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Lexar ES3 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 Lexar ES3 Portable SSD at 5.5/10.

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 Lexar ES3 Portable SSD's 4/10.

Lexar ES3 Portable SSD

Lexar ES3 Portable SSD

5.5/10verdict: wait for deal

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 PRO Portable SSD 1TB

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 (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 PRO Portable SSD 1TB
Speed30%6/108/10
Build and ruggedness20%5/108/10
Compatibility20%6/106/10
Security15%4/108/10
Warranty15%6/109/10
Overall5.5/107.8/10

Specifications

SpecLexar ES3 Portable SSDSanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD 1TB
Capacity512GB1TB (1000GB user storage; 1024GB raw)
InterfaceUSB 3.2 Gen 2USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, USB-C connector
Sequential readup to 1,050MB/s2000MB/s
Sequential writeup to 1,000MB/s2000MB/s
Drop and water ratingnot listedIP65 and up to 3 m drop protection (manufacturer); two reviews state IP55 and 2 m drop protection
Encryptionnot listed256-bit AES hardware encryption with password protection
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 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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