If you have information on your computer that you simply do not use that often, it may be best to store it on an external drive. It will be safer in external storage space, than occupying valuable space inside your computer. Also, if you are not keen on keeping your stuff in a cloud storage space, you might find an external portable SSD as the best and safest option.
It’s an inexpensive and practical solution to store excess data or back up crucial information. It might also be a convenient way to move files across devices or even carry your data with you wherever you go.
You’re almost certainly going to require extra storage as your files become bigger and you gather more of them. An external drive is one of the greatest solutions to guarantee you have enough storage capacity and to protect your files in the event of a disaster.
For that, a sizable HDD-based external hard drive will do, but if you want to make a second backup for peace of mind and store it somewhere else, a portable SSD-based drive would be a better choice.
SSDs are more lightweight, more resistant in case of bumps or bigger trauma, and work faster than HDDs. Solid-state drives also have a much longer lifespan than HDDs, given how they are made all in one piece. If you want a full article on SSD vs HHD, click the link.
If you’re in the market for an external SSD, it’s time to start thinking about which one will be the best fit for your needs. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to make a choice. But fear not! We’ve done all of the research for you and compiled a list of the best external SSDs that are sure to give you lightning-fast speeds and reliable storage. If you have a SSD and are worried about its health or just want to monitor it, start your free trial of Hard Disk Sentinel.
Whether you need extra space for your work projects or want to upgrade your gaming experience, our ultimate guide has got you covered. So let’s dive in and find out which external SSD will reign supreme in 2023!
Introduction to External SSDs
An external SSD is a solid-state drive that connects to a computer through a USB port. Unlike a regular portable drive, an SSD has no moving parts and uses less power. This makes it ideal for use with laptops and other portable devices.
External SSDs come in different sizes and speeds. The most common size is 2.5 inches, but there are also 1.8-inch and 3.5-inch models available. The speed of an SSD is measured in megabytes per second (MB/s). The faster the read/write speed, the more expensive the SSD will be.
The average read speed of an external SSD is between 500 MB/s and 550 MB/s. The average write speed is between 450 MB/s and 500 MB/s. However, some external SSDs are much faster than this. We’ll see later which ones. If you have an SSD and want to know how to test hard drive speed, read this guide.
When choosing an external SSD, you should consider the size, speed, and price. Larger capacity drives are more expensive, but they will store more data. Faster drives are also more expensive, but they will allow you to transfer data at fast transfer speeds.
SSDs store their data on flash memory and are typically used for storing things like operating systems and programs, for when you need to access data quickly. A portable hard drive will use spinning platters and are slower, but they’re cheaper and usually have more storage capacity. They’re typically used for storing things like music, videos, and photos.
External SSDs can greatly improve the performance of your computer, especially if you are dealing with large files. They are also more reliable than portable hard drives, and they can operate in temperatures that may be too hot for a regular drive. If you’re looking for a storage solution that is fast, reliable, and portable, an external SSD is worth considering.
Features To Look For in the Best External SSD
When shopping for a standard external SSD, there are several features to look for that will ensure you get the most out of your purchase. Here are the most important features to look for in a portable SSD:
Capacity
Make sure to choose an external SSD with enough capacity to store all of your important files. The last thing you want is to run out of space on your drive!
When choosing an external SSD, the first thing you need to decide is what capacity you need. Capacity is measured in gigabytes (GB) or terabytes (TB). One GB is equal to one billion bytes, while one TB is equal to one trillion bytes. The average laptop has 500GB of storage, while most desktops have 1TB or more. If you plan on storing large files or a lot of data, you’ll need an external SSD with a high capacity.
Performance and Speed
External SSDs are known for their fast data transfer speeds. Make sure to choose a drive that can take advantage of this feature by offering high read and write speeds.
Sequential read/write speeds: This is probably the most important metric to consider when buying an external SSD. The sequential read/write speeds will determine how fast your SSD can transfer data. Make sure to check the specs carefully and compare the speeds of different models before making your final decision.
Random read/write speeds: Random read/write speeds are also important, especially if you plan on using your SSD for gaming or other resource-intensive applications. Again, make sure to check the specs carefully and compare the speeds of different models before making your final decision.
Connectivity
Nowadays, most portable SSDs connect via a USB-C connection or a Thunderbolt port. However, you need to decide what type of interface you want (or need) for your portable storage to have. External drives use a variety of interfaces.
Today, a lot of less expensive portable and desktop external hard drives still include Micro-B USB 3 Superspeed. It’s the same Micro USB port that’s on your phone, but it’s been upgraded to USB 3.0 speeds by adding extra data lines. Hard drives and SATA (internal) SSDs may both use it because it can handle 5Gbps.
The bigger, blockier counterpart of USB 3.0 Micro B is USB 3.0 Type-B. Although they are becoming less common, Type B connectors may be found in enclosures that can house 5.25-inch hard drives or optical devices.
The fastest connectors for external storage are normally Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4, with the main drawbacks being a high price and a general lack of compatibility with the world’s most widely used USB 3.2 connections.
No drive has a type-A USB connection, but PCs and laptops do have this recognizable rectangular port. We bring it up because, ideally, any drive with a Type-C connector will also include a Type-C to Type-A adapter. After all, most PCs have them.
USB 3.2 gen is compatible with most computers. Other options include Thunderbolt, FireWire, and eSATA. Additionally, some external SSDs come with wireless connections such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Depending on your computer, you’d need to know which ports you have, and which ones are ones that you use the most (i.e. which are the most accessible to you).
Durability
Since external SSDs are often used on the go, it’s important to choose a drive that is durable and can withstand being jostled around. Look for drives with shock-resistant casing and reliable data encryption features. For an article about how long SSDs last, click the link. If you have an SSD and want to check your SSD health, read this article.
Compatibility
Most portable hard drives will work across platforms, whether you have a Windows PC, Mac computer, PlayStation, or Xbox, as long as the drives are formatted appropriately for the correct platform.
However, they frequently come pre-configured to work with a certain platform and may have platform-specific backup software. PC drives typically work with Windows, but they may also be formatted for a Mac. Many of them come with USB-C and USB-A port adapters or cables.
Price
Of course, price is also an important consideration when buying an external SSD. Make sure to compare prices carefully and get the best value for your money, because prices have plummeted these past couple of years.
The cost of external HDD has decreased substantially over the past several years, with even the top models of 5TB costing just over $100, making them surprisingly affordable. On the other hand, external solid-state drives can be up to four times quicker than external hard drives, which makes the cost per gigabyte a bit higher.
How Frequently Should I Back Up My Data?
Ideally, you ought to regularly back up your data. This is particularly true if you are working on a significant project or have data that you cannot possibly afford to lose.
Automating the backup procedure and having the drive back up your data every hour or so is a smart idea if you have your external hard disk attached to your computer at all times. You should make an effort to remember to back up your data onto your external hard drive every time you modify your data, or at the absolute least once each day if you disconnect or travel with one.
Pros and Cons of Using a Portable SSD
When it comes to external storage, SSDs offer several advantages over traditional HDDs. They’re much faster, more reliable, more durable, and more portable. However, they also come with a few disadvantages.
PROS:
- Faster than HDDs: SSDs use flash memory chips to store data, which is significantly faster than the spinning disks used in HDDs. This means that your computer will boot up faster and load apps and files quicker when using an SSD.
- More Reliable: Since there are no moving parts in an SSD, it is more resistant to physical damage and data loss due to vibration or shock.
- More Portable: SSDs are smaller and lighter than HDDs, making them more convenient for traveling with your laptop or taking on the go.
- More storage capacity: A portable SSD can significantly increase the amount of storage on your computer
CONS:
- More Expensive: The initial cost of buying an SSD can be higher than an HDD of comparable capacity. However, prices have been dropping steadily in recent years and are now comparable to HDDs.
- Lower Capacity Options: While you can find high-capacity SSDs (1TB+), they tend to be more expensive than HDDs. For most people, a 128GB or 256GB SSD should be plenty of space for their needs.
- Compatibility issues: Some portable SSDs are not compatible with all devices. You might run into an issue if you do not consider for which device you are buying the external drives. For example, not many portable drives can support Xbox or PS4 – so you need to cross-check your info before making a purchase.
The Best External SSDs of 2023
There are a few different brands that make external SSDs, but not all portable SSDs are created equal. In this section, we’ll take a look at the best external SSD and what makes them stand out.
Samsung Portable SSD T7: Best portable SSD for the security-conscious
The Samsung Portable SSD T7 may interest you if you’re seeking a backup drive with loads of features. With sequential read and write speeds of up to 1,050 MB/s and 1,000 MB/s, respectively, this external drive is not only quick but also packs a lot of useful functions into its palm-sized design. With versions in Indigo Blue, Titan Gray, and Metallic Red available for its 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB capacities, it comes in a little more vibrant color palette.
The most crucial of these functions is undoubtedly its built-in security measures, which support fingerprint reader sign-in and utilize AES 256-bit hardware encryption. You can also use password protection. You may configure these capabilities using its management program.
The Samsung T7 SSD is one of the best portable SSDs presently on the market, and although it isn’t cheap and might need an impact-resistant casing, it is still well worth considering as a buy.
This is one of the priciest disks available, with a cost per gigabyte of $0.23.
ADATA SE800 – The most user-friendly external drive
Despite having a high cost per gigabyte, the ADATA SE800 is a worthwhile purchase. The 2.8 by 1.7 inch shirt pocket SSD has an IP68 ingress protection grade, which means it is waterproof and dustproof. It can withstand immersion in water up to five feet deep for 30 minutes. The two cables that come with this brushed-aluminum beauty allow it to be plugged into USB Type-A and USB Type-C ports without the need for adapters, however, the cables may be a little short as a desktop drive (they work great with a laptop).
Even while you might not require a drive that can withstand four-foot falls and wet days if you never use your laptop outside, it is comforting to know that the SE800 offers additional security for your data. It’s difficult to top this stylish SSD unless you’re on a limited budget.
Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD – A Robust External Drive
Western Digital, which owns SanDisk, offers both this SanDisk External Portable SSD (as well as the even newer version SanDisk Extreme Pro) and the WD My Passport SSD for essentially the same price. This variant has a little better design and is more technically robust with an IP55 rating, which means it can tolerate a steady stream of water. Additionally, it boasts a USB-C interface and is shock-resistant.
The previous, less expensive model provides transfer speeds of up to 550MBps, whilst the newer model nearly doubles that speed with up to 1,050MBps (just over 1GB per second) and costs just slightly more for the 1TB version. The cost of the newest edition of this external drive’s 2TB variant increases to $280.
Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB – The Best non-SSD External Storage
The Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB is the ideal external hard drive for people who are trying to save space because it is one of the smaller non-SSD drives. Additionally, this Seagate’s backup disk is a terrific deal at less than $60. Additionally, Macs with a Thunderbolt connector are compatible with this Seagate external hard drive.
The higher-capacity drives are bulkier and are available in 1TB ($55), 4TB ($93), and 5TB ($115) models. It is available in a few different color variations.
Crucial X8: Budget-Friendly Best Portable SSD
The 1TB Crucial X8 is a portable SSD that practically everyone can buy, costing 16.5 cents per GB. If you ever play catch with your images and movies, this storage device can survive a 7.5-foot drop onto a carpeted floor and can resist a shock of 1,500 Gs. However, it is not ruggedized in the sense of being waterproof or dustproof.
The X8 is a basic SSD; it is devoid of backup software and has no data-access light. Instead of including two independent cords, it makes do with a USB Type-C to A converter. However, it offers quick performance for a fair price.
SanDisk Professional Pro-G40 SSD: best external SSD for Mac pros in the field
When connected through Thunderbolt 3 or 4, the SanDisk Professional Pro-G40 external SSD performs both write and read operations at lightning-fast rates. This almost unbreakable drive is extremely portable. It has an IP68 ingress protection grade, which implies that it is dustproof, waterproof (surviving for 30 minutes three feet underwater), certified crushproof with up to 4,000 pounds of pressure, and capable of withstanding drops of up to 9.7 feet.
The Pro-G40 is already preformatted using the APFS disk format for macOS, which is naturally compatible with Mac Time Machine backups. The disk may be reformatted to the exFAT or Windows- and Mac-compatible NTFS formats, but the procedure needs to be done carefully.
The Pro-G40 is designed for creative people who urgently need to transfer huge video files or photo libraries.
Due to its high toughness, the SSD is appropriate for off-site shootings, in the woods, and in other outdoor locations.
WD Black P50 Game Drive SSD: best external SSD for gamers
Games today may use 50GB, 100GB, and even more storage space. We suggest WD’s Black P50 Game Drive if you’re seeking for external drives to swiftly load that game on your gaming laptop. And no, not just because the device is named a “Game Drive,” but also because we like to launch games from an SSD since in particular games, it may provide players an advantage.
Running your games on an external SSD also results in significantly quicker level loading than a sluggish hard disk. The USB SuperSpeed 20Gbps ports required to make the Black P50 sing are not often found on PCs, although they are more common in modern desktops.
The good news is that even at USB 10Gbps rates, a game can read and write data at a rate of up to 1,000MBps, which is still a significant speedup over a hard drive.
Kingston XS2000 Portable SSD: best very small external SSD
The Kingston XS2000 is very small—0.5 by 1.3 by 2.7 inches and approximately an ounce—and offers up to 2TB of capacity despite being just barely larger than most USB flash drives. While it shouldn’t be submerged in water, it is durable enough to receive an IP55 ingress protection grade against sand, mud, or rain, and it is speedier than the usual SSD thanks to its USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface.
The Kingston XS2000 offers a commendable balance of dimensions, storage capacity, and speed at an affordable cost. It is equivalent to some of the biggest drives on our list with a maximum capacity of 4TB, yet it fits in your pocket.
Additionally, the Kingston XS2000 has data transfer speeds of up to 20Gbps, which are slower than other competitors’ 10Gbps but still superior.
As long as you don’t want extras like hardware-based data encryption, the XS2000 is a fantastic option for an ultraportable drive that can be used for any purpose. However, given its size, it might be even easier to unintentionally lose a portable SSD.
Seagate Fast SSD – among the most affordable portable SSDs
With the amazing Seagate Fast SSD, the well-known storage company Seagate has introduced its remarkable expertise to the portable SSD industry.
With a thickness of just 9mm, this external SSD is very thin. This indicates that it can be comfortably carried about and readily slipped into your pocket. Although it is not quite as small as the My Passport SSD, it is still incredibly light and tiny at 82g.
The fact that it is reasonably priced, outstanding performing, tiny, has a lovely design, and comes with a three-year warranty make it one of the best portable SSDs.
If you’re seeking the finest portable SSD at a good price, the Seagate Fast SSD is definitely worth taking into account.
Conclusion
In summary, there are a lot of great external SSDs on the market today with prices getting better as the new stuff comes out.
However, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you and your needs. If you use the same drive for multiple devices, make sure their USB support is not lacking. Also, consider the space limitations or the budget limits you might have. Choosing the best portable SSD won’t be that difficult if you know what kind of a user you are, and what you need it for. Do remember to consider things such as speed, storage size, durability, and compatibility before making a purchase decision so that you get an external SSD that suits your needs perfectly!
We hope this article has helped you narrow down your search and find the best portable hard drive for your specific requirements.
When you choose your new external hard drive, make sure you also use www.hdsentinel.com to monitor and diagnose the health and performance of your external SSD!
With over two decades of experience in hard drive technology, Janos has dedicated himself to assisting users in safeguarding their valuable data. In 2005, he pioneered the first edition of his cutting-edge HDD monitoring tool Hard Disk Sentinel, which rapidly garnered a devoted following among both tech aficionados and everyday users.
