Home MobileAndroid Kingston’s tiny new external SSD is quick and budget-friendly [Review] ★★★★½

Kingston’s tiny new external SSD is quick and budget-friendly [Review] ★★★★½

by Kyle Meranda

The Kingston XS1000 External SSD is a game-changer for those who need extra storage space for their devices. With a compact size and impressive storage capacity, this external solid-state drive offers convenience and value at an affordable price.

One of the main advantages of the XS1000 is its size. Measuring just 2.75 inches by 1.3 inches by 0.5 inches, this SSD is incredibly portable and easily fits in your pocket or bag. Despite its petite dimensions, it can hold up to 2 terabytes of data, making it an ideal choice for those who need to store large files or backups.

Setting up the XS1000 is effortless. Simply connect it to your device using the USB-C port and you’re ready to go. The USB 3.2 Gen 2 support ensures high-speed data transfers, allowing you to move files quickly and efficiently. In my own testing, I found that transferring a 1GB file took just two seconds, while a 10GB file took approximately 13 seconds. These speeds put the XS1000 at the top end of performance for consumer-grade external SSDs.

While the XS1000 does require a cable to connect, this is a minor inconvenience considering the benefits it provides. Additionally, it supports a range of operating systems, including macOS, iPadOS, iOS, Windows, Android, and Linux, making it compatible with a wide range of devices.

One downside to note is that the all-plastic exterior of the XS1000 may not feel as durable or premium as some other options on the market. However, given its affordable price point, this is a compromise that many will be willing to accept.

Speaking of price, the XS1000 offers excellent value for its capacity options. The 1TB version is priced at $64.99, while the 2TB version is available for $109.99. Considering the steep cost of internal storage upgrades from Apple, this external SSD provides a cost-effective solution.

For those who need even faster transfer speeds and additional features, Kingston also offers the XS2000. This SSD supports USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, allowing for data transfers at up to 2,000 MB/s. While Macs currently do not support this standard, the XS2000 may still be an appealing option for Windows users. It also features a metal casing and includes the necessary USB-C cable for Mac compatibility.

Overall, the Kingston XS1000 External SSD is an impressive storage solution that offers both convenience and affordability. Its compact size, high-speed data transfers, and large storage capacity make it an ideal choice for upgrading your device’s storage or backing up important data. Whether you’re a student, professional, or casual user, the XS1000 is definitely worth considering.

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