Sandisk launches new portable SSD lineup in UAE with three performance tiers

Sandisk has launched its next-generation portable SSD lineup in UAE, with the Extreme model available from 26 February 2026. According to Sandisk's announcement, the three-tier portfolio targets everyone from students to professional filmmakers, with transfer speeds reaching up to 4,000MB/s on the flagship Pro model.

What makes the new Sandisk portable SSDs different?

The biggest change is speed. The Sandisk Extreme model delivers nearly twice the performance of its predecessor at 2,000MB/s, whilst the new Pro variant hits 4,000MB/s. That's fast enough to transfer 1,000 high-resolution photos in under 60 seconds or move 10 minutes of 12K video in about a minute.

All three models use a pocket-sized design with enhanced durability. The Extreme and Pro models can survive three-metre drops and carry IP65 water and dust resistance. They also include 256-bit AES hardware encryption with password protection.

"As photo and video resolutions continue to increase and AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, users at every level are managing more data," said Susan Park, Vice President of Consumer Products at Sandisk. The company specifically designed this lineup to handle AI-generated content alongside traditional media files.

Which Sandisk portable SSD should you buy?

Sandisk has segmented the lineup clearly by use case. The entry-level Sandisk Portable SSD targets students and office workers with 1,000MB/s speeds and two-metre drop protection. It handles basic backups and file storage without the premium features.

The Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD sits in the middle, aimed at photo and video enthusiasts. With 2,000MB/s speeds and full IP65 protection, it's built for active creative workflows. This is the model available now in UAE.

At the top, the Sandisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD delivers professional-grade performance with 4,000MB/s transfer speeds. It targets photographers, filmmakers, and designers working with high-resolution media and multi-stream workflows. Storage options go up to 8TB.

How do the three models compare?

The performance gap between models is significant. The Pro model is four times faster than the entry-level SSD and twice as fast as the Extreme. For context, moving large video files that take four minutes on the standard model would complete in just one minute on the Pro.

Durability varies too. The basic model survives two-metre drops, whilst the Extreme and Pro handle three-metre drops plus water and dust resistance. Only the higher-end models include hardware encryption.

Storage options overlap but aren't identical. The standard and Extreme models offer 500GB to 4TB capacities, whilst the Pro starts at 2TB and goes up to 8TB. All models use the same compact form factor that fits in your pocket.

Sandisk portable SSD pricing and availability in UAE

The Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD is available in UAE from 26 February 2026, but Sandisk hasn't announced local pricing yet. The standard Sandisk Portable SSD and Extreme PRO model will roll out later in 2026.

Storage options for the Extreme model include 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB variants. The company hasn't specified which UAE retailers will stock the drives or provided global pricing for comparison.

Given the enhanced performance and durability features, expect the Extreme model to command a premium over previous-generation portable SSDs. The Pro model, with its 4,000MB/s speeds, will likely sit at the top of the portable SSD market when it arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the new Sandisk portable SSD models?

Sandisk has launched three models: the Sandisk Portable SSD (1,000MB/s), Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD (2,000MB/s), and Sandisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD (4,000MB/s). Each targets different user needs from basic storage to professional workflows.

When is the Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD available in the UAE?

The Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD is available in UAE starting 26 February 2026. The other two models will roll out later in 2026, though exact dates haven't been confirmed.

What are the key features of the Sandisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD?

The Extreme PRO model offers transfer speeds up to 4,000MB/s, three-metre drop protection, IP65 water and dust resistance, and 256-bit AES hardware encryption. It's designed for professional photographers, filmmakers, and designers.

Are there UAE prices available for the new Sandisk SSDs?

No, Sandisk hasn't announced specific UAE pricing for any of the new portable SSD models yet. Pricing details are expected closer to each model's availability date.

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