Western Digital

Western Digital WDBK3E2560PSL-WESN 256GB My Passport Portable SSD

4.5 (571 reviews)
USB 3.1USB 3.0USB 2.0

WD My Passport portable SSD delivers up to 515 MB/s transfer speeds with hardware encryption in a pocket-sized design.

$119.96*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 04, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Western Digital My Passport Portable SSD packs 256GB of solid-state storage into a slim, pocket-friendly enclosure designed for users who need fast, secure file access on the move. With read speeds up to 515 MB/s over its USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface, it handles file transfers significantly faster than traditional portable hard drives. The drive connects via USB Type-C and works with USB 3.0, USB 2.0, and USB-A ports, so compatibility across laptops, desktops, and even some tablets is straightforward.

Security is a key feature of the My Passport SSD. Built-in hardware encryption works alongside password protection to keep your files safe without taxing your computer's processor. WD also bundles automatic backup software, allowing you to schedule regular file backups to the drive. With no moving parts, the SSD is inherently more resistant to drops and bumps than mechanical alternatives, making it a practical choice for professionals who work across multiple locations. The 256GB capacity is best suited for documents, presentations, and moderate photo collections rather than large video projects or full system backups.

Key Features

Blazing-fast file transfers with speeds up to 515 MB/s

Password protection with hardware encryption

USB Type-C and USB 3.1 Gen 2 ready; USB 3.0, USB 2.0 and USB-A compatible

Trusted Drive built with WD reliability

Automatic backup

Specifications

Brand
Western Digital
Model
WDBK3E2560PSL-WESN
Capacity
256GB
Interface
USB 3.1 Gen 2
Transfer Speed
Up to 515 MB/s
Connector
USB Type-C (compatible with USB 3.0, USB 2.0, USB-A)
Encryption
Hardware encryption with password protection
Backup Software
Automatic backup included
Color
Black-Gray

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Compact, pocket-sized form factor makes it highly portable
  • Hardware encryption with password protection secures data without relying on software alone
  • USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface with backward compatibility to older USB standards
  • No moving parts means greater durability and silent operation compared to portable hard drives
  • Automatic backup software included for scheduled file protection

👎 Cons

  • 256GB capacity fills up quickly with large video files or extensive photo libraries
  • Read/write speeds of up to 515 MB/s are slower than newer portable SSDs using NVMe technology
  • No IP rating for water or dust resistance
  • Limited capacity means it is not practical as a primary backup solution for large datasets

Frequently Asked Questions

This model provides 256GB of solid-state storage, suitable for documents, photos, and project files you need to carry between devices.
The My Passport SSD uses built-in hardware encryption paired with password protection, so your data remains secure even if the drive is lost or stolen. You set a password through WD's software utility.
It connects via USB 3.1 Gen 2 with a USB Type-C interface and is backward compatible with USB 3.0, USB 2.0, and USB-A ports using the included adapter or cable.
No, it is bus-powered through the USB connection, so no external power adapter is needed.
Yes, it includes WD automatic backup software that lets you schedule file backups to the drive.