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Lexar ES3 Portable SSD vs Samsung Portable SSD T9

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

all judged against External SSDs at a similar price

The Samsung Portable SSD T9 scores 6.7/10 overall, ahead of the Lexar ES3 Portable SSD at 5.5/10.

The Lexar ES3 Portable SSD leads on compatibility.

The Samsung Portable SSD T9 leads on speed, security and warranty.

They score the same on build and ruggedness.

The biggest difference is security, where the Samsung Portable SSD T9 scores 7/10 to the Lexar ES3 Portable SSD's 4/10.

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

Samsung Portable SSD T9

Samsung Portable SSD T9

6.7/10verdict: buy

The Samsung Portable SSD T9 is a 2TB external drive for people who move large files often and have a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port. It suits those who want hardware encryption and a five-year warranty alongside fast transfers. It is less convincing for buyers who need a water-resistant drive or confirmed support beyond iPhone 15.

Typically about £205 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 SSDSamsung Portable SSD T9
Speed30%6/108/10
Build and ruggedness20%5/105/10
Compatibility20%6/105/10
Security15%4/107/10
Warranty15%6/108/10
Overall5.5/106.7/10

Specifications

SpecLexar ES3 Portable SSDSamsung Portable SSD T9
Capacity512GB2TB
InterfaceUSB 3.2 Gen 2USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20Gbps)
Sequential readup to 1,050MB/sUp to 2,000 MB/sec
Sequential writeup to 1,000MB/sUp to 1,950 MB/sec
Drop and water ratingnot listedDrop resistant up to 3m (free fall onto metal plate); no water or IP rating given
Encryptionnot listedAES 256-bit hardware encryption
Warranty3-year limited warranty5 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 ›

Samsung Portable SSD T9

  • + Up to 2,000MB/s read over USB 3.2 Gen 2x2
  • + Five-year limited warranty
  • + AES 256-bit hardware encryption
  • − No water or IP rating given
  • − Drop damage not covered by warranty
  • − Owners call it expensive for its class

Skip it if:

  • Buyers without a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port and cable who would not reach the rated speeds
  • Anyone needing a water or dust rating, as no IP rating is given
  • Buyers who want warranty cover for accidental drop damage
Read the full Samsung Portable SSD T9 review ›

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