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When considering the best external storage drive, pay attention to the specifications. You’ll want to consider things such as read and write speeds, connection type (USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB-C, Thunderbolt, etc.), and the amount of storage it offers (typically measured in gigabytes or terabytes). Also, look out for bonuses such as included software for backup or encryption, rugged design for physical durability, or an attractive form factor.
In this article, we eliminate the guesswork by sharing our top picks for the best external storage drives. We’ve researched, tested, and analyzed various drives on the market to find the ones that offer the best performance, reliability, and value. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear idea of the best options to match your particular needs and budget.
Best External Storage Drive
Selecting the right external storage drive is crucial for ensuring your files remain safe, secure, and easily accessible. The drive should operate with speed, offer reliable performance, and provide ample storage space. But with so many options in the market, making an informed choice can be tricky. To assist you in this task, we’ve assembled a comprehensive list of what we consider to be the best external storage drives based on extensive research and hands-on testing.
Western Digital 5TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive with backup software and password protection, Black – WDBPKJ0050BBK-WESN
If you’re looking for a reliable and portable external hard drive, the Western Digital 5TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 256-bit AES hardware encryption helps protect your personal files with a password.
- The drive comes formatted for Windows, but it is also Mac compatible.
- The included WD Backup software makes it easy to automate your backup process.
Cons
- The drive’s transfer rate is relatively slow.
- The drive may not be recognized by some older computers.
- The drive’s capacity may not be enough for some users.
We’ve been using the Western Digital 5TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The drive is compact and portable, making it easy to take with us on the go. We appreciate the fact that it comes with both USB-C and USB 3.0 connections, so we can use it with our newer and older computers.
One of the standout features of this drive is its hardware encryption. We were able to set a password and feel confident that our files were secure. The WD Backup software is also a nice touch, as it makes it easy to set up automatic backups.
However, we did notice that the drive’s transfer rate is relatively slow. This may be a dealbreaker for some users who need to transfer large files quickly. Additionally, the drive may not be recognized by some older computers, so it’s important to check compatibility before purchasing.
Overall, we would recommend the Western Digital 5TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive to anyone in need of a reliable and portable external hard drive. While it may not be the fastest option on the market, its hardware encryption and WD Backup software make it a great choice for those looking to secure their files.
SAMSUNG SSD T7 Portable External Solid State Drive 1TB, Up to USB 3.2 Gen 2, Reliable Storage for Gaming, Students, Professionals, MU-PC1T0T/AM, Gray
If you’re looking for a reliable and fast external SSD, the SAMSUNG SSD T7 Portable External Solid State Drive is a great option to consider.
Pros
- With read speeds of up to 1050MB/s and write speeds of up to 1000MB/s, this SSD is incredibly fast, making it a great choice for those who need to transfer large files quickly.
- The T7 is shock-resistant, drop-resistant, and X-ray-resistant, making it a durable option for those who need to take their SSD on the go.
- This SSD comes with a USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable and a USB Type-C to USB Type-A adapter, making it easy to connect to a variety of devices.
Cons
- The T7 is a bit pricey compared to some other external SSDs on the market.
- While the T7 is incredibly fast, it does require a USB 3.1 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt 3 interface to reach its full potential.
- Some users have reported issues with the T7 not showing up in Finder or requiring multiple attempts to mount.
Overall, the SAMSUNG SSD T7 Portable External Solid State Drive is a great option for those who need a fast and reliable external SSD. Its shock-resistant and drop-resistant design make it a durable option for those who need to take their SSD on the go, and its fast read and write speeds make it a great choice for those who need to transfer large files quickly.
If you’re looking for an external SSD that can keep up with your demanding workflow, the SAMSUNG SSD T7 Portable External Solid State Drive is definitely worth considering.
Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive HDD — USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, PlayStation, & Xbox -1-Year Rescue Service (STGX2000400)
If you’re looking for a reliable external hard drive that can work with both your PC and game consoles, the Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive HDD is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The hard drive is designed to work seamlessly with Windows 10, making it easy to transfer files between your computer and the external drive.
- With a single cable connection, you can easily back up your Xbox One console to this hard drive.
- The drive is also compatible with Mac computers, making it a versatile option for those who use multiple devices.
Cons
- The hard drive can be slow to transfer files at times, which can be frustrating if you need to access your data quickly.
- The drive’s plastic construction may not be as durable as some other external hard drives on the market.
- The included Acronis True Image WD backup software may not be necessary for everyone, and some users may prefer to use their own backup software.
Overall, we found the Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive HDD to be a solid option for those who need extra storage for their PC and game consoles. While it may not be the fastest external hard drive on the market, its compatibility with multiple devices and easy-to-use design make it a great choice for many users.
If you’re in the market for an external hard drive that can work with your PC and game consoles, the Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive HDD is definitely worth considering. With its reliable performance and versatile compatibility, it’s a great choice for anyone who needs extra storage for their digital media.
Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0, Black – HDTB520XK3AA
If you’re looking for a simple and reliable portable hard drive, the Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB is a solid choice.
Pros
- The 2TB capacity provides ample storage space for your files and media.
- The hard drive is bus-powered, which means you don’t need to worry about carrying around an additional power adapter.
- The Canvio Basics is compatible with Windows 10, 8.1, 8, and 7, as well as Mac OS X (El Capitan and later).
Cons
- The hard drive does not come with any software or backup utilities.
- The drive enclosure is made of plastic, which may not be as durable as aluminum or other materials.
- The Canvio Basics may not be as fast as other external hard drives on the market.
The Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB is a great option for those who need a simple and reliable portable hard drive. The hard drive is bus-powered, which means you can power it directly from your computer’s USB port. This makes it easy to take with you on the go, without having to worry about carrying around an additional power adapter.
The hard drive is also compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, making it a versatile choice for users who work with multiple devices. The 2TB capacity provides ample storage space for your files and media, and the hard drive is quiet and runs cool, even during heavy transfers.
However, the hard drive does not come with any software or backup utilities, which may be a downside for some users. Additionally, the drive enclosure is made of plastic, which may not be as durable as aluminum or other materials. Finally, the Canvio Basics may not be as fast as other external hard drives on the market, which may be a concern for users who need to transfer large files quickly.
Overall, if you’re looking for a simple and reliable portable hard drive with ample storage space, the Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB is a solid choice. Just keep in mind that it may not be the fastest option on the market, and it doesn’t come with any software or backup utilities.
Western Digital 2TB Elements Portable HDD, External Hard Drive, USB 3.0 for PC & Mac, Plug and Play Ready – WDBU6Y0020BBK-WESN
If you’re looking for an external hard drive that’s both reliable and spacious, the Western Digital 2TB Elements Portable HDD might be just what you need.
Pros
- With a capacity of 2TB, this hard drive offers plenty of space for storing all your important files, photos, and videos.
- The hard drive is bus-powered, which means you can use it straight out of the box without needing to worry about finding a power source.
- The drive is also shock-absorbing, so you can take it with you on the go without worrying about damaging your files.
Cons
- While the hard drive is relatively fast, it’s not quite as quick as some of its competitors.
- The drive doesn’t come with any sort of carrying case or protection, so you’ll need to find your own way to keep it safe.
- Some users have reported issues with the hard drive not being recognized by their computer.
Overall, we’ve found the Western Digital 2TB Elements Portable HDD to be a solid choice for anyone in need of extra storage. While it’s not the fastest drive out there, it’s reliable, spacious, and easy to use. Plus, with its shock-absorbing design, you can take it with you on the go without worrying about damaging your files.
If you’re looking for an external hard drive that’s both reliable and spacious, the Western Digital 2TB Elements Portable HDD is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best external storage drive, there are several factors to consider. We have used and tested various drives to identify the critical features that should guide your purchase decision.
Capacity
The capacity of an external storage drive is one of the most important factors to consider. It determines how much data you can store on the drive. When choosing a drive, it is essential to consider your current and future storage needs. If you only need to store a few files, a smaller drive may be sufficient, but if you plan to store large files or multiple projects, a larger drive is recommended.
Speed
The speed of an external storage drive is another critical factor to consider. It determines how quickly you can access and transfer data from the drive. When choosing a drive, it is essential to consider the type of data you will be storing and how quickly you need to access it. For example, if you plan to store large video files, a drive with a high transfer rate is recommended.
Durability
Durability is another important factor to consider when choosing an external storage drive. It determines how well the drive can withstand wear and tear. When choosing a drive, it is essential to consider the type of environment it will be used in and the level of protection it offers. For example, if you plan to use the drive while traveling, a drive with a sturdy casing is recommended.
Compatibility
Compatibility is another important factor to consider when choosing an external storage drive. It determines whether the drive is compatible with your computer or other devices. When choosing a drive, it is essential to consider the type of connection it offers and whether it is compatible with your computer or other devices. For example, if you plan to use the drive with multiple devices, a drive with a universal connection is recommended.
Price
Price is another important factor to consider when choosing an external storage drive. It determines how much you will need to pay for the drive. When choosing a drive, it is essential to consider your budget and the features that are most important to you. For example, if you need a drive with a high transfer rate, you may need to pay more for a drive with a faster connection.
In summary, when choosing the best external storage drive, it is essential to consider the capacity, speed, durability, compatibility, and price. By considering these factors, you can find a drive that meets your needs and budget.
