Samsung X5 1TB
Score: 71/100
Samsung T7 Shield 1TB
Score: 72/100Rankings
The Samsung T7 Shield 1TB is a rugged portable SSD with IP65 protection, 3 m drop resistance and AES-256 encryption, delivering up to 1,050 MB/s read speeds. It balances durability and security with solid performance, though it carries a higher price tag and lacks full waterproofing.
The Samsung X5 1TB Portable SSD offers Thunderbolt 3-level performance in a rugged, magnesium-alloy case, targeting professionals who need fast ingest and export of large media files.
| Attribute | Samsung X5 1TB | |
|---|---|---|
1,024 GBbest | 1,024 GBbest | |
2,800 MB/sbest | 1,050 MB/s | |
2,300 MB/sbest | 1,000 MB/s | |
| ↓ lower better | 150 g | 98 gbest |
36 monthsbest | 36 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 45 °C | 0 °Cbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | Samsung X5 1TB | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Interface | Thunderbolt 3 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 2800 MB/s | 1050 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 2300 MB/s | 1000 MB/s |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 150 g | 98 g |
Power & Connectivity(1) | ||
Included Cable Type | Thunderbolt 3 | USB-C to USB-C, USB-C to USB-A |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows 10, macOS | Windows 7+, macOS 10.10+, Android 5.0+ |
Environmental(1) | ||
Operating Temperature (°C) | 45 °C | 0 °C |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the X5 as the fastest bus-powered external drive on the market, highlighting its Thunderbolt 3 + NVMe architecture and effective thermal management, but criticize its reliance on Thunderbolt 3 and occasional thermal throttling.
Everyday users love the blazing speed for 4K video and RAW batches and appreciate the rugged design, while noting the need for a Thunderbolt 3 port and occasional slowdowns due to heat.
Professional reviewers commend the T7 Shield for its rugged IP65 construction, solid drop resistance, and reliable AES-256 encryption, noting that its 1,050 MB/s read speed makes it suitable for on-the-go 4K editing. However, they point out that its performance lags behind non-rugged Thunderbolt or USB-3.2 Gen 2x2 drives, and the absence of immersion protection and a fingerprint sensor keep it from being a universal leader.
Everyday users appreciate the drive's durability, fast transfers, and hassle-free plug-and-play experience, often citing reliable backups and smooth media workflows. Recurring complaints focus on the premium price, the feel of the supplied cables, heat buildup during long transfers, and the desire for full waterproof (IP68) protection.
“Fast enough to transfer a 20 GB 4K video in ~12 seconds - a game-changer for my workflow”
“The magnesium chassis feels solid and survived a few accidental drops”
“Had to buy a separate Thunderbolt cable because the one included was missing”
