WD My Passport SSD 500GB
Score: 78/100
SanDisk Portable SSD
Score: 78/100Rankings
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.
SanDisk Extreme Portable 1TB SSD combines IP55 protection, shock-proof construction, and NVMe speeds up to 560 MB/s in a compact form factor. Heat during sustained transfers and a higher price are notable trade-offs. Best for on-the-go professionals needing rugged, reliable storage.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
500 GBbest | 1 GB | |
1,050 MB/sbest | 800 MB/s | |
1,000 MB/sbest | 501 MB/s | |
| ↓ lower better | 54 g | 41 gbest |
5 yearsbest | 3 years | |
1.98 m | 2 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 5 years | 3 years |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 (10 Gbit/s) | USB 3.2 |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Weight (g) | 54 g | 41 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 100 x 55 x 9 mm mm | 47×47×10 mm mm |
Drop Resistance (m) | 1.98 m | 2 m |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | USB‑C to USB‑A Cable | USB-C cable |
Storage(1) | ||
Capacity (GB) | 500 GB | 1 GB |
Performance(2) | ||
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 1050 MB/s | 800 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 1000 MB/s | 501 MB/s |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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.
“my illustration... was saved just where I left off”
“Fast transfers, easy compatibility with USB-C/A, and durability for travel.”
“hands-down one of the best external SSDs on the market”
Professional reviewers consistently highlight the SanDisk Extreme Portable's rugged IP55 construction, fast NVMe-based performance, and strong value proposition at the 1 TB price point. While they commend its smart design and cross-platform ease of use, they note that the price is higher than some rivals and that small-file transfer performance can lag behind larger sequential transfers.
Everyday users praise the drive's portability, speed, and durability, especially for on-location work and travel. Common praise centers on its ruggedness and value, while recurring complaints focus on heat buildup, the short supplied cable, slower small-file transfers, and occasional long-term reliability issues.
