Samsung T5 1TB
Score: 62/100
Transcend 2TB External SSD
Score: 67/100Rankings
The Transcend ESD410 2TB offers flagship-class 2000 MB/s performance, rugged IPX5 and MIL-STD-810G protection, and ProRes video support, but lacks hardware encryption and is heavier than many competitors. It's a solid choice for field creators who value durability over weight.
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 GB | 2,048 GBbest | |
540 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | |
515 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 51 gbest | 180 g |
36 months | 60 monthsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Capacity(1) | ||
Storage Capacity (GB) | 1024 GB | 2048 GB |
Performance(3) | ||
Interface | USB 3.1 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 540 MB/s | 2000 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 515 MB/s | 2000 MB/s |
Security(1) | ||
Hardware Encryption | true | false |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 51 g | 180 g |
Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Period (months) | 36 months | 60 months |
Power & Connectivity(2) | ||
Power Source | Bus-powered | USB bus |
Included Cable Type | USB-C to USB-C, USB-A to USB-C | USB‑C to USB‑C |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, Xbox One | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, PS5, Steam Deck |
Technical Specs(1) | ||
NAND Type | 3D V-NAND MLC | 3D NAND |
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.
Professional reviewers view the ESD410 as a premium portable SSD that matches flagship competitors in speed while adding niche ProRes video support and military-grade durability, though they note the lack of hardware encryption as a drawback.
Customers praise the blazing-fast transfers, rugged build and ability to record ProRes directly, while recurring complaints focus on missing hardware encryption, the absence of a bundled cable and the heavier chassis.
“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.”
