Samsung's most expensive portable SSD ever goes on preorder for $2,880 — 8TB P9 USB 4 external SSD reaches 4,000 MB/s and has a shockingly high price tag

Samsung has introduced its most expensive portable SSD to date, the 8TB P9 USB 4 external drive, which is currently available for preorder at a staggering price of $2,879.99. This high-end device boasts an impressive 8TB storage capacity and can read data at speeds of up to 4,000 MB/s, making it the fastest portable storage solution from Samsung.

The 8TB P9 is priced higher than the company's other portable SSD models, including the 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB versions, which cost $2,520, $2,160, and $1,440 respectively. Despite its premium price tag, the 8TB model offers better value per terabyte compared to its smaller counterparts.

The P9 connects to devices via USB-C and supports USB4 at a transfer speed of 40 Gb/s, ensuring ample bandwidth for transferring large files. Its sequential read speed can reach up to 4,000 MB/s, while sequential write speeds can hit 3,800 MB/s under optimal conditions. Samsung markets the drive primarily towards professional creators who work with large RAW photo libraries and high-resolution video files, as the 8TB capacity can even accommodate 12K video recording and direct capture when paired with compatible equipment.

One of the standout features of the Samsung P9 is its robust build quality. The drive is designed to withstand drops and can survive falls from up to 6.5 feet, roughly equivalent to two meters. Additionally, the enclosure is built to manage heat during intensive workloads and resists vibrations. The compact dimensions of the P9 are 3.54 x 2.56 x 0.33 inches, making it roughly the size of a typical smartphone. Weighing just 3.39 ounces (96.11 grams), the drive adds minimal bulk to any portable work kit.

Security is another key aspect of the Samsung P9, as it employs AES 256-bit hardware encryption and password protection to safeguard stored files from unauthorized access. Samsung Magician Software allows users to manage the drive's password protection, offering an extra layer of control over their data. The device is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, game consoles, and tablets, and can also function with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 at 20 Gb/s and earlier USB standards, albeit at reduced speeds.

At present, the 8TB Samsung P9 is listed as unavailable on B&H Photo's website, but customers have the option to request an availability alert. Once the drive becomes available, they will receive a notification and shipping details will be provided by the retailer.