Samsung has launched the latest drive in its T-Series of portable SSDs. The headline feature of the new Samsung T9 is transfer speeds which are around two times faster than the previous model T7. The T9 is available in capacities of 1 TB, 2 TB and 4 TB.
Fast read/write speeds
The Samsung T9 portable SSD features a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface. This delivers maximum sequential read/write speeds of 2,000 megabytes per second (MB/s) for the 4 TB model. The 1 TB and 2 TB versions also have the same read speed but a slightly lower maximum sequential write speed at 1,950 MB/s. Samsung says that these fast speeds mean that the T9 will transfer a 4 GB Full HD video in nearly two seconds.
Build
As with previous drives in the T-series, the Samsung T9 is tiny. It measures only 3.46 inches (88 mm) by 2.36 inches (60 mm) by 0.55 inches (14 mm). It’s also light, weighing only 4.3 ounces (122 g). Samsung describes the design of the T9 as “luxury added to ruggedness.” The body features curved diagonal lines and reverse carbon patterns which the company says gives the rubber a fabric-like feel, like a luxurious wallet.
Other features
The Samsung T9 uses the Samsung Dynamic Thermal Guard to minimize the performance drops that can be caused by overheating. The new drive is also designed in compliance with the international safety standard IEC 62368-1. In addition, Samsung says that the T9 is drop resistant to 9.8 feet (3 m). However, damage caused by dropping is not covered under the drive’s five-year warranty.
Samsung Magician Software
You can manage your T9 SSD with the Samsung Magician Software 8.0. This gives you features such as performance benchmark, security functions, firmware updates and real-time health status check. The software also deals with firmware updates. In addition, all Samsung software, such as data migration, PSSD software and its card authentication tool, are now integrated to Magician 8.0. The software supports Windows, Mac and Android operating systems.
What we think
The Samsung T-series of portable SSDs have always been popular with video makers due to their small form factor and fast transfer speeds. They are great for use as recording media with compatible cameras like those from Blackmagic Design, as well as for downloading footage after a shoot. In addition, the transfer speeds means that you can edit straight from the drives. With the fast 2,000 MB/s speeds of the T9, even editing 4K or higher video should be possible.
Pricing and availability
The Samsung T9 portable SSD is available now. The drive is priced at $139 for the 1 TB model, $239 for the 2 TB and $439 for the 4 TB capacity drive. The T9 also comes with USB Type C-to-C and USB Type C-to-A cables.
