This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, Snapnod may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Table of Contents
Having reliable, fast, and portable storage has become essential for professionals, gamers, and everyday users alike, in today's digital age. The BUFFALO External SSD emerges as a compelling option in the crowded storage market, offering an impressive blend of performance, portability, and versatility. After extensive research and analysis of user experiences, here's everything you need to know about this storage device.
First Impressions and Design
The BUFFALO External SSD immediately stands out with its stick-like form factor and retractable design. Weighing a mere 0.6 ounces and measuring just 2.7 x 0.9 x 0.4 inches, it's remarkably compact. The drive features a sleek black finish that gives it a professional appearance, though several users note that the plastic construction feels somewhat lightweight compared to more premium alternatives.
The retractable USB connector is a standout feature that eliminates the need for separate cables, making it an ideal companion for users on the move. However, this design choice has led to mixed reactions, with some users reporting that careful handling is necessary when connecting the drive to avoid connection issues.
Performance That Impresses
The BUFFALO External SSD boasts impressive specifications, with advertised speeds of up to 600 MB/s thanks to its USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface. Real-world performance largely lives up to these claims, particularly when using the USB-C connection. Users report excellent transfer speeds for large files, with one reviewer mentioning they “downloaded 500GB in less than 2 minutes.”
For professionals working with large datasets, high-resolution photos, or video files, this performance level can be a game-changer. A genealogy instructor praised the drive's ability to handle extensive research data, noting that the high-speed performance significantly reduced wait times during file transfers.
Versatility Across Platforms
One of the BUFFALO External SSD's strongest suits is its broad compatibility. The drive comes equipped with both USB-A and USB-C connectors, making it compatible with:
- Windows PCs
- Mac computers
- PlayStation 4 and 5 consoles
- Tablets
- Smartphones
This versatility is enhanced by the drive's ability to be formatted in exFAT mode, allowing seamless use between Windows and Mac systems. However, it's worth noting that while the drive can be used with PS5, it has limitations – you can store PS5 games but must transfer them back to the console's internal storage to play them.
Storage Options and Value
Available in multiple capacities (500GB, 1TB, and 2TB), the BUFFALO External SSD offers flexibility for different storage needs. The 1TB model, priced at $66.99 (down from $89.99), represents particularly good value for money, especially considering the performance specifications.
The actual usable storage space is slightly less than advertised (as is standard with all storage devices), with one user noting that the 2TB version provides about 1.81TB of usable space. This is typical for storage devices and shouldn't be considered a drawback.
Durability and Reliability
Despite its lightweight construction, the BUFFALO External SSD isn't lacking in durability. The drive has passed the U.S. MIL-STD 810G 516.6 procedure IV test, certifying it can survive drops from up to 4 feet. This military-grade drop protection provides peace of mind for users who need to transport their data frequently.
However, the build quality receives mixed reviews. While the drive's shock resistance is praised, several users express concerns about the plastic construction feeling somewhat fragile, particularly when operating the retractable mechanism.
Professional Use Cases
The drive has found particular favor among specific professional groups:
Content Creators
The high transfer speeds and portable form factor make it ideal for moving large media files between workstations or storing project files.
Educators
As highlighted by one reviewer teaching genealogy, the drive excels in educational settings where reliable storage and quick access to large datasets are crucial.
Business Professionals
The combination of portability and performance makes it perfect for professionals who need to carry important documents and presentations between locations.
Gaming Performance
For gamers, the BUFFALO External SSD offers an interesting proposition. While it works well for storing PS4 games and playing them directly from the drive, the PS5 compatibility comes with caveats. The drive can store PS5 games, but they need to be transferred back to the console's internal storage for playing. This limitation isn't unique to this drive but rather a constraint of the PS5 system itself.
Common Concerns and Solutions
Connection Issues
Some users report connectivity problems, particularly when inserting the drive. The solution appears to be ensuring the drive is fully seated before it attempts to establish a connection. Taking an extra moment to carefully insert the drive can prevent most connection issues.
Build Quality
While the plastic construction has raised durability concerns, users who treat the drive with reasonable care report no issues. For those particularly concerned about durability, several reviewers recommend using a protective case when traveling.
Speed Variations
Write speeds can vary significantly depending on the connection type used. The USB-C connection generally provides the best performance, with some users reporting speeds exceeding the advertised 600 MB/s.
Technical Support and Warranty
BUFFALO backs the drive with a three-year warranty for registered devices (two years if unregistered), providing good long-term protection for your investment. The company also offers firmware updates through their website, which can improve performance and compatibility.
Final Verdict
The BUFFALO External SSD successfully balances performance, portability, and price, making it a compelling option for users needing reliable external storage. While the plastic construction might not feel as premium as some competitors, the drive's performance, versatility, and military-grade drop protection more than make up for this minor shortcoming.
Pros:
- Excellent transfer speeds, especially via USB-C
- Highly portable and cable-free design
- Broad device compatibility
- Military-grade drop protection
- Competitive pricing
- Generous warranty period
Cons:
- Plastic construction feels somewhat fragile
- Connection issues require careful handling
- PS5 game storage limitations (though this applies to all external drives)
Recommendation
The BUFFALO External SSD is particularly well-suited for users who prioritize portability and performance over premium build quality. It's an excellent choice for:
- Students and professionals who frequently transport data
- Content creators working with large media files
- Gamers looking to expand their console storage
- Anyone needing reliable, high-speed backup storage
At its current price point, especially with frequent discounts, the BUFFALO External SSD offers excellent value for money. While there are more premium options available, few match its combination of performance, portability, and price.
