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Crucial X9 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 X9 Portable SSD scores 5.3/10 overall, ahead of the Netac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB at 4.8/10.

The Crucial X9 Portable SSD leads on speed and build and ruggedness.

They score the same on compatibility, security and warranty.

Crucial X9 Portable SSD

5.3/10verdict: wait for deal

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

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 X9 Portable SSDNetac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB
Speed30%5/104/10
Build and ruggedness20%6/105/10
Compatibility20%6/106/10
Security15%3/103/10
Warranty15%6/106/10
Overall5.3/104.8/10

Specifications

SpecCrucial X9 Portable SSDNetac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB
Capacity1TB, 2TB, 4TB (some capacity used for formatting)500GB
InterfaceUSB-C connector; USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) on supported devicesUSB 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 1,050MB/s (CrystalDiskMark 8.0.4, desktop)up to 550MB/s (manufacturer); ssd-tester.com measured 511.94MB/s
Drop and water ratingDrop-proof up to 7.5 ft (2 m) without data impact on carpeted floor; shock, vibration and extreme temperature proofNo IP or drop rating published; casing is aluminium alloy
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 ›

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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