Skip to content
sudopicks
esc

Crucial X9 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 Lexar ES3 Portable SSD scores 5.5/10 overall, ahead of the Crucial X9 Portable SSD at 5.3/10.

The Crucial X9 Portable SSD leads on build and ruggedness.

The Lexar ES3 Portable SSD leads on speed and security.

They score the same on compatibility and warranty.

Crucial X9 Portable SSD

5.3/10verdict: good, not the best

The Crucial X9 suits buyers who want a small, plain USB-C drive for moving files between PCs, Macs, phones and consoles. It offers 1,050MB/s sequential reads and a 2m drop rating in a 65 x 50mm body. It is less suited to anyone who needs listed hardware encryption, Linux support or a faster interface.

Typically about £219.99 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 X9 Portable SSDLexar ES3 Portable SSD
Speed30%5/106/10
Build and ruggedness20%6/105/10
Compatibility20%6/106/10
Security15%3/104/10
Warranty15%6/106/10
Overall5.3/105.5/10

Specifications

SpecCrucial X9 Portable SSDLexar ES3 Portable SSD
Capacity1TB, 2TB, 4TB (some capacity used for formatting)512GB
InterfaceUSB-C connector; USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) on supported devicesUSB 3.2 Gen 2
Sequential readUp to 1,050MB/s (CrystalDiskMark 8.0.4, desktop)up to 1,050MB/s
Sequential writenot listedup to 1,000MB/s
Drop and water ratingDrop-proof up to 7.5 ft (2 m) without data impact on carpeted floor; shock, vibration and extreme temperature proofnot listed
Warranty3-year limited, valid until maximum TBW is reached3-year limited warranty

Strengths and weaknesses

Crucial X9 Portable SSD

  • + Drop-proof to 2m, plus shock and vibration proofing
  • + Small 65 x 50mm body, USB-C cable included
  • + Listed for Windows, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation, Android and iPad
  • − No hardware encryption listed
  • − Linux not listed; USB-A adapter sold separately
  • − Capped at USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who need hardware encryption or password protection for sensitive data
  • Linux users who want the manufacturer to list support
  • Anyone moving very large files who wants a faster interface than USB 3.2 Gen 2
Read the full Crucial X9 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 ›

More comparisons

Compare all External SSDs · Best External SSDs