Samsung T9 4TB Portable SSD: features, specs and who it suits

The Samsung T9 is a pocket-sized external solid state drive, and this model (MU-PG4T0B/AM) holds 4TB. It connects over USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 and is rated at sequential read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s. It is aimed at people moving large files, such as video editors, photographers, gamers and students.

What USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 means

USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 is a connection standard that runs at up to 20Gbps, double the 10Gbps of USB 3.2 Gen 2. That extra bandwidth is what lets the drive reach about 2,000MB/s.

There is a catch, and Samsung spells it out. To reach the top speeds, the host device and the cable must both support Gen 2x2, and UASP mode must be enabled. Many computers have only Gen 2 or slower ports, and then the drive works but at lower speeds. Check your port, and use the cable that is recommended for the drive.

Speed in practice

Samsung quotes speeds up to 2,000MB/s for both reading and writing, measured on a desktop test system running Windows 11. The brand says performance varies with the host. Because the drive is rated for sustained speeds, it should hold up better during long transfers, such as copying a whole project folder.

Heat control

Samsung calls its approach Dynamic Thermal Guard. The brand says the drive's skin temperature stays below 140°F under controlled test conditions, in line with the IEC 62368-1 standard. Fast SSDs generate heat during long transfers, and thermal control typically limits slowdowns.

Compatibility

The listing says the T9 works with desktops, cameras and gaming consoles, though host compatibility varies. It also mentions iPhone 15 Pro support for recording 4K video at 60fps, with the included SSD cable recommended. Check the support notes for your own device and which format it needs.

Software and security

Samsung Magician software handles firmware updates, drive health monitoring and extra encryption. As with any drive, keep a second copy of anything important.

Size

The drive measures about 3.5 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches (8.9 x 6.1 x 1.5 cm) and weighs about 0.3 lb (roughly 135g), small enough for a bag or pocket.

Who it suits

It suits video editors and photographers carrying large projects, gamers expanding console or PC storage, and anyone who wants a large portable archive. If your computer only has older USB ports, you may not need Gen 2x2 speed.

What to check before you buy

• Your port: confirm whether it supports USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 or only slower speeds.
• Cable: use a cable rated for the speed you want.
• Console and phone: check the format and compatibility for your device.
• Capacity: 4TB is counted as four trillion bytes, so usable space is slightly lower.
• Backups: keep important files in a second place.
• Model: confirm MU-PG4T0B/AM and the colour.

The short version

• A 4TB portable SSD with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2.
• Sequential speeds rated up to 2,000MB/s when host and cable support it.
• Thermal protection, Magician software and encryption options.
• Pocket-sized at about 0.3 lb.

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