Samsung T5
Score: 80/100
SanDisk Portable SSD
Score: 78/100Rankings
The Samsung T5 Portable SSD 1TB is an ultra-compact external drive offering up to 540 MB/s read and 515 MB/s write via USB 3.1 Gen 2. Its modest speed ceiling and lack of an IP rating limit its suitability for demanding or rugged environments. Ideal for travelers and mobile professionals who value size, security, and broad compatibility.
SanDisk Extreme Portable 1TB SSD combines IP55 protection, shock-proof construction, and NVMe speeds up to 560 MB/s in a compact form factor. Heat during sustained transfers and a higher price are notable trade-offs. Best for on-the-go professionals needing rugged, reliable storage.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,000 GBbest | 1 GB | |
540 MB/s | 800 MB/sbest | |
515 MB/sbest | 501 MB/s | |
| ↓ lower better | 51 g | 41 gbest |
3 yearsbest | 3 yearsbest | |
2 mbest | 2 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Interface | USB 3.1 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 |
OS Compatibility | Windows 7+, macOS 10.9+, Android 4.4+ | Windows, macOS |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 51 g | 41 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 74x57x10 mm | 47×47×10 mm mm |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | USB‑C to C and USB‑A to C cables | USB-C cable |
Storage(1) | ||
Capacity (GB) | 1000 GB | 1 GB |
Performance(2) | ||
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 540 MB/s | 800 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 515 MB/s | 501 MB/s |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the T5 for its unmatched compactness, solid metal build, and reliable 540 MB/s performance, noting it as an ideal companion for creators who prioritize portability and security. However, they caution that its speed ceiling is lower than newer rivals and that the absence of an IP rating limits its ruggedness in harsh environments.
Everyday users consistently praise the T5's pocket-sized form factor, light weight, and fast transfer rates, calling it perfect for travel and on-the-go backups. Recurring complaints focus on reduced speeds when not connected to a USB 3.1 Gen 2 port, occasional software hiccups on older OS versions, and noticeable heat during extended heavy use.
Professional reviewers consistently highlight the SanDisk Extreme Portable's rugged IP55 construction, fast NVMe-based performance, and strong value proposition at the 1 TB price point. While they commend its smart design and cross-platform ease of use, they note that the price is higher than some rivals and that small-file transfer performance can lag behind larger sequential transfers.
Everyday users praise the drive's portability, speed, and durability, especially for on-location work and travel. Common praise centers on its ruggedness and value, while recurring complaints focus on heat buildup, the short supplied cable, slower small-file transfers, and occasional long-term reliability issues.
“hands-down one of the best external SSDs on the market”
“very well-built, compact, water and dust resistant and shock proof”
“good investment”
Choose the SanDisk for durability and outdoor use; choose the T5 if absolute compactness is the priority.
