Western Digital P40
Score: 77/100
Lexar ES5 1TB
Score: 85/100Rankings
The Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic SSD provides up to 2000 MB/s read/write performance, IP65 protection, and MagSafe magnetic attachment for seamless iPhone backups. Its reliance on USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 hosts for full speed and a modest 1 TB capacity limit its appeal for power users. Perfect for mobile creators who value speed, ruggedness, and magnetic convenience.
The WD Black P40 1TB Game Drive provides up to 2000 MB/s advertised read speeds, RGB lighting, and an aluminum chassis with 2 m shock resistance for gamers across PC and consoles. Sustained write speeds fall to around 500 MB/s and full performance requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port, making it ideal for gamers prioritizing speed and aesthetics.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1 GB | 1,000 GBbest | |
2,000 MB/sbest | 2,000 MB/sbest | |
850 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 77 gbest | 109 g |
5 yearsbest | 5 yearsbest | |
— | 3 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 77 g | 109 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 51 x 13 x 107 mm mm | 85×54×11 mm mm |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | USB‑C to USB‑C cable, USB‑C to USB‑A adapter, Quick start guide, PS5 install sheet, WD Black Dashboard software | Magnetic Ring Accessory, Ribbon USB‑C cable, Cable organizer/lanyard, Magnetic strip/ring |
Storage(1) | ||
Capacity (GB) | 1 GB | 1000 GB |
Performance(1) | ||
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 850 MB/s | 2000 MB/s |
Features(1) | ||
Hardware Encryption | false | true |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers agree the WD Black P40 delivers strong random I/O and eye-catching RGB styling, making it a solid choice for gamers who need fast portable storage. However, they criticize the limited sustained write speeds, reliance on the niche USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface, and higher price relative to competitors, noting that console performance gains are minimal due to USB bandwidth caps.
Everyday users praise the drive's speed, portability, and easy setup, often calling it their go-to external storage for games and media. Recurring themes include satisfaction with the fast transfers and durable design, while complaints focus on speed throttling during long writes, occasional warmth, and the lack of water/dust protection.
Professional reviewers praise the Lexar ES5 for its rugged, rubberized build, ultra-light weight, and MagSafe integration that streamlines iPhone and iPad backups. Benchmarks consistently show near-2000 MB/s real-world speeds, and the device's IP65 rating and 3 m drop resistance make it ideal for field work. However, reviewers caution that the top speed is only reachable on USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 hosts and note the thin cable as a less premium element.
Everyday users highlight the magnetic convenience, pocket-friendly weight, and fast transfer speeds as the most appreciated aspects. Common praise centers on the rubberized grip and the ease of using the free backup app. Recurring complaints involve occasional throttling on older ports, limited 1 TB capacity for large video projects, and concerns about cable durability.
“go-to external device”
“perfect, rugged, reliable”
“no weight, pocket-friendly”
