SanDisk has expanded its portable storage line-up with the launch of a new 1TB ELE portable SSD, targeting consumers and creators looking for compact, affordable high-speed storage.

Currently available in China at 869 yuan (around A$200), the pocket-sized drive delivers read speeds of up to 600MB/s over USB 3.2 Gen 2 via USB-C, making it suitable for everyday file transfers, media backups and portable content storage.

The company has not disclosed official write speeds, only stating they are slightly below read performance.

Weighing just 31.7 grams and measuring 75mm x 45mm, the SSD is designed for portability and includes drop protection from heights of up to two metres. It supports Windows PCs, Macs, Android devices and tablets without requiring additional software.

The launch comes as competition intensifies in the portable SSD market.

Rivals including Adata and Lexar are introducing faster drives with added features such as NFC unlocking and dual-interface connectivity, while SanDisk itself is heavily discounting its higher-end Extreme and Extreme Pro SSD ranges globally.

Meanwhile, enterprise storage giant Micron has unveiled a massive 245TB PCIe Gen5 SSD aimed at AI data centres, highlighting growing demand for faster solid-state storage across both consumer and enterprise markets.

Australian availability of the new SanDisk ELE portable SSD has not yet been confirmed. JB Hi-Fi is currently stocks a range of SanDisk portable SSD products, including the Extreme, Extreme Pro and Creator series models.