Are there any alternatives?

There are several external SSDs that are competing with the T7 Shield:

　　SanDisk Extreme Portable V2 — Worse water and dust protection, but available in more capacities. It’s also smaller and lighter.Adata SE800 — Cheaper and with even better dust and water protection, but limited to 1TB.

How long will it last?

I’ve been using a Samsung T7 for about two years now, and I expect to use it for several more. That should be the case with the T7 Shield as well, especially considering its rugged exterior.

　　

Should you buy it?

Yes, if you need the extra dust, water, and drop protection. For most people, I’d recommend going with a base T7 instead. It’s cheaper, it doesn’t get as hot, and although it’s not water and dust resistant, it can still withstand a few falls.