Corsair EX400U 2TB USB4 Portable SSD

Corsair EX400U 2TB USB4 Portable SSD — image 1
Corsair EX400U 2TB USB4 Portable SSD — image 2
Corsair EX400U 2TB USB4 Portable SSD — image 3
Corsair EX400U 2TB USB4 Portable SSD — image 4
Corsair EX400U 2TB USB4 Portable SSD — image 5
Corsair EX400U 2TB USB4 Portable SSD — image 6
Corsair EX400U 2TB USB4 Portable SSD — image 7
85%
94%
Performance
89%
Portability/Size/Weight
90%
Compatibility/Connectivity
87%
Value for Money
65%
Thermals
92%
Setup/Installation
88%
Build Quality/Durability
93%
Read/Write Speeds
86%
Design/Ergonomics
75%
Customer Support/Warranty
80%
Long-Term Value/Price Stability
More

Overview

The Corsair EX400U 2TB USB4 Portable SSD offers a high-performance, compact storage solution. With USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, this external drive enables lightning-fast file transfers, making it ideal for professionals on the move. Its plug-and-play setup ensures seamless compatibility with both PC and Mac systems, allowing for quick setup with no software required. Weighing just 3.25 ounces and featuring a sleek, portable design, this drive is built for high-speed performance without compromising on mobility.

Features & Benefits

The Corsair EX400U provides impressive read speeds up to 4,000MB/s and write speeds of 3,600MB/s, which significantly enhances data handling, especially when dealing with large media files. Its USB Type-C interface ensures wide compatibility across various devices, and the lightweight design makes it perfect for travel. Thanks to its durable build, it can withstand everyday wear while keeping your data safe. Whether you’re editing videos or transferring multiple large files, this external drive offers reliable, high-speed performance in a compact form.

Best For

This portable SSD is ideal for photographers and videographers who need to transfer large media files quickly. Creative professionals working with high-resolution video or images will appreciate the fast data speeds for seamless workflows. Users who prioritize portability will find the lightweight, compact design appealing, as it’s easy to carry between jobs or on trips. Whether you need extra storage for your laptop or a quick solution for high-speed data transfer, this external drive meets those needs with ease.

User Feedback

Users have praised the Corsair EX400U for its rapid transfer speeds, particularly for moving large files in video and photo editing tasks. The compact design and portability are often highlighted, with many users finding it convenient for travel. However, some reports note occasional overheating during intensive use, particularly when transferring large amounts of data for extended periods. Despite this, most reviewers are satisfied with the drive’s performance and its overall value, recommending it for users who need a reliable and fast external storage solution.

#External Solid State Drives
#Data Storage
#Computers & Accessories
#Electronics

Pros

  • Fast read speeds of up to 4,000MB/s make this device ideal for professionals working with large media files.
  • Compact and lightweight design ensures easy portability for users on the go.
  • Plug-and-play functionality with both PC and Mac makes setup hassle-free.
  • Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 support ensures high-speed data transfer across a wide range of devices.
  • Durable build quality stands up to everyday use, making it suitable for both home and fieldwork.
  • With a 2TB capacity, this external drive provides ample storage for photographers and videographers with high-resolution files.

Cons

  • Some users report occasional overheating when transferring large files over extended periods.
  • Higher price point may be a concern for those on a budget, especially if they don’t need maximum speeds.
  • Does not perform optimally with older devices lacking USB4 or Thunderbolt 4 compatibility.
  • Small size, while portable, may be easy to lose or misplace during travel.
  • A few users found the 2TB capacity insufficient for long-term, heavy storage needs in a professional setting.
  • While generally easy to use, those unfamiliar with high-speed external drives might find setup confusing at first.

Ratings

The Corsair EX400U 2TB USB4 Portable SSD has garnered feedback from users worldwide across various platforms and languages. After filtering out low-quality and spammy reviews, the scores reflect genuine insights into this external storage device. While users generally praise its high-speed performance and portability, some concerns have been raised about occasional overheating during intense use. Below, we present a comprehensive breakdown of its strengths and areas for improvement based on authentic user experiences and ratings from multiple sources.

Performance
94%
Many users are impressed by the high-speed performance of this external drive. With sequential read speeds of up to 4,000MB/s and write speeds up to 3,600MB/s, it excels in fast data transfer, especially when working with large files. Media professionals, in particular, benefit from the smooth and efficient workflow it enables.
A few users have expressed concerns about performance drops under heavy or prolonged use. While most experiences are positive, some report that extended transfers can cause the drive to slow down slightly, particularly when dealing with very large file sizes or multiple tasks at once.
Portability/Size/Weight
89%
The compact design of this portable SSD is one of its standout features. Weighing just 3.25 ounces and measuring 2.53 x 2.52 x 0.47 inches, it's easy to carry around in a bag or even a pocket, making it ideal for users who need on-the-go storage. Its slim profile and lightweight nature make it a perfect fit for travelers.
While the size is generally appreciated, some users mention that the compact form can lead to higher temperatures during use. When transferring large amounts of data, the smaller surface area may not dissipate heat as efficiently as larger devices, leading to occasional overheating concerns.
Compatibility/Connectivity
90%
This external drive offers excellent compatibility across multiple devices, thanks to its support for USB4, Thunderbolt 4, and USB Type-C interfaces. Users find it easy to connect to both Windows and macOS systems, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Whether using a laptop, desktop, or even some mobile devices, the broad connectivity options make it versatile.
A small number of users have encountered issues with connection stability when using certain USB hubs or older systems. Although it's generally reliable, some older devices or non-USB4/Thunderbolt systems may experience slower speeds or occasional disconnections during use.
Value for Money
87%
Many buyers feel that the performance and portability offered by this device justify its price. The fast data transfer speeds and durable design make it an excellent value for professionals who require reliable external storage. For its features, it’s seen as a good investment for both personal and professional use.
However, a few users believe the price is on the higher side compared to other external SSDs with similar capacities. While they acknowledge the superior speed and build quality, some feel that alternative options offer similar performance at a more affordable price point.
Thermals
65%
35%
While the drive generally works well for most tasks, some users find it performs adequately even under moderate heat. For short or routine file transfers, it's manageable, and many don’t face any thermal-related issues.
Several users have pointed out that the device can overheat during extended or heavy data transfers. The smaller size may limit its ability to dissipate heat effectively, and under prolonged use, it may lead to noticeable throttling or performance slowdowns.
Setup/Installation
92%
One of the most praised aspects of this drive is its plug-and-play functionality. Users appreciate the ease of setup, with no need for additional software or drivers on both PC and Mac systems. It's simple to start using right out of the box, making it an excellent choice for users who want a hassle-free storage solution.
There are very few complaints in this area, but a small number of users have mentioned that the initial setup can sometimes require manual intervention on older macOS versions. However, these issues are generally rare and don't impact most users.
Build Quality/Durability
88%
The build quality of this external SSD is solid and designed for portability. It's made from durable materials that resist wear and tear, making it a great choice for frequent travelers or those who need a tough external drive for everyday use.
Some users have raised concerns about the lack of ruggedness compared to other drives in its class. While it's durable enough for regular use, a few users note that it might not withstand extreme conditions like drops or heavy impacts, especially in more rugged environments.
Read/Write Speeds
93%
The impressive read and write speeds make this portable SSD highly effective for data-intensive tasks. Whether you're transferring large video files or running data-heavy applications directly from the drive, it performs exceptionally well, helping to streamline workflows and reduce downtime.
A handful of users have mentioned that the performance can dip slightly on older devices that don't fully support USB4 or Thunderbolt 4 speeds. In these cases, the speeds are still good, but not as fast as they would be on supported systems.
Design/Ergonomics
86%
The design of this external SSD is sleek and minimalist, which many users appreciate. Its small, compact form makes it easy to handle and carry around, while its understated appearance blends seamlessly with various devices, from laptops to desktops.
While the design is generally praised, a few users feel that the lack of additional grip or texture makes the drive a little slippery to handle. Some have mentioned that it can easily slide off smooth surfaces, though this is a minor inconvenience.
Customer Support/Warranty
75%
25%
Corsair offers decent customer support, and users generally report prompt responses to inquiries. The drive is also backed by a limited warranty, providing peace of mind for those concerned about long-term reliability.
Some users have reported slower-than-expected response times from customer support, especially when dealing with warranty claims or technical issues. While the warranty is solid, the overall support experience can vary, with a few users expressing frustration with the wait times.
Long-Term Value/Price Stability
80%
20%
Many buyers consider this drive a good long-term investment, given its high-speed performance and durability. It offers excellent reliability for regular use over time, and users generally expect it to continue performing well for years to come.
A few users have questioned the price stability, as some feel that similar drives with comparable specs may drop in price faster. While the current price seems justified by the features, some wonder if better deals will become available in the future.

Suitable for:

The Corsair EX400U 2TB USB4 Portable SSD is a great option for professionals in fields like photography and videography who require fast file transfers and high storage capacity. Its read speeds of up to 4,000MB/s and write speeds of 3,600MB/s make it perfect for handling large media files, ensuring smooth workflows. Creative professionals working with high-resolution content or large datasets will appreciate the device's excellent compatibility with both PC and Mac systems, as well as its portability for on-the-go use. Its lightweight and durable design also makes it a top choice for anyone who prioritizes ease of transport while maintaining speed and reliability in storage solutions.

Not suitable for:

This portable SSD may not be the best fit for users on a tight budget or those looking for a more affordable external storage option. While its fast data transfer speeds and build quality are impressive, the price point might be higher than some budget-conscious consumers are willing to pay, especially if they don't need the extreme speeds offered. Additionally, the compact size, although beneficial for portability, can lead to occasional overheating under heavy use, which could be a concern for users who require consistent, uninterrupted performance during long data transfers. Those with older devices lacking USB4 or Thunderbolt 4 support may also not experience the full benefits of the device’s performance, making it less suitable for people using outdated hardware.

Specifications

  • Capacity: Offers a total storage capacity of 2TB for ample file storage and quick access.
  • Interface: Supports USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, ensuring high-speed data transfer.
  • Sequential Read Speed: Achieves sequential read speeds up to 4,000MB/s for rapid data retrieval.
  • Sequential Write Speed: Delivers sequential write speeds up to 3,600MB/s for fast file saving.
  • Form Factor: Compact portable external SSD design measuring 2.53 x 2.52 x 0.47 inches.
  • Weight: Weighs only 3.25 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to carry.
  • Compatibility: Works with both Windows and macOS operating systems for broad compatibility.
  • Connectivity: Features a USB Type-C port for versatile compatibility with various devices.
  • Plug-and-Play: Supports plug-and-play functionality with no need for additional software or drivers.
  • Durability: Designed with durability in mind, offering reliable performance for on-the-go use.
  • Performance Requirement: To achieve maximum speeds, a USB4 or higher performance standard is required.
  • Operating Temperature: Designed to function in a typical operating temperature range, but may experience overheating under heavy use.
  • Color: Comes in a sleek gray finish for a minimalist, professional appearance.
  • Usage Scenario: Ideal for users such as photographers and videographers who need fast file transfers.
  • Portability: Lightweight and compact design makes it suitable for users needing portability.
  • Data Encryption: Does not include built-in encryption software, but third-party software can be used.
  • Overheating Concern: Some users report occasional overheating during intensive or extended file transfers.
  • Transfer Protocol: Supports both USB4 and Thunderbolt 4, delivering faster transfer speeds compared to older standards.

FAQ

The Corsair EX400U is a high-speed portable SSD offering 2TB of storage with USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 support, providing fast read speeds up to 4,000MB/s and write speeds up to 3,600MB/s. It stands out for its compact design, ideal for users who need high performance and portability.

Setup is easy with plug-and-play functionality. Simply connect the drive using the included USB Type-C cable, and it will automatically be recognized by both Windows and macOS systems. There’s no need for additional software or drivers.

The Corsair EX400U supports USB4, Thunderbolt 4, and USB Type-C, which are modern standards. While it will work with older devices that have USB Type-C ports, it won’t reach its full speed potential unless the device supports USB4 or Thunderbolt 4.

This portable SSD offers incredibly fast data transfer speeds, with sequential read speeds up to 4,000MB/s and write speeds up to 3,600MB/s. These speeds are ideal for professionals working with large files like high-resolution photos and videos.

Yes, the Corsair EX400U can be used for gaming. Its high-speed data transfer is great for running games directly from the drive, allowing faster load times and better performance, especially with large, graphically-intensive titles.

The drive is lightweight and compact, measuring just 2.53 x 2.52 x 0.47 inches and weighing 3.25 ounces, making it easy to carry around for users on the go. Its small size fits into a bag or even a pocket, making it perfect for travel.

Some users have reported occasional overheating when transferring large files for extended periods. It’s a good idea to avoid overusing the drive in hot environments and give it a break during heavy use to prevent overheating.

Yes, this SSD is an excellent choice for video editing. Its fast read and write speeds allow for seamless editing of high-resolution video files, making it ideal for professional video editors and creative professionals.

The Corsair EX400U is built to be durable, with a rugged design that can withstand everyday wear and tear. However, like any portable SSD, it’s still important to handle it with care to prevent damage from drops or extreme conditions.

No additional software is required for basic use, as it is plug-and-play compatible. However, some users may prefer third-party tools for encryption or backup purposes. The drive itself doesn’t come with built-in software for those features.