Crucial X8 Portable SSD 2022 review Introduction
Crucial X8 Portable SSD 2022 review Introduction
We take a look at the Crucial X8 SSD (1TB) 2022 model. This is a fast portable storage solution that is NVMe-based, and when combined with the NMVe DNA, it can reach 1050 MB/sec via USB 3.2 Gen2 (Type C). The SSD is one of the fastest portable storage units available, and it is a first for Crucial. Based on NVMe technology combined with QLC NAND it can reach numbers over that USB port that are very interesting. The storage solution is long-lasting, strong, and stylish. The X8 does, in fact, use QLC NAND, which will have an impact on write performance. But, of course, we’ll look into that in our review. The X8 contains a USB-C (USB 3.2 Gen 2) port, which means it can connect to a USB device through a 10Gb/s (1250 MB/sec) connectivity.
Crucial’s X8 models models are available in 1TB and 2TB, the 500GB model now has vanished from the product lineup. The drive’s standard connector is USB-C, and Crucial includes a USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C to Type-C (10Gbps) cable in the box. However, for more compatibility, a USB 3.2 Gen1/USB 3.0 Type-C to USB-A converter is included. Street prices hover at 109 EUR/USD for the 1TB model and 189 EUR/USD for the 2 TB version.
Inside the X8, you’ll find the same technology as the Crucial P1, but the device has been tuned and tweaked for the more usual workloads that an external storage unit should have. You’ll need some form of link between the P1 and USB, so Crucial chose the AS2362, an NVMe bridge chip manufactured by ASMedia. We do not believe the unit is water-proof because it lacks IP certification. The shell, on the other hand, is extremely tough and durable, constructed of a combination of metal and plastic. The X8 is backed by a three-year limited warranty. We tested the 1TB version for this 2022 revision review. So, take a look via the lens of a photograph first, and then read on for the review.
Specifications and press release
Crucial announced its first mobile SSD called X8 back in 2019, the USB-C actually uses a NVMe SSD with QLC written NAND flash internally. The sequential reading speeds run up to 1050 MB/s. We test the 2022 revision.
Crucial does not list a wide variety of specifications. Leaving more for us to find out in the review of course.
MICRON INSIGHT — Crucial, Micron’s leading global brand of memory and storage, today announced the availability of the Crucial X8 Portable SSD. This product line expansion creates an exciting new category within Crucial’s award-winning portfolio of dependable and high-performing SSDs.
“Now, more than ever, consumers want unfettered access to their important data,” said Teresa Kelley, vice president and general manager of Micron Consumer Products Group. “With the advent of faster computers, widespread photo sharing and larger game sizes, it’s time to evolve to faster, more reliable storage solutions. The Crucial X8 leverages the unparalleled quality and vertical integration of Micron to provide unmatched value for our customers.”
The Crucial X8 delivers impressive performance in a sleek case built with a durable unibody core. With read speeds up to 1,050MB/s, the drive performs 1.8 times faster than similar portable SSDs within the same price category and up to 7.5 times faster than portable hard drives.
The X8 works with a variety of devices, including PCs, Macs, PS4s, XBOX Ones, iPad Pros, Chromebooks, and select Android devices via USB 3.2 Gen2 interface. In addition to its extensive compatibility features, the Crucial X8 offers a range of other benefits:
Fast transfer times and high capacity for consumers storing photos, videos and documents, as well as curating music and video collections
Versatility for travelers who want to watch videos while disconnected from the internet
Easy additional storage for gamers who want quick access to their entire game libraries
“Built with Micron NAND, every Crucial SSD has been engineered from sand to silicon by a trusted leader in flash memory innovation,” Kelley continued. “Whether you’re preserving family memories, expanding your gaming storage or accelerating workflows, the X8 gives you the speed, durability and security you need.”
As a brand of Micron, one of the largest flash storage manufacturers in the world, Crucial SSDs are designed and built with the same Micron quality and engineering innovation that has produced some of the world’s most advanced memory and storage technologies for 40 years. Crucial’s award-winning SSDs undergo thousands of hours of Micron pre-release validation and extensive SSD qualification testing before market release. The Crucial X8 is drop-proof up to 7.5 feet, backed by a three-year limited warranty and available in capacities up to 1TB at uk.crucial.com and through select global partners. For more information, visit crucial.com/X8.
