Samsung T5 2TB
Score: 48/100
SanDisk Extreme 500GB
Score: 65/100Rankings
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 500 GB delivers solid NVMe performance in a rugged, lightweight package with IP65 protection and hardware encryption. It's ideal for creators on the go who need fast, secure storage, though the lack of a metal heatsink and occasional early failures are drawbacks.
The Samsung T5 2TB Portable SSD provides high-capacity, near-internal SSD speeds with robust encryption and a durable aluminum body, suited for professionals needing fast, secure portable storage.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
2,000 GBbest | 500 GB | |
540 MB/s | 1,050 MB/sbest | |
517.5 MB/s | 1,000 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 45 gbest | 52 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) | 2000 GB | 500 GB |
Performance(3) | ||
Interface | USB 3.1 Gen 2 | USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 |
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 540 MB/s | 1050 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 517.5 MB/s | 1000 MB/s |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 45 g | 52 g |
Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Period (months) | 36 months | 60 months |
Power & Connectivity(2) | ||
Power Source | bus | bus-powered |
Included Cable Type | USB-C to USB-C, USB-C to USB-A | USB-C to USB-C |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Reviewers consistently rate the T5 as a benchmark portable SSD, highlighting its speed, sleek design, and reliable encryption while noting the limited warranty and missing endurance specs.
Users praise the fast transfers and compact form factor, though some report password rule issues and speed loss with cheap cables.
Professional reviewers commend the Extreme Portable SSD for delivering near-top tier performance (1050 MB/s) in a rugged, IP55-rated package, emphasizing its suitability for 4K video editing and secure data handling. They note the absence of a metal heatsink as the main drawback, but conclude that passive cooling is adequate for typical use cases.
Everyday users love the SSD's tiny footprint, durability, and speed for photo/video backups, often highlighting the handy carabiner loop. Complaints focus on occasional early failures, a flimsy USB-A adapter, the default exFAT format, and the device warming under heavy use.
“one of the best external storage devices out there”
“unbeaten”
“must-have”
Choose SanDisk if you need water/dust resistance and slightly higher read speeds; choose the T5 for larger capacity, stronger build, and encryption.
