Samsung T7 2TB Portable SSD: USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds, durability and fit

The Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a small external drive for storing, moving and editing large files. The 2TB model, MU-PC2T0T, connects over USB 3.2 Gen 2 and uses NVMe technology internally, and Samsung rates it at read and write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000MB/s. It comes in a grey aluminum case.

Speed and what it depends on

Samsung says the T7's PCIe NVMe technology makes it almost twice as fast as the T5, its earlier portable model. The top speeds are conditional: Samsung states that the host device and the cable must support USB 3.2 Gen 2, and that UASP mode must be enabled. Performance also varies with the host configuration.

USB 3.2 Gen 2 is a 10Gbps standard. A computer with a slower port will still run the drive, but at that port's limit. In general, a faster external SSD helps most when you copy large files or edit video straight from the drive.

Capacity

The 2TB size gives plenty of room for large photo libraries, video projects, game files and backups. Samsung says the T7 range goes up to 4TB. As with all drives, the capacity is counted in decimal terms, so the space your operating system shows will be a little lower.

Recording 4K video

Samsung says you can record Ultra High Resolution 4K 60fps video directly onto the T7 with your camera or mobile device. It also says the drive supports iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video and more, and recommends using the included SSD cable. Check your own device's support, because compatibility depends on the host.

Built to travel

The case is a solid aluminum unibody. Samsung describes shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet, based on an internal free-fall test in controlled conditions. That is a brand test, not a guarantee against every kind of damage, so careful handling still matters.

The drive measures about 3.3 x 2.2 x 0.3 inches and weighs around 0.1 lb, so it slips into a pocket or camera bag. There are no moving parts, which is why SSDs typically cope better with movement than spinning hard drives.

Compatibility

Samsung presents the T7 as working with PCs and mobile phones, among other hosts, and notes that host compatibility may vary. In practice, check that your device offers a suitable USB port, and whether it needs an adapter, such as for a USB-C-only laptop or phone.

Who it suits

It suits photographers, video makers, students and professionals who need to carry large files between devices, as well as anyone wanting a backup drive that fits in a pocket. Samsung also mentions gamers who want extra storage.

What to check before you buy

• Ports: confirm your devices have USB ports, and whether you'll need a different cable or adapter.
• Speed needs: the full 1,050/1,000MB/s needs USB 3.2 Gen 2 support and UASP.
• Capacity: decide whether 2TB covers your projects or whether you need more.
• Backups: an SSD holds only one copy, so keep another backup of important files.
• Care: treat the drive gently, and follow the maker's guidance on use and storage.

The short version

• Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 2TB, model MU-PC2T0T, in grey.
• Rated at up to 1,050/1,000MB/s read/write over USB 3.2 Gen 2.
• PCIe NVMe technology inside, aluminum unibody case.
• Samsung says it withstands falls of up to 6 feet in its internal test.
• Supports 4K 60fps video recording to the drive on compatible devices.

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