The SanDisk Extreme PRO with USB4 is a top-tier external SSD designed for those who need blazing-fast transfer speeds, rugged durability, and enhanced security. It’s aimed at both professionals and everyday users with USB4-enabled devices. However, its high price and bulky design might make you wonder if it’s worth the investment. Let’s dive into its performance, durability, design, thermal performance, and real-world usability and see how it stacks up against competitors like the Corsair EX400U and Kingston XS2000.
Key Features
- Super Fast Transfer Speeds: With USB4, you get up to 3800MB/s read and 3700MB/s write speeds.
- Built to Last: The silicone-coated aluminum enclosure is designed for extreme conditions and is IP65-rated for dust and water resistance.
- Top-Notch Security: It comes with 256-bit AES hardware encryption to keep your files safe.
- Great Warranty: A five-year warranty, which is longer than the typical three years offered by many competitors.
- USB4 Compatibility: Optimized for USB4 but also works with USB 3.2 and USB 3.1, though at slower speeds.
Pricing and Availability
The SanDisk Extreme PRO with USB4 comes in 2TB and 4TB capacities, and it’s priced at the higher end of the market:
- 2TB Model: $279.99 (USA), £250.99 (UK), €349.99 (Europe)
- 4TB Model: $429.99 (USA), £384.99 (UK), €534.99 (Europe)
Compared to the Corsair EX400U, which offers similar performance at a much lower cost, the SanDisk faces tough competition. While SanDisk’s reputation and extended warranty add value, budget-conscious buyers might find better deals elsewhere.
Design and Build Quality
The SanDisk Extreme PRO measures 140mm x 68.7mm x 11.9mm and weighs 172g, making it larger and heavier than many other external SSDs. This extra bulk makes it more durable but less portable. It doesn’t come with a USB-A adapter, which limits its compatibility with older systems.
The rubberized aluminum casing provides excellent durability with an IP65 rating, meaning it’s resistant to dust and water and offers great shock protection. However, its bulky design might not appeal to those looking for a sleek, portable option. A more compact design would have been more practical.
Performance Benchmarking
Testing shows that the SanDisk Extreme PRO with USB4 delivers outstanding sequential read/write speeds, especially on USB4-native systems. However, speeds can vary significantly on Thunderbolt 4 connections, which raises compatibility concerns.
| Test | SanDisk Extreme PRO (2TB) | Corsair EX400U (2TB) |
|---|---|---|
| CrystalDiskMark Read | 3810 MB/s | 4056 MB/s |
| CrystalDiskMark Write | 3662 MB/s | 3630 MB/s |
| Real-World Read | 2955 MB/s | 2303 MB/s |
| Real-World Write | 2149 MB/s | 3269 MB/s |
| AJA System Test Read | 3363 MB/s | 2827 MB/s |
| AJA System Test Write | 3189 MB/s | 2638 MB/s |
| AS SSD Read | 3360 MB/s | 3506 MB/s |
| AS SSD Write | 2739 MB/s | 3197 MB/s |
USB4 vs. Thunderbolt 4 Compatibility Issues
SanDisk advises using USB4 ports for optimal speeds, as Thunderbolt 4 connections may limit performance. This issue isn’t unique to SanDisk; the Corsair EX400U also experiences similar drops in performance with Thunderbolt 4, indicating a broader industry challenge.
Thermal Performance and Power Efficiency
Heat management is crucial for high-speed SSDs. The SanDisk Extreme PRO with USB4 stays relatively cool under standard workloads thanks to its efficient aluminum heat dissipation system. However, after 30 minutes of sustained 3GB/s write operations, temperatures can peak at 52°C, posing a slight risk of thermal throttling under extended use.
Power consumption tests show the SSD draws 8.1W under full load and 3.5W while idle, making it slightly less power-efficient than some competitors. This higher power demand could impact laptop battery life, making it less ideal for mobile professionals who need an energy-efficient solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional read/write speeds
- Rugged and durable with an IP65-rated aluminum chassis
- Hardware encryption for enhanced data protection
- Extended five-year warranty
- Consistent thermal performance under moderate workloads
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to rivals like the Corsair EX400U
- Bulky design reduces portability
- No USB-A adapter included, limiting compatibility with older devices
- Slower speeds on Thunderbolt 4 connections
- Potential thermal throttling under heavy load
Verdict
The SanDisk Extreme PRO with USB4 is a high-speed, rugged external SSD that excels in performance and security. However, its larger size, premium price, and USB4 dependence make it less versatile compared to alternatives. Professionals needing long-term reliability might find it a worthy investment, but budget-conscious buyers can find more affordable options with similar speeds.
Should You Buy It?
- Buy if: You need USB4 speeds, rugged durability, and advanced data protection.
- Avoid if: You need a cost-effective or compact SSD with better Thunderbolt 4 compatibility.
Final Thoughts
The SanDisk Extreme PRO with USB4 is a premium drive for users who prioritize speed, security, and durability. However, its high price and bulky design mean that only those who truly need USB4 performance should consider it over more affordable alternatives.
