Samsung T5 1TB
Score: 62/100
WD Elements SE 2TB
Score: 47/100Rankings
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.
The WD Elements SE 2TB Portable SSD offers a budget-friendly, ultra-compact solution with reliable 400 MB/s performance, making it suitable for casual backups and travel, though its legacy Micro-USB interface and lack of encryption limit its appeal for power users.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,024 GB | 2,048 GBbest | |
540 MB/sbest | 400 MB/s | |
515 MB/sbest | 400 MB/s | |
| ↓ lower better | 51 g | 27 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) | 1024 GB | 2048 GB |
Performance(3) | ||
Interface | USB 3.1 Gen 2 | USB 3.0 |
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 540 MB/s | 400 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 515 MB/s | 400 MB/s |
Security(1) | ||
Hardware Encryption | true | false |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 51 g | 27 g |
Power & Connectivity(1) | ||
Included Cable Type | USB-C to USB-C, USB-A to USB-C | Micro-USB to USB-A |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, Xbox One | Windows, macOS |
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.
Brad Moon of Forbes praised the Elements SE as a cheap, affordable SSD ideal for casual use and backups, highlighting its sub-$120 price, pocket-size, and durability while noting the outdated Micro-USB port and modest speed compared to premium drives.
Everyday users rate the drive highly for reliability, ease of use, and ultra-compact durability, but commonly complain about the legacy Micro-USB connector and slower-than-expected transfer speeds.
“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.”
