Tired of waiting ages for files to transfer or games to load? Is your PC begging for more storage space, but you’re not ready to open it up for an internal upgrade? You’re not alone! Many PC users face the challenge of sluggish performance and overflowing hard drives. That’s where an external SSD comes into play, offering a fast, portable, and durable solution for all your storage needs.
Crucial, a well-known name in memory and storage, offers some of the crucial best external SSD for PC users today. Whether you’re a casual user backing up photos, a student juggling large projects, a hardcore gamer needing speedy load times, or a professional creator handling massive video files, there’s a Crucial external SSD designed just for you.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into seven top Crucial portable SSDs, highlighting their unique features, pros, cons, and what users are saying. We’re here to help you pick the perfect external drive to supercharge your workflow and keep your data safe. Let’s get started!
Why Choose a Crucial External SSD?
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly go over why Crucial SSDs are a smart choice:
- Blazing Fast Speeds: Unlike traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), SSDs have no moving parts, resulting in significantly faster read and write speeds. This means quicker file transfers, faster application launches, and reduced game loading times.
- Exceptional Durability: With solid-state technology, these drives are much more resistant to drops and impacts than fragile HDDs, offering peace of mind when you’re on the go. Many Crucial models also boast water and dust resistance ratings.
- Ultimate Portability: Crucial external SSDs are typically compact and lightweight, easily fitting into your pocket or bag. They’re perfect for travel, working remotely, or simply extending your PC’s storage without adding bulk.
- Broad Compatibility: You’ll find Crucial SSDs play nice with a wide range of devices, from Windows and Mac PCs to game consoles like PS5 and Xbox, and even mobile devices.
Ready to find your next digital companion? Let’s check out the top picks!
The 7 Best Crucial External SSDs for PC
1. Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
The Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD is a fantastic all-rounder, hitting that sweet spot between performance, capacity, and value for everyday users and casual gamers. With speeds up to 1050MB/s, you’ll notice a significant bump in productivity, whether you’re backing up your entire photo library or editing a quick video. Its robust build, featuring IP55 water and dust resistance, means it can handle a bump or splash, making it a reliable partner for daily commutes or light travel.
Key Features:
* High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s for fast file transfers, media editing, and backup.
* Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
* Broad Compatibility: Works with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
* High-Capacity Storage: Compact 2TB SSD for photos, videos, backups, and more.
* Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
* Excellent balance of speed and storage for most users.
* Durable design with good water and dust resistance.
* Wide range of device compatibility.
* Generous 2TB capacity for extensive backups and media.
* Valuable bonus software included.
Cons:
* Not the fastest option Crucial offers (compared to the X10 series).
* IP55 rating is good but not top-tier for extreme conditions.
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise the X9 2TB for its effortless setup and impressive speed upgrade over traditional hard drives. Many highlight its compact size and solid build quality as key advantages for portable use, making it a reliable workhorse for everyday tasks and casual gaming storage.
2. Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2
For those who demand uncompromising speed and immense storage, the Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD is a powerhouse. Designed with creators, students, and serious PC gamers in mind, it boasts an incredible 2,100MB/s read speed, making short work of even the most demanding tasks like 4K video editing or transferring massive game libraries. Its IP65 dust and water resistance, coupled with a 9.8 ft (3 meters) drop resistance, means this drive isn’t just fast—it’s incredibly tough, ready for any adventure or demanding workflow you throw at it.
Key Features:
* Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds for rapid data access.
* Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 meters).
* Broad Compatibility: Connects with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
* Ultimate Storage Capacity: Massive 4TB SSD for all your photos, videos, backups, and more.
* Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
* Blazing-fast speeds redefine external storage performance.
* Industry-leading durability with IP65 rating and extreme drop resistance.
* Huge 4TB capacity is ideal for professional media or extensive game libraries.
* Excellent cross-device compatibility.
* Valuable software bundle adds extra utility.
Cons:
* Premium price point due to its top-tier performance and capacity.
* Overkill for users with basic storage needs.
User Impressions:
Professional users and avid gamers rave about the X10 4TB’s mind-blowing speeds, noting how it significantly cuts down on their workflow times. Its rugged design also gets high marks, providing peace of mind for those who carry their data into challenging environments.
3. Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2
The Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD brings the same incredible 2,100MB/s speed of its larger sibling in a more compact, and often more budget-friendly, 1TB package. If you’re a creator, student, or PC gamer who prioritizes raw speed but doesn’t need 4TB of storage, this is your go-to. It maintains the stellar IP65 dust and water resistance and robust drop protection, ensuring your valuable data is not only accessible at lightning speed but also incredibly safe, even when you’re on the move.
Key Features:
* Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds for rapid data access.
* Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 metres).
* Broad Compatibility: Connects with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
* Ultimate Storage Capacity: Compact 1TB SSD for photos, videos, backups, and more.
* Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
* Unrivaled read speeds for an external SSD.
* Exceptional durability with IP65 rating and superior drop protection.
* More accessible price point than higher-capacity X10 models.
* Excellent for high-speed boot drives for operating systems or game libraries.
* Includes useful bonus software.
Cons:
* 1TB might be limiting for some power users or those with massive media collections.
* Still a premium price compared to slower X9 models.
User Impressions:
Reviewers consistently highlight the incredible speed benefits, especially for gamers looking to reduce load times or creative professionals needing quick access to project files. Its small form factor paired with ruggedness makes it a favorite for on-the-go professionals.
4. Crucial X9 Pro 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read
The Crucial X9 Pro 1TB Portable SSD is engineered specifically for professional creators who need reliable performance and robust security. While its 1050MB/s read and write speeds match the standard X9, the “Pro” designation signifies enhanced features like SSD password protection and a handy lanyard loop, perfect for securing it during field work or while traveling. Its IP55 water and dust resistance, combined with a 7.5 ft (2 meter) drop resistance, provides the necessary durability for demanding environments, ensuring your valuable projects are always safe and accessible.
Key Features:
* High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and write speeds for seamless workflows.
* Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
* Broad Compatibility: Connects with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
* Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
* Consistent high-speed read/write performance ideal for creative professionals.
* Enhanced security features like password protection.
* Practical design with lanyard loop and activity light.
* Good durability with IP55 rating.
* Wide compatibility across devices.
Cons:
* Speeds are not as fast as the X10 series.
* 1TB capacity might require careful management for very large projects.
User Impressions:
Professionals appreciate the X9 Pro’s consistent performance and the added security of password protection. Many find the lanyard loop surprisingly useful for keeping the drive attached and accessible during shoots or fieldwork, making it a reliable choice for their critical data.
5. Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
For everyday users and casual gamers seeking a fast, reliable, and portable storage solution without breaking the bank, the Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD is an excellent choice. Delivering speeds up to 1050MB/s, it drastically cuts down transfer times compared to traditional hard drives, making backups and file management a breeze. It shares the same durable IP55 water and dust resistance and 7.5 ft (2 meter) drop resistance as its larger sibling, ensuring your data is protected whether you’re commuting to class or traveling for leisure.
Key Features:
* High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s accelerates large file transfers, media editing, and backup processes.
* Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
* Broad Compatibility: Works with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
* High-Capacity Storage: Compact 1TB SSD for photos, videos, backups, and more.
* Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
* Great value for money for an external SSD with these speeds.
* Robust and durable for everyday use and travel.
* Excellent compatibility with a wide array of devices.
* Perfect 1TB capacity for general use, documents, and a decent game library.
* Comes with useful bonus software.
Cons:
* Not the fastest option for extreme professional workloads.
* Lacks the advanced security features of the X9 Pro series.
User Impressions:
Customers frequently commend the X9 1TB for its straightforward plug-and-play experience and noticeable speed improvement. It’s often recommended as a solid upgrade for users tired of slow external HDDs, and its compact size is a consistent favorite.
6. Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read
If you’re a professional creator working with massive files and need vast storage combined with professional-grade features, the Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD is an absolute workhorse. It offers a huge 4TB capacity, ensuring you have ample space for large video projects, high-resolution photos, or extensive datasets. With consistent 1050MB/s read and write speeds, IP55 water and dust resistance, a lanyard loop, and SSD password protection, this drive provides the ideal blend of speed, security, and durability for demanding fieldwork or studio environments. This is truly one of the crucial best external SSD for PC professionals needing high capacity.
Key Features:
* High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds for a seamless workflow.
* Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes a lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
* Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
* Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
* Enormous 4TB capacity for professionals with extensive storage needs.
* Reliable and consistent high-speed read/write performance.
* Enhanced security features with password protection.
* Excellent durability for field use with IP55 rating.
* Wide range of device compatibility.
Cons:
* Premium price point for the combination of “Pro” features and high capacity.
* Not as fast as the X10 series for raw transfer speeds.
User Impressions:
Professionals are highly satisfied with the X9 Pro 4TB, often citing its massive capacity and robust build as essential for their workflow. The added security features are a significant plus, providing peace of mind when handling sensitive project data on the go.
7. Crucial X9 Pro 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read
The Crucial X9 Pro 2TB Portable SSD strikes a perfect balance between professional-grade features and ample storage, making it an ideal choice for creators and power users who need more than 1TB but don’t quite need 4TB. It delivers dependable 1050MB/s read and write speeds for efficient file handling, complemented by the same robust IP55 water and dust resistance, 7.5 ft (2 meters) drop resistance, and crucial SSD password protection found in its Pro siblings. For those needing a secure and capable drive for serious work, this 2TB model offers significant value and performance.
Key Features:
* High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds for a seamless workflow.
* Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes a lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
* Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
* Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
* Great mid-range capacity (2TB) for professional projects and extensive backups.
* Consistent high-speed read/write performance.
* Enhanced security with password protection and practical design features.
* Durable construction with IP55 rating.
* Excellent compatibility with a wide range of devices and operating systems.
Cons:
* Not as budget-friendly as the standard X9 series.
* Speeds are excellent but don’t reach the extreme levels of the X10 series.
User Impressions:
Many users find the X9 Pro 2TB to be the sweet spot for professional use, offering enough space for multiple projects without the higher cost of a 4TB drive. The security features and durable build are consistently praised, making it a reliable choice for creators on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why should I choose an external SSD over a traditional external HDD?
A: External SSDs offer several key advantages: they are significantly faster (leading to quicker file transfers and program loading), much more durable (no moving parts, so they’re less susceptible to damage from drops), more compact, and operate silently. While HDDs might be cheaper per gigabyte, the speed and reliability of an SSD often outweigh the cost difference for most users.
Q2: What’s the main difference between Crucial X9 and Crucial X10 series SSDs?
A: The primary difference lies in speed and durability. The Crucial X9 series (including X9 Pro) offers speeds up to 1050MB/s and typically features IP55 water/dust resistance. The Crucial X10 series, on the other hand, boasts ultra-fast speeds up to 2,100MB/s (double the X9) and comes with enhanced IP65 dust and water resistance, making it more robust and ideal for professionals needing peak performance.
Q3: Are these Crucial external SSDs compatible with game consoles like PS5 and Xbox?
A: Yes! All the Crucial external SSDs reviewed here offer broad compatibility, including with PlayStation 4 (PS4), PlayStation 5 (PS5), and Xbox consoles. They can be used to store and run games (though PS5 games can only be stored, not directly played from an external drive unless they are PS4 versions).
Q4: What do the IP55 and IP65 ratings mean for durability?
A: IP ratings indicate ingress protection against solids and liquids.
* IP55: The first ‘5’ means it’s protected against dust ingress (not totally dust-tight, but sufficient to prevent harmful quantities). The second ‘5’ means it’s protected against low-pressure jets of water from any direction.
* IP65: The first ‘6’ means it’s totally protected against dust ingress. The second ‘5’ means it’s protected against low-pressure jets of water from any direction.
Essentially, IP65 offers superior dust protection and the same level of water jet resistance as IP55.
Q5: How important is the USB 3.2 Gen 2 standard for performance?
A: Very important! USB 3.2 Gen 2 (also known as USB 3.1 Gen 2) supports theoretical transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps (1,250 MB/s). This is what allows the Crucial X9 and X9 Pro models to achieve speeds of 1050MB/s. The X10 series utilizes USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, which doubles the lanes for up to 20 Gbps (2,500 MB/s), enabling its blazing 2,100MB/s speeds. To get these speeds, your PC’s USB port must also support the corresponding standard.
Q6: Do I really need the included bonus software like Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image?
**A: ** While not strictly “needed” to use the SSD, the included software offers significant value. Mylio Photos+ helps you organize, protect, and edit your photos across all your devices. Acronis True Image is a robust backup and data recovery solution. Both can be incredibly useful for managing your digital life and protecting your data, especially for professionals or those with large photo/video libraries.
Q7: Can I use these external SSDs with my iPad Pro or Android device?
A: Yes, absolutely! All Crucial external SSDs listed here offer broad compatibility, including with iPad Pro and Android devices that support USB-C external storage. This makes them incredibly versatile for mobile content creation, quick backups, or expanding the storage of your portable devices.
Conclusion
Choosing the crucial best external SSD for PC doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Crucial offers a robust lineup that caters to a wide range of needs, from casual users and students to professional creators and hardcore gamers. Whether you prioritize extreme speed with the X10 series, balanced performance and security with the X9 Pro models, or excellent value with the standard X9, there’s a perfect match waiting for you.
Investing in a Crucial external SSD means upgrading your workflow, safeguarding your data, and gaining the freedom of portable, high-speed storage. We hope this guide has made your decision a little easier!
Ready to supercharge your storage? Click on the Amazon links above to find the perfect Crucial external SSD for your setup!