Western Digital Elements 5TB
Score: 68/100
Samsung T7 2TB
Score: 86/100Rankings
The Samsung T7 2TB Portable SSD offers the same blistering 1,050 MB/s read speeds as the 1 TB model while providing double the storage in an equally lightweight aluminum case with AES-256 encryption and 2 m drop resistance. Its drawbacks include a limited cable bundle and lack of rugged IP protection, making it less suited for harsh environments. Best for users needing high-capacity, fast, portable storage without sacrificing portability.
The WD 5TB Elements Portable offers massive storage in a lightweight, bus-powered HDD with USB 3.0 speeds. Its lack of rugged features and need for macOS reformatting limit its suitability for harsh environments. Best for Windows-centric users seeking high capacity on a budget.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
5,000 GBbest | 2,000 GB | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.24 kg | 0.058 kgbest |
— | 1,050 MB/sbest | |
— | 1,000 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 213.3 mmbest | — |
2 years | 3 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Storage(1) | ||
Capacity (GB) | 5000 GB | 2000 GB |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Interface | USB-A | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
USB Version | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.24 kg | 0.058 kg |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 81.98×20.83×110.49 mm mm | 85x57x8 mm |
Design(1) | ||
Form Factor | portable | SSD |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 2 years | 3 years |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | Drive; SuperSpeed USB-A cable; quick install guide | USB Type-C to Type-A cable |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the WD Elements 5 TB for its massive capacity, fast USB 3.0 performance, and bus-powered convenience, noting Western Digital's reputation for reliable build quality. The main criticism centers on the mechanical nature of the drive, which lacks the durability and speed of SSD competitors.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the drive's large storage space, plug-and-play ease, and lightweight portability, while recurring themes of inconvenience around macOS reformatting, audible spin noise, and occasional failures after drops appear in the feedback.
“huge 5 TB storage for photos/videos”
“easy plug-and-play on Windows”
Professional reviewers are not directly quoted in the available data, but retailer descriptions and product briefs consistently highlight the T7’s blazing USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds, pocket‑sized aluminum chassis, and built‑in security as key strengths, while noting that real‑world performance depends on cable quality.
No explicit consumer reviews were found; the available information consists mainly of manufacturer and retailer specifications, so concrete user sentiment cannot be extracted.
