6 Best Alternatives to the BUFFALO バッファロー Buffalo SSD-PGT960U3-BA External (2026)
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The Buffalo SSD-PGT960U3-BA External stands out for its unique mountable design and 960 GB capacity, making it ideal for TV recording setups. If you are searching for buffalo baffaro buffalo SSD pgt960u3 ba external alternatives, you might need different specs or a different brand. This drive uses a USB 3.2 Gen1 micro-B connection, which limits modern compatibility compared to USB-C options. You may also want more storage space or a smaller physical footprint for easier portability.
We selected these seven drives because their specifications overlap with the original product in key areas like capacity, form factor, or interface type. The list includes rugged portable drives with USB-C hosts, enterprise-grade NVMe units, and standard SATA options. Each alternative addresses specific gaps, such as the lack of hardware encryption in the Buffalo model or the absence of higher capacity tiers. You can compare these drives based on their published dimensions, interface standards, and intended use cases to find the best fit for your needs.
Our top pick: Buffalo 960GB Mountable External SSD.
Comparing Buffalo SSD Alternatives
SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD
The SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD offers double the storage capacity of the Buffalo drive, giving you 2TB instead of 960GB. It uses a USB-C interface, which is faster and more modern than the Buffalo’s USB 3.2 Gen1 Micro-B port. This drive is smaller and lighter, weighing just 1.76 ounces compared to the Buffalo’s 7.05 ounces. It lacks the TV mounting bracket, so you cannot attach it directly to a screen. If you need more space and a compact form factor without the mount, this is a strong alternative for rugged, high-capacity portable storage.
Water Panther 960GB U.3 2.5-Inch Enterprise SSD
The Water Panther 960GB U.3 NVMe SSD is an internal enterprise drive, not an external portable unit. It uses a 2.5-inch form factor and NVMe interface, differing significantly from the Buffalo’s external USB design. This drive is built for 24/7 operation in Dell PowerEdge servers, offering reliability for fixed installations rather than portable use. It does not include a cable or mounting kit for TVs. You should choose this if you are upgrading server hardware and need enterprise-grade performance, but it is not suitable for users seeking a plug-and-play external solution for consumer electronics.
iStorage diskAshur2 512GB Encrypted Portable SSD
The iStorage diskAshur2 512GB Encrypted Portable SSD prioritizes security over capacity, offering only 512GB compared to the Buffalo’s 960GB. It features hardware encryption and password protection, which the Buffalo drive does not list. This drive is slightly larger and heavier, weighing 7.62 ounces. It is designed for professionals who must protect sensitive data. If security is your main concern and you can accept less storage space, this drive provides robust protection. It lacks the TV mounting feature, so it is best for users who need secure, portable storage rather than direct screen attachment.
Western Digital 1TB My Passport Portable SSD
The Western Digital 1TB My Passport Portable SSD offers more storage than the Buffalo drive, providing 1TB versus 960GB. It includes hardware encryption, adding a security layer not mentioned for the Buffalo. This drive is significantly smaller and lighter, weighing only 1.44 ounces, making it easier to carry. It uses a USB 3.1 port for connectivity. It does not come with a TV mounting kit, so it is not designed for direct screen attachment. If you want a compact, secure drive with slightly more capacity, this is a practical option for portable backups on compatible USB ports.
ADATA SU800 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA III SSD
The ADATA SU800 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA III SSD is an internal drive, not an external portable unit. It offers 2TB of storage, double the Buffalo’s capacity, but uses a SATA III interface and 2.5-inch form factor. This drive is designed for standard internal bays, lacking the USB connectivity and external casing of the Buffalo. It provides consistent 560MB/s reads, which is different from the Buffalo’s USB speed profile. You should pick this if you are upgrading an internal drive bay and need high capacity. It is not suitable for users who need a portable, plug-and-play external solution for TV recording or general portable use.
Intel 660p 2TB QLC NVMe SSD
The Intel 660p 2TB QLC NVMe SSD is an internal M.2 2280 drive, completely different from the Buffalo’s external portable design. It offers 2TB of storage, significantly more than the Buffalo’s 960GB. This drive is designed for desktop builds, lacking any external connectivity or mounting options. It uses NVMe technology, which is faster than the Buffalo’s USB interface but requires an M.2 slot. You should choose this if you need high-capacity internal storage for a fixed build. It is not appropriate for users seeking a portable external drive for TV recording or mobile use.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Buffalo 960GB Mountable External SSD
Best for: TV recording and direct mounting
- Storage Capacity
- 960 GB
- Interface
- USB 3.2 (Gen1)
- Form Factor
- External Portable
- Dimensions
- 4.61 × 2.95 × 0.47 inches
- Weight
- 7.05 ounces
View on Amazon: Buffalo 960GB Mountable External SSD Affiliate link
This external portable SSD offers 960 GB of storage via a USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface. It includes a dedicated TV back mounting kit with hand crank screws, making it suitable for direct attachment to televisions. The drive weighs approximately 4.3 oz and connects using a USB 3.2 Gen 1 cable. It is compatible with Windows and Mac computers. This model is designed for users who need reliable storage with convenient mounting options for media devices.
Pros
- Includes TV back mounting kit with hand crank screws
- Compact SSD body weighs only 4.3 oz
- Compatible with Windows and Mac computers
- USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface for broad connectivity
Cons
- Smaller 960 GB capacity compared to 2TB alternatives
- Uses USB Micro-B connection instead of USB-C
- Shorter 1-year warranty period
Good fit if
- You need to mount an SSD directly behind a TV
- You use Windows or Mac computers with USB 3.2 ports
- You require a lightweight portable drive for media recording
Skip if
- You require USB-C connectivity for modern devices
- You need more than 960 GB of storage space
- You prefer longer than a 1-year warranty
Verdict: Buffalo 960GB External SSD with TV Mount is ideal for users who need to attach storage directly to a television. It provides 960 GB of space and a mounting kit, but lacks USB-C ports and higher capacity options found in other drives.
SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD
Best for: rugged high-capacity portable storage
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Form Factor
- External Portable
- Max Read Speed
- 1,050 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1,000 MB/s
- Host Interface
- USB-C
View on Amazon: SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD Affiliate link
The SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD delivers NVMe speeds up to 1,050 MB/s read and 1,000 MB/s write via USB 3.2 Gen 2. It features IP65 water and dust resistance and 3-meter drop protection. This rugged drive includes 256-bit AES hardware encryption and a carabiner loop for secure transport. It suits users needing high capacity and durability in a compact 0.38-inch form factor.
Pros
- Up to 1,050 MB/s read speed
- IP65 water and dust resistance
- 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- 3-meter drop protection
Cons
- Requires SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management
- Non-operating temperature range limited to -20°C to 85°C
- No included USB-C to USB-A cable for older hosts
Good fit if
- You need 2TB of portable storage
- You work in dusty or wet environments
- You require hardware encryption for sensitive data
Skip if
- You prefer a smaller 1TB capacity
- You need a drive with a display
- You require USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 speeds
Verdict: SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD offers robust protection and fast NVMe performance for users who prioritize durability and security in a portable drive.
Water Panther 960GB U.3 2.5-Inch Enterprise SSD
Best for: Dell PowerEdge server users needing reliable storage
- Storage Capacity
- 960GB
- Interface
- PCIe NVMe U.3
- Form Factor
- 2.5"
View on Amazon: Water Panther 960GB U.3 2.5-Inch Enterprise SSD Affiliate link
This is a 960GB enterprise SSD built for 24/7 server operation. It uses a U.3 interface with PCIe NVMe support, ensuring high-speed data access. The drive comes with a Dell PowerEdge tray for a perfect fit in compatible servers. You should choose this if you need reliable storage for Dell PowerEdge systems. It supports backward compatibility with U.2 hosts via an adapter, adding flexibility to your infrastructure.
Pros
- 960GB enterprise-class storage capacity
- U.3 multi-protocol interface with PCIe NVMe
- Includes official Dell G16 drive carrier tray
- Built for 24/7 enterprise operation
Cons
- Limited to 960GB capacity
- Requires specific Dell PowerEdge server compatibility
- U.3 interface may need an adapter for U.2 hosts
Good fit if
- You need reliable storage for Dell PowerEdge servers
- You require 24/7 enterprise-grade operation
- You want a drive with U.3 interface flexibility
Skip if
- You are using a non-Dell server
- You need more than 960GB of storage
- You prefer standard SATA or NVMe drives without U.3 interface
Verdict: Water Panther 960GB U.3 NVMe SSD is a solid choice for Dell PowerEdge server users needing reliable 24/7 operation. It fits those who value enterprise-grade performance and specific server compatibility.
iStorage diskAshur2 512GB Encrypted Portable SSD
Best for: Secure portable storage with hardware encryption
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB
- Interface
- USB 3.2
- Form Factor
- Portable
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 361MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- Up to 358MB/s
- Security
- Hardware Encryption, Password Protection
View on Amazon: iStorage diskAshur2 512GB Encrypted Portable SSD Affiliate link
The iStorage diskAshur2 is a rugged external drive built for strict data security. It uses AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption and requires a 7-15 digit PIN for access. You get USB 3.2 connectivity with read speeds up to 361MB/s and write speeds up to 358MB/s. The IP56 rating protects against dust and water. It suits users who need physical security for sensitive files without installing software.
Pros
- AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption
- IP56 dust and water resistance
- No software required for operation
- Common Criteria EAL 5+ certified microprocessor
Cons
- Lower read speed than many competitors
- 512GB capacity is limited
- Requires manual PIN entry for access
Good fit if
- You need hardware-level encryption for compliance
- You work in rugged or outdoor environments
- You prefer password protection without software installation
Skip if
- You require maximum transfer speeds
- You need more than 512GB of storage
- You want automatic background encryption
Verdict: iStorage diskAshur2 512GB External SSD prioritizes security over raw speed. It is the right choice for professionals who must protect sensitive data with hardware encryption and physical durability.
Western Digital 1TB My Passport Portable SSD
Best for: Compact portable storage with hardware encryption
- Storage Capacity
- 1 TB
- Interface
- USB 3.1 Gen 2
- Form Factor
- External Portable
- Max Read Speed
- 540 MB/s
- Dimensions
- 3.5 × 1.8 × 0.39 inches
- Weight
- 1.44 ounces
View on Amazon: Western Digital 1TB My Passport Portable SSD Affiliate link
The WD 1TB My Passport is an external portable SSD with USB 3.1 Gen 2 connectivity. It delivers read speeds up to 540 MB/s. The drive includes hardware encryption for password protection. It measures 3.5 by 1.8 by 0.39 inches and weighs 1.44 ounces. This drive suits users who need compact storage with basic security features for Windows and macOS systems.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 540 MB/s
- Hardware encryption for password protection
- Compact 1.44-ounce portable design
- USB Type-C and USB 3.1 Gen 2 support
Cons
- Slower read speed than 1050 MB/s alternatives
- No mention of IP rating or water resistance
- Requires WD Discovery software for backup tools
Good fit if
- You need a compact drive with hardware encryption
- You prefer Western Digital reliability for backups
- You use USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports
Skip if
- You require speeds over 1000 MB/s
- You need an NVMe internal drive
- You want a larger 2TB capacity
Verdict: WD 1TB My Passport External SSD fits users who prioritize compact size and hardware encryption over top-tier speed. It is a practical option for portable backups on compatible USB 3.1 ports.
ADATA SU800 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA III SSD
Best for: Standard 2.5-inch SATA upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- SATA III
- Form Factor
- 2.5 Inch
- Max Read Speed
- 560MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 520MB/s
- Cache Type
- Dynamic SLC caching, DRAM cache buffer
View on Amazon: ADATA SU800 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA III SSD Affiliate link
This 2TB 2.5-inch drive uses SATA III and 3D NAND technology. It offers read speeds up to 560MB/s and write speeds up to 520MB/s. The unit includes a DRAM cache buffer and dynamic SLC caching for optimized performance. It fits standard laptop and desktop bays. You should choose this if you need reliable internal storage with proven SATA speeds.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity
- Read speeds up to 560MB/s
- Write speeds up to 520MB/s
- Includes DRAM cache buffer
- Uses 3D NAND technology
Cons
- SATA III interface limits speed compared to NVMe options
- 2.5-inch form factor is larger than M.2 drives
- No USB external connectivity included
Good fit if
- You need 2TB of reliable internal storage
- You are upgrading a desktop or laptop with a 2.5-inch bay
- You prefer SATA III compatibility and DRAM caching
Skip if
- You require PCIe NVMe speeds
- You need a compact M.2 form factor
- You want a portable external drive with USB
Verdict: ADATA SU800 2TB SATA III SSD delivers consistent 560MB/s reads for users upgrading standard 2.5-inch bays. It fits buyers who prioritize proven SATA performance and DRAM caching over newer NVMe speeds.
Intel 660p 2TB QLC NVMe SSD
Best for: high capacity internal desktop storage
- Storage Capacity
- 2 TB
- Interface
- PCIe NVMe 3.0 x4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 1800 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1800 MB/s
- NAND Type
- QLC
View on Amazon: Intel 660p 2TB QLC NVMe SSD Affiliate link
This Intel 660p is an internal M.2 2280 drive using PCIe NVMe 3.0 x4. It offers 2 TB of storage with QLC 3D NAND. You get 1800 MB/s sequential read and write speeds. It fits standard desktop and laptop slots. You should choose this if you need high capacity for a fixed build rather than portable external use.
Pros
- 2 TB storage capacity
- 1800 MB/s read speed
- 1800 MB/s write speed
- M.2 2280 form factor
Cons
- QLC NAND type may limit endurance
- Internal drive only, not portable
- Requires M.2 slot installation
Good fit if
- You need 2 TB of internal storage
- You have an M.2 2280 slot
- You want fast sequential speeds
Skip if
- You need an external portable drive
- You require USB-C connectivity
- You need TLC NAND for higher endurance
Verdict: Intel 660p 2TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD provides ample space and speed for fixed builds. It suits users prioritizing capacity and standard interface compatibility over portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Buffalo 960GB Mountable External SSD | SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD | Water Panther 960GB U.3 2.5-Inch Enterprise SSD | iStorage diskAshur2 512GB Encrypted Portable SSD | Western Digital 1TB My Passport Portable SSD | ADATA SU800 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA III SSD | Intel 660p 2TB QLC NVMe SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 960 GB | 2TB | 960GB | 512GB | 1 TB | 2TB | 2 TB |
| Interface | USB 3.2 (Gen1) | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | PCIe NVMe U.3 | USB 3.2 | USB 3.1 Gen 2 | SATA III | PCIe NVMe 3.0 x4 |
| Form Factor | External Portable | External Portable | 2.5" | Portable | External Portable | 2.5 Inch | M.2 2280 |
| Max Read Speed | not stated | 1,050 MB/s | not stated | Up to 361MB/s | 540 MB/s | 560MB/s | 1800 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | not stated | 1,000 MB/s | not stated | Up to 358MB/s | not stated | 520MB/s | 1800 MB/s |
| Cache Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Dynamic SLC caching, DRAM cache buffer | not stated |
| NAND Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 3D NAND | QLC |
| Security | not stated | not stated | not stated | Hardware Encryption, Password Protection | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Size | 960GB | 2TB | not stated | 512GB | 1 TB | 2 TB | 2 TB |
| Host Interface | not stated | USB-C | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 4.61 × 2.95 × 0.47 inches | 0.38 × 2.07 × 3.97 inches | not stated | 4.72 × 3.15 × 0.59 inches | 3.5 × 1.8 × 0.39 inches | 3.96 × 0.28 × 2.75 inches | 6.5 × 4.75 × 0.75 inches |
| Weight | 7.05 ounces | 1.76 ounces | not stated | 7.62 ounces | 1.44 ounces | 1.76 ounces | 0.32 ounces |
| Color | Black | Black | not stated | Fiery Red | Black | Black | not stated |
| Model | SSD-PGT960U3-BA | SDSSDE61-2T00-G25 | not stated | IS-DA2-256-SSD-512-R | WDBKVX0010PSL-WESN | ASU800SS-2TT-C | SSDPEKNW020T8X1 |
If you also need a power supply for your setup, compare evga 500 ba alternatives to match wattage requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a better capacity option than the 960GB Buffalo drive?
Yes, the SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD offers double the storage space. It provides 2TB of capacity, which is significantly larger than the Buffalo drive’s 960GB. This makes it a strong alternative if you need more room for large files or extensive media libraries.
Can I use a standard SATA SSD as an alternative?
You can use the ADATA SU800 2TB SATA III SSD for standard upgrades. It features a 2.5-inch form factor and delivers consistent 560MB/s read speeds. This drive is ideal if you prefer proven SATA performance and DRAM caching over the newer NVMe speeds found in other options.
Which drive is best for secure data storage?
The iStorage diskAshur2 512GB External SSD prioritizes security with hardware encryption. It includes password protection and a durable build, making it suitable for professionals handling sensitive information. While it has less capacity than the Buffalo drive, its focus on data protection sets it apart.
Is there an internal NVMe option for desktop builds?
The Intel 660p 2TB QLC NVMe SSD is designed for internal desktop use. It comes in an M.2 2280 form factor, offering ample space for fixed builds. This drive suits users who prioritize capacity and standard interface compatibility over the portability of external drives like the Buffalo model.
What is the most compact portable SSD available?
The Western Digital 1TB My Passport Portable SSD is highly compact. It measures 1.8 inches in width and weighs just 1.44 ounces. This drive fits users who prioritize small size and hardware encryption over top-tier speed, making it a practical choice for portable backups on USB 3.1 ports.
Are there enterprise-grade alternatives for server use?
The Water Panther 960GB U.3 NVMe SSD is built for enterprise environments. It features a 2.5-inch form factor and is designed for reliable 24/7 operation in Dell PowerEdge servers. This drive is a solid choice if you value enterprise-grade performance and specific server compatibility over consumer-grade features.
Does the Buffalo drive have a USB-C port?
No, the Buffalo SSD-PGT960U3-BA External lacks USB-C ports. If you need a modern interface, the SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD uses a USB-C connection. This provides faster and more modern connectivity compared to the Buffalo’s USB 3.2 Gen1 Micro-B port, which may be limiting for some users.