KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus 2TB Portable Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You are looking for kioxia exceria plus portable SSD alternatives because your needs may differ from the original drive’s design. The KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus 2TB Portable SSD delivers up to 1050 MB/s read speeds inside a durable aluminum enclosure. It supports USB 3.2 Gen2 and includes password protection for data security. These features make it excellent for mobile users who need quick transfers and rugged reliability. However, you might prefer a different form factor or interface for your specific setup.
The 6 alternatives in this list were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original drive’s core capabilities. You will find internal SATA options like the Samsung 870 EVO for system upgrades, or high-speed NVMe drives like the WD_BLACK SN850 for gaming. Each product shares the 2TB capacity but varies in interface, such as SATA III or PCIe Gen4. Some models focus on NAS durability, while others prioritize compact laptop integration. This guide compares these specs so you can select the drive that matches your technical requirements.
How Each Alternative Compares
Samsung 860 EVO 2TB SATA 2.5-Inch SSD
The Samsung 860 EVO 2TB SATA SSD uses a 2.5-inch form factor and SATA III interface, unlike the KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus portable USB drive. It offers reliable internal storage with hardware encryption, making it suitable for desktop or laptop upgrades rather than mobile use. You lose the plug-and-play USB connectivity and aluminum durability of the KIOXIA, but gain a standard internal drive for system expansion. Choose this if you need to replace an existing internal drive rather than carry external storage.
SanDisk SSD Plus 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
The SanDisk SSD Plus 2TB is a 2.5-inch SATA III drive, not a portable USB device. It provides sequential read speeds up to 545 MB/s, which is slower than the KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus’s 1050 MB/s USB 3.2 Gen2 interface. This drive lacks the shockproof aluminum housing and password protection features of the KIOXIA. It is designed for internal installation in standard drive bays. Select this option if you are building a budget internal storage solution and do not require the portability or external interface of the KIOXIA drive.
Western Digital 2TB WD Red SA500 M.2 SSD
The Western Digital 2TB WD Red SA500 is an M.2 2280 SATA III SSD designed for NAS systems. It differs significantly from the KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus portable SSD, which uses USB 3.2 Gen2. The WD Red focuses on 24/7 durability and 3D NAND technology for network attached storage. You give up the compact, pocket-sized aluminum enclosure and USB connectivity of the KIOXIA. This drive is intended for internal server or NAS environments. Pick this if you need reliable internal storage for a NAS rather than a portable external drive for personal use.
Samsung 870 QVO 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
The Samsung 870 QVO 2TB is a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD, contrasting with the KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus portable USB drive. It delivers sequential read rates up to 560 MB/s, which is lower than the KIOXIA’s 1050 MB/s USB 3.2 Gen2 speed. This drive lacks the rugged aluminum housing and portable form factor of the KIOXIA. It is built for internal installation in laptops and desktops. Choose this if you need high-capacity internal storage for a system upgrade and do not require the external portability and faster USB transfers of the KIOXIA drive.
WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD
The WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD uses an M.2 2280 form factor and PCIe Gen4 interface, unlike the KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus portable USB drive. It offers transfer rates reaching 7,000 MB/s, vastly exceeding the KIOXIA’s 1050 MB/s USB 3.2 Gen2 speed. This drive lacks the portable aluminum enclosure and USB connectivity of the KIOXIA. It is designed for internal gaming and high-performance PC builds. Select this if you need maximum internal bus speeds for gaming or heavy workloads rather than a portable external storage solution.
Samsung 870 EVO 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
The Samsung 870 EVO 2TB is a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD, differing from the KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus portable USB drive. It maximizes the SATA III interface with 560 MB/s speeds and offers 2,400 TBW endurance. This drive lacks the 1050 MB/s USB 3.2 Gen2 speed and the rugged aluminum housing of the KIOXIA. It is intended for internal PC and NAS upgrades. Choose this if you prioritize internal endurance and standard SATA compatibility over the portability and faster external transfers provided by the KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus 2TB Portable SSD
Best for: durable high-speed portable USB 3.2 storage
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen2
- Form Factor
- Portable
- Max Read Speed
- 1050 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1000 MB/s
- Cooling
- Aluminum housing
View on Amazon: KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus 2TB Portable SSD Affiliate link
The KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus is a 2TB portable external solid state drive built with an aluminum body. It uses a USB 3.2 Gen2 interface to deliver maximum transfer rates up to 1050 MB/s read and 1000 MB/s write. You get Type-C to C and Type-C to A cables in the box. At 2.68 ounces, it suits you if you need pocketable storage for file transfers across computers and gaming consoles.
Pros
- Up to 1050 MB/s read and 1000 MB/s write speeds
- Aluminum housing with MIL-STD drop test compatibility
- Includes both USB Type-C to C and Type-C to A cables
- Password protection support via SSD Utility software
Cons
- Peak speeds capped by USB 3.2 Gen2 interface limits
- Password protection features require dedicated SSD Utility software
Good fit if
- You need external 2TB storage with 1050 MB/s read speeds over USB 3.2 Gen2.
- You connect to both USB Type-C and legacy Type-A ports without extra adapters.
- You want a lightweight aluminum drive that weighs under 3 ounces.
Skip if
- You need an internal SATA or M.2 NVMe SSD for a desktop or laptop drive bay.
- You require speeds exceeding 1050 MB/s for high-bandwidth workloads.
Verdict: KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus 2TB Portable SSD delivers up to 1050 MB/s transfers inside a drop-tested aluminum enclosure. It provides balanced USB 3.2 Gen2 speed and multi-system compatibility for everyday mobile use.
Samsung 860 EVO 2TB SATA 2.5-Inch SSD
Best for: internal 2.5-inch SATA system upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- SATA III
- Form Factor
- 2.5 Inch
- Max Read Speed
- 550MB/S
- Max Write Speed
- 520MB/S
- Dimensions
- 3.94 × 2.76 × 0.27 inches
View on Amazon: Samsung 860 EVO 2TB SATA 2.5-Inch SSD Affiliate link
The Samsung 860 EVO 2TB is an internal 2.5-inch SATA III solid state drive built with V-NAND technology. If you are comparing alternatives across our list of 6 drives, note that this unit delivers sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s and sequential write speeds up to 520MB/s. It features AES 256-bit hardware-based encryption and a 1.5 million hour MTBF, making it a reliable pick if you need internal SATA storage for everyday computing.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s and write speeds up to 520MB/s
- AES 256-bit hardware-based encryption compliant with TCG Opal and IEEE 1669
- 1.5 million hours MTBF reliability rating
- Five-year limited warranty coverage
Cons
- Internal SATA drive that lacks native USB connectivity for portable use
- Mounting screws, SATA data cables, and brackets are not included
Good fit if
- You need a 2TB internal 2.5-inch SATA drive for a desktop or laptop
- You want hardware-based AES 256-bit data encryption
Skip if
- You need an out-of-the-box portable USB drive without buying an enclosure
- You need speeds faster than the SATA III ceiling of 550MB/s
Verdict: Samsung 860 EVO 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD offers reliable SATA III transfer rates and built-in hardware encryption for internal upgrades. It suits traditional drive bays rather than direct portable USB setups.
SanDisk SSD Plus 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
Best for: internal SATA upgrades and enclosure builds
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- SATA III 6GB/s
- Form Factor
- 2.5"
- Max Read Speed
- 545MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 450MB/s
- Dimensions
- 0.28 × 3.96 × 2.75 inches
View on Amazon: SanDisk SSD Plus 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD Affiliate link
The SanDisk SSD Plus 2TB is an internal 2.5-inch SATA III solid state drive designed for standard drive bays. You get sequential read speeds up to 545 MB/s and write speeds up to 450 MB/s. It resists shocks up to 1500G and weighs 1.76 ounces. If you want high-capacity storage for an internal PC upgrade or an external SATA enclosure instead of a dedicated portable drive, this unit fits your basic storage requirements.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 545 MB/s and writes up to 450 MB/s
- Shock resistance up to 1500G and vibration resistance
- Lightweight 1.76-ounce 2.5-inch form factor
Cons
- Requires an external enclosure or SATA bay to use
- SATA III interface tops out at 545 MB/s read speed
Good fit if
- You want an internal 2.5-inch SATA drive or plan to supply an enclosure.
- You need reliable shock resistance up to 1500G for day-to-day computing.
Skip if
- You require an integrated USB connector ready for portable plug-and-play use.
- You need NVMe-level transfer rates that exceed SATA III limitations.
Verdict: SanDisk SSD Plus 2TB Internal SATA SSD delivers straightforward SATA III read speeds up to 545 MB/s for standard drive slots. It works well if you need an internal storage replacement rather than an integrated portable USB drive.
Western Digital 2TB WD Red SA500 M.2 SSD
Best for: NAS systems needing durable 24/7 storage
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- SATA III 6 Gb/s
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 560 MB/s
- Compatibility
- NAS
- NAND Type
- 3D NAND
View on Amazon: Western Digital 2TB WD Red SA500 M.2 SSD Affiliate link
The WD Red SA500 is a 2TB M.2 2280 SATA III SSD built for NAS systems. It features 3D NAND and reads up to 560 MB/s. This drive handles heavy read and write loads in 24/7 environments. It reduces latency for multi-user setups. You get a purpose-built internal drive for home or business NAS storage.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity
- SATA III 6 Gb/s interface
- Up to 560 MB/s read speed
- Optimized for NAS caching
- High endurance for 24/7 use
Cons
- SATA III interface limits speed compared to NVMe
- M.2 2280 form factor requires specific NAS slot
- Not designed for portable external use
Good fit if
- You need internal storage for a NAS system
- You want high endurance for 24/7 operation
- You prefer SATA III compatibility
Skip if
- You need a portable external drive
- You require NVMe Gen4 speeds
- You only have 2.5-inch drive bays
Verdict: WD Red 2TB M.2 NAS SSD is a reliable internal drive for NAS systems. It suits users who need durable 24/7 storage with SATA III speeds.
Samsung 870 QVO 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
Best for: internal 2.5-inch laptop and desktop SATA upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- SATA III
- Form Factor
- 2.5"
- Max Read Speed
- 560 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 530 MB/s
- Compatibility
- Laptop, Desktop
View on Amazon: Samsung 870 QVO 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD Affiliate link
If you need bulk internal storage rather than an external drive, the Samsung 870 QVO 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD provides a direct drive replacement for desktops and laptops. It utilizes second-generation QLC flash over a SATA III interface, delivering sequential read speeds up to 560 MB/s and sequential write speeds up to 530 MB/s. It suits you if you want high internal capacity managed via Samsung Magician software.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 560 MB/s
- Sequential write speeds up to 530 MB/s
- Compatible with SATA 3 Gbps and 1.5 Gbps interfaces
- Works with Samsung Magician software for health monitoring
Cons
- Requires an internal 2.5-inch bay instead of USB connectivity
- SATA III interface tops out at 560 MB/s
Good fit if
- You want an internal 2.5-inch SATA drive for a laptop or desktop
- You value drive health monitoring with Samsung Magician software
Skip if
- You need a portable drive with plug-and-play USB connectivity
- You need speeds exceeding the SATA III interface limit
Verdict: Samsung 870 QVO 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD delivers reliable sequential read rates up to 560 MB/s for internal system bays. It works well if you want internal high-capacity expansion rather than a portable drive.
WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD
Best for: Internal PCIe Gen4 high-speed gaming storage
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- Gen4 PCIe
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 7,000 MB/s
- Compatibility
- Gaming
- NAND Type
- 3D NAND
View on Amazon: WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
The WD_BLACK SN850 2TB is an internal PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280 NVMe SSD built for high-throughput desktop or laptop slots. If you want maximum bus bandwidth instead of external USB connectivity, it delivers read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s and random performance up to 1,000,000 IOPS. It uses 3D NAND storage and supports WD_BLACK Dashboard software, making it suitable if you prioritize direct internal bus installation over portable storage.
Pros
- Up to 7,000 MB/s maximum read speed via PCIe Gen4
- Up to 1,000,000 IOPS random performance rating
- Compact M.2 2280 internal form factor with 3D NAND
- Compatible with downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard software
Cons
- Requires an internal M.2 slot rather than a plug-and-play USB connection
- Not intended for NAS or server environments
Good fit if
- You need internal PCIe Gen4 read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s.
- You want 2TB of high-speed M.2 2280 storage for a gaming system.
Skip if
- You need a portable external drive that connects via USB.
- You require storage intended for NAS or server setups.
Verdict: WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD provides PCIe Gen4 transfer rates reaching 7,000 MB/s for internal M.2 systems. It suits users wanting high internal bus speeds rather than external portable storage.
Samsung 870 EVO 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
Best for: internal PC and NAS SATA upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- SATA III
- Form Factor
- 2.5"
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 560 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- Up to 530 MB/s
- Compatibility
- Laptop
View on Amazon: Samsung 870 EVO 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD Affiliate link
The Samsung 870 EVO 2TB is an internal 2.5-inch solid-state drive that operates across the SATA III interface. It provides maximum sequential read speeds up to 560 MB/s and sequential write speeds up to 530 MB/s, backed by a 2,400 TBW endurance rating and AES 256-bit hardware encryption. You will find it suitable if you need internal storage for a PC, laptop, or NAS enclosure rather than a bus-powered external drive.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 560 MB/s and write speeds up to 530 MB/s
- High endurance rating of up to 2,400 TBW
- Hardware AES 256-bit encryption support (TCG/Opal v2.0, IEEE1667)
Cons
- SATA III ceiling limits maximum read speed to 560 MB/s
- Requires internal mounting or an enclosure due to lack of native USB
Good fit if
- You need an internal 2.5-inch SATA drive for a desktop, laptop, or NAS.
- You want heavy-write endurance up to 2,400 TBW.
- You require built-in AES 256-bit hardware security.
Skip if
- You want a plug-and-play external USB portable drive out of the box.
- You require read speeds faster than standard SATA III throughput.
Verdict: Samsung 870 EVO 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD maximizes the SATA III interface limit with 560 MB/s speeds and heavy 2,400 TBW endurance. It works well if you prefer internal drive architecture over a portable USB layout.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus 2TB Portable SSD | Samsung 860 EVO 2TB SATA 2.5-Inch SSD | SanDisk SSD Plus 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD | Western Digital 2TB WD Red SA500 M.2 SSD | Samsung 870 QVO 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD | WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD | Samsung 870 EVO 2TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen2 | SATA III | SATA III 6GB/s | SATA III 6 Gb/s | SATA III | Gen4 PCIe | SATA III |
| Form Factor | Portable | 2.5 Inch | 2.5" | M.2 2280 | 2.5" | M.2 2280 | 2.5" |
| Max Read Speed | 1050 MB/s | 550MB/S | 545MB/s | Up to 560 MB/s | 560 MB/s | 7,000 MB/s | Up to 560 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | 1000 MB/s | 520MB/S | 450MB/s | not stated | 530 MB/s | not stated | Up to 530 MB/s |
| Cooling | Aluminum housing | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Compatibility | not stated | not stated | not stated | NAS | Laptop, Desktop | Gaming | Laptop |
| NAND Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | 3D NAND | not stated | 3D NAND | not stated |
| Size | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB |
| Dimensions | 19.7 × 19.7 × 11 inches | 3.94 × 2.76 × 0.27 inches | 0.28 × 3.96 × 2.75 inches | 4.9 × 4 × 0.1 inches | 3.94 × 2.76 × 0.27 inches | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.09 inches | 3.94 × 2.76 × 0.27 inches |
| Weight | 2.68 ounces | 2.12 ounces | 1.76 ounces | not stated | 3.04 ounces | not stated | 3.04 ounces |
| Color | Pink | Black | Black | Red | Grey | Black | Black |
| Model | LXD10S002TG8 | MZ-76E2T0B/AM | SDSSDA-2T00-G26 | 718037872339 | MZ-77Q2T0B/AM | WDS200T1X0E | MZ-77E2T0B/AM |
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Samsung 860 EVO a portable drive like the KIOXIA?
No, the Samsung 860 EVO is an internal drive, not a portable one. It uses a 2.5-inch SATA III interface designed for internal system bays. Unlike the KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus, which connects via USB 3.2 Gen2, this drive requires internal mounting for desktops or laptops.
Can I use the SanDisk SSD Plus as a portable USB drive?
The SanDisk SSD Plus is an internal SATA III drive, not a ready-made portable unit. It delivers read speeds up to 545 MB/s for standard drive slots. You would need to purchase a separate enclosure to use it externally, unlike the integrated portable design of the KIOXIA.
Is the WD Red SA500 suitable for portable storage?
No, the WD Red SA500 is an M.2 SATA III drive built for NAS systems. It is designed for durable 24/7 internal storage rather than portable USB use. Its M.2 2280 form factor requires specific internal slots, making it incompatible with the direct portable connectivity of the KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus.
Does the Samsung 870 QVO support external portable use?
The Samsung 870 QVO is an internal 2.5-inch SATA III drive, not a portable USB device. It offers sequential read rates up to 560 MB/s for internal system bays. It is intended for laptop and desktop upgrades, requiring an external enclosure to function similarly to the KIOXIA portable SSD.
Is the WD_BLACK SN850 a portable SSD alternative?
No, the WD_BLACK SN850 is an internal PCIe Gen4 NVMe drive. It provides high transfer rates reaching 7,000 MB/s for internal M.2 systems. It is designed for gaming and high-speed internal bus usage, not for the external portable USB connectivity that defines the KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus design.
Can the Samsung 870 EVO replace the KIOXIA portable drive?
The Samsung 870 EVO is an internal 2.5-inch SATA III drive, not a portable USB unit. It maximizes SATA III limits with 560 MB/s speeds and high endurance. It is built for internal PC and NAS upgrades, requiring an external case to match the portable convenience of the KIOXIA EXCERIA Plus.
Which alternative offers the highest speed for internal use?
The WD_BLACK SN850 offers the highest speed among these options for internal use. It utilizes a PCIe Gen4 NVMe interface with transfer rates reaching 7,000 MB/s. This is significantly faster than the SATA III drives or the USB 3.2 Gen2 portable drive, making it ideal for high-performance internal gaming storage.