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Supported Operating Systems | Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, Xbox One | Windows, macOS |
Storage(2) | ||
Storage Capacity (GB) | 1000 GB | 2000 GB |
Form Factor | Portable | 2.5-inch |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Weight (g) | 51 g | 150 g |
Length (mm) | 73.9 mm | 119.38 mm |
Width (mm) | 57.4 mm | 20.32 mm |
Height (mm) | 10.4 mm | 60.96 mm |
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.
Everyday users consistently highlight the T5's lightning-quick file transfers, pocket-sized form factor, and reliable encryption, while complaints focus on initial macOS compatibility hiccups and the inability to recover data after a forgotten password.
Professional reviewers praise the X5's blistering Thunderbolt 3/NVMe performance and rugged build, noting it outpaces many desktop RAID solutions, but they caution that the Thunderbolt-only interface and Windows-only firmware updates make it overkill for non-professional users.
Everyday users love the ability to move massive 4K/8K video files in seconds and appreciate the premium design, while common frustrations involve Windows-only firmware updates and the lack of a USB fallback.
“Superfast read write speeds: SSD with V-NAND offers ultra-fast data transfer speeds of up to 540 MB/s”
“Compact and portable design: Top to bottom shock resistant metal design fits in the palm of your hand”
“Secure encryption: Optional password protection and AES 256-bit hardware encryption keeps your personal data more secure”
X5 offers far higher speed for professional workflows; T5 is better for everyday use and broader compatibility.
