SanDisk Extreme PRO with USB4
USB4 Performance | Military-Grade Protection | Cross-Platform Compatibility
Introduction
The SanDisk Extreme PRO with USB4 Portable SSD represents a significant advancement in portable storage technology, leveraging USB4's capabilities to meet demanding professional workflows. As one of the first USB4-compatible portable SSDs on the market, this device targets content creators, video editors, and power users requiring high-speed data transfers and rugged reliability. Its introduction in 2025 positions it as a next-generation solution for handling large 4K/8K video files, 3D rendering projects, and real-time collaborative work.
Product Overview
Engineered for portability and performance, the SanDisk Extreme PRO with USB4 combines a forged aluminum chassis with a shock-absorbent silicone shell. Available in 2TB and 4TB capacities, it supports USB4 Gen 3x2 (40Gb/s) connectivity while maintaining backward compatibility with USB 3.2/2.0 and Thunderbolt™ 4. The drive’s compact dimensions (140 x 68.7 x 11.9 mm) and lightweight design (172g) make it ideal for field use in photography, videography, and mobile gaming scenarios.
Key Features
USB4 Performance
With sequential read/write speeds up to 3,800/3,700 MB/s, the SSD reduces 4K video transfer times by 60% compared to previous USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 solutions. The USB4 interface enables full duplex operation, allowing simultaneous read/write processes for live editing workflows.
Military-Grade Protection
The triple-layer construction features:
IP65-rated water/dust resistance
2-meter drop protection
Operational temperature range: -20°C to 85°C
This durability makes it suitable for outdoor use in extreme environments, from desert shoots to arctic expeditions.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Unlike many USB4 devices, this SSD natively supports:
PlayStation 5 expandable storage (after formatting)
Xbox Series X/S media playback
Windows DirectStorage API
macOS 14+ APFS encryption
Performance Analysis
Sequential Speeds
Independent testing shows consistent 3,600–3,780 MB/s reads and 3,550–3,680 MB/s writes across 50GB–200GB file transfers. The sustained write performance remains stable due to dynamic SLC caching that automatically adjusts based on workload demands.
Random Performance
While optimized for large sequential operations, the SSD delivers:
120,000 IOPS (4K random read)
90,000 IOPS (4K random write)
This enables smooth operation of virtual machines and database applications when used as bootable storage.
Thermal Management
The aluminum chassis acts as a heat spreader, maintaining surface temperatures below 45°C during sustained writes. Passive cooling eliminates thermal throttling issues common in smaller portable SSDs.
Compatibility
PlayStation 5
Compatible as extended storage after exFAT formatting. Achieves 3,200 MB/s read speeds through the PS5's USB4 port, enabling instant game resume functionality.
Xbox Series X/S
Supports media playback and game backups. Not usable as primary storage due to Microsoft's proprietary expansion card requirement.
Steam Deck and Handheld PCs
Delivers full USB4 speeds on Steam Deck OLED models. Enables native Windows game installations with loading times comparable to internal NVMe drives.
Desktops and Laptops
Works with all USB-C hosts supporting USB4 or Thunderbolt 4. Includes bundled 40Gb/s USB-C to USB-C cable with 90-degree connectors for improved ergonomics.
Advantages and Limitations
Strengths
Future-Proof Connectivity: USB4 ensures compatibility with emerging PCIe 5.0 hosts
Professional Endurance: 1,200 TBW rating (4TB model) exceeds typical portable SSD specifications
Constraints
Power Requirements: Requires 9V/3A power delivery for peak performance
Capacity Scaling: 4TB model shows 12% lower write speeds compared to 2TB variant
Conclusion
The SanDisk Extreme PRO with USB4 sets a new benchmark for professional portable storage, particularly benefiting video professionals working with RED Komodo or ARRI Alexa footage. While priced 25–30% higher than USB 3.2 competitors, its combination of USB4 speeds and military-grade durability justifies the premium for field-based workflows. Recommended for DITs, 8K videographers, and game developers requiring rapid asset iteration.
Works Cited
SanDisk. "Extreme PRO USB4 Portable SSD Product Specifications." SanDisk Official Store, shop.sandisk.com/products/ssd/portable-ssd/sandisk-extreme-pro-usb-4-portable-ssd.
"USB4 Storage Performance Benchmarking." Tom's Hardware, www.tomshardware.com/reviews/sandisk-extreme-pro-v2-portable-ssd-review/2.
Western Digital. "Next-Gen Portable Storage Solutions." YouTube, 21 Nov. 2024, www.youtube.com/watch?v=QS4sesXFxNo.
