Samsung T5 EVO 2TB Portable Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The Samsung T5 EVO Portable SSD 2TB offers compact portability and reliable speeds for media storage. If you are looking for samsung t5 evo portable SSD alternatives, you might need different specifications or features. This drive provides up to 460MB/s read speeds and fits in a small 1.57 x 3.74 x 0.67 inch chassis. It weighs just 3.52 ounces, making it easy to carry. However, you may require higher transfer rates, hardware encryption, or a different interface standard.
We selected 6 similar picks based on overlapping specs. The list includes options with NVMe interfaces, hardware encryption, or larger capacities. Some alternatives prioritize ruggedness or specific connection types like USB-C Gen 2. Others offer internal form factors for system upgrades. Each product meets specific needs that the original drive may not address. You can compare these options to find the best fit for your workflow. This guide helps you evaluate capacity, speed, and security features side by side.
Our top pick: Samsung T5 EVO 2TB Portable SSD.
How alternatives compare to T5 EVO
Apricorn Aegis Padlock 480GB Encrypted SSD
The Apricorn Aegis Padlock prioritizes security over capacity. It offers only 480GB of storage, which is significantly less than the 2TB found in the Samsung T5 EVO. However, it includes FIPS validated encryption, a feature absent in the T5 EVO. This drive is designed for harsh conditions, making it suitable for users who need rugged durability and strict data protection standards. You should choose this if your work requires certified security measures, even if it means sacrificing storage space and potentially accepting lower transfer speeds compared to modern portable SSDs.
Glyph Atom EV 1TB Portable SSD
The Glyph Atom EV 1TB focuses on interface speed rather than maximum capacity. It uses a USB-C Gen 2 connection, which typically offers higher bandwidth than the USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface used by the Samsung T5 EVO. However, you get only 1TB of storage instead of 2TB. This drive is larger and heavier, measuring 5.5 inches in length. It is an ideal choice for professionals who prioritize faster data transfer rates for active projects and do not need the double storage capacity or the compact form factor of the T5 EVO.
Glyph Atom EV 2TB Portable NVMe SSD
The Glyph Atom EV 2TB Portable NVMe SSD matches the T5 EVO in capacity but uses a different internal architecture. It features an NVMe interface, which generally provides superior performance for creative professionals compared to the SATA-based speeds of the T5 EVO. It is housed in a rugged aluminum chassis, offering enhanced durability. However, it is larger and heavier than the slim T5 EVO. You should select this drive if you require NVMe speeds for heavy creative workflows and can accommodate a bulkier, more robust device for portable use.
iStorage diskAshur2 1TB Encrypted Portable SSD
The iStorage diskAshur2 1TB emphasizes hardware-level security features. It includes PIN protection and hardware encryption, which are not standard on the Samsung T5 EVO. It offers 1TB of storage, half the capacity of the T5 EVO. The drive is slightly larger and heavier, with a distinctive fiery red color. It is built for physical durability and secure data handling. This option is best for users who need robust, built-in security protocols for sensitive information and are willing to trade some storage capacity and aesthetic neutrality for enhanced protection mechanisms.
Samsung 860 EVO 4TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
The Samsung 860 EVO 4TB is an internal drive, not a portable external SSD like the T5 EVO. It uses a SATA III interface and a 2.5-inch form factor, making it suitable for internal system upgrades rather than portable storage. It offers 4TB of capacity, double that of the T5 EVO. It lacks the USB connectivity and rugged external casing of the T5 EVO. You should choose this if you are upgrading a desktop or laptop internally and need high capacity and reliability, rather than a portable solution for on-the-go file transfers.
SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 2TB matches the T5 EVO in capacity but differs in interface and physical design. It uses a USB-C host interface, which may offer faster speeds depending on your host device, compared to the USB 3.2 Gen 1 port on the T5 EVO. It is smaller and lighter, measuring only 0.35 inches in height. It is designed for rugged use, appealing to mobile creators. You should pick this if you prefer a more compact, durable drive with a modern USB-C connection, while accepting potentially different speed characteristics than the T5 EVO.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Samsung T5 EVO 2TB Portable SSD
Best for: Durable 2TB storage for media and games
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Form Factor
- Portable
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 460MB/s
- Compatibility
- Gaming
- Dimensions
- 3.74 × 1.57 × 0.67 inches
View on Amazon: Samsung T5 EVO 2TB Portable SSD Affiliate link
The Samsung T5 EVO 2TB is an external portable SSD designed for large file transfers and on-the-go storage. It features USB 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity and delivers sequential read speeds up to 460MB/s. The drive uses Intelligent TurboWrite cache to maintain performance during sustained writes. Its compact chassis measures 3.74 by 1.57 by 0.67 inches and weighs 3.52 ounces. It offers shock resistance up to 6 feet, making it suitable for content creators and gamers who need reliable capacity.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity for large projects
- Up to 460MB/s read speed
- Shock resistant up to 6 feet
- Compact dimensions of 3.74 x 1.57 x 0.67 inches
Cons
- USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface limits maximum speed
- No hardware encryption or FIPS certification
- No included USB-C to USB-A cable mentioned
Good fit if
- You need 2TB of portable storage for media files
- You prioritize shock resistance for travel
- You use devices with USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports
Skip if
- You require hardware encryption for sensitive data
- You need speeds exceeding 460MB/s
- You want FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validation
Verdict: The Samsung T5 EVO 2TB Portable SSD fits users who need durable, high-capacity storage for media and games, provided they do not require the highest possible transfer speeds or hardware-level security features.
Apricorn Aegis Padlock 480GB Encrypted SSD
Best for: secure data storage in harsh conditions
- Storage Capacity
- 480 GB
- Interface
- USB 3.0
- Form Factor
- External Portable
- Max Read Speed
- up to 230 MBs
- Max Write Speed
- up to 230 MBs
- Security
- FIPS Validated
View on Amazon: Apricorn Aegis Padlock 480GB Encrypted SSD Affiliate link
The Apricorn Aegis Padlock is a rugged, encrypted external SSD designed for secure data storage in harsh environments. It offers 480 GB of capacity with USB 3.0 connectivity. You get read and write speeds up to 230 MB/s. The drive is FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validated, ensuring high security. It withstands extreme temperatures and vibrations, making it ideal for field work or sensitive data protection.
Pros
- FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validated encryption
- Operates in temperatures from -40°C to 70°C
- Shock and vibration resistant design
- Silent operation with no moving parts
Cons
- Lower speed compared to NVMe alternatives
- Smaller 480 GB capacity option shown
- USB 3.0 interface limits throughput
Good fit if
- You need certified data encryption for compliance
- You work in extreme temperature environments
- You require rugged hardware for field use
Skip if
- You need maximum transfer speeds
- You require large 2TB capacity
- You prefer modern USB-C connectivity
Verdict: Apricorn Aegis Padlock 480GB FIPS SSD is a secure, rugged drive for users prioritizing data protection and durability over speed.
Glyph Atom EV 1TB Portable SSD
Best for: Users needing USB-C Gen 2 speed
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
- Form Factor
- Portable External
- Dimensions
- 5.5 × 2.8 × 1.7 inches
- Weight
- 9.6 ounces
View on Amazon: Glyph Atom EV 1TB Portable SSD Affiliate link
The Glyph Atom EV offers 1TB of storage via a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C interface. This connection supports higher bandwidth than the Gen 1 ports found on the Samsung T5 EVO. The drive measures 5.5 by 2.8 by 1.7 inches and weighs 9.6 ounces. Its compact external form factor makes it easy to carry. You should choose this drive if you need fast transfer speeds and a reliable connection for your portable data.
Pros
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C interface for faster potential throughput
- 1TB storage capacity for ample file space
- Compact portable external form factor
Cons
- Smaller 1TB capacity compared to the 2TB Samsung T5 EVO
- Heavier at 9.6 ounces than many aluminum competitors
- No published sequential read/write speeds in the data
Good fit if
- You need a USB-C connection for faster data transfers
- You want a portable drive with 1TB of storage
- You prefer a durable external SSD build
Skip if
- You require 2TB or more of storage capacity
- You need a drive lighter than 9.6 ounces
- You are using a USB 3.0 Gen 1 port only
Verdict: The Glyph Atom EV 1TB Portable SSD provides a modern USB-C Gen 2 connection for faster transfers. It suits users who prioritize interface speed over maximum capacity.
Glyph Atom EV 2TB Portable NVMe SSD
Best for: fast portable storage for creative pros
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, Thunderbolt 3
- Cooling
- Rugged aluminum chassis
- Dimensions
- 5.6 × 2.9 × 1.8 inches
- Weight
- 8 ounces
View on Amazon: Glyph Atom EV 2TB Portable NVMe SSD Affiliate link
This Glyph Atom EV drive delivers sustained NVMe speeds up to 1,050 MB/s via a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 interface. It features a rugged aluminum chassis for passive heat dissipation and includes both USB-C and USB-A cables. At 2 TB, it suits professionals handling large creative files. The compact 5.6-inch form factor fits easily in your bag.
Pros
- Sustained NVMe performance up to 1,050 MB/s
- USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 interface
- Rugged aluminum chassis for passive cooling
- Includes USB-C and USB-A cables
Cons
- Windows requires reformatting for plug-and-play support
- Heavier at 8 ounces than plastic alternatives
- No mention of hardware encryption
Good fit if
- You need fast transfers for 4K video
- You work with large photo libraries
- You want a durable aluminum build
Skip if
- You require immediate Windows compatibility
- You need built-in hardware encryption
- You prefer a lighter plastic design
Verdict: Glyph Atom EV 2TB Portable NVMe SSD offers high-speed NVMe transfers in a rugged aluminum chassis. It fits professionals who prioritize speed and durability over plug-and-play Windows convenience.
iStorage diskAshur2 1TB Encrypted Portable SSD
Best for: Hardware encryption and PIN security
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- 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 1TB Encrypted Portable SSD Affiliate link
The iStorage diskAshur2 SSD 1TB is a portable drive focused on security. It uses AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption and requires a 7-15 digit PIN to access data. It offers read speeds up to 361MB/s and write speeds up to 358MB/s. The drive is IP56 certified for dust and water resistance. It works with Windows, macOS, and Linux without extra software. This model is ideal for users needing strong physical security for their files.
Pros
- AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption
- Password protected with PIN authentication
- IP56 dust and water resistance
- Read speeds up to 361MB/s
Cons
- 1TB capacity is smaller than the 2TB options on this list
- USB 3.2 Gen 1 speeds are slower than the 550MB/s drives here
- Requires entering a PIN for every connection
Good fit if
- You need hardware encryption without installing software
- You work in environments requiring dust and water resistance
- You need to comply with strict data regulations like GDPR
Skip if
- You require the highest possible transfer speeds
- You prefer larger storage capacities like 2TB or more
- You want a drive that connects without a PIN
Verdict: The iStorage diskAshur2 SSD 1TB fits users who prioritize hardware encryption and physical durability over raw speed. It is a secure choice for sensitive data storage.
Samsung 860 EVO 4TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
Best for: high-capacity internal storage upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 4TB
- 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 4TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD Affiliate link
This is a 2.5-inch internal SATA III drive with 4TB of storage. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s and write speeds up to 520MB/s. The unit uses V-NAND technology and includes AES 256-bit hardware encryption. It fits standard desktop and laptop bays. You should choose this if you need high capacity for local storage rather than portable external use.
Pros
- 4TB storage capacity
- 550MB/s sequential read speed
- AES 256-bit hardware encryption
- 2.5-inch form factor
Cons
- SATA III interface limits speed compared to NVMe drives
- Internal drive requires separate installation hardware
- Not a portable external solution
Good fit if
- You need maximum internal storage capacity
- You are upgrading a desktop or laptop
- You want hardware encryption for data security
Skip if
- You need a portable external drive
- You require USB-C connectivity
- You need speeds above 550MB/s
Verdict: Samsung 860 EVO 4TB SATA SSD provides reliable high-capacity storage for internal system upgrades. It suits users who prioritize space and security over the portability or speed of NVMe drives.
SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD
Best for: Rugged portable storage for mobile creators
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- USB-C, USB 3.1
- Form Factor
- Portable External
- Max Read Speed
- 550MB/s
- Dimensions
- 1.95 × 0.35 × 3.79 inches
- Weight
- 1.38 ounces
View on Amazon: SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD Affiliate link
This 2TB portable SSD offers up to 550MB/s read speeds via USB-C and USB 3.1. It features an IP55 rating for water and dust resistance, plus shock resistance up to 1500G. The compact, pocket-sized design fits easily in your bag. It suits users who need durable, high-capacity storage for photos and videos on the go.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity for large media files
- Up to 550MB/s read speeds
- IP55 water and dust resistance
- Shock-resistant up to 1500G
Cons
- USB 3.1 interface limits speeds compared to USB 3.2 Gen 2 drives
- 3-year limited warranty is shorter than some competitors
- No mention of included hardware encryption or password protection
Good fit if
- You need a rugged drive for outdoor use
- You require 2TB of portable storage
- You transfer large video files frequently
Skip if
- You need hardware-based encryption
- You require USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds
- You prefer a drive with a longer warranty
Verdict: SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 2TB delivers solid speed and durability for mobile creators. It fits photographers and videographers who prioritize ruggedness and capacity over maximum transfer rates.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Samsung T5 EVO 2TB Portable SSD | Apricorn Aegis Padlock 480GB Encrypted SSD | Glyph Atom EV 1TB Portable SSD | Glyph Atom EV 2TB Portable NVMe SSD | iStorage diskAshur2 1TB Encrypted Portable SSD | Samsung 860 EVO 4TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD | SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 2TB | 480 GB | 1TB | 2TB | 1TB | 4TB | 2TB |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C | USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, Thunderbolt 3 | USB 3.2 | SATA III | USB-C, USB 3.1 |
| Form Factor | Portable | External Portable | Portable External | not stated | Portable | 2.5 Inch | Portable External |
| Max Read Speed | Up to 460MB/s | up to 230 MBs | not stated | not stated | Up to 361MB/s | 550MB/s | 550MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | not stated | up to 230 MBs | not stated | not stated | Up to 358MB/s | 520MB/s | not stated |
| Cooling | not stated | not stated | not stated | Rugged aluminum chassis | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Compatibility | Gaming | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Security | not stated | FIPS Validated | not stated | not stated | Hardware Encryption, Password Protection | not stated | not stated |
| Size | 2 TB | 480GB | not stated | 2 TB | 1TB | 4TB | 2TB |
| Host Interface | not stated | not stated | not stated | USB-C | not stated | not stated | USB-C |
| Dimensions | 3.74 × 1.57 × 0.67 inches | 3.25 × 0.5 × 2.5 inches | 5.5 × 2.8 × 1.7 inches | 5.6 × 2.9 × 1.8 inches | 4.72 × 3.15 × 0.59 inches | 3.94 × 2.76 × 0.27 inches | 1.95 × 0.35 × 3.79 inches |
| Weight | 3.52 ounces | 1.6 ounces | 9.6 ounces | 8 ounces | 7.62 ounces | 3.36 ounces | 1.38 ounces |
| Color | Black | Black | not stated | Black | Fiery Red | Black | Black |
| Model | MU-PH2T0S/AM | ASSD-3PL256-480F | GLYA1000EV-MAIN | A2000EV | IS-DA2-256-SSD-1000-R | MZ-76E4T0B/AM | SDSSDE60-2T00-G25 |
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Samsung T5 EVO 2TB the best overall portable SSD?
Yes, the Samsung T5 EVO 2TB is ranked as the best overall choice. It offers 2TB of durable storage ideal for media and games. The drive measures 3.74 by 1.57 by 0.67 inches and weighs 3.52 ounces. This compact form factor makes it easy to carry while providing ample space for large files.
Which portable SSD offers the best hardware encryption?
The iStorage diskAshur2 1TB provides the best hardware encryption. It features physical PIN security and password protection for sensitive data. The drive is available in fiery red and weighs 7.62 ounces. Its dimensions are 4.72 by 3.15 by 0.59 inches, making it a secure and sturdy option for privacy-focused users.
What is the best NVMe portable SSD alternative?
The Glyph Atom EV 2TB Portable NVMe SSD is the top NVMe pick. It offers high-speed transfers in a rugged aluminum chassis. The drive weighs 8 ounces and measures 5.6 by 2.9 by 1.8 inches. It is designed for creative professionals who prioritize speed and durability over standard plug-and-play convenience.
Is there a budget-friendly portable SSD with USB-C Gen 2?
The Glyph Atom EV 1TB is the best budget option. It provides a modern USB-C Gen 2 connection for faster data transfers. The drive weighs 9.6 ounces and measures 5.5 by 2.8 by 1.7 inches. It suits users who prioritize interface speed and modern connectivity over maximum storage capacity.
Which drive is best for secure data storage in harsh conditions?
The Apricorn Aegis Padlock 480GB is best for secure storage. It is FIPS validated and built for harsh environments. The drive weighs only 1.6 ounces and measures 3.25 by 2.5 by 0.5 inches. It prioritizes data protection and durability, making it suitable for users who need security over high capacity.
Can I use a SATA SSD as a portable alternative?
The Samsung 860 EVO 4TB is the best SATA III option. It is a 2.5-inch drive weighing 3.36 ounces. It measures 3.94 by 2.76 by 0.27 inches. This drive is ideal for internal system upgrades where you prioritize high capacity and reliability over the portability or speed of NVMe drives.
What is the best rugged SSD for mobile creators?
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 2TB is best for mobile creators. It delivers solid speed and durability for photographers and videographers. The drive weighs 1.38 ounces and measures 3.79 by 1.95 by 0.35 inches. It fits users who prioritize ruggedness and capacity over maximum transfer rates.