BUFFALO
BUFFALO External SSD 500GB
Bottom line: The BUFFALO External SSD 500GB: Works with PS4, PS5, Mac and Windows without extra adapters; main trade-off: 500GB fills fast; modern games often exceed 100GB each.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Works with PS4, PS5, Mac and Windows without extra adapters
- ✓ USB-C and USB-A both supported over USB 3.2
- ✓ Shock-resistant rugged shell with drop protection
- ✓ 3-year warranty when registered, 2 years unregistered
Cons
- ✗ 500GB fills fast; modern games often exceed 100GB each
- ✗ PS5 games can only be stored, not played from external USB
- ✗ USB 3.2 caps speed well below internal NVMe drives
- ✗ No stated hardware encryption or password protection
Manufacturer description
The BUFFALO SSD-PG500U3B is a 500GB pocket-sized external solid state drive built for people who move data between a PS5, a PS4, a Mac, and a Windows PC without wanting to think about adapters. It ships with both USB-C and USB-A connectivity over USB 3.2, so it plugs into a current console front port or an older laptop with no dongle hunting. On PlayStation, you can park your library on the drive to free up internal storage and cut the reshuffling that comes with a full console SSD. For creative and professional work, the flash-based design copies large photo, video, and project folders…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored BUFFALO External SSD 500GB using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the ssds & storage category. BUFFALO's ssds & storage lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for ssds & storage of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play PS5 games directly from this drive?
You can store and run PS4 games from it, but PS5 titles must be moved back to internal storage to play. Using it as PS5 archive storage still saves you re-downloading a game later.
Does it come with a USB-C cable, or do I need an adapter?
The drive supports both USB-C and USB-A connections over USB 3.2, so it connects to modern consoles and older PCs. Check the product listing for exactly which cables are in the box.
How long is the BUFFALO warranty on this SSD?
Three years for registered devices and two years if you do not register it. Registration is handled through BUFFALO; see the product listing for current terms in your region.
Is 500GB enough for a PS5 game library?
It fits roughly a handful of large modern titles, since many current games run over 100GB. It suits rotating a few games off internal storage rather than holding a whole library.
Is it fast enough for editing video off the drive?
It is a USB 3.2 SSD, so it is meaningfully quicker than an external hard drive for copying large video and photo folders, and it supports working while your PC handles other tasks.
Key Features
- BEST VALUE SSD – Compact and reliable SSD to meet your on-the-go demand. Compatible with PS4/PS5, Macs, and PCs. Save space and loading time on your console by storing your game data on Buffalo SSDs.
- IDEAL ON-THE-GO ACCESSORY - Quickly copy your large data. If you are a professional in need of fast and secure storage, the Buffalo SSD is ready for on-the-go backup for photos, videos, docs, and more.
- FAST SPEEDS AND MULTI-TASKING - Faster speed than HDD enables you to connect the device to PC and do large intensive tasks simultaneously.
- COMPACT, DURABLE, & RELIABLE – Shock-resistant, rugged design provides drop protection. Compact form factor to carry your data in your pocket. No matter if it’s for work or fun, you can easily use your Buffalo SSD on-the-go.
- USB 3.2 CONNECTIVITY & 3-YEAR WARRANTY – Supports USB-C / USB-A. Easily connect the Buffalo SSD to your PC and other mobile devices. THREE-YEAR WARRANTY for registered devices (two years if unregistered).
Full Specifications
| Brand | BUFFALO |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Model Name | MiniStation SSD-PG |
| Read Speed | 340 megabytes_per_second |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Form Factor | 2.5-inch |
| Media Speed | 320 |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
| Model Number | SSD-PG500U3B |
| Compatibility | PC, PS5, PS4, Mac |
| Built-In Media | USB Cable (Type A) TypeC adapter, Quick Setup Guide, Gaming Console Manual,Warranty Statement |
| Item Type Name | External Solid State Drives |
| Hard-Drive Size | 500 GB |
| Mfr Part Number | SSD-PG500U3B |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Special Feature | Best value SSD for storage and gaming, Fast speeds and multitasking, compact, durable, reliable |
| Hardware Platform | Mac, PC |
| Installation Type | External Hard Drive |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop, Gaming Console, Laptop, Tablet, Television |
| Data Transfer Rate | 430 megabits_per_second |
| Full listing title | BUFFALO External SSD 500GB - Compatible with PS4 / PS5 / Windows/Mac - USB-C - USB-A - USB 3.2 - External Solid State Drive - SSD-PG500U3B |
Ready to buy?
BUFFALO External SSD 500GB - Compatible with PS4 / PS5 / Windows/Mac - USB-C - USB-A - USB 3.2 - External Solid State Drive - SSD-PG500U3B is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
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