Crucial X9 vs Samsung T7 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

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

FeatureSamsung T7Crucial X9
Body MaterialAluminum unibodyAluminum alloy with rubberized back
Dimensions (mm)85 × 57 × 865 × 50 × 10
Weight58 g38 g
Hardware EncryptionYesNo
Included CablesUSB‑C–C plus USB‑C–AUSB‑C–C only
NAND TypeSamsung TLCMicron TLC
Bridge/ControllerASMedia ASM2362Silicon Motion SM2320
Sustained Post‑Cache Write Speed~380–420 MB/sConsistent, no drop
SLC Cache Size~40 GBVery large, no performance dip
Form FactorSlim slabMiniature, ultra‑compact
PriceCheck Samsung T7 PriceCheck 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

FeatureSamsung T7Crucial X9
USB interfaceUSB 3.2 Gen 2USB 3.2 Gen 2
Sequential read speedUp to ~1,050 MB/sUp to ~1,050 MB/s
Drop protectionUp to 2 mUp to 2 m
IP55 rating (dust/splash)YesYes
NAND typeTLC NANDTLC NAND
Metal exteriorYesYes
Portable form factorCompact and pocket-ableCompact and pocket-able
Available in multiple capacities1 TB, 2 TB, 4 TB1 TB, 2 TB, 4 TB
Warranty period3–5 years5 years
Made by major reputable brandSamsungCrucial (Micron)
Universal OS compatibilityYesYes
Solid-state (no moving parts)YesYes
Similar physical size classPocket-sized SSDPocket-sized SSD
Fast enough for 4K video/editYesYes
USB-C native connectorYesYes
Price Check Samsung T7 Price Check Crucial X9 Price

FAQ

What type of interface do the Samsung T7 and Crucial X9 use?
Both drives use USB 3.2 Gen 2 with a 10Gbps transfer rate, ensuring high-speed performance for large file transfers and direct media work.

Do both the Samsung T7 and Crucial X9 support fast read speeds?
Yes, both SSDs provide sequential read speeds of up to 1,050 MB/s, which is sufficient for heavy tasks such as 4K video editing or large dataset handling.

Are these drives durable against drops?
Both the Samsung T7 and Crucial X9 are rated to withstand drops from up to 2 meters, making them reliable for travel or outdoor use.

Do Samsung T7 and Crucial X9 have water or dust resistance?
Yes, both drives feature IP55 certification, which means they can handle light dust exposure and minor water splashes without issues.

What type of NAND flash do these SSDs use?
The Samsung T7 and Crucial X9 use TLC NAND flash, balancing speed, endurance, and storage capacity.

Do these drives have metal construction?
Both include aluminum in their construction, providing strength, durability, and some level of heat dissipation during heavy workloads.

Are Samsung T7 and Crucial X9 lightweight and portable?
Yes, both are pocket-sized, slim, and lightweight, making them easy to carry in a bag or even attach to a keychain or camera rig.

What capacity options are available for these SSDs?
Each model is sold in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB variants, covering a wide range of storage needs from personal backups to professional workflows.

Do these drives include long warranty coverage?
Both products provide multi-year warranties. Samsung typically includes 3 years, while Crucial often extends coverage up to 5 years, offering peace of mind for long-term use.

Are Samsung and Crucial reliable brands for SSDs?
Yes, Samsung and Crucial (Micron) are well-known leaders in memory and storage solutions, trusted for quality and consistent performance worldwide.

Can these drives work on both Windows and macOS?
Both drives are compatible with multiple operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux, though they may require reformatting for specific file systems.

Do they contain moving parts like traditional hard drives?
No, both are solid-state drives with no moving parts, meaning they are silent, shock-resistant, and more reliable than spinning HDDs.

Are these SSDs suitable for video editing workflows?
Yes, both can sustain performance levels that allow editing or playback of 4K and high-resolution video files without lag or bottlenecks.

Do the Samsung T7 and Crucial X9 use USB-C?
Yes, both drives feature a native USB-C connection, which works seamlessly with modern laptops, smartphones, and tablets.

Are these SSDs equally compact in size?
Both drives are highly portable and pocket-sized, though the Crucial X9 is slightly smaller and lighter, while the Samsung T7 is thinner with a premium unibody look.

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