9 best usb hard drives

USB hard drives, also known as external hard drives or USB external drives, are portable storage devices that connect to a computer or other compatible devices via a USB interface. They are commonly used for data storage, backup, and data transfer.Here are some key points about USB hard drives:

  1. Storage Capacity: USB hard drives come in various storage capacities, ranging from a few hundred gigabytes (GB) to multiple terabytes (TB). The choice of capacity depends on your storage needs, such as storing documents, photos, videos, games, or large files.

  2. Portable: USB hard drives are compact and portable, making them easy to carry around. They are powered through the USB connection, eliminating the need for an external power source, which further enhances their portability.

  3. Data Transfer Speed: USB hard drives utilize different USB standards for data transfer, including USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, and USB 3.2. The USB version affects data transfer speeds, with later versions offering faster rates. USB 3.0 and later are recommended for faster data transfers.

  4. Compatibility: USB hard drives are compatible with a wide range of devices, including Windows and Mac computers, gaming consoles (e.g., PlayStation, Xbox), smart TVs, and more. To ensure compatibility, it's essential to format the drive appropriately for your intended use and device.

  5. File System: USB hard drives are typically formatted with a file system that determines how data is stored and organized on the drive. Common file systems include NTFS (Windows), exFAT (cross-platform), and HFS+ (Mac). Choosing the right file system is important for compatibility.

  6. Backup and Data Storage: USB hard drives are often used for data backup and storage. They provide a reliable way to back up important files, documents, photos, and videos to prevent data loss in case of computer failure or accidental deletion.

  7. Data Security: Some USB hard drives offer built-in encryption and password protection features to secure your data. These features help safeguard sensitive information from unauthorized access.

  8. Multiple Drives: Users often purchase multiple USB hard drives to separate and organize data. For instance, one drive may be used for work-related files, while another is used for personal data or media storage.

  9. Solid-State Drives (SSD): In addition to traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), USB external drives are available with SSD technology. SSDs offer faster data access and improved durability due to their lack of moving parts. However, they tend to be more expensive per gigabyte compared to HDDs.

  10. Backup Software: Some USB hard drives come with backup software that simplifies the process of scheduling and automating backups. This software may offer features like incremental backups and file versioning.

  11. Durability: USB hard drives are designed to be durable and withstand typical handling. However, they are still sensitive to physical shocks, so it's essential to handle them with care and consider investing in protective cases for transportation.

  12. Price: USB hard drive prices vary based on capacity, speed, and brand. HDDs are generally more affordable than SSDs, making them a cost-effective choice for those with large storage needs.

USB hard drives are versatile storage solutions that cater to various data storage and backup requirements. When choosing a USB hard drive, consider factors such as storage capacity, data transfer speed, compatibility, and any additional features like encryption or backup software to ensure it meets your specific needs.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best usb hard drives on the market
  

WD 8TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive HDD, USB 3.0, Compatible with PC, Mac, PS4 & Xbox - WDBWLG0080HBK-NESN

Western Digital

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

WD Elements desktop storage with USB 3.0 offers reliable, high-capacity, add-on storage, fast data transfer rates and universal connectivity with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 devices. The sleek design features up to 10TB capacity plus WD quality and reliability. Compatibility - Formatted NTFS and compatible with Windows 10, Windows 8.1 or Windows 7. Compatibility may vary depending on user’s hardware configuration and operating system.

  • Fast data transfers
  • High Capacity add on storage
  • Plug and Play Ready for Windows PCs
  • WD quality inside and out
  • 2 year manufacturer's limited warranty

User questions & answers

Question: Does this come with the power adapter
Answer: Yes ma'am that is exactly why I bought this cable to transfer from hard drive to hard drive (20gb to 150gb) for the same Xbox 360. this is exactly what you are looking for :) merry Christmas
Question: Is this compatabible with the ps
Answer: Sure, you have to connect the new drive to the Xbox 360, then you turn on the console, and the assitant appears after login, then the assistant itself guides you in this operation is very easy. One thing the process erases the content of the old disk.
Question: Will this work with a system that only has USB2.0 ports
Answer: usualy the PG read out should be between 100ms and 500ms. the PG being 70 means that the power good signal is being broadcast every 70ms if all the voltages are good the PSU should in theory still be suitable for use. the PG delay tells the computer that the power supply is still functioning properly at certain intervals and helps the emergency shutoff circuitry that is built in to motherboards to know when the powersupply has gone bad.
Question: which one is better? elements 8tb or my book 8tb
Answer: In other words, it does NOT support testing Watts.

External Hard Drive, Portable Hard Drive USB3.1 Hard Drive Compatible Mac, PC, Desktop, Laptop, MacBook, Chromebook (1TB,Silver)

Based on 19 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Plug and Play 

Without software to install, just plug it in and go, 

the external hard drive is ready to use immediately.

  Simply attach the USB cable to your computer and you're ready to start sending files. 



USB3.1 Fast Data Transfer Speed 

Allows you to connect to any USB port in your console. USB 3.1 supports super fast speed which is necessary to ensure games and apps load quickly.



Huge Capacity and Lightweight

External Hard Drive: 1TB-2TB Capacity, Ultra Slim, metal case, waterproof, drop resistant, scratch resistant.



What You Get 

1 x External Hard Drive; 1 x USB3.1 Cable; 

2 Years Manufacturer Warranty and Friendly Customer Service. 



Dimensions:10 x 3.2 x 0.9 cm/3.9x1.26x0.35 in

Item Weight: 37g

  • ✔SLIM AND PORTABLE:Merely 37g weight.The external hard drive slides into pockets and follow you everywhere. Also with aluminum alloy shell and matte surface to add fashion touch.
  • ✔PLUG AND PLAY:No need software, Just plug and play with USB data cable and enjoy the happy time. (The package contains Type C to A USB data cable). So it’s convenient to put it in your bag and take it to anywhere.
  • ✔POWERFUL COMPATIBILITY:Suitable for (Windows) 10/RT8.1/RT/8.1/8/7 (Mac OS X) 10.11/10.10/10.9 or higher systems. External hard drive can be used for Windows, PC, Mac, Desktop, Laptop, MacBook, Chromebook, Xbox One, Xbox 360 and more models.
  • ✔USB3.1 /TYPE C ULTRA FAST SPEED: Equipped with advanced Type C/USB3.1 fast transfer technology, you can Never Worry About Plugging In Upside Down. The external hard drive give you stable and fast data transfer experience.
  • ✔WHAT YOU GET - 1 x External Hard Drive,1 x USB 3.1 Cable.

Maxone 500GB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive HDD USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, Laptop, PS4, Xbox one - Charcoal Grey

Maxone

Based on 21 reviews Check latest price
  • ✔ Ultra Slim and Sturdy Metal Design: Merely 0.4 inch thick. All-Aluminum anti-scratch model delivers remarkable strength and durability, keeping this portable hard drive running cool and quiet
  • ✔ A Reliable Game Drive: This PS4 external hard drive features fast and stable performance for PS4, PS4 Pro, and Xbox One, does not refuse or delete a game. Compatible with Microsoft Windows and Mac OS(10.6.5 and above) in the meantime
  • ✔ Improve PC Performance: Powered by USB 3.0 technology, this USB hard drive is much faster than - but still compatible with - USB 2.0 backup drive, allowing for super fast transfer speed at up to 5 Gbit/s
  • ✔ Plug and Play: This external drive is ready to use without external power supply or software installation needed. Ideal extra storage for your computer and game console
  • ✔ What's Included: Portable external hard drive, 19-inch(48.26cm) USB 3.0 hard drive cable, user's manual, 3-Year manufacturer warranty with free technical support service

Product features

Introducing Maxone Ultra Slim Portable Hard Drive

Powered by USB 3.0 technology, Maxone portable hard drives are much faster than USB 2.0, allowing for speedy transfer when organizing your files.

This portable hard drive by default is formatted as exFAT, which works well with Windows and Mac. Some of the old devices may need reformat.

No reformat required for Windows and Mac, just plug it in and play. Y cable will be needed for Wii U.

To maximize performance, please connect your hard drive to a USB 3.0 port, also compatible with USB 2.0.

Easy to Use

Maxone Ultra Slim external hard drive is ready to use without external power supply or software installation needed. Simply drag and drop files you want to save.

Improve PC Performance

Offering high storage capacity up to 2TB, this drive is made to free up more space and effectively improve the performance of your PC and laptop.

Ultra Compact and Light Weight

All-Aluminum anti-scratch model offers stronger exterior protection, delivering remarkable strength and durability. Yet this drive is also compact and light weight. Easy to carry around wherever you go.

Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive Portable HDD – USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, PS4, & Xbox - 1-Year Rescue Service (STGX2000400)

Seagate

Based on 96 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Easily store and access 2TB of content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a great laptop hard drive. Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this compact external hard drive makes backup a snap. Just drag and drop To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition—no software required—and enjoy plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable.

  • Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
  • Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
  • To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
  • This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
  • Enjoy long-term peace of mind with the included one-year limited warranty and 1 year rescue data recovery services

Product features

Always Spacious. Always Easy.

Back up yesterday’s memories and today’s documents, even on the go. Seagate Portable makes it possible thanks to the plug-and-play simplicity of USB 3.0 and drag-and-drop functionality.

What's Included

Seagate Portable, 18-inch (45.72cm) USB 3.0 cable, Quick start guide

Seagate Game Drive Hub 8TB External Hard Drive Desktop HDD with Dual USB Ports - Designed for Xbox One - 1-Year Rescue Service (STGG8000400)

Seagate

Based on 32 reviews Check latest price

Product description

With 8TB of colossal space, store 200+ titles in an external hard drive built exclusively for Xbox. Featuring dual front facing USB 3.0 ports, the Game Drive Hub for Xbox has the power to charge mobile devices, controllers, and gaming accessories, making it the perfect centerpiece for any console area. Dive into the action with a quick step by step setup, plug and play USB 3.0 connectivity, and high speed performance.

  • With 8TB of colossal space on this portable external hard drive, store 200 plus titles with an external hard drive and hub built exclusively for Xbox
  • Dual front facing USB 3.0 ports can charge mobile devices, controllers, and gaming accessories
  • This game drive lets you dive into the action with a quick step by step setup and plug and play USB 3.0 connectivity
  • Enjoy seamless, no lag performance thanks to high speed USB 3.0
  • Enjoy long term peace of mind with the included 1 year limited warranty and 1 year rescue recovery service

User questions & answers

Question: I read that Xbox 360 couldn't use more than a 32gb external hard drive, so how will this work
Answer: There was an Xbox live system software update for the 360 consoles that went live on August 30th ending the 16/32GB external memory cap. The USB ports on the console will now recognize external hard drives up to 2TB per slot, and two 2TB hard drives can be used simultaneously giving you 4TB total if you need it. It took ten years, but Microsoft finally listened to the masses.
Question: do you have to select whether the Xbox uses the internal or external drive when you are loading up a game? or will it find it automatically
Answer: I think the short answer to your question is the Xbox will find it automatically. The long answer is that during initial configuration of the drive (when you connect it the first time) it will ask you if you want to use this to install games to. After this, the Xbox manages the drive and knows where it has installed the games. If you want to clear up space on the internal drive, you can move games previously installed on it from the internal drive to the external drive. You will do this through the Xbox manage storage feature, so the Xbox will know where it installed the game.
Question: Does it come with the connecting cord
Answer: u mean the usb 3.0 cord?
Question: Will any external hard drive work for extra storage or do I have to buy this one
Answer: Like others have said, any 3.0 USB drive will work. Funny thing I picked up the same brand 2tb hd and it was like 10 to $15 cheaper as said before, plus it came with a silicone protection sleeve/case and had a 2 year warranty instead of the 1yr that this xbox version drive has. Also this drive is made and assembled in China whereas the same brand 2tb external plain drive is from China but assembled in thailand

Product features

Room to Play

With a colossal 8TB of capacity and plenty of room for 200+ games, you can easily take care of your storage needs and make deleting old games a thing of the past.* All that extra space on the Game Drive Hub for Xbox is also useful for game-save data and downloadable content.

* Average game size is 35GB to 50GB

Great Performance Means Great Gaming

Game Drive Hub includes high-speed USB 3.0—like playing from your console's hard drive.

Your Universe of Games in One Spot

With 8TB of capacity, you will never be short of game space.

Glorify Your Gamertag

Xbox will ask you to name your Game Drive. It’s up to you how you make it your own.

VectoTech Rapid 4TB External SSD USB-C Portable Solid State Drive (USB 3.1 Gen 2) – Up to 540MB/s Data Transfer, 3D NAND Flash

VectoTech

Based on 683 reviews Check latest price
  • PERFORMANCE – Ultra fast read/write speeds of up to 540MB/s, lets you transfer conveniently large files, 4K videos, high end gaming in seconds. With USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface (Type-C connection) and 3D NAND technology VectoTech portable SSD provides transfer speeds 5x faster than conventional hard drives
  • COMPATIBILITY – Works with PC and MAC straight out of the box. Comes with USB Type C to C and USB Type C to A cables, which makes it universal for older and newer computers. Fully compatible with Windows (7 or higher), MAC (macOS 10.x and higher), XBOX, PS4, iPad Pro, Android smartphones with USB C port, Surveillance systems and Thunderbolt 3 devices
  • DESIGN – Made out of durable Aluminum 1050 grade makes this portable solid state drive resistant to minor scratches, while providing ideal heat dissipation. Shock and vibration resistant up to 1500g at 0.5m/sec - equivalent of a 6-feet drop. Capable of withstanding operating temperatures from -13ºf (-25ºc) or 185ºf (85 ºc)
  • 3 Years Manufacturer warranty
  • Technical support +1 (800) 987-0197

User questions & answers

Question: Is it compatible with Time machine. Is it password protected. Thank you
Answer: Yes it is compatible with Time Backup Machine. It is not password protected. You can have it password protected by softwares available online. Thank you
Question: Will the 250 gb work for xbox one
Answer: Yes it will, but you need for format Rapid into FAT32 file system
Question: Is it compatible with mac
Answer: Yes it is, compatible with both MAC and PC
Question: Which capacity SDD (if any) is bus-powered and which requires an external power supply
Answer: None of VectoTech Rapid SSDs require external power supply. They all powered by USB cable only

Product features

VectoTech Rapid External Solid State Drive
High Speed SSD Performance

VectoTech Rapid Portable SSD will get you 3-4 times faster data transfer speeds than conventional spinning HDDs. Transfer your files with super fast speed of up to 540MB/s*. Save your time on moving and/or copying your photos, videos, documents, music and etc. With SuperSpeed of USB 3.1 Gen 2 and UASP support, Rapid SSD is a great fit for photographers, videographers, gamers, DJs and any other users with need of a backup.

* Transfer rate may vary depending on file sizes and system configuration

Compatibility

Comes with two cables: Type-C to Type-C and Type-C to Type-A, which makes Rapid external solid state drive compatible with new and old generation computers. No new adapters are required.

Durable Aluminum Case

VectoTech Rapid made out of two plates of durable Aluminum 1050 grade and connected with ABS plastic. This design makes Rapid SSD resistant to minor scratches, while still keeping it lightweight.

Easy to use

Preformatted as exFAT, Rapid SSD will work with both macOS and Windows operating systems, no additional installation required. Reversible USB-C port with a USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface makes it compatible with USB 3.0/2.0 devices

Shock and vibration resistant

Utilizing solid state technology VectoTech Rapid is shock and vibration resistance up to 1500g at 0.5 m/sec – equivalent of a 6-feet drop. It is also capable of withstanding operating temperatures from -13ºf (-25ºc) or 185ºf (85 ºc).

Designed in US

Designed and assembled in California. Optimized design with protective aluminum plates which dissipates heat for better performance. Rapid portable solid state drive has rubber strips on the bottom that prevents slips from slick surfaces.

Reliable SSD Performance

VectoTech is committed to providing our customers with the most reliable and fastest external solid state drives. Portable Rapid SSD has big advantage over traditional spinning hard drives for not having any moving parts, making it much more reliable to falling, vibration and shock.

SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD 500GB - Up to 1050MB/s - USB 3.2 External Solid State Drive, Gray (MU-PC500T/AM)

SAMSUNG

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The light, pocket-sized Portable SSD T7 delivers fast speeds with easy and reliable data storage for transfering large files. Whether you're storing critical business documents, games, or movies, the Portable SSD T7 gives you speed and durability in a palm-sized package. Introducing the new standard in external storage, available in three capacities to suit your needs: 500GB, 1TB, or 2TB.

  • TRANSFER IN A FLASH: Transfers files nearly 9.5x faster than external hard disk drive (HDD). Reads up to 1,050 MB/s / Writes up to 1,000 MB/s on USB 3.2 gen 2 supported devices*.
  • *SAMSUNG RECOMMENDS users to download the latest firmware update via the included Portable SSD Software 1.0 to ensure optimal performance
  • Data transfer speed may vary depending on the user’s PC environment and the types of data being transferred. USB 3.2 Gen2 and UASP support are required for maximum transfer speed (1,050MB/s)**
  • **SAMSUNG RECOMMENDS the usage of the included USB Type-C to C and USB Type-C to A cables. Non-original cables may cause performance degradation due to the varying internal resistance and maximum allowable currency
  • BUILT STRONG & SECURE: Shock-resistant and withstands drops from 6ft.
  • ADVANCED HEAT CONTROL: DYNAMIC THERMAL GUARD (DTG) TECHNOLOGY protects the T7(T7 Touch) from overheating by automatically slowing down data transfer if necessary. DTG technology enhances product safety and reliability by preventing the T7(T7 Touch) from reaching an excessively high temperature
  • PASSWORD SECURITY

User questions & answers

Question: Just for clarification, this 1tb version will work if i plug it into my S8+ without any additional hardware to retrieve and transer files? Thank you
Answer: 2 USB Ports, C-Port, HDMI, and SD
Question: Can i boot windows 10 directly using boot camp if i connect it to my mbp? im running out of storage on my mac so i don’t want to partitin&useboot camp
Answer: No. You can transfer with a flash drive.
Question: Will this ssd work as a external hard drive for ps
Answer: Which os and service pack or kernel level are you using, if linux based. also let me know the model of your laptop, onto which its installed.. mine works great on a dell latitude E6320, also crosscheck your ATA/AHCI settings on bios. any cloning utility used..? or fresh installs?
Question: I am running mac os catalina. if i reformat the drive, will it erase the cache that’s built into the drive
Answer: I tried it in a usb3 dock and didn't get nearly the performance others get hooking directly to sata. About 80Mbps average write speed backing up to capacity with HD video projects. Started out at around 270Mbps but that only lasted the 1st 20 sec or so. I get closer to 100Mbps average throughout with 7200 rpm Seagate laptop drives of same form factor and size. eSata might be a better bet and you won't need an enclosure... no circuitry is exposed as is.

Product features

Portable storage, on the go

The light, pocket-sized Portable SSD T7 delivers fast speeds with easy and reliable data storage for transfering large files. Whether you're storing critical business documents, games, or movies, the Portable SSD T7 gives you speed and durability in a palm-sized package. Introducing the new standard in external storage, available in three capacities to suit your needs: 500GB, 1TB, or 2TB.

Sleek and compact style

Roughly the size of a credit card and only weighing 2 ounces, the T7 fits comfortably in the palm of your hand and is light enough to take your files on the go.

Simple setup

The T7 comes embedded with software to help you set up a password to get the latest firmware updates for your PC, Mac, or Android mobile devices.⁵ You can also download the mobile app for Android smartphones and tablets.⁶

Transfer in a flash

Transfer massive files within seconds with the incredible speed of USB 3.2 Gen 2 on the T7.¹ The embedded PCIe NVMe technology delivers blazing fast sequential read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, respectively, making the T7 almost twice as fast as the previous T5 model.²

Built strong and secure

Unlike HDDs, the Portable SSD T7 has no moving parts so it's more resistant to shock. Plus, its solid aluminum unibody construction adds further protection, keeping your data safe from falls of up to 6 ft.³

Advanced heat control

Use T7 without the worry of overheating. Its advanced thermal solution uses ePCM technology and Dynamic Thermal Guard to withstand and control heat, so the Portable SSD stays at an optimal temperature even at fast speeds.⁴

Multi-device compatibility
Multi-device compatibility
Multi-device compatibility

The T7 is compatible with PC, Mac, Android devices, gaming consoles, and more. Included in the box are USB Type C-to-C and Type C-to-A cables for added convenience.

Multi-device compatibility
Multi-device compatibility

2TB External Hard Drive, Portable Hard Drive External Type-C/USB 2.0 HDD for Mac Laptop PC(2TB-Blue)

Genericn

Product description

Capacity:2TB | Color:BLUE

External Hard Drive, Portable Hard Drive External for PC, Laptop and Mac



FEATURES:

-Type: External hard drive

-Material: Aluminum Alloy, Matte, Chip

-Ports: Type-C/USB 2.0

-Speed: 400MB/S

-Capability Available: 1TB 2TB

-Drive Specification: 10x3.2x0.9cm/3.9x1.26x0.35in

-Drive Weight: 37g/1.3oz

-Colors Available: Black, Red, Blue, Silver



What’s Included:

1x External hard drive

1x USB Cable

  • System Compatibility--Microsoft Windows 10/ Windows 8.1/ Windows 8/ Windows 7/ Apple MAC/Android and more!
  • Fast Data Transfer--External hard drive, super fast transfer speed with upgrade USB 2.0, which reading is 5 times as fast as usual hard drives, ensuring you speedy and stable use!
  • Sturdy and Durable--Ultra slim portable hard drive external protected by sturdy and durable case, which is lightweight and handy, comfortably fits your palm or slip into pocket.
  • Plug and Play--This hard drive external is ready to go without software to install, just plug it in and go.
  • What You Get-- 1 x Portable Hard Drive,1 x USB Cable

WD 8TB My Book Desktop External Hard Drive, USB 3.0 - WDBBGB0080HBK-NESN

Western Digital

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The My Book drive is trusted desktop storage designed to complement your personal style with a massive amount of space to store your photos, videos, music and documents. Equipped with password protection and perfectly paired with WD Backup or Apple Time Machine, My Book desktop storage helps keep your files safe.Operating System: Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 7, macOS 10.13+.

  • Auto backup with included WD Backup software and Time Machine compatibility
  • Password protection with hardware encryption
  • Trusted storage built with WD reliability
  • USB 3.0 port; USB 2.0 compatible
  • 3-year manufacturer's limited warranty

Product features

Complete Backup

My Book desktop storage comes equipped with WD Backup software and Time Machine compatibility* to help make sure your photos, videos, music and documents don’t get lost. You can set it to run automatically to your schedule. Just pick the time and frequency to back up important files from your system.

*Reformatting required.

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