SanDisk Extreme PRO 4TB USB4
Score: 87/100
Kingston SPSD
Score: 91/100Rankings
The Kingston Dual USB-A/C 1TB SSD offers a unique cable-free, thumb-drive-sized design with dual connectors and near-spec USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds, delivering ultra-portable high-performance storage, though it suffers from port blocking, thermal throttling and lacks rugged protection.
An ultra-fast USB4 portable SSD delivering near-internal SSD performance with strong security and ruggedness, best for high-end creators, but its size and need for a USB4 host limit portability for some users.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
4,000 GBbest | 1,000 GB | |
3,800 MB/sbest | 1,050 MB/s | |
3,700 MB/sbest | 950 MB/s | |
5 yearsbest | 5 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 172 g | 13 gbest |
| ↓ lower better | 9.65 mm | 8.6 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 100.84 mm | 71.85 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 52.58 mm | 21.1 mmbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Interface | USB4 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 dual |
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 3800 MB/s | 1050 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 3700 MB/s | 950 MB/s |
Security(1) | ||
Hardware Encryption | true | false |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Supported Operating Systems | Windows 10+, macOS 14+ | Windows 11, macOS 13.7.6+, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, iOS/iPadOS |
Storage(1) | ||
Storage Capacity (GB) | 4000 GB | 1000 GB |
Power(1) | ||
Power Source | Bus-powered | USB |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Weight (g) | 172 g | 13 g |
Thickness (mm) | 9.65 mm | 8.6 mm |
Length (mm) | 100.84 mm | 71.85 mm |
Width (mm) | 52.58 mm | 21.1 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Extreme PRO USB4 SSD for its blazing peak speeds and rugged build, while warning that real-world performance depends on a fully compatible 40 Gbps host and noting occasional throttling on non-Thunderbolt 4 systems.
Users praise the drive's speed, plug-and-play ease, and durable design for on-location work, though they report initial connection hiccups, a larger form factor, and speed throttling after the cache is exhausted.
“Great SSD for the price”
“sustained 3000 MB/s speeds on a MacBook Pro”
“The enclosure feels solid and survived a drop from my bike.”
Professional reviewers commend the Kingston Dual Portable SSD for its clever dual-connector design, near-spec USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds, and solid metal construction, calling it a convenient, high-performance alternative to traditional flash drives. However, they note practical drawbacks such as port blocking, fragile caps, lack of environmental sealing, and thermal throttling under sustained load.
Everyday users appreciate the drive's universal compatibility, lightning-fast transfers, and pocket-friendly size, often highlighting how it eliminates the need for cables. Common complaints revolve around the device's tendency to block neighboring ports, the easy loss of protective caps, heat buildup with speed throttling, and the absence of a tether or keychain loop.
