Best external hard drives
- External drives range from budget portable options to high-speed SSDs and massive desktop storage.
- Portable SSDs offer faster speeds and durability, while HDDs provide more storage for a lower cost.
- Many drives include features such as encryption, backup software, and cross-device compatibility.
- Choosing the right drive depends on your needs, from simple backups to large creative projects.
Running out of storage happens faster than most people expect. Photos, videos, work files, and game libraries can quickly fill up a laptop or desktop. That is where an external hard drive or portable SSD becomes essential. The right drive gives you extra space, faster file transfers, and a reliable way to back up important data.
Today’s external drives are faster, smaller and more durable than ever. Some are designed for travel and everyday backups, while others offer massive desktop storage for professionals working with large files like 4K video or high-resolution photos.
In this guide, we rounded up some of the best external hard drives and portable SSDs available right now, with options for speed, capacity, portability and value.
SanDisk 4TB Extreme Portable SSD
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD delivers fast, rugged storage designed for life on the go. With NVMe performance offering read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write speeds up to 1000MB/s, it handles large files like 4K video, photos, and backups quickly and efficiently. Built for durability, it features IP65 water and dust resistance along with drop protection up to 3 meters, making it a reliable option for travel, outdoor use, or demanding work environments. Its compact size and built-in carabiner loop make it easy to carry or attach to a bag. Added security features like 256-bit AES hardware encryption help keep your data protected, while compatibility with USB-C and USB 3.2 ensures it works across a wide range of devices.
Why we like this: It combines fast performance, rugged durability, and strong security in a compact, travel-ready design.
Get SanDisk 4TB Extreme Portable SSD
SSK 4TB Portable External SSD (USB-C / USB 3.2 Gen2)
The SSK 4TB Portable SSD offers high-speed, reliable storage in a compact, travel-friendly design. With read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write speeds up to 1000MB/s, it’s built for quickly transferring large files like videos, photos, and backups without slowdowns. The USB 3.2 Gen2 interface delivers consistent performance, while built-in SLC caching helps maintain speed even during heavy use. It works seamlessly across devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, and USB-C smartphones like the iPhone 15, thanks to the included USB-C and USB-A cables. Additional features like S.M.A.R.T. monitoring and TRIM support help protect data and extend the drive’s lifespan, making it a dependable option for both everyday storage and professional workflows.
Why we like this: It delivers fast transfer speeds, broad device compatibility, and massive storage in a compact, portable design.
Samsung T7 Portable SSD External Drive (4TB)
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD delivers fast, reliable storage for everything from everyday backups to professional workflows. With read speeds up to 1,050MB/s and write speeds up to 1,000MB/s, it handles large files like 4K video, photos, and game data with ease. Built with PCIe NVMe technology, it offers significantly faster performance than older external drives, helping you transfer and access files quickly. The compact, lightweight design makes it easy to carry anywhere, while the durable aluminum body provides shock resistance and protection from drops up to 6 feet. It also works seamlessly across devices, including PCs, Macs, gaming consoles, and smartphones, making it a versatile storage solution for work or play.
Why we like this: It combines fast speeds, rugged durability, and wide compatibility in a compact, premium design.
Get Samsung T7 Portable SSD (4TB)
Western Digital (WD) 28TB hard drive
Credit: Western Digital
The WD My Book Duo is a high-capacity desktop storage solution built for heavy-duty backups and large file collections. With up to 28TB of storage, it’s ideal for professionals working with massive files like 4K video, photo libraries, or system backups. It comes RAID-0 ready out of the box for maximum performance, with the option to reconfigure for redundancy if you want added data protection. USB 3.1 connectivity ensures fast data transfers, while two additional USB ports let you connect accessories or charge devices. Built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption and password protection help keep your files secure, and included backup software makes it easy to automate your data protection routine.
Why we like this: It offers massive storage capacity, flexible RAID performance, and built-in security for serious backup needs.
WD My Passport 5TB external hard drive
Credit: Western Digital
The WD My Passport 5TB portable hard drive offers a simple, reliable way to store and protect your important files on the go. With up to 5TB of capacity, it gives you plenty of space for photos, videos, documents, and backups in a slim, travel-friendly design. Built-in backup software helps automate your data protection, while added ransomware defense features provide an extra layer of security. Your files are also protected with password access and 256-bit hardware encryption for peace of mind. Compatible with USB 3.1 and USB 3.0, it works seamlessly with most laptops and desktops, making it an easy plug-and-play storage solution.
Why we like this: It combines large storage capacity, portability, and built-in security features in a dependable everyday backup drive.
Get WD My Passport 5TB external hard drive
Maxone 750GB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive
The Maxone 750GB portable hard drive offers a simple and affordable way to expand your storage in a sleek, ultra-slim design. At just 0.4 inches thick, its durable all-aluminum casing helps protect against scratches while keeping the drive cool and quiet during use. With USB 3.0 connectivity, it delivers fast data transfer speeds while remaining compatible with older USB 2.0 ports. It’s a true plug-and-play device, so you can start using it instantly without installing software or needing an external power source. Ideal for PCs and laptops, it’s a convenient option for storing documents, photos, videos, and everyday backups.
Why we like this: It provides reliable, portable storage in a slim, durable design at a budget-friendly price.
Get Maxone 750GB Portable Hard Drive
Crucial X10 8TB Portable SSD
The Crucial X10 Portable SSD delivers ultra-fast performance and massive storage in a compact, travel-ready design. With read speeds up to 2,100MB/s, it’s built for quickly transferring large files like high-resolution videos, game libraries, and photo collections. The generous 8TB capacity gives you plenty of space for backups, creative projects, and everyday storage needs. Designed for durability, it features IP65 water and dust resistance along with drop protection up to nearly 10 feet, making it a reliable option for use at home or on the go. It also offers broad compatibility across Windows, Mac, Android, gaming consoles, and more, with both USB-C and USB-A connectivity for flexible use.
Why we like this: It combines extremely fast speeds, huge storage capacity, and rugged durability in a compact, versatile drive.
Seagate Portable 5TB External Hard Drive
The Seagate Portable 5TB external hard drive offers simple, high-capacity storage in a compact, travel-friendly design. With up to 5TB of space, it’s ideal for storing photos, videos, games, and everyday backups without worrying about running out of room. It features plug-and-play functionality, so you can connect it to your PC or Mac and start transferring files instantly without installing software. USB 3.0 connectivity ensures fast data transfers while remaining compatible with older systems. It also works with gaming consoles like PS4 and Xbox, making it a convenient option for expanding storage across devices. A one-year Rescue Data Recovery Service adds an extra layer of protection for your files.
Why we like this: It delivers large storage capacity, easy setup, and wide compatibility in a reliable, portable drive.
Get Seagate Portable 5TB Hard Drive
Samsung T7 Shield 4TB Portable SSD
The Samsung T7 Shield 4TB portable SSD delivers fast, reliable storage built for durability and everyday performance. With read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write speeds up to 1000MB/s, it handles large files like 4K video, photos, and backups quickly and efficiently. Powered by PCIe NVMe technology and USB 3.2 Gen 2, it offers smooth, consistent performance across devices, including PCs, Macs, smartphones, and gaming consoles. Designed for life on the go, this portable SSD features a rugged exterior with IP65 water and dust resistance, along with drop protection up to nearly 10 feet. Despite its tough build, it remains compact and easy to carry. Built-in AES 256-bit hardware encryption helps keep your data secure, while Samsung Magician software allows you to monitor drive health and optimize performance.
Why we like this: It combines fast SSD performance, rugged durability, and strong security in a compact, travel-ready design.
Get Samsung T7 Shield 4TB Portable SSD
Related Links:
- How to back up your Mac computer
- How to back up your Windows computer
- How to back up and restore your mobile device the right way
- How to transfer photos and videos from your external hard drive and Apple devices
Kurt’s key takeaways
Choosing the best external hard drive depends on how you plan to use it. Portable SSDs are ideal for speed, durability and working on the go. Larger desktop drives are better if you need massive storage for backups or large creative projects. Capacity, transfer speed, durability and compatibility are the key things to consider before buying. The good news is that there are excellent options for every type of user. Whether you need a compact drive for travel, a fast SSD for creative work, or a massive storage solution for backups, the drives above offer reliable ways to expand your storage and protect your data.
What do you primarily use an external hard drive for: backups, photos and videos, gaming or something else? Let us know in the comments below.
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