WD Elements SE 1TB
Score: 55/100
Kingston XS1000 1TB
Score: 51/100Rankings
The WD Elements SE 1TB Portable SSD offers budget-friendly storage with decent 400 MB/s speeds in a tiny, lightweight case, but its outdated Micro-USB interface and lack of encryption limit its appeal for power users.
The Kingston XS1000 1TB is a pocket-sized external SSD that offers solid Gen 2 performance and a long warranty at an affordable price, but it lacks encryption, ruggedization, and a USB-C-to-C cable. Its lightweight design makes it ideal for travel, though the 13.5 mm thickness can feel bulky in tight bags.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,000 GBbest | 1,000 GBbest | |
400 MB/s | 1,050 MB/sbest | |
400 MB/s | 1,000 MB/sbest | |
3 years | 5 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 27 gbest | 40.8 g |
| ↓ lower better | — | 13.5 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 64.5 mmbest | 69.6 mm |
| ↓ lower better | 64.5 mm | 32.5 mmbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Interface | Micro-USB 3.1 Gen 1 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 400 MB/s | 1050 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 400 MB/s | 1000 MB/s |
Warranty & Support(1) | ||
Warranty Period (years) | 3 years | 5 years |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Supported Operating Systems | Windows 10+, macOS 11+ | Windows 10/11, macOS 10.15+, Linux 4.4+, Chrome OS, Android, iOS/iPadOS 13+ |
Power(1) | ||
Power Source | Bus-powered | USB |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Weight (g) | 27 g | 40.8 g |
Length (mm) | 64.5 mm | 69.6 mm |
Width (mm) | 64.5 mm | 32.5 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers appreciate the low price and solid performance for basic storage, but criticize the outdated Micro-USB port and absence of security features.
Everyday users praise the SSD's speed and portability, while noting occasional overheating and the legacy Micro-USB connector as drawbacks.
Professional reviewers rate the XS1000 around 3.5/5, praising its affordability, compactness and fast Gen 2 speeds while noting the absence of hardware encryption, ruggedization, and a USB-C-to-C cable.
Everyday users appreciate the SSD's pocket-size, light weight and quick file transfers, but repeatedly complain about the missing USB-C-to-C cable, lack of built-in encryption and the relatively thick body.
“One user noted transferring large files at speeds increasing from 500 kbps to 400 MB/s over time, indicating adaptive performance.”
“Multiple users confirm success running games and programs directly from the drive.”
“Extremely compact and lightweight (0.6 lb).”
