Transcend ESD310 256GB External SSD, Up to 1,050MB/s, Dual USB Flash Drive for iPhone/iPad/Mac/Windows, Android/Tablet/PC, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Thumb Drive Photo Stick, 2-in-1 Type C &Type A Memory Stick
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AI Verdict
This 256GB USB 3.2 Gen 2 SSD delivers 1050MB/s read and 950MB/s write with dual USB-C/A ports for quick file transfers across devices.
The 1050MB/s read and 950MB/s write speeds with dual USB-C/A ports make it efficient for quick, smaller transfers across many devices. However, the 256GB capacity limits its utility for extensive media storage or professional video workflows.
If 256GB isn't enough, look for 1TB or larger capacities to handle extensive media or professional video workflows.
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Pros
- Achieves up to 1050MB/s read and 950MB/s write speeds, enabling fast data transfers.
- Features both USB-C and USB-A 3.2 ports, allowing direct connection to a wide range of devices.
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad, Android, PS5, Xbox, Steam Deck, and ROG Ally.
- Weighs only 0.02 lb and measures 2.81 × 0.79 × 0.31 inches, making it extremely portable.
- Includes Secure One-Time Password (OTP) protection via Transcend Elite software for data access.
Cons
- The 256GB capacity is quickly consumed by large files like 4K videos or game installations.
- Does not support iPhone ProRes video recording on the 256GB model; 1TB or higher is required for this feature.
- While compact, the small size increases the likelihood of misplacing the drive.
Dimension Scores
Achieves 1050MB/s read and 950MB/s write, which is near the top for USB 3.2 Gen 2 drives.
Features 3D NAND Technology and SLC cache, contributing to data integrity and performance.
256GB is enough for daily documents and some media, but quickly becomes insufficient for large game libraries or 4K video projects.
Offers both USB-C and USB-A connectors and is compatible with a wide array of operating systems and devices, including gaming consoles and mobile devices.
Best For
- Quickly transferring files between smartphones, tablets, and computers.
- Expanding storage for gaming consoles like Steam Deck or PS5 for faster game loading.
- Carrying essential documents and presentations for professionals on the move.
- Mobile content creators needing to offload photos or smaller video clips efficiently.
Not Recommended For
- Archiving extensive media libraries or large software installations.
- Professional iPhone ProRes video recording due to capacity limitations.
- Users requiring sustained, heavy write operations for hours without performance fluctuations.
Watch Out For
- iPhone ProRes recording is not supported on the 256GB model; this feature requires 1TB or larger capacities.
- The 256GB capacity can fill up rapidly when transferring high-resolution photos, 4K videos, or multiple large game files.
- Its tiny 2.81 × 0.79 × 0.31-inch form factor, while convenient, makes it easy to lose or forget in a device port.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0C3B18PKT |
| Item Weight | 0.16 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Transcend |
| Release date | May 31, 2023 |
| Type of item | Personal Computers |
| Item model number | TS256GESD310C |
| Product Dimensions | 2.81 x 0.79 x 2.81 inches; 0.16 ounces |
What Buyers Say
The dual USB-C and USB-A connectors are a recurring highlight, making it incredibly convenient for users with mixed device ecosystems. Many confirm the fast transfer speeds, noting how quickly files move. However, the 256GB capacity is a frequent point of discussion, with users finding it fills up rapidly, especially for media-intensive tasks like 4K video. The inability to record iPhone ProRes video on this specific capacity is a specific drawback mentioned by some.
“This little thing is so fast and having both USB-C and A built-in is a game changer for my phone and laptop, but man, 256GB fills up way too fast with my drone footage.”
Common Praise
- The integrated USB-C and USB-A connectors are extremely convenient for connecting to various devices.
- Users confirm the fast transfer speeds, making quick file transfers efficient.
- The compact size and light weight (0.02 lb) are frequently mentioned as ideal for portability.
- Broad compatibility with phones, tablets, and gaming consoles is a consistent positive point.
Common Complaints
- The 256GB capacity is insufficient for professional iPhone ProRes video recording, which requires 1TB or higher models.
- The drive's capacity fills up quickly with large media files or game installations.
- Its tiny size, while beneficial for portability, makes it easy to misplace.
Ownership Tips
- The small form factor means it can easily be forgotten when left plugged into a device or dropped into a bag.
- Actual usable capacity is slightly less than 256GB due to formatting and system files.
- The dual connector design eliminates the need for carrying extra adapters or cables for different devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Transcend ESD310 compatible with iPhones?
Yes, it's compatible with iPhones for file transfer via the Files app. However, the 256GB model does not support ProRes video recording; that feature requires 1TB or higher capacities.
What are the transfer speeds of this SSD?
It offers ultra-fast transfer speeds of up to 1050MB/s for reading and 950MB/s for writing.
Can I use this with my gaming console?
Yes, the ESD310 is compatible with gaming consoles like the Steam Deck, ROG Ally, PS5, and Xbox.
Is the drive pre-formatted for immediate use?
Yes, it comes pre-formatted as exFAT, allowing for seamless plug-and-play across multiple operating systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.
How small and light is this external SSD?
It is ultra-portable, weighing just 0.02 lb and measuring a tiny 2.81 × 0.79 × 0.31 inches.
Buying Guide
When looking at external SSDs, you need to think about how fast you need files to move, how much stuff you want to store, and what kind of ports your devices have. Don't just pick the cheapest; consider if the speed and capacity match what you'll actually use it for.
Read/Write Speed
This tells you how fast the drive can open files (read) and save files (write). Higher numbers mean less waiting, like a faster highway for your data. For moving big video files, you want high speeds.
Capacity
This is simply how much data the drive can hold, like the size of a storage box. 256GB is small for a lot of videos or games, but plenty for documents and photos.
Interface (USB 3.2 Gen 2)
This is the type of connection the drive uses and how fast that connection can be. USB 3.2 Gen 2 is a fast connection, like a two-lane highway, but some newer connections like Thunderbolt are even faster, like a four-lane highway.
Alternatives
If this capacity is too small, search for external SSDs with 1TB or 2TB storage. If you need even faster speeds for professional video editing, look for drives with Thunderbolt connectivity.
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