Understanding Transfer Speeds

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The Sandisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD has gained popularity among professionals and casual users alike for its impressive speed and durability. But how does it perform in real-world transfer speed tests? This article explores the results of various speed tests to determine if it lives up to its reputation.

Understanding Transfer Speeds

Transfer speed is a critical factor when choosing an external SSD. It determines how quickly data can be moved from the device to a computer or vice versa. The Sandisk Extreme Pro claims to offer read speeds of up to 2000 MB/s and write speeds of up to 2000 MB/s, making it one of the fastest portable SSDs on the market.

Methodology of Speed Testing

To evaluate the performance, several tests were conducted using popular benchmarking tools such as CrystalDiskMark and Blackmagic Disk Speed Test. Tests were performed on different systems, including Windows and Mac, with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and Thunderbolt 3 interfaces. The goal was to measure maximum, average, and sustained transfer speeds under typical usage scenarios.

Test Setup

  • Device: Sandisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD
  • Connection: Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
  • File Size for Tests: 10 GB
  • Operating Systems: Windows 11 and macOS Monterey

Test Results

The test results showed that the Sandisk Extreme Pro performed exceptionally well, especially over Thunderbolt 3 connections. Here are the key findings:

  • Maximum Read Speed: 1950 MB/s (Thunderbolt 3)
  • Maximum Write Speed: 1850 MB/s (Thunderbolt 3)
  • Average Read Speed: 1800 MB/s
  • Average Write Speed: 1700 MB/s
  • Sustained Speeds: Maintained above 1500 MB/s during extended transfers

Is It Fast Enough?

For most professional applications, such as 4K video editing, large file transfers, and data backups, the Sandisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD delivers speeds that significantly reduce wait times. Its performance over Thunderbolt 3 exceeds the requirements for high-resolution video workflows, making it a top choice for content creators.

However, users relying solely on USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 may experience slightly lower speeds, though still impressive at around 1000-1500 MB/s. For everyday tasks like document storage and moderate file transfers, the device’s speed is more than sufficient.

Conclusion

The Sandisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD lives up to its claims of high transfer speeds, especially when connected via Thunderbolt 3. Its ability to sustain high speeds during prolonged transfers makes it suitable for demanding professional workflows. For users seeking a fast, durable, and reliable portable SSD, the Extreme Pro is an excellent investment.