Best External SSDs

Looking for the Best External SSDs to boost your storage speed? If slow data transfers and cluttered drives are stressing you out, we’ve got you covered. Our guide reveals top-rated portable storage devices that deliver blazing fast performance and reliability. Feel the thrill of effortless data access with our expert picks that promise smooth, secure, and speedy performance. Let’s dive into the details and find your perfect fit.

Top 5 External SSDs:

1. Western Digital 1TB P40 Game Drive SSD

 

 

If your incremental backups are weighing too much, the Western Digital 1TB P40 Game Drive SSD will give you a sound option. Speed isn’t everything when it comes to protecting your data. The best examples of this are the Western Digital Elements hard drive that has been serving users the world over for a decade now.

You could be tempted by a drive with solid performance and a good mix of price and durability. The Elements hard drive provides plenty of storage, needs external power, but is some of the most reliable backup on the market. Its transfer speeds are measured at 120 megabytes per second (MB/s) for sequential writes on Windows, but backup doesn’t have to be a speedy process. Indeed, it’s best to run them overnight, and at this rate you should be able to finish your PC backups by morning.

Connectivity is straightforward, with USB-C support plus compatibility across Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. The same is true whether you’re an avid gamer or simply protecting important files, as the Western Digital Elements drive is a handy utility in your data management plan. Now you can spend your time focused on gaming adventures or work projects, but always have the confidence that your most important data is well protected with this drive. Choose the Western Digital 1TB P40 Game Drive SSD for Reliable, Affordable, and Easy-to-Use Data Protection.communication you can trust.

 

2. OWC Envoy Pro Elektron Portable SSD

 

 

If you’re looking to add on-the-go storage, the OWC Envoy Pro Elektron Portable SSD is the way to go. (If you have a busy life then you know that you need a drive that can be used on daily basis without compromising performance.) Whether stashed in your backpack, packed alongside your camera gear, or confronted by an occasional spill, the OWC Elektron is designed to withstand.

This drive’s defining aspect, however, is its incredible resiliency. With over 20k hours of testing under its belt, it is now one of the best performers when it comes to benchmark efficiency, and hits all the right marks. You deserve a storage solution that meets your demands while thriving under pressure.

One of the advantages of the Elektron is its modular approach to design. When the time comes, you can easily unscrew the aluminum shell to replace the internal drive. Thus, as technology advances, you can upgrade to a higher speed SSD without replacing the actual case. An investment is even a good alternative for future efforts as a forward-looking adaptability ensures that it stays pertinent — a core benefit of investing in.

OWC Envoy Pro Elektron Portable SSDBeing able to work in challenging conditions, is one of the essential features of a portable drive because in a modern world your data must keep pace with your lifestyle, and in this case, the Envoy Pro Elektron Portable SSD is one of the high-performance rugged SSDs available. Choose the assurance that comes with dependable storage that grows with you, so you can keep your memories and projects within reach, always.

 

3. LaCie Rugged SSD

 

 

UK: Adorama | EU: Adorama | US: Photo Plus | US: BackOpsWhen out in the field shooting beautiful photography or filming mesmerizing videography, you need a backup solution that you can trust. So whether you need portability or peace of mind, the LaCie Rugged SSD is here for you — literally. Revered for its toughness, this padded drive has long been a go-to for travelers and creative pros in need of reliable storage.

LaCie offers both SSD and traditional spinning drive variants, so you have options to suit your needs. If your main goal is nightly backups and you’re not concerned with speed, the spinning drive is a budget option. But when you are in the middle of a hot photo shoot or an event that time is precious, the LaCie Rugged SSD takes in the charge with fast data transfer speeds.

Just consider it: a device that allows you to offload your images quickly and spend less time worrying about storage and more time doing your craft. Built for travel durability, this drive enables you to work confidently in different places.

In the midst of eventful crowds or in the middle of remote fields, the LaCie Rugged SSD is your best friend, ready to keep your important data safe. So, get behind a wheel that, apart from its technical requirements, satiates your adventurous side and treats you to the luxury of taking every moment home without too much thought. Let LaCie manage your backup so you can concentrate on your art.

 

4. SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD

 

 

Are you looking for an ultimate storage solution that can keep up with your creativity? The best devices for creators like you, designed for you, the Samsung T7 Portable SSD With 1 TB of digital storage, this lightweight external hard drive features the latest PCIe NVMe technology which provides reading speeds of up to 1,050 MB/s and writing speeds of up to 1,000 MB/s. This means you can back up large files, edit videos and store photographs almost in real time.

The T7 isn’t just fast; it’s hardy, too. With a shock-resistant body and unibody aluminum housing, it can withstand drops of up to six feet, keeping your information safe even during the most extreme excursions.

The T7 also features versatility as an important trait. Whether you’re on a PC, gaming console, tablet, or smartphone, this SSD has your back, allowing you to tailor your use for whatever needs you have, whether that be for gaming or even professional scaled file storage.

And if you’re recording high-resolution 4K videos, the T7’s got you covered here as well; you can record directly to the drive without sacrificing quality. The Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a reliable storage solution that allows you to explore, create, and share your ideas, allowing you more time to spend on the things you love most.

 

5. Crucial X6 2TB Portable SSD

 

 

The new Crucial X6 2TB Portable SSD Flash Drive is your reliable partner in crime for external storage. For a cheap, portable SSD that works well, look no farther than the Crucial X6. That compact, lightweight design makes it a great option — especially if you like to work on the go in places like coffee shops or co-working spaces.

Of course, you won’t find the lightning-fast speeds of the latest SSD technologies, but the X6’s SATA interface will suffice for most people looking for decent performance. It reads at a speed of around 550 MB/s and writes at around 208 MB/s, which is perfectly serviceable for regular tasks like backups and file storage. This drive is versatile however, this might not be the ideal drive for high-performance gaming on Xbox or PlayStation. On the other hand, if you’re an iPad Pro user, the X6 works like a charm, adding plenty of storage for your projects and media.

Long story short, the Crucial X6 2TB Portable SSD is the perfect balance between cost-efficient and comprehensive functionality. It’s a wise pick for anyone who needs portable storage that does not cost a fortune. So whether you need to transfer files, back up important documents, or just need more storage for your devices, the Crucial X6 is designed to handle those tasks. Add this versatile device to your tech collection so that you have essential data on the go and make life just that little bit easier and faster.

 

Things to Consider Before Buying a External SSD:

Buying an external SSD can greatly enhance your storage capabilities, but there are several factors you need to keep in mind before making a decision. From speed and capacity to compatibility and pricing, each aspect plays a vital role in ensuring that you choose the right device for your needs. In this guide, you will discover key considerations that will help you navigate the options available and make an informed purchase that aligns with your requirements.

SATA SSDs

One popular choice among external SSDs is SATA SSDs, which offer a balanced mix of performance and affordability. They are widely used for everyday storage needs, making them suitable for files such as photos, documents, and media files.

NVMe SSDs

SSDs utilizing NVMe technology stand out for their impressive speed and efficiency. These drives communicate directly with your computer’s motherboard, allowing for faster read and write speeds compared to traditional SATA SSDs. This makes NVMe SSDs a perfect option for gamers, content creators, and professionals requiring quick data transfer and loading times.

Types of NVMe SSDs are further advanced with options like M.2 and U.2 interfaces, enhancing their versatility. They are typically more expensive than SATA SSDs but deliver much higher performance, particularly in data-intensive applications. If speed and efficiency are top priorities for you, considering a high-quality NVMe SSD can greatly enhance your computing experience.

Storage Capacity

Now that you understand the basics, consider the storage capacity that will best suit your usage. Think about the files you intend to store, whether they are large video files, games, or extensive photo libraries. Choose a size that provides ample room for your current data and future needs without overspending on unnecessary space.

Read and Write Speeds

You should also evaluate the read and write speeds of the SSD, as these will affect your data transfer times. Faster speeds result in less waiting when moving files or loading applications. For demanding tasks, such as video editing, higher read and write speeds can significantly enhance workflow efficiency.

Capacity plays a key role in determining the performance you can expect from your external SSD. High read speeds allow for quicker access to your files, while high write speeds enable rapid data transfer when saving large files. When choosing an SSD, look for a balance between these two metrics to meet your requirements effectively.

Advantages

Any external SSD you choose is likely to provide faster data transfer speeds than traditional hard drives, making it ideal for quick access to files and applications. The durability and portable design of these drives also add significant value, allowing you to take your data on the go without worrying about physical damage. Furthermore, lower power consumption ensures longer battery life for your devices, making them a reliable choice for work and play.

Disadvantages

External SSDs often come with a higher price tag compared to standard hard drives, which may be a consideration for your budget. Additionally, these drives may offer limited storage capacity, which can be restrictive if you handle large files or require extensive backup solutions.

To make matters more challenging, the data recovery process for external SSDs can be complicated in case of failure, increasing the risk of data loss. Additionally, you might encounter compatibility issues with certain devices, which can limit your ability to connect and use the drive seamlessly across different platforms. Ultimately, weighing these disadvantages against the advantages will help you determine if an external SSD is the right fit for your storage needs.

Warranty and Support

One key aspect to evaluate when purchasing an external SSD is the warranty and support offered by the manufacturer. A reliable warranty can protect your investment and provide peace of mind.

The warranty period varies, but a longer warranty often indicates confidence in the product’s durability. Additionally, good customer support can assist you with setup and troubleshooting, ensuring you have a smooth experience with your SSD. Opt for brands that offer comprehensive support channels, as this can enhance your overall satisfaction.

Proper Usage Practices

Your usage methods play a vital role in the longevity of your external SSD. Always eject the drive safely through your operating system before unplugging it to avoid data corruption. Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight, as excessive heat can degrade performance. Additionally, try to limit write and delete operations since SSDs have a finite number of write cycles.

Data Backup Strategies

Now that you have your external SSD, establishing a reliable backup strategy is important for safeguarding your data. Regularly schedule backups to prevent data loss from unexpected failures or accidental deletions.

The best backup strategies often include using cloud storage alongside your external SSD, allowing you to access your files even if your device is damaged or lost. Consider implementing automated backup software that syncs with your SSD, ensuring your most important files are always stored securely. You might also choose to maintain multiple backup copies in different locations to add another layer of protection. This comprehensive approach will help you keep your data safe and easily retrievable.

To wrap up

With this in mind, before purchasing an external SSD, ensure you evaluate your storage needs, consider the type of interface compatibility, assess read and write speeds, and factor in your budget. Additionally, examine warranty options and brand reputation for reliability. By taking these points into account, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your requirements and enhances your computing experience.