Solid State Drives (SSDs) are fast becoming the new storage standard for PCs, gaming consoles, and external hard drives. For one, there are no moving parts within the unit, meaning they’re more reliable than your standard Hard Disk Drive (HDD). They’re also much faster when transferring and loading files, so apart from the more expensive price tag, they’re the way to go for larger external storage options.
SanDisk’s Extreme Portable SSD is a relatively straightforward external option that prides itself on both durability and portability. With its included USB-C to USB-C cable and USB-A adapter, there isn’t much it won’t work with, making it a fantastic option for travelling, where you might want to back up photos and videos on the go.
We’re reviewing the 500GB option, but it’s worth noting here that the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is also available in 1TB, 2TB, 4TB and 8TB options.
Design
The E61 model is incredibly lightweight and portable, clocking in at just 50 grams. While the 8TB option is a little heavier at just 52 grams, this is going to be much lighter than most of the things we carry in our pockets, like phones, wallets and even some car keys.
At 100.80 x 52.55 x 9.60 mm, it’s relatively small for an external drive, compared to some older HDD alternatives, which are twice as big and twice as heavy.
The E61 is also marketed as a durable, water-resistant option for less stress on trips and activities, featuring an IP55 water and dust resistance rating for all your adventures. This means it’s protected from all the elements, including low-pressure water, so it would ideally be fine out in the rain. That being said, it’s not waterproof, so make sure it’s not in your pockets before going for a swim.
SanDisk suggests its shock and vibration resistant enclosure can withstand up to a 2 metre or 6.56 feet drop. While its outer edges are not particularly bouncy like a LaCie Rugged Hard Drive’s outer shell, it still feels durable enough that it would absorb a fair amount of shock, given how light it is.
There’s not much to report on the overall design of the drive apart from the USB-C port at the bottom and an included carabiner loop in the top right-hand corner to attach to something like a belt or backpack loop. In the box, you’ll also find a short USB-C to USB-C cable and a USB-A adapter to fit into a range of PCs and even portable options like tablets and phones.
Functionality
With NVMe solid state performance, you’re getting 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds, which is lightning fast for either loading files from the drive, or transferring files, photos and videos to it. The speed itself is a gamechanger, but it’s only amplified when transferring larger quantities of files, photos or videos between devices.
The drive itself is compatible with Windows 10, Windows 8.1 and even goes as far back as Windows 7, while Mac users simply need macOS High Sierra or Mac OS X El Capitan. It’s also compatible with a range of smartphones via USB-C, and while many Android users have benefited from USB-C for many years now, both iPhone 15 and 16 users can pop this straight into their phone and access the drive via their Files app.
SanDisk software is available to download on Windows or Mac, which allows users to take advantage of password protection along with 256‐bit AES hardware encryption for added security. It’s available, but not necessary to use the drive, and can’t be accessed on a mobile device either, which is worth keeping in mind when travelling.
Verdict & Value
Overall, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD (E61) is a worthy travel companion that feels essential, given its lightweight and durable nature.
It’s easy enough to pack, works on a range of USB-C and USB-A devices without the need for software, even though there is support for it on certain devices, for added versatility.
I can imagine most will use this on their phone while travelling, and now that I’m in that boat, I can’t see how I would travel without it.
FIVE STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Highlights: Durable and lightweight; Works on a range of devices without the need for software
Lowlights: Premium price tag might ward off some
Manufacturer: SanDisk
Price: A$149
Available: Now
You can purchase the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD (E61) at all major hardware retailers.
