Crucial X9 Portable SSD vs SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD 1TB

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

all judged against External SSDs at a similar price

The SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD 1TB scores 7.8/10 overall, ahead of the Crucial X9 Portable SSD at 5.3/10.

The SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD 1TB leads on speed, build and ruggedness, security and warranty.

They score the same on compatibility.

The biggest difference is security, where the SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD 1TB scores 8/10 to the Crucial X9 Portable SSD's 3/10.

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

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SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD 1TB

7.8/10verdict: buy

The SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD 1TB is for people who carry large files between machines and want a durable, fast bus-powered drive. It suits those who value hardware encryption and a long warranty. Buyers who mainly want the lowest cost per terabyte will find owners calling it a premium purchase.

Typically about £155.99 in the UK when we researched itCheck price at Amazon UK

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Scores, criterion by criterion

Criterion	Weight	Crucial X9 Portable SSD	SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD 1TB
Speed	30%	5/10	8/10
Build and ruggedness	20%	6/10	8/10
Compatibility	20%	6/10	6/10
Security	15%	3/10	8/10
Warranty	15%	6/10	9/10
Overall		5.3/10	7.8/10

Specifications

Spec	Crucial X9 Portable SSD	SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD 1TB
Capacity	1TB, 2TB, 4TB (some capacity used for formatting)	1TB (1000GB user storage; 1024GB raw)
Interface	USB-C connector; USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) on supported devices	USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, USB-C connector
Sequential read	Up to 1,050MB/s (CrystalDiskMark 8.0.4, desktop)	2000MB/s
Sequential write	not listed	2000MB/s
Drop and water rating	Drop-proof up to 7.5 ft (2 m) without data impact on carpeted floor; shock, vibration and extreme temperature proof	IP65 and up to 3 m drop protection (manufacturer); two reviews state IP55 and 2 m drop protection
Encryption	not listed	256-bit AES hardware encryption with password protection
Warranty	3-year limited, valid until maximum TBW is reached	5-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 ›

SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD 1TB

+ 2000MB/s listed read and write over USB 3.2 Gen 2x2
+ Aluminium and silicone build; owners report it survives water and drops
+ 256-bit AES hardware encryption and a 5-year warranty
− USB-C port has no protective cover
− Owners call the price premium against other 1TB USB-C drives
− Research lists no OS, phone or console support

Skip it if:

Buyers who want the lowest cost for 1TB and don't need Gen 2x2 speed
Anyone who wants a port cover to keep dust and debris out
Users who need confirmed support for consoles, phones or Linux

Read the full SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD 1TB review ›

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