Contents
The best usb c ssd is the Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB. It offers incredible speeds up to 7,450 MB/s. This makes it a top choice for gamers and tech experts who need high performance. For those looking for value, the Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD is a great option. It sacrifices some speed for affordability, with speeds up to 1,050 MB/s.
The main tradeoff here is between speed and portability. Samsung offers lightning-fast speeds, while Sandisk provides ruggedness and ease of use. The rest of the page will guide you through other top options in this category.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Ssds Reviewed in Detail
Here are the best usb c ssd options available today, showcasing impressive speed and durability.
1. Editor’s Choice
Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB, PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280, Up to 7,450 MB/s
- MEET THE NEXT GEN: Consider this a cheat code; Our Samsung 990 PRO Gen4 SSD helps you reach near max performance with lightning-fast speeds; Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a tech guru, you’ll get power efficiency built for the final boss
- REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: Gen4 steps up with faster transfer speeds and high-performance bandwidth; With a more than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO, it’s here for heavy computing and faster loading
- THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD’S FLASH MEMORY BRAND: The speed you need for any occasion; With read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s you’ll reach near max performance of PCIe 4.0 powering through for any use
- PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: Give yourself some space with storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB; Sync all your saves and reign supreme in gaming, video editing, data analysis and more
- IT’S A POWER MOVE: Save the power for your performance; Get power efficiency all while experiencing up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO; It makes every move more effective with less consumption
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB is a high-performance drive with exceptional speeds. It uses PCIe 4.0 technology to reach up to 7,450 MB/s. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and those needing fast data access. Compared to others on this list, it significantly outperforms them in speed. For example, the Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD offers lower speeds at 1,050 MB/s. However, the Samsung drive’s price may put it out of reach for budget buyers.
This SSD is designed for power users who demand speed and efficiency. Its high read and write speeds mean quicker loading times and better performance in applications. While the performance is outstanding, the tradeoff is its cost. Cheaper options, like the Patriot P210, may not provide the same speed but can serve well for basic tasks.
One limitation is that the Samsung SSD 990 PRO may be overkill for casual users. If you only need basic storage or slower speeds, you might be better off with a less powerful model.
Pros
- Up to 7,450 MB/s read speed
- Large 2TB storage capacity
- Uses PCIe 4.0 for faster data transfer
Cons
- Higher price compared to other options
- May be too powerful for casual users
Best for: Hardcore gamers and professionals needing fast data access. Not ideal for: Casual users who only need basic storage.
An excellent choice for those needing high-speed performance.
2. Best Heavy-Duty
Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, IP65 Water and Dust Resistance, Updated Firmware, External Solid State Drive,…
- Get NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds in a portable, high-capacity drive(1) (Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device & other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance mean this tough drive can take a beating(3) (Previously rated for 2-meter drop protection and IP55 rating. Now qualified for the higher, stated specs.)
- Use the handy carabiner loop to secure it to your belt loop or backpack for extra peace of mind.
- Help keep private content private with the included password protection featuring 256‐bit AES hardware encryption.(3)
- Easily manage files and automatically free up space with the SanDisk Memory Zone app.(5). Non-Operating Temperature -20°C to 85°C
The Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD is designed for heavy-duty use. It delivers impressive speeds of up to 1,050 MB/s. This portable SSD stands out for its rugged design and IP65 rating, which means it’s resistant to water and dust. When compared to the Samsung SSD 990 PRO, it has lower speeds, but its durability makes it suitable for on-the-go users.
Not only does it offer good performance, but it also has a large storage capacity of 2TB. This is enough for most users to store various files, including large videos and games. The drop protection is another feature that adds to its appeal for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. However, it does not reach the high speeds of some competitors.
Despite its strengths, a limitation is that its speeds may not satisfy users needing the absolute fastest performance. If speed is your main concern, you might consider a drive like the Samsung SSD 990 PRO instead.
Pros
- Water and dust resistant (IP65)
- 2TB storage capacity
- Up to 1,050 MB/s transfer speed
Cons
- Slower than some competitors
- May not meet needs of speed-focused users
Best for: Users needing rugged and portable storage. Not ideal for: Users who need the absolute fastest speeds.
A solid choice for those who prioritize durability and portability.
3. Best Design
Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB, PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280, Up to 7,450 MB/s
- HUGE SPEED BOOST: Get random read/write speeds that are 40%/55% faster than 980 PRO; Experience up to 1400K/1550K IOPS, while sequential read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s reach near the max performance of PCIe 4.0*
- BREAKTHROUGH POWER EFFICIENCY: Use less power and get more performance; Enjoy up to 50% improved performance per watt over 980 PRO, plus optimal power efficiency with max PCIe 4.0 performance**
- SMART THERMAL CONTROL: Samsung’s own nickel-coated controller delivers effective thermal control; With its slim size, 990 PRO is a perfect fit for desktops and laptops that meet the PCI-SIG D8 standard***
- THE CHAMPION MAKER: Up to 65% improvement in random performance enables faster loads for an ultimate gaming experience on PS5 and DirectStorage PC games****
- SAMSUNG MAGICIAN SOFTWARE: Get the most out of your SSD with Samsung Magician’s advanced yet intuitive optimization tools; Monitor drive health, protect valuable data, and receive important updates for your 990 PRO
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB is another impressive option. It offers speeds up to 7,450 MB/s, similar to the 2TB model. This makes it a great choice for users who need high performance. Compared to the 2TB version, the 1TB model provides the same fast speeds in a smaller capacity. It is ideal for those who don’t need as much storage but still want top performance.
This SSD excels in random read/write operations, providing a significant speed boost. It can handle demanding tasks like gaming or video editing with ease. However, when compared to the Sandisk options, it may seem less portable. The 1TB version is also a bit more affordable, making it more accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
A genuine limitation of this model is the smaller capacity. If you store large files frequently, you may find 1TB limiting. Users needing more space might be better off with the Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD.
Pros
- Up to 7,450 MB/s read speed
- 1TB storage capacity
- Excellent for gaming and high-demand tasks
Cons
- Limited to 1TB of storage
- Price may still be high for some buyers
Best for: Users needing high speed without the larger capacity. Not ideal for: Those requiring more than 1TB of storage.
A powerful option focused on performance for users with moderate storage needs.
4. Best for Beginners
Patriot P210 256GB SATA 3 2.5 Inch SSD
- Capacity 256GB Latest SATA 3 Controller
- Built in end-to-end data path protection, SmartECC technology, and Thermal throttling technology
- SEQ Performance Read up to 500MB/s, Write up to 400MB/s
- 4K Aligned Random Write: up to 30K IOPs
The Patriot P210 256GB SSD is focused on beginners. It offers decent performance with read speeds up to 500 MB/s. This makes it suitable for everyday tasks like browsing and document storage. Compared to other drives, its lower capacity may not suit those with large files. However, it is an affordable entry point for new users.
This SSD is built with a SATA 3 controller, which is a standard for many devices. It includes features like SmartECC technology for error correction. These make it user-friendly for those who are not tech-savvy. However, its speed and capacity might not satisfy more advanced users who need faster and larger storage solutions.
One limitation is that the 256GB capacity can fill up quickly. If you regularly download large files or games, you may find it inadequate. Users with more extensive storage needs might prefer a larger SSD option.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Easy to use for beginners
- Decent 500MB/s read speed
Cons
- Limited storage at 256GB
- Not suitable for large files or games
Best for: Beginners needing basic storage. Not ideal for: Users with extensive storage needs or large files.
An accessible choice for those new to SSDs.
5. Best Compact
Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive | USB 3.0 (STGX2000400)
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
The Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive focuses on compact design. While not an SSD, it offers a convenient storage solution for users. Its USB 3.0 connectivity allows for easy access to its 2TB of storage. Compared to SSDs, it provides more capacity in a simple external hard drive format. However, the speeds are slower, making it less suitable for high-performance tasks.
This portable hard drive is designed for users who need to store and access files on the go. It works with both Windows and Mac computers, simplifying file management. Its plug-and-play feature allows for easy setup without additional software. However, the tradeoff is that it lacks the speed of SSDs, which can slow down file transfers.
A limitation of this product is its slower transfer speeds. Users needing faster data access may find it frustrating compared to SSD options. If speed is a priority, you may be better served by an SSD like the Samsung 990 PRO.
Pros
- Large 2TB storage capacity
- Compatible with Windows and Mac
- Easy plug-and-play setup
Cons
- Slower transfer speeds compared to SSDs
- Less reliable than SSDs for long-term use
Best for: Users needing a lot of storage in a compact format. Not ideal for: Users who require fast data access.
A practical solution for those needing extra storage on the go.
6. Most Versatile
Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s Transfer Speeds-New Model
- NEARLY 2X FASTER THAN OUR PREVIOUS GENERATION(8) – move 1,000 high-res photos in under 60 seconds(6) with up to 2000MB/s transfer speeds(2).
- IP65 RATING AND UP TO 3M DROP PROTECTION(3) – protects against spills and drops.
- POCKET-SIZED – fits easily in pockets and small bags.
- SPACE TO OWN YOUR AI CONTENT – speed and capacity to download your high-res clips and photo edits.
- 256-BIT AES ENCRYPTION(4) – helps keep private files secure with password protection.
The Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD offers a portable and efficient solution. With speeds up to 2,000 MB/s, it is significantly faster than many other drives. This makes it suitable for users needing quick access to files. Compared to the 2TB Sandisk model, this one offers a balance of speed and storage. It’s a great choice for users who want faster performance without sacrificing too much capacity.
This SSD is compact and designed for easy transport. Its IP65 rating ensures protection against dust and water, making it ideal for outdoor use. with drop protection, it can handle rough conditions. However, while it is faster than many competitors, its storage capacity may not be enough for heavy media users.
One limitation is that its 1TB capacity might not be sufficient for users with large files. Those who frequently transfer videos and high-resolution images may need a larger SSD.
Pros
- Up to 2,000 MB/s transfer speed
- Compact and easy to carry
- Water and dust resistant (IP65)
Cons
- Limited to 1TB of storage
- May not suit heavy media users
Best for: Users needing fast and portable storage. Not ideal for: Those needing more than 1TB of capacity.
A strong choice for speed-focused users needing portability.
7. Best Lightweight
Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD, PCIe 4.0, M.2 2280
- SPEED UP PROJECTS. Launch creator applications fast with uncompromising PCIe 4.0 read speeds up to 7,100MB/s,[2] (1TB and 2TB[1] models) and write speeds up to 6,700MB/s[2] (1TB[1]-4TB[1] models).
- CREATE AND STORE MORE. Make more room for your 4K videos and high-resolution images with capacities from 500GB[1] up to 4TB[1] on M.2 2280 built with our trusted 8th generation SANDISK BiCS QLC 3D CBA NAND.
- IT GOES WHERE YOU GO. With an all-new power efficient design, your drive delivers high performance with low power, giving you more time to be productive while on the go.
- UNCOMPROMISED RELIABILITY. With up to 1,200 TBW[3] (4TB[1] model) endurance rating, your drive is designed for creators.
- KEEP YOUR DRIVE UPDATED. Monitor your SSD’s performance and check for updates with the downloadable SANDISK Dashboard application.[5]
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD is designed for speed. It has read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s, making it a great option for creators. This drive shines in handling large files and applications. Compared to the Patriot P210, it offers much better speed and efficiency. This makes it a better fit for users who need quick access to data.
With a capacity of 500GB, it is suitable for everyday tasks and creative projects. Its PCIe 4.0 technology ensures high performance, especially for users working with 4K videos or graphics. However, the smaller capacity might not be enough for those needing more storage for larger projects.
A limitation is that while it’s fast, the 500GB capacity can fill up quickly. If you need to store a lot of data, you might want to look at options with larger capacities like the 1TB or 2TB models.
Pros
- Up to 7,100 MB/s read speed
- 500GB capacity suitable for creative projects
- Fast performance for demanding applications
Cons
- Limited storage at 500GB
- Less ideal for users with extensive data needs
Best for: Creative users needing fast access to files. Not ideal for: Users requiring more than 500GB of storage.
An excellent choice for creators needing speed in a compact format.
8. Best Budget
Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD, PCIe 4.0, M.2 2280
- SPEED UP PROJECTS. Launch creator applications fast with uncompromising PCIe 4.0 read speeds up to 7,100MB/s,[2] (1TB and 2TB[1] models) and write speeds up to 6,700MB/s[2] (1TB[1]-4TB[1] models).
- CREATE AND STORE MORE. Make more room for your 4K videos and high-resolution images with capacities from 500GB[1] up to 4TB[1] on M.2 2280 built with our trusted 8th generation SANDISK BiCS QLC 3D CBA NAND.
- IT GOES WHERE YOU GO. With an all-new power efficient design, your drive delivers high performance with low power, giving you more time to be productive while on the go.
- UNCOMPROMISED RELIABILITY. With up to 1,200 TBW[3] (4TB[1] model) endurance rating, your drive is designed for creators.
- KEEP YOUR DRIVE UPDATED. Monitor your SSD’s performance and check for updates with the downloadable SANDISK Dashboard application.[5]
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD is a solid choice for users needing speed and storage. It offers impressive read speeds of up to 7,100 MB/s. This makes it suitable for high-performance tasks like video editing and gaming. When compared to the Patriot P210, it provides much faster performance and more storage. Users will appreciate its efficiency in data handling.
This drive’s 1TB capacity is a good balance for general users who handle various files. It is also compact and easy to carry, making it a great portable option. However, users with larger data needs might still find it limiting compared to 2TB options.
One limitation is that while the 1TB capacity is decent, those storing extensive media libraries may want to consider larger SSDs. It suits most users but can be restrictive for heavy data users.
Pros
- Up to 7,100 MB/s read speed
- 1TB capacity suitable for various tasks
- Efficient for high-demand applications
Cons
- Still limited for users with extensive storage needs
- Performance may not meet extreme demands
Best for: General users needing good performance and capacity. Not ideal for: Heavy users requiring more than 1TB of storage.
A reliable option for users balancing speed and storage needs.
Ssds Compared Side by Side
The table below compares the best usb c ssd options. You’ll find key specifications like speed, capacity, and durability. This helps you decide which product best fits your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB | Editor's Choice | Samsung | $389.99 | Check |
| 2 | Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD | Best Heavy-Duty | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $289.99 | Check |
| 3 | Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB | Best Design | Samsung | $239.99 | Check |
| 4 | Patriot P210 256GB SATA 3 2.5 Inch SSD | Best for Beginners | Patriot Memory | $37.99 | Check |
| 5 | Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive | USB 3.0 | Best Compact | Seagate | $129.99 | Check |
| 6 | Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD | Most Versatile | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $259.46 | Check |
| 7 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD | Best Lightweight | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $109.99 | Check |
| 8 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD | Best Budget | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $194.46 | Check |
| 9 | PNY CS900 500GB 2.5" SATA III Internal SSD | — | PNY | $89.89 | Check |
| 10 | Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0 Gen 4×4 |… | — | Kingston Digital, Inc | $159 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Ssds
Read and Write Speeds
When choosing an SSD, focus on the read and write speeds. Aim for at least 1,000 MB/s for decent performance. If you need faster speeds, look for drives offering 2,000 MB/s or higher.
Storage Capacity
Select an SSD based on your storage needs. For casual use, 500GB to 1TB is often enough. For gamers or content creators, consider 2TB or more to store large files.
Portability and Durability
If you plan to carry your SSD around, choose a portable model. Look for features like IP65 rating for water and dust resistance, and drop protection for extra safety.
Connection Type
Ensure your SSD has USB-C connection for compatibility with modern devices. USB 3.2 Gen 2 can provide faster data transfer, so prioritize this if speed matters.
Warranty and Support
Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty often indicates better reliability. Aim for at least a 3-year warranty to ensure long-term performance.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from trusted tech websites, manufacturer specifications, and user reviews. This allowed us to obtain a broad perspective on available SSDs.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist includes SSDs that meet specific criteria like speed, capacity, and durability. We looked at over 30 products and narrowed it down to the top eight.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded products that had poor reviews, low speeds, or limited capacities. Any SSD with less than 500MB/s read speed was dropped from our list.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were taken for this review. We relied on data from reliable sources and user feedback for our analysis.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect new products and reviews. We aim to refresh the content every three months or when significant updates occur.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best usb c ssd?
The best usb c ssd is the Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB. It offers high speeds and excellent performance for demanding tasks.
How do I know how much storage I need?
Consider your usage. For regular use, 500GB is often enough. For gamers or creators, aim for 1TB or more.
Are portable SSDs durable?
Many portable SSDs, like the Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD, offer durability features such as water resistance and drop protection.
What speed should I look for in an SSD?
For good performance, look for speeds of at least 1,000 MB/s. If you need faster transfer rates, aim for 2,000 MB/s or higher.
Do I need a USB-C port for an SSD?
Yes, using a USB-C port ensures compatibility with most modern devices and allows for faster data transfer.
What to look for
Speed
Speed is important in choosing the right SSD. Look for read speeds above 1,000 MB/s for everyday tasks. If you work with large files, aim for speeds of at least 2,000 MB/s.
Capacity
Capacity affects how much data you can store. For most users, a 1TB SSD suffices. Heavy users should consider 2TB or more for games, videos, and backups.
Durability
Durability matters if you carry your SSD often. Check for IP ratings like IP65, which indicate resistance to water and dust, and look for drop protection.
Form Factor
The form factor helps you choose an SSD that fits your needs. Portable SSDs are compact and easy to carry. Internal SSDs, like M.2, provide high performance but need installation.
Warranty and Support
A good warranty can indicate a reliable SSD. Look for at least a 3-year warranty. Good customer support can also help if you encounter issues.
Shopping around? We have 53 more ssd guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR computer specs ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- NIST cybersecurity guidance NIST
About the author
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