SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD 1TB
Score: 75/100
Lexar SL500 1TB
Score: 74/100Rankings
The SanDisk Extreme PRO 1 TB delivers flagship-class NVMe speeds in a rugged, IP65-rated aluminum case, targeting professionals who need rapid off-loading of large media files. However, recent firmware reliability concerns and limited macOS performance temper its appeal.
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD delivers a sleek, credit-card-sized form factor with impressive advertised speeds and solid durability (IP54, 2 m drop). It's ideal for creators needing a lightweight, encrypted drive, though actual transfer rates may fall short of the 2000 MB/s claim without a compatible host.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,000 GBbest | 1,000 GBbest | |
2,000 MB/sbest | 2,000 MB/sbest | |
2,000 MB/sbest | 1,800 MB/s | |
5 yearsbest | 5 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 77.5 g | 43 gbest |
| ↓ lower better | 10.2 mm | 4.8 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | — | 83.8 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 57.4 mm | 53.3 mmbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(2) | ||
Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 2000 MB/s | 1800 MB/s |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Supported Operating Systems | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS, Android, Harmony OS |
Storage(1) | ||
NAND Type | NVMe | 3D TLC |
Build & Design(5) | ||
Weight (g) | 77.5 g | 43 g |
Thickness (mm) | 10.2 mm | 4.8 mm |
Width (mm) | 57.4 mm | 53.3 mm |
Height (mm) | 110.2 mm | 7.6 mm |
IP Rating | IP65 | IP54 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the Extreme PRO's 2000 MB/s speeds, rugged build, and long warranty, but warn about firmware-related reliability problems that emerged in 2023, advising caution until resolved.
Users love the fast transfers and included cables, but a growing number report sudden drive failures and frustration with limited Mac support and firmware issues.
“Transfers 4K video files in seconds”
“Love the included cables - no need to carry adapters”
“Drive suddenly became unreadable after 18 months - lost all my project files”
Choose the Extreme Pro if you need guaranteed top speeds and are willing to pay a premium.
Professional reviewers commend the SL500 for its premium, compact design, solid durability, and competitive pricing, noting that it delivers very fast transfers when paired with a suitable Gen 2×2 or USB 4.0 host. They point out that real-world performance often lags behind the 2000 MB/s claim and that users without the appropriate port will not experience the drive's full speed potential.
Everyday users appreciate the drive's pocket-sized form factor, reliable build, and sufficient speed for on-the-go 4K editing, as well as the added security of encryption. Common complaints revolve around the gap between advertised and actual speeds, the absence of a USB-A adapter, and the lack of MagSafe support.
