Skip to content
sudopicks
esc

Lexar ES3 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 Lexar ES3 Portable SSD scores 5.5/10 overall, ahead of the Netac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB at 4.8/10.

The Lexar ES3 Portable SSD leads on speed and security.

They score the same on build and ruggedness, compatibility and warranty.

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

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

CriterionWeightLexar ES3 Portable SSDNetac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB
Speed30%6/104/10
Build and ruggedness20%5/105/10
Compatibility20%6/106/10
Security15%4/103/10
Warranty15%6/106/10
Overall5.5/104.8/10

Specifications

SpecLexar ES3 Portable SSDNetac Z Slim USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD 500GB
Capacity512GB500GB
InterfaceUSB 3.2 Gen 2USB 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/sup to 550MB/s (manufacturer); ssd-tester.com measured 511.94MB/s
Sequential writeup to 1,000MB/snot listed
Drop and water ratingnot listedNo IP or drop rating published; casing is aluminium alloy
Warranty3-year limited warranty3-year limited warranty

Strengths and weaknesses

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 ›

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 ›

More comparisons

Compare all External SSDs · Best External SSDs