Shop for External SSD drive at Best Buy. Find low everyday prices and buy online for delivery or in-store pick-up. The Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB is one of the more compact non-SSD drives, making it the best external hard drive for those who are looking to save some space. And at less than $60, it's also a.
Best 2TB External SSD:Samsung T5
Best 4TB External SSD:VectoTech Rapid 4TB External SSD
Have you ever wondered if there is any one component in the market that can do-it-all for your computer? Then it has become almost necessary for you to get your hands on the best SSD external hard drive.
The best external SSD can perform vital functions. All gamers, computer professionals, and people who have to deal with lots of data such as video editing and photography also require a smooth, fast running computer set up with enough space. For this reason, external SSD and hard drives have become so popular.
With increasing dependency on digital means of data storage, whether for entertainment or professional purposes, has led to the need for great PC and MAC storage capabilities. So, we will list down some incredible, best SSD external hard drives in the market today. Take a look to find 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB hard drives that you can make great use out of.
Quick Summary
In the following article, we have reviewed and thoroughly looked at the most important features of the best SSD in the market. All reviews are based on features such as memory capacity, built quality, durability, and also brand reliability. The winners of this article are 3 SSDs that each has a capacity of 1, 2, and 4 TB.
Moreover, the article also takes a look at occasions and reasons why one would need an SSD external hard drive, how they would make use of it, and what features make them the best in the market.
Who Needs an SSD External Hard Drive?
Many people still wonder and are not convinced as to why they should invest a sum of money into an SSD external hard drive. If you need one answer to it, then it's simple: greater speed. However, better, improved speedy performance of your computer is not the only reason why one might need an external SSD.
· Gaming purposes
As a gamer, your needs for your computer system will be a lot different than the needs of a non-gamer. Game responsiveness, video quality, and the overall experience with gaming are hugely different and highly impacted if you are using a slower hard drive. Therefore, to ensure a better gaming performance as well as a better experience, a fast, SSD external drive is needed.
· Efficient backup
We realize how sensitive, crucial, and critical data is stored digitally. The days for paper-back files and documents are almost over. Whether you have loads of pictures from a recent vacation or need to back up heavy databases for your company/business, external SSD drives are the solution. They are spacious enough and reliable enough to store such a valuable amount of data.
· Immediate access anywhere anytime
You do not need special hardware, cables, or anything unique to access your valuable data. At any given time, you can access the hard drive. They are portable and are sturdily built to meet the needs of frequent travelers, corporate workers, or IT professionals. So, it's a lot more convenient than carrying laptops or depending on e-mails and cloud storage for data access.
· Safer than depending solely on an internal drive
If you have a PC or a MAC, it is important to know that external hard drives are a lot safer. By this, we are referring to situations where the built-in hard drive might get corrupted or damaged and stops working, then you will have absolutely no access to your computer and won't be able to use it. However, if something like that ever happens to the external drive, you will always have your computer's access.
How We Tested and Picked the Best External SSD
While we have created a list of the best SSD external hard drives, it is also important to know what makes them so beneficial and unique and worthy of being on the list. We have considered a few important aspects of each product, which are listed below. Use these considerations to also make your own decision about the best SSD external drive.
· Customer feedback
The best way to assess any product's performance and reliability is to see what real users and customers have experienced. The feedback customers leave for a product is valuable. It draws a realistic image of how the hard drive is going to perform. From installation, usage to longevity, we find all these measures about the product through customer feedback.
· Brand reliability
When it comes to digital hardware such as SSD external drives, the brand is of key importance. If you buy from a less known, novice brand, you are more likely to face troubles with either the product or the customer support. Therefore, experienced brands that have a good name in the market, such as Samsung and SanDisk, make it to our list. They are experienced brands that have been operating in the market for a long time and have now gained their customers' trust and a strong position in the market.
· Storage capacity
The hard drives on our list all vary between storage capacities. Some of them have one definite capacity of 2 TB, while others are available in a range of size options such as 1 and 2 TB both. We use storage capacity as an important key measure when judging an SSD drive. Without adequate space, SSD drives will lose their prime functionality and benefit.
· Transfer rate
While size is important, speed is also not to be overlooked. It is vital to see the data transfer rate of the drive. We use this measure to decide whether or not the drive is worth the money.
· Portability
While external drives are all portable and handy, some are more mobility-friendly than others. The portability depends hugely on built quality and size in terms of weight and dimensions. A heavy, hand-sized drive is not as portable as a lightweight, compact drive.
Portability is a personal preference. Some people do not want to or look forward to carrying the drive with them frequently. For these people, this might not be an important point to be considered.
· Add-ons
When you are paying such a sum of money for an SSD drive, it is vital to make sure that the product adds some additional value to your money. For this reason, we always look for extra add-ons and features. There could be a rubber casing, a carrying pouch/bag, extra cable, or even a generous warranty or money-back guarantee. Responsive and useful customer support are also important add-ons.
The Winners
Best 1TB External SSD: SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD
Quick specs:
- Available in 500 GB, 1, 2 TB
- Data transfer rate of 1050mb/s
- IP55 rating ensuring water and dust resistance
- Aluminum body
- Has USB type-C and type-A connectivity
- Silicone rubber-coated for impact resistance
Operating since the late '80s, SanDisk today stands as one of the most reputable brands in the market for products like flash memory, memory cards, and hard drives. It is no surprise that this Extreme Pro Portable SSD by SanDisk is also one of their best-selling, best performing units in the market. The 1 TB SSD is the answer to all your storage issues.
The unit is constructed with a full aluminum body that makes it durable and resistant to rust/corrosion. This means that the durability is bound to add great value to your money. In addition to this, to further protect the disk from shocks and impacts, it also has rubberized ends to withstand falls. If this was not enough for adding durability and safety to the disk, the IP55 rating would surely seal the deal. The rating indicates that the disk is resistant to water as well as dust. So, it's a low maintenance yet high performing unit.
The maximum size available with this disk is 1 TB. However, the versatile SSD also comes in smaller sizes of 250 and 500 GB, so it caters to more customer needs. Another notable feature of this SSD is that it does not heat up too much as the maximum temperature it will ever reach is 45 degrees.
Also, it has a compact and lightweight design meant to fit in the palm of your hand or your pocket as well. So, maximize your portability and mobility of the data with this 1TB external SSD.
Best 2TB External SSD: Samsung T5
Quick specs:
- It is available in 4 colors
- Available in 1 and 2 TB capacity
- Fits in the palm of your hand
- Supports Windows 7 and macOS Maverick (or later)
- Comes with USB Type C to C and USB Type C to A cables
- Features optional password protection
Are you a picky buyer? Or are you a gamer with a whole PC set up and want everything to match?
Then the Samsung T5 2 TB external SSD is your pick!
The SSD is available in a range of 4 colors that include a black, red, blue, and gold colored device. You can select the color that best matches your gaming setup, so it blends in well. However, the appearance and variety of colors are not the only notable features of this unit.
This SSD can be bought in a range of 3 sizes, the largest size being 2 TB. So, if your memory needs are lesser, you can also opt for the 1 TB or 500 GB version. A remarkable feature of this device is its exceptionally compact design that easily fits within your hand's palm. It's also lightweight, weighing at almost 1.76 ounces, ensuring more portability and convenience too.
For further value addition, this unit comes with included Type C to C and Type C to A connectors, so you don't have to go through the troubles of buying the cables separately. All your data in this drive will be password protected by an optional feature with 256-bit AES hardware encryption. So, the versatility of colors and sizes, along with a metal body, lightweight, and compact, and full security all together, makes this an incredible pick!
This 2 TB SSD external is also supported by a 3-year warranty!
Best 4TB External SSD: VectoTech Rapid 4TB External SSD
Quick specs:
- Available in 5 sizes; 250, 500 GB, 1, 2 and 4 TB
- Backed by a manufacturer warranty of 3 years
- Has a shockproof construction
- Read/write speed is up to 540 MB/S
- USB 3.1 Gen 2 compatible
- Constructed with an aluminum case
- Works with both Mac and PC
Many people have never used an external hard drive before and are therefore reluctant because of so many questions and queries in their minds. However, with the right unit and the right technical support, you can make the most out of an external SSD.
For this reason, we find the VectoTech Rapid 4TB External SSD drive truly impressive. The hard drive is supported by easy-to-reach technical support at a number given by the brand. This allows for beginners and even professionals to solve all their queries and problems with the device. In addition, you also get your hands on a 3-year warranty provided by the manufacturer. This guarantees that your money does not go to waste.
Furthermore, the device is available in a versatile range of sizes. You can get it in 1, 2, and 4TB, and also in 250 and 500 GB. The 4TB SSD External hard drive also has compatibility with 2 cables. These include a Type C to C and a Type C to A compatibility.
In addition to this, it also is an ideal pick for those looking for easy mobility. It is lightweight and compact. It has a sleek silver-colored finish and an aluminum body to further add durability and sturdiness. One very important feature of this unit is that it does not need anything additional for installation. It can easily operate on Windows and Mac both, so it's a great choice for those who are less tech-savvy and have limited time but need a spacious hard drive for their data.
The Competition
Samsung X5 Portable SSD 1TB
Quick specs:
Buy External Ssd
- Available in a variety of 3 sizes, 500 GB, 1 and 2 TB
- Full metal body with a non-slip base
- Equipped with Samsung Thermal Guard technology for better heat dissipation
- AES 256-bit encryption for better safety
- 40 GB/S data transfer rate
Samsung has never failed to deliver the most reliable and high quality products in the market. They have a great reputation and years of experience. Similarly, their X5 portable SSD 1TB is also an incredible product in terms of its versatile range of features and an exceptionally well-built design.
Firstly, the SSD hard drive comes in a range of 3 sizes, which include 500 GB and 1 and 2 TB. It has a data transfer speed of 40 GB/S, along with a Thunderbolt 3 power. Moreover, the drive features a sturdy and stable design that can be used for gaming PCs as well.
Its most distinctive feature is the non-slip base that ensures it stays stable. Its appearance is unique and distinctive, too, with a black and a little touch of red-colored side panels that make it attractive. The hard drive is meant to ensure good performance with its reading and writing speed of 2800 and 2300 MB/s, respectively.
Furthermore, the device is also equipped with the distinctive Samsung Dynamic Thermal Guard protection, which will guarantee the longevity of the device. The glossy metal body, along with size options and a shock-resistant internal design is all supported by a 3-year warranty.
WD 4TB My Passport Ultra Silver Portable External Hard Drive
Quick specs:
- USB-C and USB 3.0 compatible
- Has a strong metal cover
- Compatible with Windows 10
- 256-bit AES standard security encrypted
- It weighs 231 grams
Have a Windows system and need additional space for data storage? This WD 4TB My Passport Ultra-portable hard drive is the answer. From compact size to a sleek appearance and a spacious memory capacity, this is one of the best SSD external hard drives in the market today.
It comes from a reliable brand, Western Digital, that excels in manufacturing computer hardware and memory components as well. There are a number of features that make this one of the best, with the 256-Bit AES standard security being the most important one. So, you can secure your valuable data in this device and not worry about safety.
Moreover, the device is made of metal. The strong metal not only ensures a durable build but also adds value to your money with its sturdiness. The rugged built is going to last a long time. In addition, the silver-colored, metallic look of the device further makes it impressive and a good addition to your PC setup. Also, you get to choose between a silver and a blue-colored finish!
It is fully compatible with Windows 10 and is specifically designed for that purpose. All these outstanding features will be supported by a warranty of 3 years offered by the brand itself.
Seagate Fast SSD 500GB External Solid State Drive Portable
Quick specs:
- Available in 500 GB, 1 and 2 TB size options
- Compatible with USB-C
- Backed by a 3-year warranty
- Data transfer rate of 540 MB/S
- Comes with an additional 2-month Adobe membership
- Equipped with a convenient folder syncing feature
- Metallic finish gives it a sleek look
- Has a shockproof built
The easiest way to describe this Seagate SSD hard drive is that it is portable, sleek, and super-fast. The device has a data transfer speed of 540 MB/s. Plus, it is available in 500 GB, 1, and 2 TB sizes. The fast SSD model has a sleek design, featuring an all-black matte exterior with a slim LED green light indicating whether or not the device is on. Its minimalistic design is its most impressive and distinctive feature.
We hugely recommend this SSD for gamers who need an additional, fast drive for systems like PlayStation and Xbox. An important feature of this device is that it is capable of backing up and syncing data automatically, ensuring that you never lose your valuable data. The hard drive also has USB-C reversible compatibility, so you get USB A connections too.
The hard drives on our list all vary between storage capacities. Some of them have one definite capacity of 2 TB, while others are available in a range of size options such as 1 and 2 TB both. We use storage capacity as an important key measure when judging an SSD drive. Without adequate space, SSD drives will lose their prime functionality and benefit.
· Transfer rate
While size is important, speed is also not to be overlooked. It is vital to see the data transfer rate of the drive. We use this measure to decide whether or not the drive is worth the money.
· Portability
While external drives are all portable and handy, some are more mobility-friendly than others. The portability depends hugely on built quality and size in terms of weight and dimensions. A heavy, hand-sized drive is not as portable as a lightweight, compact drive.
Portability is a personal preference. Some people do not want to or look forward to carrying the drive with them frequently. For these people, this might not be an important point to be considered.
· Add-ons
When you are paying such a sum of money for an SSD drive, it is vital to make sure that the product adds some additional value to your money. For this reason, we always look for extra add-ons and features. There could be a rubber casing, a carrying pouch/bag, extra cable, or even a generous warranty or money-back guarantee. Responsive and useful customer support are also important add-ons.
The Winners
Best 1TB External SSD: SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD
Quick specs:
- Available in 500 GB, 1, 2 TB
- Data transfer rate of 1050mb/s
- IP55 rating ensuring water and dust resistance
- Aluminum body
- Has USB type-C and type-A connectivity
- Silicone rubber-coated for impact resistance
Operating since the late '80s, SanDisk today stands as one of the most reputable brands in the market for products like flash memory, memory cards, and hard drives. It is no surprise that this Extreme Pro Portable SSD by SanDisk is also one of their best-selling, best performing units in the market. The 1 TB SSD is the answer to all your storage issues.
The unit is constructed with a full aluminum body that makes it durable and resistant to rust/corrosion. This means that the durability is bound to add great value to your money. In addition to this, to further protect the disk from shocks and impacts, it also has rubberized ends to withstand falls. If this was not enough for adding durability and safety to the disk, the IP55 rating would surely seal the deal. The rating indicates that the disk is resistant to water as well as dust. So, it's a low maintenance yet high performing unit.
The maximum size available with this disk is 1 TB. However, the versatile SSD also comes in smaller sizes of 250 and 500 GB, so it caters to more customer needs. Another notable feature of this SSD is that it does not heat up too much as the maximum temperature it will ever reach is 45 degrees.
Also, it has a compact and lightweight design meant to fit in the palm of your hand or your pocket as well. So, maximize your portability and mobility of the data with this 1TB external SSD.
Best 2TB External SSD: Samsung T5
Quick specs:
- It is available in 4 colors
- Available in 1 and 2 TB capacity
- Fits in the palm of your hand
- Supports Windows 7 and macOS Maverick (or later)
- Comes with USB Type C to C and USB Type C to A cables
- Features optional password protection
Are you a picky buyer? Or are you a gamer with a whole PC set up and want everything to match?
Then the Samsung T5 2 TB external SSD is your pick!
The SSD is available in a range of 4 colors that include a black, red, blue, and gold colored device. You can select the color that best matches your gaming setup, so it blends in well. However, the appearance and variety of colors are not the only notable features of this unit.
This SSD can be bought in a range of 3 sizes, the largest size being 2 TB. So, if your memory needs are lesser, you can also opt for the 1 TB or 500 GB version. A remarkable feature of this device is its exceptionally compact design that easily fits within your hand's palm. It's also lightweight, weighing at almost 1.76 ounces, ensuring more portability and convenience too.
For further value addition, this unit comes with included Type C to C and Type C to A connectors, so you don't have to go through the troubles of buying the cables separately. All your data in this drive will be password protected by an optional feature with 256-bit AES hardware encryption. So, the versatility of colors and sizes, along with a metal body, lightweight, and compact, and full security all together, makes this an incredible pick!
This 2 TB SSD external is also supported by a 3-year warranty!
Best 4TB External SSD: VectoTech Rapid 4TB External SSD
Quick specs:
- Available in 5 sizes; 250, 500 GB, 1, 2 and 4 TB
- Backed by a manufacturer warranty of 3 years
- Has a shockproof construction
- Read/write speed is up to 540 MB/S
- USB 3.1 Gen 2 compatible
- Constructed with an aluminum case
- Works with both Mac and PC
Many people have never used an external hard drive before and are therefore reluctant because of so many questions and queries in their minds. However, with the right unit and the right technical support, you can make the most out of an external SSD.
For this reason, we find the VectoTech Rapid 4TB External SSD drive truly impressive. The hard drive is supported by easy-to-reach technical support at a number given by the brand. This allows for beginners and even professionals to solve all their queries and problems with the device. In addition, you also get your hands on a 3-year warranty provided by the manufacturer. This guarantees that your money does not go to waste.
Furthermore, the device is available in a versatile range of sizes. You can get it in 1, 2, and 4TB, and also in 250 and 500 GB. The 4TB SSD External hard drive also has compatibility with 2 cables. These include a Type C to C and a Type C to A compatibility.
In addition to this, it also is an ideal pick for those looking for easy mobility. It is lightweight and compact. It has a sleek silver-colored finish and an aluminum body to further add durability and sturdiness. One very important feature of this unit is that it does not need anything additional for installation. It can easily operate on Windows and Mac both, so it's a great choice for those who are less tech-savvy and have limited time but need a spacious hard drive for their data.
The Competition
Samsung X5 Portable SSD 1TB
Quick specs:
Buy External Ssd
- Available in a variety of 3 sizes, 500 GB, 1 and 2 TB
- Full metal body with a non-slip base
- Equipped with Samsung Thermal Guard technology for better heat dissipation
- AES 256-bit encryption for better safety
- 40 GB/S data transfer rate
Samsung has never failed to deliver the most reliable and high quality products in the market. They have a great reputation and years of experience. Similarly, their X5 portable SSD 1TB is also an incredible product in terms of its versatile range of features and an exceptionally well-built design.
Firstly, the SSD hard drive comes in a range of 3 sizes, which include 500 GB and 1 and 2 TB. It has a data transfer speed of 40 GB/S, along with a Thunderbolt 3 power. Moreover, the drive features a sturdy and stable design that can be used for gaming PCs as well.
Its most distinctive feature is the non-slip base that ensures it stays stable. Its appearance is unique and distinctive, too, with a black and a little touch of red-colored side panels that make it attractive. The hard drive is meant to ensure good performance with its reading and writing speed of 2800 and 2300 MB/s, respectively.
Furthermore, the device is also equipped with the distinctive Samsung Dynamic Thermal Guard protection, which will guarantee the longevity of the device. The glossy metal body, along with size options and a shock-resistant internal design is all supported by a 3-year warranty.
WD 4TB My Passport Ultra Silver Portable External Hard Drive
Quick specs:
- USB-C and USB 3.0 compatible
- Has a strong metal cover
- Compatible with Windows 10
- 256-bit AES standard security encrypted
- It weighs 231 grams
Have a Windows system and need additional space for data storage? This WD 4TB My Passport Ultra-portable hard drive is the answer. From compact size to a sleek appearance and a spacious memory capacity, this is one of the best SSD external hard drives in the market today.
It comes from a reliable brand, Western Digital, that excels in manufacturing computer hardware and memory components as well. There are a number of features that make this one of the best, with the 256-Bit AES standard security being the most important one. So, you can secure your valuable data in this device and not worry about safety.
Moreover, the device is made of metal. The strong metal not only ensures a durable build but also adds value to your money with its sturdiness. The rugged built is going to last a long time. In addition, the silver-colored, metallic look of the device further makes it impressive and a good addition to your PC setup. Also, you get to choose between a silver and a blue-colored finish!
It is fully compatible with Windows 10 and is specifically designed for that purpose. All these outstanding features will be supported by a warranty of 3 years offered by the brand itself.
Seagate Fast SSD 500GB External Solid State Drive Portable
Quick specs:
- Available in 500 GB, 1 and 2 TB size options
- Compatible with USB-C
- Backed by a 3-year warranty
- Data transfer rate of 540 MB/S
- Comes with an additional 2-month Adobe membership
- Equipped with a convenient folder syncing feature
- Metallic finish gives it a sleek look
- Has a shockproof built
The easiest way to describe this Seagate SSD hard drive is that it is portable, sleek, and super-fast. The device has a data transfer speed of 540 MB/s. Plus, it is available in 500 GB, 1, and 2 TB sizes. The fast SSD model has a sleek design, featuring an all-black matte exterior with a slim LED green light indicating whether or not the device is on. Its minimalistic design is its most impressive and distinctive feature.
We hugely recommend this SSD for gamers who need an additional, fast drive for systems like PlayStation and Xbox. An important feature of this device is that it is capable of backing up and syncing data automatically, ensuring that you never lose your valuable data. The hard drive also has USB-C reversible compatibility, so you get USB A connections too.
For heavy-duty gaming, streaming heavy data, and high-resolution games, this is the ideal pick.
HP P600 1 TB Portable USB 3.1 External SSD
Quick specs:
Best Buy Ssd External Hard Drives
- 1 TB, 250 and 500 GB sizes available
- All-black exterior with a sleek finish
- Works with Mac, Windows, and other systems
- Is USB-C compatible
- Fully supported by a 3-year warranty
- Has a vibration and shock resistant built
- Weighs 108 grams
Everyone thinks about HP when it comes to finding computer hardware parts. HP has proven to be one of the market-leading brands in the world of computers. So, we have selected its P600 500GB External SSD as one of the best SSD drives in the market. This hard drive is best for home use, office use, and for storing extra data to keep your computer system clean. The drive is compact and lightweight as it weighs for only about 108 grams.
You can also avail this device in a 1 TB design. A remarkable thing about this unit is that it comes with a USB-C connector, Type C to Type A, and Type A to Type C adaptors too. So, this highly reliable HP drive saves you lots of time and energy in finding the right connectors and adaptors. With a sleek black body, metallic construction, and vibration and shock resistance, the unit is highly reliable and portable as well.
Conclusion
To sum up the article, we would suggest that the best SSD external hard drive that you want to buy should meet your expectations and usage requirements. Don't go for a hard drive that is only pricey, but look at some other features as well, such as its built quality. Always remember to pick the right size as you might not need a lot of space right now, but in the long term, a spacious drive will be hugely beneficial.
