Best SSD External

External solid-state drives (SSDs) have become a must-have accessory for anyone needing fast and reliable storage solutions. Unlike traditional hard drives, SSDs don’t have moving parts, making them more durable and significantly faster. They excel in tasks requiring quick read/write speeds, such as backing up large files or running applications directly from the drive.

When choosing the best external SSD, several key factors should guide your decision. Capacity is crucial—you’ll want enough space to store your files without constantly swapping content. Speed is another critical aspect; look for an SSD with high data transfer rates to make file management a breeze. Lastly, consider the build quality and durability, especially if you plan to travel with the drive frequently. Top models offer robust materials that can withstand minor drops and bumps.

We tested several leading external SSDs to identify the ones that offer the best performance and reliability. Our extensive testing process ensures that we recommend only the top performers in the market.

Best SSD Externals

We’ve gathered the top SSD external drives available today. Find the perfect one for your storage needs below.

SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD, 1TB

Our Rating: 9.2/10

A must-have for anyone needing fast, reliable storage on the go.

Pros

• Ultra-fast transfer speeds
• Highly portable design
• Large storage capacity

Cons

• Slightly higher price
• Requires specific cables for max speed
• Limited color options

We use the SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD daily for various tasks, and it has proven to be a reliable and efficient storage solution. Its sleek, compact design makes it easy to carry around, fitting comfortably even in a small pocket. The speeds are exceptional, ensuring that our files transfer quickly without any hiccups.

This SSD is particularly useful for those who need a robust storage unit for video editing, large file transfers, or as an extension to a computer’s internal storage. We’ve experienced seamless performance with both Macs and PCs. The drive supports USB 3.2 Gen 2, enhancing its speed and compatibility.

While the SAMSUNG T7 is slightly pricier than some alternatives, the investment is justified by its durability and speed. The shock resistance feature has also proven beneficial, offering peace of mind during travel. If you’re looking for a dependable and fast external SSD, we highly recommend the SAMSUNG T7.

SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD

Our Rating: 9.2/10

This portable SSD is an excellent choice for those seeking a fast, durable, and easy-to-use storage solution.

Pros

• Impressive read/write speeds
• Strong build quality with water and dust resistance
• Convenient carabiner loop for portability

Cons

• Price may be higher compared to other options
• Short USB cable included
• Some may find the drive size too small

We found the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD to be incredibly fast. With read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write speeds up to 1000MB/s, it made transferring large files a breeze. This speed is perfect for photographers, videographers, or anyone needing quick access to their files.

The build quality is also impressive. It’s designed to withstand drops of up to three meters and resistant to water and dust. These features are particularly useful if you are constantly on the move or working in challenging environments.

The carabiner loop is a thoughtful addition, making it easy to attach to a backpack or belt loop. This small touch adds significant convenience for outdoor adventures or while commuting. Overall, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is a solid investment for reliable, high-speed storage on the go.

SanDisk 2TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD

Our Rating: 9.1/10

This product is perfect for those needing fast and reliable storage for travel, work, or everyday use.

Pros

• Extremely fast read/write speeds
• Highly durable with drop and water resistance
• Compact and portable

Cons

• Higher price compared to some competitors
• Can get warm during heavy use
• Included software could be more user-friendly

We found the SanDisk 2TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD to be incredibly fast and reliable. Whether using it for video editing or transferring large files on the go, it performed consistently well. The robust build, coupled with its drop and water resistance, gave us confidence in its durability.

Its compact size makes it perfect for travel. We easily slipped it into our bags without worrying about additional bulk. The included carabiner loop was a nice touch, making it easy to attach to a keyring or backpack for quick access.

One minor concern is that it tends to get warm during extended use, especially when transferring multiple large files. The included software for managing files could also use some improvement. Despite these small drawbacks, the overall performance and reliability of this SSD make it a worthy investment for anyone needing fast, portable storage.

Verbatim Store ‘n’ Go Portable SSD

Our Rating: 9.1/10

This is a great choice for anyone who needs fast and reliable storage on the go.

Pros

• High-speed data transfer
• Compact and portable
• Comes with useful accessories

Cons

• Plastic case feels cheap
• Short USB cable
• Limited to 512GB

The Verbatim Store ‘n’ Go Portable SSD impresses with its speed and reliability. We found transferring large files to be exceptionally quick, making it perfect for video editors and gamers. The compact design is easy to carry, fitting comfortably in a pocket or small bag.

Despite its many strengths, the plastic case feels a bit flimsy. It could be more robust, especially if you’re carrying it around frequently. The included USB cable is also quite short, which can be inconvenient depending on your setup. However, the USB-C adapter is a nice touch, allowing for versatile connectivity options.

In the end, we highly recommend the Verbatim Store ‘n’ Go Portable SSD for its blazing-fast performance and portability. Just keep in mind the slight drawbacks in build quality and cable length.

Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD

Our Rating: 8.8/10

The Crucial X9 is a reliable choice for anyone needing a fast and compact SSD.

Pros

• High read speeds
• Durable and portable design
• Compatible with many devices

Cons

• Slight higher price point
• Limited to 1 TB capacity
• USB cable issues reported

The Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD is quick and convenient for on-the-go storage. It fits nicely in your pocket or bag and handles all our photos, videos, and game files without a hitch. Its read speeds up to 1,050 MB/s make transferring large files a breeze.

We found the build quality to be solid, handling drops and bumps well. Being shockproof and vibration-proof adds to its durability, especially for traveling. Compatibility with a wide range of devices, from gaming consoles to Android phones, makes it very versatile.

A minor issue we noticed is that some users reported problems with the included USB-C cable. While this can be frustrating, it’s often an easy fix by getting a better cable. The 1 TB capacity is decent for most users, but for those needing more storage, it might feel limiting. Despite these small drawbacks, the Crucial X9 remains a highly dependable option for speedy and portable storage.

LaCie Rugged Mini

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The LaCie Rugged Mini is an ideal choice for those who need a durable and portable storage solution.

Pros

• Reliable in tough conditions
• Speedy data transfers
• Compact and portable

Cons

• Requires reformatting for Macs
• Short USB cable
• Heavier than some competitors

We recently tested the LaCie Rugged Mini and were impressed with its performance and durability. The bright orange color makes it easy to find in a crowded bag, and its rugged design means it can handle drops and rough treatment without a problem.

It’s perfect for travel due to its compact size and all-terrain durability. We noticed that it transferred data quickly when connected via USB 3.0, which saves time, especially if you’re often on the go.

One small drawback is that it needs to be reformatted if you’re using a Mac, which can be a bit of a hassle. The USB cable included is also quite short, so you might need to get a longer one. Despite these minor issues, it’s a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable portable hard drive.

Aiolo Innovation 5TB External Hard Drive A4

Our Rating: 8.4/10

This external hard drive offers a great mix of storage capacity and portability, making it a solid choice for both daily tasks and gaming.

Pros

• Fast transfer speeds
• Lightweight and quiet
• Easy to use

Cons

• Feels fragile
• Unplugs easily
• Simple design

The Aiolo Innovation 5TB External Hard Drive A4 stands out with its impressive speed and large storage capacity. It’s perfect for anyone who needs to store big files like videos or games. The lightweight design means we can take it anywhere without hassle.

Another thing we noticed is how quiet it is. We can work or play games without any annoying noise. The plug-and-play feature is also a big plus. No need for extra software – just connect and start using it.

On the downside, the drive feels a bit delicate. We worry it might break if dropped. It also tends to unplug easily, which can be frustrating. Despite these minor issues, we find it a reliable and affordable option for extra storage.

Check it out on Amazon!

HP P500 1TB USB-C External Solid State Hard Drive

Our Rating: 8.3/10

For those who want quick and reliable storage on the go, this product offers a great balance of speed and portability.

Pros

• Fast file transfers
• Lightweight and portable
• Compatible with multiple devices

Cons

• Can be slow for some larger files
• Some users reported connectivity issues
• Performance may degrade over time

The HP P500 offers fast transfer speeds with its USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface, making moving large files a breeze. Its lightweight, compact design means you can easily carry it in your pocket, making it super convenient for travel. We’ve found it works well between various devices, whether it’s a PC, Mac, or even an Android smartphone.

However, we did notice some hiccups with larger files, where speeds can drop. Some users have also experienced occasional connectivity issues, though this isn’t a widespread problem. Considering its 1TB capacity, it’s excellent for storing a large number of files, but regular backups and maintenance may be required as performance can degrade over time.

Its solid build quality, featuring an aluminum alloy body, ensures that it’s durable and can handle a few bumps along the way. If you’re looking for a reliable and fast SSD for everyday use, the HP P500 is a solid choice.

Samsung T9 Portable SSD 4TB

Our Rating: 8.9/10

We love the Samsung T9 Portable SSD for its blazing-fast speeds and ample storage space.

Pros

• Extremely fast transfer rates
• Large storage capacity
• Keeps cool during heavy use

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than other options
• Requires specific hardware for max speed
• Needs proper cables and settings for peak performance

The Samsung T9 Portable SSD has impressed us with its outstanding transfer speeds. It’s perfect for large file transfers and makes a noticeable difference when working on big projects like video editing or gaming. We no longer have to wait around for files to move, which saves us so much time.

Another huge advantage is its large 4TB capacity. This allows us to store vast amounts of data, whether it’s for creative projects, games, or backups. We feel more at ease knowing we won’t run out of space any time soon.

One thing we found remarkable is its heat management. Even when it’s running heavy operations, the T9 stays cool, making it more reliable and safer to use over long periods. This feature isn’t just a small perk; it genuinely enhances the device’s durability and our confidence in it.

By providing consistent performance and a substantial amount of space, the T9 really stands out. If you’re looking for a reliable and speedy SSD with plenty of room, this one is an excellent choice.

SAMSUNG T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD

Our Rating: 8.9/10

Ideal for adventurers and content creators, this SSD combines speed and durability.

Pros

• Extremely fast file transfer speeds
• Excellent durability with water and drop resistance
• Versatile compatibility with various devices

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than other SSDs
• Can run warm during heavy use
• Requires the included cable for optimal performance

We recently spent time using the SAMSUNG T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD and were highly impressed. This SSD handles data transfers at blazing speeds, making it perfect for large files. The convenience of transferring heavy video files in mere seconds cannot be overstated.

In terms of durability, this device stands out. Featuring water and drop resistance, it’s built to handle tough conditions. We felt confident carrying it around, knowing it could survive the elements. It’s definitely a reliable companion for outdoor projects or unpredictable environments.

Versatility is another big win for the T7 Shield. It connects seamlessly with PCs, Macs, game consoles, and even smartphones. This flexibility means we can switch between devices effortlessly. The only drawback is it can get a bit warm during intense use, but it’s a minor issue compared to its benefits.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best external SSD, there are several factors to keep in mind.

1. Storage Capacity

• 128GB to 256GB: Good for basic use.
• 500GB to 1TB: Suitable for most users.
• 2TB or more: For heavy storage needs.

2. Speed

• Look for SSDs with fast read and write speeds.
• Speeds usually range from 500MB/s to 2,000MB/s.

3. Portability and Durability

• Choose SSDs that are compact and lightweight.
• Check for shock resistance and water resistance.

4. Connectivity

• USB 3.1 or 3.2: Common and reliable.
• Thunderbolt 3: Faster, but more expensive.
• Make sure your devices support the SSD’s connectivity type.

5. Compatibility

• Ensure the SSD is compatible with your operating system.
• Check if it works with Windows, macOS, Linux, etc.

6. Security Features

• Look for hardware encryption.
• Consider models with password protection.

7. Warranty and Support

• A good SSD should come with a warranty of at least 3 years.
• Check the manufacturer’s customer support options.

Use this guide to make an informed choice that best suits your needs.