BUFFALO [Amazon.co.jp Limited] Buffalo SSD Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This buffalo amazon co jp limited buffalo SSD review examines the BUFFALO 1TB Mini USB-A External SSD. It is an ultra-compact portable drive designed for easy expansion. The key specs defining this unit are its 1TB storage capacity and a max read speed of 600MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen2. It weighs approximately 4.5 grams and measures just 17mm in depth. The drive supports multiple interfaces, including USB 3.0 and 2.0, ensuring backward compatibility. You get a small, lightweight solution that fits directly into laptops or consoles without protruding. It comes in eco-friendly packaging as an Amazon exclusive.
What stands out
- Ultra-compact design at 17mm depth and 4.5g weight
- 1TB storage capacity for ample data retention
- Max read speed of 600MB/s for fast transfers
- Compatible with PS5, PS4, Windows, Mac, and Chromebook
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should consider this drive if you need extra storage for a laptop or game console without taking up desk space. The low profile allows it to remain plugged into a PS5 or PS4 without sticking out. It also suits users with Chromebooks or older PCs who need a simple, plug-and-play solution. The USB 3.2 Gen2 interface ensures decent speeds for transferring videos and images. If you value portability and direct connection over high-end desktop performance, this compact SSD fits your setup.
Who should skip it
You might want to look elsewhere if you require maximum transfer speeds for large professional video files. The 600MB/s read speed is adequate for general use but slower than top-tier NVMe drives. Also, if you need a drive with its own power supply or active cooling, this passive, battery-free unit is not for you. Users requiring USB-C connectivity should note this model uses USB Type-A. While it works with modern consoles, it may not meet the demands of users who constantly move massive datasets between high-end workstations.
Verdict: This is a highly portable 1TB drive ideal for extending laptop or console storage. It offers reliable speeds and a tiny form factor that stays out of the way.
Key specs explained for this drive
Storage Capacity: 1TB
This drive holds one terabyte of data. You can store thousands of high-resolution photos, hours of 4K video, or dozens of large game files. For users with limited internal storage on laptops or consoles, this external unit offers a simple way to expand your available space without opening the device. It suits those who need extra room for media libraries or backups.
Max Read Speed: 600MB/s
The drive reads data at approximately 600 megabytes per second. This speed allows you to transfer large files, such as video projects or game installations, much faster than older USB drives. While it is not as fast as internal NVMe SSDs, it is sufficient for most portable tasks. You will notice quicker load times for media and smoother file management compared to traditional hard drives.
Interface: USB 3.2 Gen2
This interface standard supports the high transfer rates mentioned above. It ensures backward compatibility with older USB ports, though speeds will drop on slower connections. You should plug this into a USB 3.2 Gen2 port on your computer or console to achieve the maximum 600MB/s performance. This specification is key for ensuring your data moves efficiently without bottlenecking on older hardware.
Form Factor: External Portable
This drive is designed to be carried in a bag or pocket. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it ideal for users who move between locations. You can easily connect it to different devices, such as a work laptop or a home TV, without needing a permanent installation. This form factor suits travelers and gamers who need flexible storage that travels with them.
Compact Design and Portable Build
According to the listing, this Buffalo drive is the smallest and lightest external SSD in the company’s history. It weighs approximately 0.2 oz (4.5 g) and measures 17 mm in thickness. This minimal footprint allows it to pop out when plugged in, yet remain low profile. The design reduces the width of the connector so you can insert it into a laptop without the drive protruding excessively. This makes it suitable for users who carry laptops in tight bags or sleeves.
The unit features a USB-A interface compatible with USB 3.2 Gen2, Gen1, 3.1, 3.0, and 2.0 standards. This broad compatibility means you can connect it to most modern PCs, Macs, and Chromebooks without needing adapters. The physical layout is simple, with no external controls or buttons. You simply plug the drive into a USB port to access data. The absence of moving parts contributes to its durability for travel.
Buffalo markets this drive for use with game consoles like the PS5 and PS4, as well as TVs. The compact form factor allows it to connect neatly to wall-mounted TVs without disturbing the setup. It also fits easily into console USB ports. The drive comes in simple, eco-friendly packaging as an Amazon exclusive. This straightforward design focuses entirely on portability and ease of use for expanding storage on the go.
Setup and everyday use
Connecting this drive is straightforward because it uses a standard USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A interface. You simply plug it into a compatible port on your computer or console. The listing confirms compatibility with Windows, Mac, Chromebook, PS5, PS4, and TVs. This broad support means you can use it across different ecosystems without needing special drivers or adapters. The pop-up design allows the drive to extend from the port, which helps when space is tight. This feature is useful for laptop users who need to expand storage without the drive hanging awkwardly. For console owners, the compact form factor ensures it connects neatly to the PS5 or PS4 without obstructing nearby ports. Daily use relies on the advertised 600MB/s read speed. This specification suggests that transferring large media files, such as 4K videos or high-resolution images, happens quickly. You can move data efficiently without long wait times. The 1TB capacity provides ample room for game libraries or extensive photo archives. Because it is an external portable drive, you can carry it easily. The lightweight build, weighing only 4.5 grams, makes it convenient to store in a bag or pocket. The eco-friendly packaging is a minor detail that does not affect performance. Overall, the setup is plug-and-play, and the specs support fast, reliable data access for various devices.
Before you buy this external SSD
You will need a USB 3.2 Gen2 port to reach the listed 600MB/s read speed. Older USB 3.0 or 2.0 ports will limit performance significantly. Ensure your host device supports the required interface for optimal data transfer. The drive is compatible with Windows, Mac, Chromebook, PS5, PS4, and TVs, but verify your specific model’s port type before purchasing. Since it is an external portable SSD, it serves a different role than internal NVMe or SATA drives. You should use it for expanding storage on laptops or consoles that lack sufficient internal space. Keep the drive dry and avoid dropping it, as its lightweight 4.5g build offers little protection against impact. This unit is best for users who prioritize portability and ease of use over maximum internal expansion. It fits well alongside traditional internal drives as a flexible secondary storage solution for media and game libraries.
Check before you buy
- Verify your device has a USB 3.2 Gen2 port for full speed.
- Confirm compatibility with your specific PS5, PS4, or computer model.
- Ensure you have space for the 17mm thickness when plugged in.
- Check if you need a USB-C to USB-A adapter for newer laptops.
The product at a glance
BUFFALO 1TB Mini USB-A External SSD
Best for: Laptop users and PS5/PS4 gamers
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen2
- Form Factor
- External Portable
- Max Read Speed
- 600MB/s
- Compatibility
- PS5
- Dimensions
- 11 × 5.75 × 3.15 inches
View on Amazon: BUFFALO 1TB Mini USB-A External SSD Affiliate link
This is a 1TB external SSD designed for high-speed data transfer. It supports USB 3.2 Gen2 with read speeds up to 600MB/s. The drive is exceptionally small at 17mm thick and weighs only 4.5g. It fits neatly into laptop ports and connects to PS5, PS4, and TVs. You get simple eco-friendly packaging. It is ideal for users needing portable storage that does not bulk up their setup.
Pros
- 1TB storage capacity
- Read speeds up to 600MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen2
- Extremely compact at 17mm thick and 4.5g weight
- Compatible with PS5, PS4, Windows, Mac, and Chromebook
Cons
- Only available in 1TB capacity
- No included carrying case or protective sleeve
- Limited to USB Type-A interface compatibility
Good fit if
- You need a portable drive that plugs directly into a laptop
- You want to expand storage for PS5 or PS4 games
- You prioritize a lightweight and small form factor
Skip if
- You require storage capacities larger than 1TB
- You need USB-C connectivity for modern devices
- You are looking for internal NVMe drive speeds above 600MB/s
Verdict: Buffalo 1TB Ultra Compact Portable SSD offers a tiny form factor with reliable 600MB/s speeds. It is a practical solution for gamers and laptop users who need extra space without the bulk of traditional drives.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | BUFFALO 1TB Mini USB-A External SSD |
|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 1TB |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen2 |
| Form Factor | External Portable |
| Max Read Speed | 600MB/s |
| Compatibility | PS5 |
| Dimensions | 11 × 5.75 × 3.15 inches |
| Size | 1 TB |
| Model | SSD-PST250U3BA/N |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Buffalo SSD work with PS5 consoles?
Yes, the drive is explicitly listed as compatible with PS5 systems. You can use it to expand storage for games on your console. The product data confirms this specific compatibility, making it a viable option for gamers who need extra space without internal modifications.
What is the maximum read speed of this drive?
The listed maximum read speed is 600MB/s. This performance level allows for quick file transfers and smooth operation with large files. You will need a USB 3.2 Gen2 port to achieve these speeds on compatible computers or devices.
Is this SSD compatible with Mac computers?
Yes, the drive supports Mac operating systems. The listing confirms compatibility with Windows, Mac, Chromebook, PS5, PS4, and TVs. You can plug it into a Mac via USB to access stored files or expand your available storage space.
What is the storage capacity of this model?
This Buffalo SSD offers 1TB of storage space. This capacity is sufficient for storing thousands of photos, hours of 4K video, or numerous large game files. It provides a substantial amount of room for users needing significant external data storage.
Does it require external power for operation?
The product data does not mention an external power adapter or requirement. It connects via a standard USB interface, which typically provides sufficient power for portable SSDs. You likely only need a single USB cable to connect and power the device.
Can I use this drive with a Chromebook?
Yes, the drive is compatible with Chromebook devices. The listing explicitly includes Chromebook in its supported operating systems. You can connect it via USB to access files or expand storage for your Chromebook without needing additional software or drivers.