Sandisk has just launched the third generation Extreme Portable SSD. It offers 2,000 MB/s data transfers, drop protection and more. The capacity reaches up to 4 TB.
The drive will be joined later in 2026 by two more additions to the SSD lineup – one with even faster data transfer speeds and another expected to be more affordable.
Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD (V3): Better, Stronger, Faster
Built-in storage is amazingly convenient, but it’s also the most expensive option. An external SSD can add terabytes of capacity to your Mac without breaking the bank. Of course, the external drive must be fast and robust.
The new Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD (V3) is “built for anyone who needs fast, reliable storage to back up large projects, clean up space on their device, or keep content organized across devices,” promises its developer. This includes creatives, photo and video enthusiasts, and professionals working with larger files.
The drive can transfer files at speeds of up to 2,000 MB/s compared to the 1,050 MB/s offered by the previous generation. Storage capacities range from 512 GB to 2 TB.
Because the accessory connects via USB-C, it can be easily used with a Mac, iPad or iPhone. Transferring files between these computers is fast and secure.
Portability is clearly a priority. The latest version of the SSD measures 3.35 inches by 2.0 inches by 0.39 inches. The mother weighs 0.1 kilo.
And so is survivability. The Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD (V3) can withstand a fall from a height of up to 3 meters. And it boasts IP65 water and dust resistance, meaning it can withstand rain but not be submerged. Users will be able to secure files with 256-BIT AES encryption and password protection.
Please note that published reports indicate that the previous generation of this SSD has a high failure rate.
Available today?
Sandisk says the Extreme Portable SSD (V3) is “available now,” but at the time of writing, it’s listed on the company’s website with a “notify me” message instead of “buy now.”
When it actually goes on sale, the 1TB version will cost $259.99, the 2TB version will come in at $459.99, and the 2TB version will cost $919.99.
Another Sandisk portable SSD on the way
Image: Sandisk
Sandisk is also working on an Extreme Pro Portable SSD (V3) aimed at professional photographers, filmmakers and designers. When launched in the second half of 2026, it will offer transfer speeds of up to 4,000 MB/s (double that of the non-Pro version) and capacities of up to 8 TB. The price has not yet been announced.
And to this will be added the Sandisk Portable SSD (V3), a variant for students and general office and home file storage. It will support USB 3.2 Gen 2, so data transfers reach a maximum speed of 1000 MB/s. Prices for the 500GB, 1TB and 2TB versions have yet to be announced, but are expected to be lower than other models in this new product line when it launches in the second half of the year.
Ed Hardy He has been writing about the technique full-time for 25 years and has been using it for much longer. His intro to Apple was a Macintosh Classic II (which he still has), but he now uses a 13-inch iPad Pro as his primary computer. It is written for NotebookReview, TabletPCReview, and Brighthandas well as other sites.