San Disk Professional Pro Blade Transport Review: A Modular Storage Solution for Creatives

The San Disk Professional Pro Blade series has introduced an innovative development in the realm of NVME drives, specifically tailored for video, photo professionals, and content creators. This modular system offers different docks, transports, and storage solutions, with a focus on versatility and convenience.

Pro Blade Transport Overview:

In this review, our primary focus is on the Pro Blade Transport, comprising an enclosure, a 20Gbps USB Cable, and a Pro Blade magazine. The magazines, essentially NVME M.2 drives, utilize a specially designed connector by SanDisk for quick transitions between transports, docks, or storage stations.

The Pro Blades come in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB configurations, utilizing a proprietary connector for easy integration into docks or readers. SanDisk currently offers four main Pro Blade readers: Transport, Dock, G Raid Mirror, and G Drive Project.

Compact Design for On-the-Go Creativity:

The standout feature of the Pro Blade magazines is their lightweight and compact design. Functioning almost like interchangeable SD cards, they provide quick and easy media access for devices like GH6, LUMIX S5II, Blackmagic cameras, and even the iPhone 15 Pro. Mounting the transport on your camera rig allows for on-the-fly storage, with docks providing Thunderbolt speeds for efficient file access.

Compatibility Considerations:

However, it's important to note potential compatibility issues with Mac devices that only support Thunderbolt 4. As Thunderbolt 4 lacks support for USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, Mac users will experience reduced speeds, limiting the transport's full capabilities.

Target Audience and Value Proposition:

The Pro Blade system is ideal for users looking to invest in multiple drives, offering a more organized alternative to a stack of portable SSDs. While the Pro Blade Transport's light isn't too bright, its 2000 insertions lifespan ensures several years of reliable use.

For individual users seeking a single high-speed drive without committing to a full ecosystem, the Pro G40 might be a more straightforward choice.

Pricing and Modular System Options:

Pricing becomes interesting when considering a modular system. While 4 Pro G40s at 4TB would cost $1600, the same storage capacity with 4 4TB Pro Blades and a Thunderbolt dock also totals $1600. The dock adds value by allowing simultaneous access to multiple drives, making it a practical choice for users dealing with large volumes of data.

Considerations and Future Outlook:

Questions arise about SanDisk's commitment to this form factor, especially considering the potential for discontinuation in the future. The Pro Blade system shows promise, particularly for users planning to build a collection over time. However, those seeking immediate Thunderbolt speeds may find the San Disk Professional Pro G40 a more suitable option until SanDisk introduces a Pro Blade Transport with built-in Thunderbolt support.

In conclusion, the San Disk Professional Pro Blade Transport offers a compelling solution for creative professionals requiring a modular and efficient storage system. While it may not be the perfect fit for everyone, its unique design and potential for building a modular system make it a great choice for professionals.