SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 500GB USB-C
Score: 82/100
Crucial X9 Pro
Score: 81/100Rankings
The SanDisk 500GB Extreme Portable SSD offers up to 1050 MB/s read and 1000 MB/s write speeds along with IP65 protection and 3 m drop resistance. Its performance is capped by the USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface and warranty terms can be confusing. Best suited for on-the-go creators who value durability and built-in encryption.
The Crucial X9 Pro for Mac 1TB delivers Mac-optimized performance of up to 1050 MB/s in a tiny, IP55-rated aluminum case with strong 256-bit encryption. Its 10 Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface caps peak throughput below newer 20 Gbps models, and the IP rating is modest compared with IP65 rivals. Ideal for Mac-centric creators and travelers who value portability and native compatibility.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
500 GB | 1,000 GBbest | |
1,050 MB/sbest | 1,050 MB/sbest | |
1,000 MB/s | 1,050 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 39 g | 38 gbest |
3 years | 5 yearsbest | |
3 mbest | 2 m |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 3 years | 5 years |
Power(1) | ||
Power Source | bus-powered | USB bus-powered |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
OS Compatibility | Windows 10+, macOS 12+, iOS 13+, iPadOS 15+, Android 10+ | Apple devices, Windows, Android, iPad, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Weight (g) | 39 g | 38 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 85.09x50.8x9.91 mm mm | 65×50×9.91 mm mm |
Drop Resistance (m) | 3 m | 2 m |
Storage(1) | ||
Capacity (GB) | 500 GB | 1000 GB |
Performance(1) | ||
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 1000 MB/s | 1050 MB/s |
Features(2) | ||
IP Rating | IP65 | IP55 |
Shock Resistance | true | false |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the Extreme Portable SSD for its fast NVMe-class read/write performance, rugged IP65 rating, and broad compatibility, noting it excels in demanding field environments. However, they caution that the USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface limits peak throughput and that warranty terms differ across model generations.
Everyday users consistently highlight the drive's compact size, rapid transfer speeds, and durability, often mentioning the convenience of the included cables and encryption software. The most common complaints revolve around speed variability on different host ports and occasional confusion over warranty length and exact dimensions.
Professional reviewers commend the X9 Pro for its ultra-compact, lightweight design and Mac-specific firmware, calling it a sweet-spot SSD that balances performance, size, and price.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the X9 Pro's portability, lightweight feel, and seamless Mac compatibility, reflected in a high overall rating. The consensus highlights its suitability for travel, field work, and creative workflows, with few complaints surfacing.
