In mid-September 2025, Buffalo Inc., headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, will roll out its latest portable SSD series—the SSD-SDHU3 and SSD-SDU3—designed to elevate smartphone users' experience in managing and backing up photos and videos. Both series are USB 3.2 (Gen 2) compliant and come equipped with Type-C and Type-A connectors, making them versatile for various devices.
High-Speed Data Transfer
The SSD-SDHU3 series boasts exceptional read speeds of over 1,050 MB/s and write speeds exceeding 950 MB/s for its 2.0TB, 1.0TB, and 500GB models. The 250GB model offers a write speed of about 900 MB/s, ensuring that transferring large video files and vast image libraries is a breeze. Conversely, the SSD-SDU3 series offers read speeds above 600 MB/s and write speeds above 500 MB/s across its range.
Capacities and Pricing
Both series will be available in several capacities: 2.0TB, 1.0TB, 500GB, and 250GB, and they will be offered in two sleek colors — black and white. Pricing will be open, inviting users to check for the best deals based on retail offerings.
Easy Smartphone Backup Functionality
A standout feature of these SSDs is their ease of use, particularly when backing up data from smartphones. They are compatible with the free "Photo Backup" application, designed specifically for effortless backup of photos and videos stored on mobile devices to the external USB storage. This means users can transfer their content without any complicated procedures; simply connect the SSD to the phone and use the app to start the backup process.
The application stands out with its user-friendly interface, making it accessible even for first-time users. After the initial backup, it efficiently detects and copies only newly added files, streamlining the backup process. In addition to backing up photos and videos, users can also restore files back to their devices directly through the app.
Unique Design Features
One of the unique aspects of the USB Type-C connector design is that it accommodates thicker smartphone cases, allowing users to connect the SSD without needing to remove their protective cases. This patented design (pending patent) ensures compatibility with various cases, simplifying the connection process and enhancing convenience.
The SSDs come pre-formatted with the exFAT file system, thus allowing direct use across different platforms, including PCs and mobile devices, without requiring conversion adapters. Note that users should check their smartphone and case designs to avoid any compatibility issues with the Type-C connector.
Application Success and User Feedback
The "Photo Backup" application has reportedly achieved an impressive milestone, reaching 100,000 downloads within just four months of its release. This application has solidified its status, holding the top spot in the storage share category according to data aggregated from major electronics retailers in Japan for 2024 (BCN Research). This success demonstrates Buffalo's ongoing commitment to developing user-friendly USB storage solutions along with continuously improving app usability.
In summary, with the launch of the SSD-SDHU3 and SSD-SDU3 series, Buffalo aims to enhance the mobile user experience in data management, providing a quick and reliable method for backing up valuable photos and videos.
Availability
Both the SSD-SDHU3 and SSD-SDU3 series are set to hit the market in mid-September 2025. Users can find additional information and specifications on the Buffalo product pages.
In conclusion, Buffalo has combined speed, flexibility, and convenience in these new SSDs, aiming to address the needs of modern smartphone users seeking efficient data management solutions.