10 Best External Hard Drives

The Samsung Portable SSD T7 with 4 TB capacity is a solid choice if you need a lot of fast, portable storage. It uses SSD technology, which means it’s much quicker than traditional external hard drives—offering read speeds up to 1,050 MB/s and write speeds around 1,000 MB/s. This makes it ideal for backing up large files, 4K video recording, or transferring data quickly.

Its compact and lightweight design (only 72 grams) fits easily in your pocket, and the robust aluminum case protects it from drops up to 2 meters, adding a layer of durability for everyday use. It connects via USB 3.2 Gen.2, and Samsung includes both USB-C to C and USB-C to A cables, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices including PCs, Macs, smartphones (like iPhone 15), gaming consoles, and even smart TVs. You can keep your data secure with built-in hardware encryption and password protection.

One small drawback is that SSDs like this generally cost more than regular external hard drives, so it might be a bit pricey for some users. Also, while it’s compatible with many devices, make sure your device supports USB 3.2 Gen.2 to get the fastest speeds. If you want a reliable, fast, and durable external drive for on-the-go use or heavy data tasks, the Samsung T7 stands out as a very strong option.

The WD 6TB My Passport is a large-capacity portable external hard drive ideal for users needing plenty of space to store photos, videos, music, and documents. Its 6TB storage is impressive for a 2.5-inch device, giving you room to carry a vast amount of data easily. The drive connects via USB 3.0, offering decent transfer speeds that suit everyday file transfers, although it uses a mechanical hard disk spinning at 5400 RPM, which is a bit slower compared to SSDs or faster drives. This makes it a good choice for backups and general storage rather than quick editing of large files.

Portability is a strong point here. The device is slim, lightweight (just over 200 grams), and robust enough for travel, thanks to its durable design. It is also compatible with PCs, Xbox, and PlayStation consoles, which is great if you want to store games or media across devices. The included software is a helpful addition, allowing scheduled backups, password protection, and 256-bit AES encryption, which safeguards your files from unauthorized access – a nice touch for peace of mind.

One minor downside is that being a mechanical drive, it is more vulnerable to drops compared to solid-state drives, so some care is needed. Also, it doesn’t come with batteries as it’s powered through USB, which is standard but worth knowing if you want truly wireless use. Environmental friendliness is a bonus here, with recycled materials used in both the enclosure and packaging. The WD My Passport 6TB is a reliable, spacious, and secure external hard drive well suited for anyone needing portable storage with good compatibility and basic speed needs, especially for backups and media storage on the go.

The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 1TB is a high-performance external hard drive designed for those who need fast, reliable storage on the go. The drive uses NVMe SSD technology, offering impressive read speeds of up to 1050 MB/s and write speeds up to 1000 MB/s. This makes it ideal for tasks that require quick access to large files, such as video editing or gaming. With a storage capacity of 1TB, it provides ample space for your files, whether they be documents, photos, or videos.

Its portability is enhanced by its compact size and lightweight design, and it even includes a carabiner loop to easily attach to your belt or backpack. Durability is a standout feature, with the drive boasting IP65 water and dust resistance and the ability to withstand drops from up to three meters. This means it can handle rough conditions, making it a reliable choice for outdoor use or travel. Compatibility is broad, supporting a range of devices including laptops, gaming consoles, tablets, and smartphones through its USB-C connectivity.

Additionally, it comes with password protection and 256-bit AES hardware encryption, ensuring your private content remains secure. However, one potential drawback is its higher price point compared to traditional hard drives, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious users. Still, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 1TB offers excellent performance, durability, and security features that make it a strong choice for anyone needing fast, portable storage.