WD My Passport SSD 500GB Portable External SSD
Best portable storage for mobile professionals needing fast, secure file access.
Experience blazing-fast data transfers and robust security with the WD My Passport SSD. This portable external SSD boasts up to 1050MB/s read speeds and 1000MB/s write speeds, making large file transfers a breeze. Keep your sensitive information safe with password-enabled 256-bit AES hardware encryption. Its compact, durable design makes it ideal for on-the-go professionals and creatives. Compatible with both PCs and laptops, it utilizes the USB 3.2 Gen 2 specification for seamless connectivity. This 2020 model offers reliable performance and peace of mind for your digital life.
$313.56
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
368
/ 2789
#368 in Hard Drives
Price vs Category Average
-41%
Below average
Read Speed
1050
/ MB/s
Who it's for
- Content creators needing rapid file transfers and backups
- Frequent travelers requiring a durable, pocket-sized storage solution
- Privacy-conscious professionals protecting sensitive business or personal data
Who should skip it
- Budget-focused shoppers prioritizing storage capacity over speed
- Power users demanding maximum performance from Thunderbolt-enabled workstations
- Desktop users needing extra reach for their cable connections
Performance breakdown
Transfer Velocity
Rapid read and write speeds handle large file transfers with ease.
Data Security
Hardware-level encryption provides robust protection for your sensitive digital assets.
Portability
Compact, lightweight frame slips effortlessly into any laptop bag or pocket.
Build Durability
Sturdy construction withstands the rigors of frequent travel and daily use.
Connectivity
USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface ensures modern, high-speed compatibility across devices.
Storage Efficiency
The 500GB capacity is perfect for essential files but fills quickly.
Key Specs
Read Speed
1050MB/s
Write Speed
1000MB/s
Storage Capacity
500 GB
Drive Type
SSD
Interface Type
USB 3.2
USB Specification
USB 3.2 Gen 2
Hardware Encryption Supported
true
Enclosure Type
Portable
Features
- Blazing-fast data transfer speeds
- Secure your data with hardware encryption
- Compact and durable portable design
- Up to 1050MB/s read speed
- Up to 1000MB/s write speed
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity
- Password protection for security
- Reliable performance for everyday use
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the WD My Passport SSD for its exceptional speed and highly portable design. The NVMe performance significantly reduces file transfer times, making it excellent for professionals managing large media and for gamers needing fast external storage. Its compact, palm-sized form factor and reputation for shock resistance assure users their data is secure while traveling. Setup is universally described as effortless plug and play across different systems. While it represents a premium investment over traditional drives, reviewers agree the performance gains and reliability justify the cost, offering excellent value for those prioritizing speed and data security. The overall consensus confirms this SSD is a top-tier, reliable storage solution.
Know before you buy
This drive supports read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write speeds up to 1000MB/s. Keep in mind that your actual performance may vary depending on your computer's hardware, the file size, and the type of USB port you are using.
Yes, the WD My Passport SSD is compatible with both PCs and laptops. You may need to reformat the drive depending on your specific operating system requirements for file compatibility.
The drive features built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption. You can set a password using the included WD software, which ensures that your files remain inaccessible to others even if the drive is lost or stolen.
To achieve the maximum 1050MB/s speeds, you should connect the drive to a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port. While it is backward compatible with older USB ports, using an older standard will significantly limit your data transfer rates.
Yes, it is designed with a compact, durable enclosure specifically for portability. It is built to withstand the rigors of daily travel, making it a reliable choice for professionals and creatives on the move.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.