PNY Pro Elite V2 1TB USB-C Portable SSD: features, specs and who it suits

The PNY Pro Elite V2 is a portable external solid-state drive that connects over USB-C. It's meant for carrying files between computers, backing up photos and documents, or adding storage to a laptop or tablet. This version holds 1TB, and PNY also lists a 500GB model.

What USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 means

USB naming is confusing, but "Gen 2x1" refers to a single lane running at 10Gbit/s, the same speed once sold as USB 3.1 Gen 2. PNY rates the Pro Elite V2 at up to 1,100MB/s reads and 1,000MB/s writes. Those figures are well above what a typical USB flash drive or a traditional external hard drive manages, which PNY says makes it a step up from earlier USB-A portable SSDs and older flash drives.

To get those speeds you need a port that supports 10Gbit/s on the computer end. On a slower USB port the drive generally still works, but at a lower speed.

Cables and compatibility

PNY says the drive works with USB Type-C and Type-A equipped PC and Mac computers, as well as Type-C and Type-A tablets, via the cables included in the box. Cables for both connector types mean you can use it with a recent laptop or an older desktop without buying an adapter. Phones are not mentioned in the listing, so check your device if that is your plan.

Before using it with a Mac or a PC, check how the drive is formatted. Some file systems are readable on only one operating system, and you can reformat it to suit, after copying anything you want to keep.

Build and portability

The housing is aluminum, which PNY describes as sleek and durable. Metal enclosures also help spread heat away from the drive during long transfers. The drive is small enough for a bag or a pocket, and the lack of moving parts means that, unlike a spinning hard drive, it doesn't have a platter that can be damaged by a bump.

Software, warranty and support

PNY includes Acronis True Image data protection software for backups. PNY also lists a 3-year limited warranty (or a TBW limit, which is a rated amount of total data written) and technical support based in the US. Check the terms for exactly what applies.

Who it suits

It suits people who regularly move large files, such as photographers, video editors, students and anyone keeping a portable backup. PNY also positions it for gamers who want additional storage for game libraries on a computer. It's less suited to someone who only needs to carry a few small documents, where a basic flash drive would do.

What to check before you buy

• Ports: check that your computer has a USB-C or USB-A port, and whether it supports 10Gbit/s speeds.
• Capacity: this page covers the 1TB model, so confirm that is the size you want.
• File system: make sure the format works with your devices, or plan to reformat.
• Backups: one portable drive is one copy. Keep important files somewhere else too.
• Software: the included backup program is optional. Check what you need.

The short version

• A 1TB portable SSD with a USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 Type-C connection.
• Rated at up to 1,100MB/s reads and 1,000MB/s writes.
• Includes cables for both Type-C and Type-A ports.
• Aluminum housing, with Acronis True Image software included.
• 3-year limited warranty, with support from PNY.

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