Samsung T7 & Crucial X9 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Samsung T7 rather than the Crucial X9.
Why Do I Recommend The Samsung T7?
- The Samsung T7 comes with AES-256 hardware encryption for secure password protection and data privacy, whereas the Crucial X9 has no built-in encryption and relies only on software-level security.
- Samsung T7 includes both USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A cables for direct compatibility with modern and legacy devices, while the Crucial X9 comes with only a USB-C to USB-C cable.
- It features sequential read and write speeds of up to 1,050 MB/s and 1,000 MB/s for predictable performance during large transfers, whereas the Crucial X9 lists only up to 1,050 MB/s read without a clear sustained write speed specification.
- The Samsung T7 has a slimmer 8 mm aluminum unibody for a premium feel and better heat dissipation, while the Crucial X9 uses a thicker 10 mm polycarbonate shell with less efficient thermal handling.
- Samsung T7 supports Samsung Magician and Portable SSD software for firmware updates, performance monitoring, and drive security, whereas the Crucial X9 lacks a dedicated management utility.
- It uses a proven NVMe-to-USB bridge design with consistent sustained throughput under heavy loads, whereas the Crucial X9 relies on a USB flash drive controller design.
Maybe the Crucial X9 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Samsung T7. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Samsung T7 | Crucial X9 |
| Body Material | Aluminum unibody | Aluminum alloy with rubberized back |
| Dimensions (mm) | 85 × 57 × 8 | 65 × 50 × 10 |
| Weight | 58 g | 38 g |
| Hardware Encryption | Yes | No |
| Included Cables | USB‑C–C plus USB‑C–A | USB‑C–C only |
| NAND Type | Samsung TLC | Micron TLC |
| Bridge/Controller | ASMedia ASM2362 | Silicon Motion SM2320 |
| Sustained Post‑Cache Write Speed | ~380–420 MB/s | Consistent, no drop |
| SLC Cache Size | ~40 GB | Very large, no performance dip |
| Form Factor | Slim slab | Miniature, ultra‑compact |
| Price | Check Samsung T7 Price | Check Crucial X9 Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) interface: Both drives use the same USB generation, meaning they deliver similar maximum interface throughput when plugged into a compatible port.
- High sequential read speeds (~1,050 MB/s): They offer comparable peak read performance—fast enough for large file transfers, backups, and working directly off the drive.
- Drop protection rated to 2 meters: Both are built ruggedly enough to survive accidental drops from typical handling heights, giving peace of mind in daily usage.
- IP55 dust and splash resistance: Ideal for on-the-go use, both SSDs can withstand light rain or dusty environments without immediate failure.
- TLC NAND flash: Each uses trusted TLC (triple-level cell) NAND technology—offering a balance of performance, capacity, and endurance.
- Metal (aluminum) casings: They both feature metal exteriors, which helps with durability and heat dissipation—even though the X9 adds a rubber backing for extra grip.
- Compact, portable sizes: Designed to slip into your pocket or attach to a bag, both are ultra-portable and travel-friendly.
- Shared capacity tiers (1 TB / 2 TB / 4 TB): They offer overlapping storage capacities—making it easier to compare or choose based on your storage need and budget.
- Multi-year warranties: Both come with significant manufacturer warranty periods—Samsung offers 3–5 years depending on the model; Crucial typically offers 5 years—giving users confidence in long-term reliability.
- From major, trusted brands: Samsung and Crucial (Micron) are highly reputable in storage—ensuring quality parts, firmware updates, and reliable customer service.
- Cross-platform compatibility: Both work smoothly across Windows, macOS, and Linux with standard formatting or reformatting—no proprietary drivers required.
- No moving parts (solid-state): This means enhanced durability, silent operation, and resistance to shocks compared to traditional spinning hard drives.
- Pocket-sized form factor: The compact design means they’re easy to carry—ideal for photographers, videographers, students, or anyone needing portable storage.
- Capable for 4K video workflow: Thanks to their interface and sustained throughput, both can handle high-bitrate video editing or transferring large media files without bottlenecks.
- USB-C native connector: They come with USB-C ports, enabling modern cable convenience and compatibility with newer laptops and devices—though Samsung typically includes both USB-C–C and C–A cables, while Crucial may include only C–C.
Common Features
| Feature | Samsung T7 | Crucial X9 |
| USB interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Sequential read speed | Up to ~1,050 MB/s | Up to ~1,050 MB/s |
| Drop protection | Up to 2 m | Up to 2 m |
| IP55 rating (dust/splash) | Yes | Yes |
| NAND type | TLC NAND | TLC NAND |
| Metal exterior | Yes | Yes |
| Portable form factor | Compact and pocket-able | Compact and pocket-able |
| Available in multiple capacities | 1 TB, 2 TB, 4 TB | 1 TB, 2 TB, 4 TB |
| Warranty period | 3–5 years | 5 years |
| Made by major reputable brand | Samsung | Crucial (Micron) |
| Universal OS compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Solid-state (no moving parts) | Yes | Yes |
| Similar physical size class | Pocket-sized SSD | Pocket-sized SSD |
| Fast enough for 4K video/edit | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C native connector | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Check Samsung T7 Price | Check Crucial X9 Price |
FAQ
What type of interface do the Samsung T7 and Crucial X9 use? Do both the Samsung T7 and Crucial X9 support fast read speeds? Are these drives durable against drops? Do Samsung T7 and Crucial X9 have water or dust resistance? What type of NAND flash do these SSDs use? Do these drives have metal construction? Are Samsung T7 and Crucial X9 lightweight and portable? What capacity options are available for these SSDs? Do these drives include long warranty coverage? Are Samsung and Crucial reliable brands for SSDs? Can these drives work on both Windows and macOS? Do they contain moving parts like traditional hard drives? Are these SSDs suitable for video editing workflows? Do the Samsung T7 and Crucial X9 use USB-C? Are these SSDs equally compact in size? |
