Samsung T5
Score: 80/100
WD My Passport SSD 500GB
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.
WD's My Passport SSD 500 GB provides fast USB-C performance with built-in 256-bit AES encryption and a rugged 1.98 m drop rating, making it a secure, travel-ready option. Its limited cache and modest random I/O performance, plus lack of water resistance, may deter power users. Ideal for mobile professionals who prioritize security and durability over extreme speed.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,000 GBbest | 500 GB | |
540 MB/s | 1,050 MB/sbest | |
515 MB/s | 1,000 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 51 gbest | 54 g |
3 years | 5 yearsbest | |
2 mbest | 1.98 m |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 3 years | 5 years |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Interface | USB 3.1 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 (10 Gbit/s) |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Weight (g) | 51 g | 54 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 74x57x10 mm | 100 x 55 x 9 mm mm |
Drop Resistance (m) | 2 m | 1.98 m |
Enclosure Material | Aluminum | Not specified |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | USB‑C to C and USB‑A to C cables | USB‑C to USB‑A Cable |
Storage(1) | ||
Capacity (GB) | 1000 GB | 500 GB |
Performance(2) | ||
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 540 MB/s | 1050 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 515 MB/s | 1000 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 commend the My Passport SSD for delivering the advertised 1050/1000 MB/s sequential performance in a ultra-slim chassis, while also offering hardware AES encryption and a generous five-year warranty. However, they caution that its 6 GB pSLC cache and modest 4 KB random speeds make it less suitable for sustained heavy write workloads or workloads that demand high random IOPS.
Everyday users consistently highlight the drive's quick plug-and-play experience, fast file transfers, and durable, travel-ready design. The most common praise centers on its portability and security features, while occasional complaints focus on price per gigabyte and the absence of water-resistance for rugged outdoor use.
“my illustration... was saved just where I left off”
“Fast transfers, easy compatibility with USB-C/A, and durability for travel.”
