For US customers, the aggressive, low prices of the X9 Pro and the additional functions are a clear advantage. But for customers in the EU, the older X8 and X6 are still the better option if you don't need encryption. Those looking for a faster external SSD should go for the X10 Pro.

In the FOTO HITS test, the Crucial X9 Pro proved to be the fastest compact SSD. It impresses with its small design and sturdy metal housing. The software features are unsatisfactory for Apple users, who have to resort to the functions of their operating system for configuration.

Fast SSDs have become affordable. For most users, SSDs with USB 3.2 Gen2 and 1 or 2 TB of storage space are the best choice. Here, the SK Hynix Beetle X31 Portable (1 TB, 100 euros) and the Emtec X210 (2 TB, 140 euros) were the best in the test. The Kingston XS1000 (80 euros) was the price-performance winner among the 1 TB models...

Fast SSDs have become affordable. For most users, SSDs with USB 3.2 Gen2 and 1 or 2 TB of storage space are the best choice. Here, the SK Hynix Beetle X31 Portable (1 TB, 100 euros) and the Emtec X210 (2 TB, 140 euros) were the best in the test. The Kingston XS1000 (80 euros) was the price-performance winner among the 1 TB models...

Crucial offers an attractive overall package at an affordable price with the new X9 Pro. The external SSD offers fast transfer speeds of up to 1,050 MB/s and also performs well in the benchmarks. It also impresses with its very compact dimensions, low weight and good workmanship...