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Crucial X10 Portable SSD vs Netac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB

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 Netac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB at 4.8/10.

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

The Netac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB leads on compatibility.

They score the same on security and warranty.

The biggest difference is speed, where the Crucial X10 Portable SSD scores 8/10 to the Netac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB's 4/10.

Crucial X10 Portable SSD

5.9/10verdict: wait for deal

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

Netac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB

4.8/10verdict: skip

The Netac Z Slim 500GB is for people who want a very small, light external drive for everyday file carrying and backups. It suits buyers who value the aluminium casing and the two included cables over top transfer speed. It is a poor fit if you need encryption, a rugged rating or the fastest sustained transfers.

Typically about £53.29 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 SSDNetac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB
Speed30%8/104/10
Build and ruggedness20%6/105/10
Compatibility20%5/106/10
Security15%3/103/10
Warranty15%6/106/10
Overall5.9/104.8/10

Specifications

SpecCrucial X10 Portable SSDNetac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB
Capacity2TB500GB
InterfaceUSB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20Gb/s), USB-CUSB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (backwards compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 2.0); ssd-tester.com lists USB 3.2 Gen 1x1 (5 Gbit/s)
Sequential readUp to 2,100MB/sup to 550MB/s (manufacturer); ssd-tester.com measured 511.94MB/s
Drop and water ratingIP65 dust and water resistance; drop resistance to 3 mNo IP or drop rating published; casing is aluminium alloy
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 ›

Netac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB

  • + Thin, light aluminium body at about 30g and 9mm
  • + Includes a USB-C to A cable and an A-to-C adapter
  • + 3-year limited warranty
  • − No IP or drop rating published
  • − Encryption not published for this model
  • − Sustained speed falls below peak on large transfers

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who need hardware encryption or password protection
  • Anyone who wants a published IP or drop rating for rough use
  • People who regularly move very large files and need consistent sustained speed
Read the full Netac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB review ›

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