6 best external portables

External portable storage devices, such as External Solid State Drives (SSDs), are essential accessories for expanding data storage capacity, backing up files, and transporting data between devices.Here's what you need to know about them:

1. External Solid State Drives (SSDs):

  • High-Speed Storage: External SSDs offer significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). This makes them ideal for tasks like transferring large files, video editing, and running applications directly from the drive.

  • Durability: SSDs have no moving parts, which makes them more resistant to shocks and vibrations compared to HDDs. They are better suited for portable use as they can withstand rough handling.

  • Compact and Portable: Most external SSDs are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry in a pocket or bag. They are popular choices for users who need a portable storage solution.

  • Connectivity Options: External SSDs typically come with USB connectors, such as USB 3.0, USB 3.1, or USB-C, for easy compatibility with various devices, including computers, laptops, and even some smartphones.

  • Storage Capacities: External SSDs are available in a range of storage capacities, from a few hundred gigabytes (GB) to several terabytes (TB), catering to different storage needs.

2. Advantages of External Portable Storage:

  • Backup and Data Protection: External SSDs provide a secure way to back up important files, ensuring that your data remains safe in case of hardware failures or data corruption.

  • Portability: They are excellent for users who need to carry large amounts of data with them, such as photographers, videographers, and professionals who work on the go.

  • Compatibility: These devices are usually plug-and-play, meaning they work with a wide range of operating systems and devices without requiring additional drivers or software installations.

  • Speed: SSDs offer rapid read and write speeds, which can significantly improve tasks like file transfers and system backups.

3. Considerations When Choosing an External Portable Storage Device:

  • Capacity: Choose a storage capacity that suits your needs. Consider both your current and future storage requirements.

  • Speed: Check the data transfer speeds, especially if you plan to use the SSD for tasks that require fast read and write speeds.

  • Durability: If you need a drive for outdoor or rugged use, look for one with features like shock resistance and water resistance.

  • Compatibility: Ensure the drive is compatible with your devices. Some SSDs may require specific adapters or cables.

  • Security: Some external SSDs offer hardware encryption or password protection for added security.

  • Price: Prices can vary significantly based on capacity and brand, so consider your budget when making a choice.

In summary, external portable storage devices, especially External Solid State Drives, are versatile tools for expanding storage, backing up data, and facilitating data transfer between devices. They come in various capacities and offer benefits like speed, portability, and durability, making them valuable accessories for both personal and professional use.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best external portables on the market
  

WD 5TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive HDD, USB 3.0, Compatible with PC, Mac, PS4 & Xbox - WDBU6Y0050BBK-WESN

Western Digital

Based on 132 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Western Digital elements portable hard drives offer reliable, high-capacity storage, fast data transfer rates and universal connectivity with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 devices to back up your photos, videos and files on the go.

  • Usb 3.0 and USB 2.0 Compatibility
  • Fast data transfers; Formatted NTFS for Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 7
  • Improve PC Performance
  • High Capacity
  • 2 year manufacturer's limited warranty
  • Memory Storage Capacity: 5000

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with a usb cable
Answer: MLC is no longer used in cheap consumer SSD. In a few years TLC won't be either as it will be mostly QLC. Most people want cheap $/GB, not 50-100+ years expected lifetime when 5-10 is more than enough.
Question: do you need the batery for it to work
Answer: Thank you for contacting Crucial and for your question. If your mid 2012 MacBook pro does not have the retina display then yes, part number CT120BX500SSD1 (Z) will absolutely be compatible. If your mid 2012 MacBook pro does have a retina display, then this Crucial SSD will not work with your system as it will require a different form factor of SSD.
Question: I am not computer saavy. can i just plug it in & expect it to work, or do i need to pay extra for the expert installation? are they trustworthy
Answer: Hello and thank you for your question. The Crucial CT240BX500SSD1 you are referencing is compatible with the Late 2007 MacBook, so installation and functionality will not be an issue.
Question: does it work on xbox one
Answer: Hello and thank you for your question. Yes, the Crucial CT120BX500SSD1 will work with your Macbook Pro Mid 2010. Also, this system can use any of our 2.5 inch SSD drives.

Product features

Level Up to NVMe SSD Performance

The WD_Black SN750 NVMe SSD delivers top-tier performance for gaming and hardware enthusiasts who are looking to build or upgrade their PC.

Compact SSD, shaped by performance

The WD_Black P50 Game Drive SSD has a portable form factor that can withstand battlefields due to its durable and shock-resistant design.

Portable storage for your coveted game collection

The WD_Black P10 Game Drive comes in capacities up to 5TB, so you don't have to compromise which games to delete on your console or PC in order to make room for new ones.

Massive storage with active cooling

With the WD_Black D10 Game Drive added storage, there's no need to waste time clearing room on your console or PC for new games—now you can keep your old favorites intact as you grow your library.

SAMSUNG T5 Portable SSD 1TB - Up to 540MB/s - USB 3.1 External Solid State Drive, Black (MU-PA1T0B/AM)

SAMSUNG

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Samsung T5 Portable SSD has the latest in Samsung V-NAND flash memory technology. Its portable design, blazing fast transfer speeds of up to 540 MB/s, shock resistance, and secure encryption make it the best portable SSD on the market.

  • Superfast read write speeds: SSD with V-NAND offers ultra-fast data transfer speeds of up to 540MB/s (up to 4.9x faster than external HDDs); Ideal for transferring large-sized data including 4K videos, high-resolution photos, games and more
  • Compact and portable design: Top to bottom shock resistant metal design fits in the palm of your hand and easily slides in your pocket or purse to take work and entertainment on the go
  • Secure encryption: Optional password protection and AES 256-bit hardware encryption keeps your personal and private data more secure
  • Seamless connectivity: Includes USB type C to C and USB type C to A cables to connect to PCs, Macs, smartphones and other devices
  • Warranty and compatibility: 3-year limited warranty; Requires Windows 7, Mac OS X 10.9 (Mavericks), Android 4.4 (KitKat), or higher; Older versions of the Windows, Mac and Android operating systems may not be supported

User questions & answers

Question: I just bought i want to use with an imac and a pc should i plug it in when i get it to imac first and if i do can i drag pc files to it after
Answer: I would do a clean format of it on the imac first, you can choose exFAT (it will work on both PC and mac) or you can choose Mac OS Extended (HFS+) which is more stable than exFAT, but you will need software on your PC to read/write to the drive. If the PC is your main machine I would just choose exFAT.
Question: How long is the usb cable
Answer: Measured at 16 inches.
Question: Should the cable go in smoothly, or does it kind of snap in and need some pull to come out? Just got mine and wondering if that is normal
Answer: The first one I got the cable did not fit well and Samsung replaced the drive. The second one has been fine
Question: If i use this drive on my 2012 imac with usb 3.0, will the transfer speeds be less than 540mb/s
Answer: Your iMac has USB 3.0 which is also known as USB 3.1 Gen 1. That has about half the theoretical maximum transfer rate of USB 3.1 Gen 2, which is the interface used by this drive. On the upside, it is still fully compatible with USB 3.0/3.1 Gen 1 and while the transfer rate you’ll experience will be lower than if you had a computer with Gen 2 USB, it really isn’t that much slower in actual use. If you’re moving from any spinning platter drive to an SSD regardless of the interface you were using with the platter drive, you will see a HUGE performance improvement using this external SSD drive.

Product features

The World in your Pocket

Get your entertainment, coursework, or games anywhere, on any device. Feel the freedom of huge storage and speedy transfers to laptops, smartphones, game consoles and more. The latest T5 easily slides in your pocket or purse, with multiple color options that complement your sense of style.

Fast Transfer Speeds

With Samsung V-NAND flash memory and a USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface, the T5 provides transfer speeds of up to 540 MB/s*, that’s up to 4.9x faster than external HDDs**. Transfers and backups of large-sized data including 4K videos and high-resolution photos will be much quicker and faster.

*Performance may vary depending on host configuration. Must support USB 3.1 Gen 2 and the UASP mode must be enabled.

**Based on internal test results compared to a Samsung external HDD 500GB.

Solid Inside and Out

The T5 has no moving parts and a sturdy metal body, so it can handle drops of up to 2 meters*. The optional password protection with AES 256-bit hardware encryption keeps your personal and private data more secure*.

*The internal free fall shock test was conducted under controlled conditions.

Management Software

Manage your data easily with new intuitive software for PCs and Macs* that makes it simple to set the password and get the latest firmware updates. You can also download the mobile app for Android smartphones and tablets.**

*Software requires Windows 7, Mac OS X 10.9 (Mavericks), Android 4.4 (KitKat), or higher. Older versions of the Windows, Mac and Android operating systems may not be supported.

**Firmware update requires PC or Mac connection. Android app available on Google Play.

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.

WD 2TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive, Black - WDBYVG0020BBK-WESN

Western Digital

Based on 26 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Every journey needs a passport. The My Passport drive is trusted, portable storage that gives you the confidence and freedom to drive forward in life. With a new, stylish design that fits in the palm of your hand, there's space to store, organize, and share your photos, videos, music, and documents. Perfectly paired with Western Digital backup software and password protection, the My Passport drive helps keep your digital life's contents safe.

  • Slim design
  • Automatic backup - easy to use
  • Password protection + 256-bit AES hardware encryption
  • WD Discovery software for WD Backup, password protection and drive management
  • SuperSpeed USB port; USB 2.0 compatible

Product features

Backed Up

Make sure everything you create while on your own life journey - photos, videos, music, and documents - doesn’t get lost. The My Passport drive comes equipped with WD Backup software that can be set to run automatically to your schedule.

Locked Down

Keep your digital life's contents secure with My Passport password protection and built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption. Just activate password protection and set your own personalized password using WD Discovery.

LaCie (LAC9000633) Rugged Mini 4TB External Hard Drive Portable HDD – USB 3.0 USB 2.0 Compatible, Drop Shock Dust Rain Resistant Shuttle Drive, For Mac And PC Computer Desktop and Laptop, Orange

LaCie

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Travel with capacity of 4TB in an ultra compact portable hard drive—LaCie Rugged Mini. Seamlessly connect to USB 3.0 computers, transfer content fast with speeds of up to 130MB/s, and trek confidently with all terrain durability of drop, crush, and rain resistance. This drive even includes a complimentary one month membership to the Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan for access to awesome photo and video editing apps, as well as a two year limited warranty for long term peace of mind.

  • Travel with a massive capacity of up to 4TB in an ultra compact portable external hard drive LaCie Rugged Mini
  • For those who have a need for speed, seamlessly connect to USB 3.0 computers and transfer content fast with speeds of up to 130MB/s
  • Trek confidently with an external hard drive that offers all terrain durability of drop, crush, and water resistance
  • Take advantage of a complimentary 1 month membership to the Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan for access to awesome photo and video editing apps
  • Enjoy long term peace of mind with the included 2 year limited warranty

Product features

The Smallest Rugged Around

With capacities of up to 5TB, the LaCie Rugged Mini is a small but mighty USB 3.0 portable hard drive. Perfect for busy creatives, it offers premium protection for photos, footage, and more while delivering Mac and Windows compatibility, fast speeds, and customizable backup.

What's Included

LaCie Rugged Mini hard drive, USB 3.0 cable (2.0 compatible), Quick Install Guide

SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD - Up to 1050MB/s - USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 - External Solid State Drive - SDSSDE61-2T00-G25

SanDisk

Based on 33 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Your life’s an adventure. To capture and keep its best moments, you need fast, high-capacity storage that accelerates every move. 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds let you store your content and creations on a fast drive that fits seamlessly into your active lifestyle. Up to two-meter drop protection, with IP55 water and dust resistance, a carabiner loop for securing the drive, and a 5-year limited warranty give you the peace of mind to take it with you on travels near and far. From the brand trusted by professional photographers, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD provides fast solid state performance in a tough, reliable storage solution. 1GB = 1,000,000,000 bytes, 1TB = 1,000,000,000,000 bytes. Actual user capacity less. Up to 1050MB/s read speed, up to 1000MB/s write speed. Engineered with proprietary technology to reach speeds beyond UHS-I 104MB/s, requires compatible devices capable of reaching such speed. Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device, interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes. See official SanDisk website. Password protection uses 256-bit AES encryption and is supported by Windows 8, Windows 10 and macOS v10.9+ (Software download required for Mac, see official SanDisk website.) Based on internal testing. IPEC 60529 IP 55: Tested to withstand water flow (30 kPa) at 3 min.; limited dust contact does not interfere with operation. Must be clean and dry before use.

  • Get NVMe solid state performance featuring up to 1050MB/s read and up to 1000MB/s write speeds in a portable, high-capacity drive that’s perfect for creating amazing content or capturing incredible footage. (Requires compatible devices capable of reaching such speed. Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device, interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
  • Up to two-meter drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance mean this tough drive can take a beating.
  • Travel worry-free with a 5-year limited manufacturer warranty and a durable silicon shell that offers a premium feel and added protection to the drive’s exterior.
  • Use the handy carabiner loop to secure it to your belt loop or backpack for extra peace of mind.
  • Help keep private content private with the included password protection featuring 256‐bit AES hardware encryption.

User questions & answers

Question: What am i missing, when i plug it in, nothing happens - my computer doesn't show it at all. do i need to download something
Answer: I have two of these and am about to get a third. No, you don't need to download anything (at least on windows and linux computers). I reformat mine to NTFS because I switch between OS's. One thing to note the usb "A" adapter is "notched" and will only fit on one way completely, you probably got a bad one, it happens, send it back if no luck.
Question: Can I use this to backup my PC AND also save files from my macbook? Id like to save files from both on one HD?!?! (2012 macbook & HP Desktop
Answer: Basically, my home setup is an all-Mac setup. What I did immediately after I got it out of the box was to format it and partition it 200 GB HFS+ and 800 GB APFS. The HFS+ partition is used for Time Machine, and the APFS partition has four volumes (capacity is allocated dynamically between volumes within the APFS partition). How I would use this in a mixed environment: one HFS+ partition for Time Machine (you can't use APFS partitions for Time Machine); one APFS partition for the files that will be used only with a Mac; and one ExFAT partition for instances where you need to be able to access the file in Windows and on a Mac. Also, make sure you keep that USB-C to USB-A connector that comes with the drive; it comes with about a 6-inch cable with USB-C connectors at both ends.
Question: Is this drive good for running an OS from
Answer: YES! I have 2 that I use for this, be aware you may have to change your system setup to use, On mine I have to change SATA controller mode to AHCI from RAID and UEFI to Legacy support and boot priority to Legacy first (Lenovo). Once you have those setting fixed you will be amazed how fast it will run. I run fedora on a 1TB for storage and Fedora Securrity Spin on a 500 GB drive to use to recover data and fix customers machines. I have also run CentOS and Linux Mint with no issues.
Question: Can you please tell me if this storage is in Solid state or is it a spinning disc? Thank you
Answer: The name of this item is: "Sandisk Portable SSD (SOLID STATE Drive)"......... That clearly means it's NOT SOLID STATE. No they're/I am just joking. In all serious-ness though: it is indeed a "Solid State drive" with no moving/spinning disks.

Product features

Put a Lock on Your Files

Help keep private content private with the included password protection featuring 256‐bit AES hardware encryption

Powerful yet Portable

Get fast NVMe solid state performance featuring 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds** in a portable, high-capacity drive that’s perfect for creating amazing content or capturing incredible footage

Tough Enough to Take with You

Up to two-meter drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance mean this durable drive can take a beating

It Goes Where You Go

Use the handy carabineer loop to attach the derive to your belt loop or backpack for extra security when you’re out in the world

Powerful Storage for Your Toughest Jobs

From the brand trusted by professional photographers worldwide, the SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD provides powerful solid state performance in a rugged, dependable storage solution

Performance that elevates your creativity

Our most powerful SD UHS-I memory card yet delivers performance that elevates your creativity

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