Running out of space on your PC? External hard drives are a fantastic solution to expand your storage and safeguard your precious data. They offer a great alternative to installing an SSD, providing speed, convenience, and a reliable backup source. Our comprehensive guide breaks down the best external hard drives available, helping you make the right choice for your needs.
Samsung T7 Portable SSD 1TB
Why you should buy this:
The Samsung T7 is one of the fastest external hard drives available, offering blazing-fast speeds for quick file transfers.Who it’s for:
This SSD is ideal for anyone who needs a speedy and compact storage solution, especially for large files like photos, videos, or games.Why we picked it:
The Samsung T7 excels in every category: it’s compact, affordable, and delivers lightning-fast performance. Built with the latest 3D V-NAND technology, it packs up to 2TB of storage into a remarkably small design. Its impressive speed stems from USB 3.2 Gen 2 support, PCIe NVMe connection, and ePCM thermal technology to prevent overheating. Samsung’s robust aluminum shell ensures durability, able to withstand drops from heights up to six feet. The T7 also boasts compatible encryption software for added data security.SanDisk Extreme Pro 1TB
Why you should buy this:
The SanDisk Extreme Pro is rugged, portable, and super-fast, making it a top choice for travelers and those who venture into extreme weather conditions.Who it’s for:
Perfect for photographers, filmmakers, or anyone needing reliable storage on the go.Why we picked it:
The SanDisk Extreme Pro 1TB is a highly portable NVMe drive, offering read speeds up to 2000MBps. Its IP55 rating ensures resistance to both water and dust, and the silicon rubber coating and notch make it easy to store and carry. The SanDisk Extreme Pro features 256-bit AES hardware encryption for data security and boasts compatibility with both USB-A and USB-C connections. For those working with large files, we recommend the 1TB version, though it’s also available in larger capacities up to 4TB.Western Digital My Passport Ultra
Why you should buy this:
The Western Digital My Passport Ultra offers ample storage space in a slim package at an affordable price.Who it’s for:
Ideal for anyone seeking a reliable, traditional spinning hard drive with a budget-friendly price.Why we picked it:
While not the lightest drive on the market, the Western Digital My Passport Ultra boasts a three-year warranty and Western Digital’s renowned speed. It’s sleek, stylish, and doesn’t require external power, making it a popular choice for those on a budget or seeking an affordable backup drive. It comes with a free WD Backup tool, password protection, and 256-AES hardware encryption. Available in capacities ranging from 1TB to 5TB and in blue or silver finishes.Samsung SSD T7 Touch
Why you should buy this:
The Samsung SSD T7 Touch provides a workspace-friendly SSD with convenient fingerprint login.Who it’s for:
Office workers or anyone who values effective biometric protection for their sensitive data.Why we picked it:
The T7 Touch strikes a perfect balance between security and usability. Its built-in fingerprint-based AES 256-bit security allows for easy data protection and quick access with a simple fingerprint scan. The 2TB storage capacity is ideal for work information, projects, and portfolios, and its shock-resistant design can withstand drops from up to six feet. The LED indicator light on the front provides visual feedback on the drive’s status. The T7 Touch connects via USB 3.2 for fast read speeds up to 1,050 Mb/s. A 1TB version is available at a more affordable price point.Western Digital My Book Duo 20TB
Why you should buy this:
The Western Digital MyBook Duo is a perfect solution for storing massive amounts of photos, videos, and other data across multiple systems.Who it’s for:
Those who require substantial external storage capacity.Why we picked it:
For robust, long-term storage, the Western Digital MyBook Duo is a top choice. This massive enclosure offers up to 28TB of storage, providing ample space for your growing data needs. You can configure the two drives inside with RAID for file redundancy or speed. The MyBook Duo boasts a two-year warranty and supports high-speed data transfer with USB 3.1. Its user-serviceable design allows you to replace broken drives yourself, extending the life of the enclosure. It also offers 256-bit AES hardware encryption for data security.SSK Portable Wireless Hard Drive
Why you should buy this:
This drive is perfect for protecting your data and connecting with others, making it a great choice for those on the go.Who it’s for:
Business teams, students, and frequent travelers.Why we picked it:
Built for travel, the SSK Portable Wireless Hard Drive is particularly convenient for business professionals. Its 1TB storage is suitable for various project data, and it includes its own Wi-Fi hotspot for connectivity, regardless of location. Wireless access eliminates the hassle of cable management, allowing for data access from nearby laptops or PCs. You can expand storage capacity by attaching compatible USB storage or card readers. The drive offers separate public and private storage for enhanced security. If you need centralized data management while traveling or working with a team, this drive is a strong contender.Crucial X8 1TB
Why you should buy this:
The Crucial X8 is a great external drive for your Xbox or PlayStation consoles.Who it’s for:
Gamers looking to expand their local game library.Why we picked it:
Modern games require significant storage space, often exceeding the capacity of onboard console storage. The Crucial X8 1TB provides ample storage, featuring read speeds up to 1050MBps and durable aluminum construction that withstands drops from up to 7.5 feet. It’s compatible with both PlayStation 4 and Xbox One consoles and works with USB-A and USB-C connections, making it extremely flexible. The Crucial X8 is an excellent option for managing your ever-growing game collection.LaCie Rugged
Why you should buy this:
The LaCie Rugged boasts a stylish design and ample storage within its rugged casing.Who it’s for:
Photographers and filmmakers working in the field.Why we picked it:
For photographers, filmmakers, and drone pilots who need a hardy, speedy drive, the LaCie Rugged is a perfect match. It features IP67 protection against drops, water splashes, and dust. This USB-C drive also includes an integrated SD card slot, ideal for transferring photos from cameras to the drive. A status screen displays transfer progress, current capacity, and battery life. The battery doubles as a power pack for cameras, drones, and other devices. While you can adjust the capacity between 500GB and 5TB, the 1TB option strikes a balance between cost and storage space. Make sure your devices are USB-C compatible, and consider Thunderbolt 3 LaCie drives for similar functionality.Buffalo MiniStation
Why you should buy this:
The Buffalo MiniStation offers an affordable way to back up a large amount of data.Who it’s for:
Anyone seeking a budget-friendly external SSD.Why we picked it:
While SSDs offer numerous advantages, they can become expensive, especially as you go beyond the 1TB threshold. The Buffalo SSD-PG model provides a cost-effective solution, offering 1TB of storage at a low price. It boasts a durable, compact design and includes both USB-A and USB-C 3.2 ports for compatibility with various devices. While it lacks many advanced features, its affordability makes it a compelling option.iStorage dishAshur Pro 2
Why you should buy this:
The iStorage dishAshur Pro 2 is a super-secure way to store your data.Who it’s for:
Individuals who prioritize data privacy.Why we picked it:
For sensitive information like financial documents, personal data, or content requiring strong protection, the iStorage dishAshur Pro 2 is a top choice. It features a number pad for password protection (up to 15 digits) and military-grade hardware encryption to secure your data. The iStorage DiskAshur 2 is also dust- and splash-proof, making it a reliable companion. While it lacks a USB-C port, the USB-A 3.2 port supports read speeds up to 160MBps. If you need to meet CCPA, HIPAA, or other compliance measures, this is a strong contender.Frequently Asked Questions
This guide has explored a range of external hard drives for durability, wireless connectivity, and more. We’ve also highlighted the best wireless external hard drives and the best external hard drive deals for budget-conscious users. Ultimately, the best external hard drive for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider your budget, storage requirements, portability needs, and desired security features to make the right decision.
