SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 500GB USB-C
Score: 82/100
WD My Passport SSD 500GB
Score: 78/100Rankings
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.
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 | | |
|---|---|---|
500 GBbest | 500 GBbest | |
1,050 MB/sbest | 1,050 MB/sbest | |
1,000 MB/sbest | 1,000 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 39 gbest | 54 g |
3 years | 5 yearsbest | |
3 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 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 (10 Gbit/s) |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Weight (g) | 39 g | 54 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 85.09x50.8x9.91 mm mm | 100 x 55 x 9 mm mm |
Drop Resistance (m) | 3 m | 1.98 m |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | USB-C cable, USB-C to A adapter, carabiner loop | USB‑C to USB‑A Cable |
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.
“my illustration... was saved just where I left off”
“Fast transfers, easy compatibility with USB-C/A, and durability for travel.”
SanDisk is preferable for users prioritizing ruggedness and accessories; WD is an option if brand preference or pricing is the main factor.
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.
