14 BEST External SSD Hard Drive (2025)
Finn Breeze
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External hard disks are a convenient way of storing data. Portable SSD external drives enable you to carry media and files and use it anywhere you like. Many such drive provide offer military-grade toughness.
With over 240 hours of research into 27+ Best External SSD Hard Drives, I have created a professional and unbiased guide. This comprehensive list includes free and paid options, along with detailed features, pros and cons, and pricing. This may help you find the secret to the perfect SSD. Read the full article for trusted and exclusive insights. Read more…
27 Hard Drive Tested
240+ Hours of Research
1.8k+ Reviews Examined
Unbiased Reviews
Best External SSD Hard Disk: Top Picks
| Name | USP | Capacity | Interface | Shockproof | Wi-Fi | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WD My Passport Portable External Hard Drive | WD reliability | 1 TB | USB 3.0 port; USB 2.0 | No | Yes | Check Price |
| Samsung (MU-PA1T0B/AM) T5 Portable SSD | Metal design and light weight | 1TB | USB 3.1 | Yes | No | Check Price |
| SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable External SSD | Water and dust resistant | 1 TB | USB 3.1 | Yes | No | Check Price |
| Seagate Backup Plus Slim 1TB External Hard Drive | Aluminum design | 1 TB | USB 3.0/2.0 | Yes | No | Check Price |
| Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB Portable External Hard Drive | Plug & play. Easy to use with no software to install | 1 TB | Usb3.0 | Yes | Yes | Check Price |
| LaCie Mobile Drive | One click or automatic backup makes file storage smooth | 1 TB | USB C, and USB 3.0 | Yes | No | Check Price |
| Toshiba Canvio Advance 1TB Portable External Hard Drive | Compact design with four vibrant color options to fit your lifestyle | 1 TB | Usb3.0 | No | No | Check Price |
| Seagate Expansion Portable 1TB External Hard Drive | USB drive provides plug and play simplicity | 1 TB | Usb3.0 | Yes | No | Check Price |
| Transcend 1TB External Hard Drive | Three stage shock protection system | 1 TB | Usb3.0 | No | No | Check Price |
| G-Technology ArmorATD | Triple layer body | 1TB | Usb3.0 | Yes | No | Check Price |
| Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC | Unique wrap around USB cable | 1TB | Usb3.0 | Yes | No | Check Price |
| Plugable 1TB Thunderbolt 3 External SSD NVMe Drive | Aluminum design | 1 TB | USB 3.1 | No | No | Check Price |
| ADATA Dash drive HD710 | Waterproof cover, sock sensor | 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, and 5TB | USB 3.1 Gen 1, USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 | Yes. military-grade shock proofing | No | Check Price |
| Corsair 1TB USB Flash Drive | SSD performance USB flash drive | 128 GB,256 GB,512 GB, and 1 TB | USB 3.1 Gen 1, USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 | No | No | Check Price |
1) WD 1TB Black My Passport Portable External Hard Drive
Spec: | Read Speed: 1 Bytes Per Second | Media Speed: 480 Mbps (USB 2.0) | Cache Memory Installed Size: 1 | Data Transfer Rate: 1 Megabytes Per Second | Form Factor: 2.5-inch | Hardware Connectivity: USB 3.0 | Hard Disk Form Factor: 4.2 Inches | Digital Storage Capacity: 1 TB | Hard Disk Interface: USB 3.0 | Connectivity Technology: USB
WD 1TB Black My Passport is an excellent choice for Backup software. I discovered it allows you to sync with services like Google Drive and Dropbox easily. Its slim build makes it great for portable storage, and I particularly appreciated its secure 256-bit AES encryption. It also features USB 3.2 Gen 1, which I found to be most effective for quick transfers.
The WD 1TB Black My Passport Portable External Hard Drive excels as the BEST External SSD Hard Drive by offering advanced features tailored to user needs. Its WD Backup Software ensures hassle-free, automated data protection, making it ideal for safeguarding personal and professional files. With WD’s renowned reliability, this drive is built to last.
Enhanced by hardware encryption and password protection, it provides a secure solution for storing sensitive information. The USB 3.0 port guarantees fast transfers, while USB 2.0 compatibility expands its usability. Supporting Windows systems and reformatting for Mac OS X, it offers seamless operation across platforms.
Complete with a three-year manufacturer’s warranty, this external drive delivers exceptional performance and reliability. It is perfect for users seeking dependable storage with top-notch security and compatibility.
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2) Samsung (MU-PA1T0B/AM) T5 Portable SSD – 1TB – USB 3.1 External SSD, Black
Spec: | Read Speed: 540 | Media Speed: 540 | Cache Memory Installed Size: 1 | Data Transfer Rate: 540 Megabits Per Second | Form Factor: Portable | Hardware Connectivity: USB 3.0 | Hard Disk Rotational Speed: 540 RPM | Digital Storage Capacity: 1 TB | Hard Disk Interface: USB 3.0 | Connectivity Technology: USB
Samsung (MU-PA1T0B/AM) T5 Portable SSD is a remarkable SSD for everyday storage needs. I could transfer 4K videos quickly, thanks to its high-speed performance. Its 256-bit encryption helps you secure your files, and I particularly liked the variety of colors available.
The Samsung (MU-PA1T0B/AM) T5 Portable SSD, known as the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, delivers impressive speed and portability. With V-NAND technology, it achieves data transfer rates of up to 540MB/s, almost five times faster than HDDs, offering exceptional efficiency for data management.
Its shock-resistant metal body is stylish and durable, designed to fit comfortably in your pocket or purse. This portability, combined with robust performance, makes it perfect for work or play on the go.
Bundled with USB Type-C to C and USB Type-C to A cables, it ensures seamless connectivity across devices, including PCs, Macs, and smartphones. It is a top-notch solution for fast, reliable, and portable storage.
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3) SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable External SSD – USB-C, USB 3.1
Spec: | Read Speed: 550 Megabytes Per Second | Cache Memory Installed Size: 1 | Data Transfer Rate: 50 Megabits Per Second | Form Factor: 2.5-inch | Hardware Connectivity: USB 3.1 Type C | Hard Disk Form Factor: 2.5 Inches | Digital Storage Capacity: 1 TB | Hard Disk Interface: Solid State | Connectivity Technology: USB
SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is ideal for anyone needing speed and reliability. During my review, I found it great for transferring high-resolution videos and audio files. Its transfer speed of up to 550MB/s helps you move files quickly without delays. In my experience, this SSD is a top-notch choice for creators.
The SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable External SSD, regarded as the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, is engineered for durability and high performance. Its shock-resistant solid-state core and IP55-rated water and dust resistance make it a reliable choice for rugged environments, ensuring your data remains secure.
Equipped with USB-C and USB 3.1 Gen 2, it enables fast and efficient file transfers. It works seamlessly with both Mac and Windows systems, providing wide compatibility for diverse needs. Its compact, pocket-sized design ensures easy portability, adding convenience to its functionality.
Built by SanDisk, a pioneer in SSD innovation, this external drive delivers robust performance and durability, making it ideal for users seeking a reliable storage solution.
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4) Seagate Backup Plus Slim 1TB External Hard Drive
Spec: | Read Speed: 120 Megabytes Per Second | Media Speed: 120.0 | Cache Memory Installed Size: 2 | Data Transfer Rate: 1 Gigabits Per Second | Hardware Connectivity: USB 3.0 | Package Type: FFP | Hard Disk Form Factor: 3.5 Inches | Hard Disk Rotational Speed: 7200 | Digital Storage Capacity: 2 TB | Hard Disk Interface: USB 3.0 | Connectivity Technology: USB
Seagate Backup Plus is great for organizing and backing up files. During my evaluation, I found its one-click backup impressive for saving time. Its compatibility with both Windows and Mac is one of the best features for flexibility. I also enjoyed its automatic cloud sync for safety.
The Seagate Backup Plus, recognized as the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, provides 2TB of reliable storage for users on the go. Setting up is a breeze with its automatic recognition feature—just plug it into your computer, and it is ready to use.
Designed for both Windows and Mac, this external drive simplifies data management with its drag-and-drop functionality. It is an ideal companion for backing up and accessing important files quickly and securely.
The included 18-inch USB 3.0 cable offers plug-and-play convenience for fast and efficient performance. This drive combines ease of use and portability for versatile storage needs.
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5) Toshiba (HDTB410XK3AA) Canvio Basics 1TB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0, Black
Spec: | Read Speed: 1 Bytes Per Second | Media Speed: 5 Gigabits Per Second | Cache Memory Installed Size: 4 | Data Transfer Rate: 5 Gigabits Per Second | Hardware Connectivity: USB 3.0, USB 2.0 | Hard Disk Form Factor: 3.5 Inches | Digital Storage Capacity: 4 TB | Hard Disk Interface: USB 3.0 | Connectivity Technology: RF
Toshiba (HDTB410XK3AA) Canvio is a great way to store files easily. I reviewed its drag-and-drop feature, which offered me a simple way to manage data. Its lightweight options are perfect for portability, and its support for both Mac and Windows helps you stay versatile.
The Toshiba (HDTB410XK3AA) Canvio is a reliable choice as the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, offering secure and efficient storage. Its automatic backup software keeps your files consistently protected, while password protection software prevents unauthorized access to sensitive data.
This SSD is thoughtfully designed with a compact and textured finish, available in multiple colors to complement your lifestyle. It is a practical solution for users seeking style and functionality in one device.
With USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 compatibility, it delivers fast transfers and seamless performance across devices. This SSD balances portability, design, and security effectively.
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6) LaCie Mobile Drive
Spec: | Form Factor: 2.5-inch | Item Height: 0.79 Inches | Item Width: 4.88 Inches | Hard Drive Size: 5 TB | Hard Drive Interface: USB 3.0 | Hard Disk Rotational Speed: 5400 RPM | Item Weight: 400
LaCie Mobile Drive is great for users with large storage needs. I tested its capacity, which allowed me to store 165 hours of video effortlessly. Its aluminum body is ideal for portability, and I recommend its mirroring feature for keeping data synced.
The LaCie Mobile Drive, considered the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, offers 1TB of space for photos, playlists, and documents.
With one-click and automatic backup options, it simplifies data protection and ensures seamless file management. This makes it a user-friendly storage device.
It also comes with a one-month Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan, perfect for creative projects.
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7) Toshiba Canvio Advance 1TB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0, Black (HDTC910XK3AA) (Renewed)
Spec: | Read Speed: 5 Gigabytes Per Second | Cache Memory Installed Size: 1 | Data Transfer Rate: 1 Gigabits Per Second | Form Factor: 2.5-inch | Hardware Connectivity: USB 3.0 | Hard Disk Form Factor: 2.5 Inches | Digital Storage Capacity: 1 TB | Connectivity Technology: USB
Toshiba Canvio Advance is a remarkable drive for personal storage. I particularly liked its compact design, which makes it easy to carry. Its data protection features helped me secure important files, and the Toshiba Storage Backup Software is great for managing data.
The Toshiba Canvio Advance, hailed as the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, delivers a compact design with four color options to suit your style. With up to 1TB of storage and fast transfer speeds of up to 5 Gb/s, it is built for efficiency.
Toshiba’s downloadable backup software enables automated file protection, while its security software ensures data privacy with password lock features. It is designed to keep your files safe and organized.
Formatted for Windows, it supports reformatting for Mac, offering flexibility for all users.
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8) Seagate Expansion Portable 1TB External Hard Drive
Spec: | Read Speed: 120 Megabytes Per Second | Media Speed: 1 TB | Cache Memory Installed Size: 1 | Data Transfer Rate: 20 Gigabits Per Second | Hardware Connectivity: USB 3.0, USB 2.0 | Hard Disk Form Factor: 2.5 Inches | Hard Disk Rotational Speed: 7200 | Digital Storage Capacity: 1 TB | Hard Disk Interface: USB 3.0 | Connectivity Technology: USB
Seagate Expansion Portable is a top-notch drive for instant storage needs. I found its USB 3.0 connectivity helps you manage large files without delays. Its drag-and-drop feature is great for organizing data, and its power management offered me efficient energy use.
The Seagate Expansion Portable, considered the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, provides 1TB of storage for easy file management. It is designed for Windows and Mac users, with automatic recognition ensuring a fast, software-free setup.
This drive is ideal for backups and accessing content anywhere, offering reliable performance. Mac users may require reformatting, adding to its flexibility across devices.
With its compact design, it is a secure and efficient solution for portable storage needs.
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9) Transcend 1TB USB 3.1 Gen 1 StoreJet 25M3S SJ25M3S Rugged External Hard Drive TS1TSJ25M3S, Grey
Spec: | Read Speed: 1 Megabytes Per Second | Media Speed: 1 megabytes_per_second | Cache Memory Installed Size: 1 | Data Transfer Rate: 600 Gigabits Per Second | Form Factor: 2.5-inch | Hardware Connectivity: USB 3.0 | Hard Disk Form Factor: 2.5 Inches | Hard Disk Rotational Speed: 5400 RPM | Digital Storage Capacity: 1 TB | Hard Disk Interface: Serial ATA-600 | Connectivity Technology: USB
Transcend 1TB USB 3.1 is amazing for portable storage. During my review, I discovered its anti-shock design great for fire safety. Its 2.5-inch HDD offered me ample storage, and the one-touch backup feature is a remarkable solution for data security.
The Transcend 1TB USB 3.1, regarded as the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, offers up to 2TB of storage and robust three-stage shock protection for maximum durability.
A one-touch auto-backup button allows fast data security, complemented by Transcend Elite software for advanced file management and recovery.
Efficient and portable, this SSD is perfect for secure, on-the-go storage.
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10) G-Technology ArmorATD
Spec: | Read Speed: 140 Megabytes Per Second | Cache Memory Installed Size: 1 | Data Transfer Rate: 140 Megabits Per Second | Hardware Connectivity: USB 3.0 | Hard Disk Form Factor: 2.5 Inches | Digital Storage Capacity: 1000 GB | Hard Disk Interface: USB 3.1 | Connectivity Technology: USB
G-Technology ArmorATD is a superior choice for outdoor storage. I reviewed its triple-layer protection, which helped me secure files. Its file transfer speed of 140MB/s is ideal for managing large files, and its resistance to rain and dust makes it perfect for tough conditions.
The G-Technology ArmorATD, recognized as the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, offers up to 5TB of reliable storage. Its triple-layer shock resistance and IP54-rated enclosure safeguard against rain, dust, and crushing up to 1000 lbs.
USB-C ready and compatible with USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 3, it ensures fast and versatile connectivity. It is fully functional with both Mac and Windows.
Durable and efficient, this SSD is perfect for secure, portable data management.
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11) Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC
Spec: | Media Speed: 600 MB/s | Cache Memory Installed Size: 1 | Data Transfer Rate: 5 Gigabytes Per Second | Form Factor: 2.5-inch | Hardware Connectivity: USB 3.2 Gen 1 | Hard Disk Form Factor: 2.5 Inches | Hard Disk Rotational Speed: 5400 RPM | Digital Storage Capacity: 1 TB | Hard Disk Interface: Serial ATA | Connectivity Technology: USB
Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC is amazing for keeping files safe. During my review, I found its hardware encryption great for sensitive data. Its shock-resistant material offered me extra protection, and the cable wrap is a remarkable feature for convenience.
The Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC, recognized as the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, offers rugged durability with mil-spec water and dust resistance. Its plug-and-play functionality ensures seamless use with PCs and compatibility with Mac after formatting.
Featuring an integrated wrap-around USB 3.2 Gen 1 cable, it provides convenience and portability. This SSD is ideal for secure and reliable storage.
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12) Plugable 1TB Thunderbolt 3 External SSD NVMe Drive (Up to 2400MBs/1800MBs R/W).
Spec: | Total Number of HDMI Ports: 2 | Wattage: 96.00 | Total USB Ports: 6 | Number of Ports: 13 | Hardware Interface: Thunderbolt | Item Weight: 2.42 Pounds
Plugable 1TB Thunderbolt is perfect for those needing a reliable SSD. I tested its high-speed transfers, which allowed me to move files quickly. Its durable aluminum casing is great for heat dissipation, and its TLC NAND flash makes it ideal for storage.
The Plugable 1TB Thunderbolt, recognized as the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, delivers Thunderbolt 4 certification for exceptional performance. With data transfer speeds up to 40Gbps and dual 4K 60Hz or 8K display capabilities, it boosts productivity while ensuring crisp visuals.
Awarded Best Thunderbolt Dock 2024 by Tom’s Guide, it features 13 ports, including 100W Power Delivery and device charging. Its seamless connectivity transforms your workspace into a high-performance hub.
This SSD is ideal for users seeking superior speed, display options, and efficient data management.
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13) ADATA Dash drive HD710
Spec: | Read Speed: 90 Megabytes Per Second | Media Speed: 90 Megabytes Per Second | Cache Memory Installed Size: 1 | Data Transfer Rate: 5000 Megabits Per Second | Hardware Connectivity: USB 3.0 | Hard Disk Form Factor: 2.5 Inches | Digital Storage Capacity: 1 TB | Hard Disk Interface: USB 3.1 | Connectivity Technology: USB
ADATA Dash drive HD710 is a reliable drive for demanding conditions. I particularly liked its waterproof cover, which helps you protect data. Its shock sensors and cable wrap feature are amazing for reliability and storage.
The ADATA Dash Drive HD710, regarded as the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, provides a USB 3.1 interface for seamless compatibility with PC, Mac, and Linux. Its military-grade shockproof design (MIL-STD-810G 516.6) protects your data against drops and impacts.
IP68-certified waterproof and dustproof, it survives harsh conditions, including 60 minutes underwater at 2 meters. This rugged drive is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals.
Built for toughness, it delivers reliable, secure data storage.
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14) Corsair CMFVYGTX3C-1TB Flash Voyager GTX 1TB USB 3.1 Premium Flash Drive
Spec: | Read Speed: 440 Megabytes Per Second | Media Speed: 440 MB per second | Cache Memory Installed Size: 512 | Data Transfer Rate: 440 Megabytes Per Second | Hardware Connectivity: USB 3.0 | Digital Storage Capacity: 512 GB | Hard Disk Interface: USB 1.1 | Connectivity Technology: USB
Corsair CMFVYGTX3C-1TB Flash Voyager is a top choice for USB storage. During my review, I found its high-speed memory helpful for transferring large files. Its SSD-like speed offered me reliable performance across platforms.
The Corsair CMFVYGTX3C-1TB Flash Voyager, recognized as the BEST External SSD Hard Drive, offers portable solid-state drive performance with USB compatibility. Its high-speed 3D NAND memory achieves up to 440MB/s read and write speeds for fast file management.
Available in capacities up to 1TB, it provides ample storage space. The zinc-alloy housing with aluminum accents ensures your data is secure and stylishly protected.
Supporting USB 3.1 Gen 1, USB 3.0, and USB 2.0, it offers versatile and future-ready compatibility.
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What is a external hard drive?
External hard disks are a convenient way of storing data. 1TB external drives enable you to carry media and files and use it anywhere you like. Many such discs have military-grade toughness.
How Did We Choose BEST External SSD Hard Drive?
At Guru99, we prioritize accurate, unbiased product reviews through meticulous research and real-world testing. With over 240 hours of research into 27+ Best External SSD Hard Drives, I have created a well-researched and credible guide. This comprehensive list includes free and paid options, detailed features, and pros and cons. Our process ensures reliable and trusted recommendations to help you make informed choices. It aims to provide transparency and confidence in selecting the perfect SSD solution that meets your needs.
- Comprehensive Research: We considered performance, capacity, and speed to identify the most effective options.
- Free and Paid Options: Our list includes both free and premium drives, providing choices for all budgets.
- Pros and Cons Analysis: Each SSD was evaluated to highlight key advantages and areas to consider.
- User Reviews: We analyzed verified user feedback to ensure our recommendations are credible and trusted.
- Pricing Comparison: It is important to compare value across top picks for an informed decision.
What are the benefits of external hard drives?
Here are the benefits of an external hard drive:
- They are lightweight and thus can be moved from one location another easily.
- External drives can speed up the performance of the PC having a slower internal drive.
- It can be used as an emergency backup drive.
What are the general features of the external hard drive?
Here are the general features of the 1TB external hard drive:
- It is made from shock protection material.
- This drive protects data from unauthorized access.
- Easy to plug in the USB cord.
- This disc can be used to store videos, digital photos, and music files.
- You can make a copy of folders for easy file management.
What size of External Hard Drive do I need?
The size of the external drive you should get depends on your personal needs, requirements of software programs that you are going to use, etc. There are so many external hard drives available depending on the needs of every user. External hard drives ranging from 128GB to higher storage of 1TB, 2TB, 5TB, etc, are available in the market that users can choose from.
Verdict
I enjoy exploring the realm of external SSDs, which are the ultimate companions for fast and secure data storage. My focus revolves around their reliability and speed for everyday tasks and creative projects. Check my verdict for a concise summary of the top-notch choices.
- WD 1TB Black My Passport provides secure, user-friendly operation with 256-bit encryption and password protection for your peace of mind.
- Samsung T5 Portable SSD is a powerful option for high-speed data transfer and impressive reliability, especially for large files and media.
- SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is the ultimate choice for fast, secure data management with robust performance and compatibility across platforms.