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Crucial X10 Portable SSD vs Lexar ES3 Portable SSD

Researched, not hands-on tested.How we review ›

all judged against External SSDs at a similar price

The Crucial X10 Portable SSD scores 5.9/10 overall, ahead of the Lexar ES3 Portable SSD at 5.5/10.

The Crucial X10 Portable SSD leads on speed and build and ruggedness.

The Lexar ES3 Portable SSD leads on compatibility and security.

They score the same on warranty.

Crucial X10 Portable SSD

5.9/10verdict: good, not the best

The Crucial X10 Portable SSD 2TB is for people who want fast external storage and own a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 host. It suits those who value read speed, a compact body and a rugged rating over built-in drive security. Buyers who need hardware encryption or full speed on Mac and consoles should look closely at the limits first.

Typically about £249.99 in the UK when we researched itCheck price at Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)

Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details

Lexar ES3 Portable SSD

Lexar ES3 Portable SSD

5.5/10verdict: good, not the best

The Lexar ES3 is a small USB 3.2 Gen 2 portable SSD for people who move files between a laptop and a phone. It suits everyday backups, photo libraries and project folders rather than workloads that need the fastest transfers. Linux users, console owners and anyone who wants hardware encryption should check the limits first.

Typically about £123 in the UK when we researched itCheck price at Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)

Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details

Scores, criterion by criterion

CriterionWeightCrucial X10 Portable SSDLexar ES3 Portable SSD
Speed30%8/106/10
Build and ruggedness20%6/105/10
Compatibility20%5/106/10
Security15%3/104/10
Warranty15%6/106/10
Overall5.9/105.5/10

Specifications

SpecCrucial X10 Portable SSDLexar ES3 Portable SSD
Capacity2TB512GB
InterfaceUSB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20Gb/s), USB-CUSB 3.2 Gen 2
Sequential readUp to 2,100MB/sup to 1,050MB/s
Sequential writenot listedup to 1,000MB/s
Drop and water ratingIP65 dust and water resistance; drop resistance to 3 mnot listed
Warranty3 years3-year limited warranty

Strengths and weaknesses

Crucial X10 Portable SSD

  • + Reads up to 2,100MB/s over USB 3.2 Gen 2x2
  • + Crucial lists IP65 and 3m drop resistance
  • + Reviewers praise value and compact, rugged build
  • − Hardware encryption not confirmed; owners complain about it
  • − Gen 2 speeds on Mac, PS5 and Xbox (single source)
  • − Write speed and ruggedness figures conflict between sources

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who need confirmed password-protected hardware encryption on the drive
  • Mac, PS5 or Xbox users who want full Gen 2x2 speeds
  • Anyone who needs a confirmed IP rating, as one reviewer disputes it
Read the full Crucial X10 Portable SSD review ›

Lexar ES3 Portable SSD

  • + Plug-and-play setup, no drivers needed, according to owners
  • + Mac, Windows, iOS and Android support listed
  • + 2-metre anti-drop rating on a 45g body
  • − Encryption is software-based; no hardware encryption described
  • − Linux and consoles not listed as compatible
  • − Can feel warm during extended use, owners say

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who need hardware encryption built into the drive
  • Linux or console users who want manufacturer-listed support
  • Anyone who wants a published water rating or the fastest transfers available
Read the full Lexar ES3 Portable SSD review ›

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