Skip to content
sudopicks
esc

Lexar ES3 Portable SSD vs SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD

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

all judged against External SSDs at a similar price

The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD scores 7.3/10 overall, ahead of the Lexar ES3 Portable SSD at 5.5/10.

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

They score the same on compatibility.

The biggest difference is security, where the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD scores 8/10 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

SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD

SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD

7.3/10verdict: buy

This is a portable USB-C SSD for people who carry large files between machines and want a rugged, password-protected drive. It suits photographers, video editors and travellers who value the listed IP65 and 3 m drop figures on the V3. Buyers must confirm which generation they are getting, because speed, ratings and OS support differ between V2 and V3.

Typically about £149 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 SSDSanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
Speed30%6/107/10
Build and ruggedness20%5/108/10
Compatibility20%6/106/10
Security15%4/108/10
Warranty15%6/108/10
Overall5.5/107.3/10

Specifications

SpecLexar ES3 Portable SSDSanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
Capacity512GB2TB
InterfaceUSB 3.2 Gen 2USB Type-C (V3); V2 is listed as USB 3.2 Gen 2. The V3 Gen level is not stated in the sources read.
Sequential readup to 1,050MB/sV3: up to 2000MB/s. V2: up to 1050MB/s.
Sequential writeup to 1,000MB/sV2 2TB: up to 1000MB/s. V3 2TB not confirmed.
Drop and water ratingnot listedV3: up to 3 m drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance. V2 conflicting: IP55 and 2 m drop (Micro Center) versus IP65 and 3 m (Best Buy).
Encryptionnot listedPassword protection with built-in 256-bit AES 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 ›

SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD

  • + V3 lists up to 2000MB/s read speed
  • + IP65 and 3 m drop protection on V3
  • + 256-bit AES password protection and a 5-year warranty
  • − Owners report warmth during large transfers and some drive failures
  • − V3 write speed and USB Gen level are not stated

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who need confirmed Linux or games console support
  • Anyone who needs a confirmed V3 write speed before buying
Read the full SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD review ›

More comparisons

Compare all External SSDs · Best External SSDs