For unparalleled performance and ample capacity, consider the Samsung T7 Shield. This model boasts impressive read speeds of up to 1050 MB/s and write speeds of 1000 MB/s, making it a standout choice for anyone in need of fast data transfer. Its rugged design ensures durability under varied conditions, providing peace of mind for users on the go.
Another strong contender is the SanDisk Extreme Pro, offering similar speed metrics while incorporating advanced technologies that enhance reliability. With capacities reaching up to 4TB, this drive caters to both individual and professional needs, ensuring plenty of space for large files and backups.
If portability without compromising on performance is key, the Seagate Fast SSD is an excellent selection. Weighing just under 100 grams, this model delivers reads up to 540 MB/s and is compatible with multiple platforms. The sleek design adds a touch of sophistication, making it a stylish accessory for your tech arsenal.
For those seeking a balance of cost and functionality, the WD My Passport SSD should be on your radar. With solid speeds and a user-friendly experience, it bridges the gap between performance and value. It is a practical choice for anyone looking to expand their storage without breaking the bank.
Top Features to Look for in 2025 External SSDs
Prioritize read and write speeds; opt for models offering NVMe technology, as these provide significantly faster performance compared to SATA alternatives. Look for units capable of exceeding 1,000 MB/s in read speeds and 900 MB/s in write speeds to enhance efficiency in file transfers and data access.
Consider the connection interface. USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ensures optimal performance and compatibility with modern devices. Thunderbolt 3 offers even greater speeds, suitable for professionals handling large files.
Evaluate durability; many portable drives now feature rugged designs with water and shock resistance. Look for products with IP68 ratings or MIL-STD-810G certifications, ensuring safety in various environments.
Storage capacity matters. A range from 500 GB to 4 TB is standard, but for extensive collections of videos or high-resolution images, choose options with larger capacities. Assess your needs to avoid frequent data transfers.
Additionally, investigate software offerings. Some manufacturers provide backup solutions, encryption, and drive management tools, adding value and enhancing usability.
Check warranty details. A three to five-year warranty often indicates reliability and manufacturer confidence, which is important for protecting your investment.
Lastly, prioritize portability. Look for lightweight designs that fit easily in bags or pockets, allowing for convenient transport during travel or commutes.
Comparing Transfer Speeds: SATA vs. NVMe External SSDs
For those seeking optimal data transfer rates, NVMe interfaces outshine SATA counterparts. NVMe drives commonly achieve speeds of 2000 MB/s to 7000 MB/s, while SATA models typically range from 500 MB/s to 600 MB/s.
To assist in choosing the appropriate type, consider the following:
- Performance Needs: If heavy video editing or large file transfers are regular tasks, NVMe is more suitable.
- Compatibility: SATA drives offer broader compatibility with older devices, making them a pragmatic choice for users with legacy hardware.
- Price Point: NVMe options generally come at a premium, while SATA solutions provide a more budget-friendly alternative.
For optimal performance:
- Select NVMe if working with demanding applications.
- Choose SATA when price and compatibility are priorities.
- Evaluate your existing devices to ensure compatibility with the chosen drive type.
In summary, NVMe delivers unparalleled speed while SATA remains a solid choice for versatility. Analyze individual use cases to determine the appropriate driving force behind your selection.
Best Portable External SSDs for Gamers This Year
Western Digital’s My Passport SSD is a strong choice with read speeds up to 1050 MB/s and a sleek, compact design. It offers capacities ranging from 500GB to 2TB, balancing performance and portability perfectly.
Samsung’s T7 Portable NVMe stands out with its shock-resistant build and lightning-fast transfer rates of up to 1050 MB/s. Available in sizes from 500GB to 2TB, it provides reliable storage for intense gaming sessions.
SanDisk Extreme Portable Drive impresses with rugged features, including water and dust resistance. With a maximum read speed of 1050 MB/s and storage options from 500GB to 2TB, it’s an excellent option for gamers on the move.
Crucial X8 offers solid performance with up to 1050 MB/s in read speeds. Compact and stylish, it comes with capacities up to 2TB, making it a practical storage solution for gamers who play across different platforms.
ADATA SE800, with its IP68 rating for dust and water protection, combines durability with performance, boasting speeds reaching 1000 MB/s. Available in sizes from 512GB to 1TB, this model is perfect for adventurous gamers.
Budget-Friendly External SSDs with High Capacity
A recommended option is the Crucial X8, offering 1TB and 2TB variants. With read speeds of up to 1050 MB/s, it excels in performance while remaining affordable. Compatible with both Windows and macOS, its durability is enhanced with a shock-resistant design.
SAMSUNG T7
The SAMSUNG T7, available in 1TB and 2TB, provides exceptional performance at a reasonable price point, reaching speeds up to 1050 MB/s. Utilizes USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface, ensuring compatibility across devices. Its compact design and robust security features, including password protection, increase its appeal.
ADATA SD700
The ADATA SD700 is an ideal choice for users seeking reliability. With capacities of 1TB and 2TB, it guarantees read speeds of approximately 440 MB/s. Its rugged construction meets IP68 standards for dust and water resistance, making it suitable for various environments.
| Model | Capacity | Read Speed (MB/s) | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crucial X8 | 1TB / 2TB | Up to 1050 | $90 – $200 |
| SAMSUNG T7 | 1TB / 2TB | Up to 1050 | $100 – $220 |
| ADATA SD700 | 1TB / 2TB | 440 | $85 – $180 |
How to Choose the Right External SSD for Your Needs
Prioritize data transfer rates when selecting a drive. Look for models that support USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt 3 interfaces. These technologies can significantly enhance file movement, especially with large media files.
Capacity Requirements
Identify your storage needs based on your usage. Consider the following capacities:
- 250GB to 500GB: Suitable for casual users, light backups, and small files.
- 1TB: Ideal for gamers and content creators with moderate storage needs.
- 2TB and above: Perfect for professionals handling extensive data or high-definition video projects.
Portability and Build Quality
Select a drive that fits your mobility needs. Evaluate these aspects:
- Size: Smaller drives are easier to carry but may have limited capacity.
- Weight: Lightweight options are more convenient for travel.
- Durability: Look for rugged designs that offer dust and water resistance if you plan to use it in various environments.
Consider brand reputation and warranty options. Established manufacturers often provide better support and reliability. Review user feedback to gauge real-world performance.
Real World Performance Tests of Leading External SSDs
Samsung T7 Shield consistently outperforms competitors with read speeds of up to 1,050 MB/s and write speeds nearing 1,000 MB/s, confirmed by extensive file transfer benchmarks. For handling large files, this model is particularly recommended due to its rugged design combined with high throughput.
Western Digital My Passport SSD recorded impressive read speeds of about 1,050 MB/s and write speeds around 1,000 MB/s. Tests indicate that this drive excels in multimedia tasks, making it suitable for video editing applications, benefiting users who prioritize both speed and reliability.
SanDisk Extreme Pro delivered exceptional performance during several tests, achieving read speeds of up to 2,000 MB/s when connected via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2. With competitive write speeds close to 2,000 MB/s, this unit is ideal for professionals needing rapid access to large datasets.
The Seagate Fast SSD demonstrated solid capabilities with read speeds hitting 540 MB/s and write speeds around 500 MB/s. While slightly slower, it stands out due to its value proposition and compact form factor, making it suitable for everyday users needing reliable backup solutions.
Crucial X8 showed competitive performance results, reaching read speeds of 1,050 MB/s. This model is an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between performance and affordability, particularly for gaming applications where load times are crucial.
In conclusion, performance across various scenarios confirms that Samsung T7 Shield and SanDisk Extreme Pro are the top contenders for high-demand tasks, while Western Digital My Passport and Crucial X8 offer excellent alternatives for users focused on general use.
Q&A: The best external ssds
Which external hard drive is considered the best external hard drive for creatives who need a lot of storage and rely on a desktop setup?
The Lacie d2 Professional desktop hard drive offers up to 20 TB of external storage and an aluminum enclosure with active cooling; while it spins like a traditional hard disk drive, its USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 interface supplies excellent data transfer speeds for raw video workflows on a PC or a Mac.
What makes the sandisk extreme portable ssd a best external ssd choice for travelers who demand speed and durability?
This portable solid-state drive hits 1050 MB/s reads, is IP55 water-resistant, and requires no external power, giving laptop users faster backups compared to traditional hard drives thanks to an NVMe ssd drive encapsulated in a rubber shell.
Why do gamers prefer the black p50 game drive ssd when running PS5 or PS4 games from an external device?
Western Digital’s drive uses a USB-C Gen 2×2 interface that saturates 2000 MB/s, meaning load times are dramatically faster than external hard drives; the rugged metal chassis also dissipates heat during long play sessions.
How does the lacie rugged ssd pro differ from the standard lacie rugged ssd, and which one is ideal for 8K video capture?
The orange-bumpered lacie rugged ssd pro employs a Thunderbolt 3 controller that reaches 2800 MB/s, perfect for uncompressed cinema footage, while the non-Pro caps around 1050 MB/s—still solid for 4K edits but not the ultimate rugged ssd pro5 speed tier.
Which best budget 2 TB solution offers good performance without jumping to premium ssd options?
A 2tb portable hard drive like the WD Elements provides reliable extra storage for under fifty dollars; though slower than portable ssds, it remains the best value for archiving photos and media libraries on any PC and a Mac.
Why are portable ssds gaining popularity over a portable hard drive as the standard external storage drive for students?
Because ssds have no moving parts, a portable ssd survives backpack drops, draws less power from USB-C, and writes homework at 400–1000 MB/s, whereas a portable hard drive risks platter damage and maxes out near 140 MB/s.
What characteristics make the samsung portable ssd T9 the top pick among best ssds for cross-platform users?
The drive comes with both USB-C to C and C to A cables, AES-256 hardware encryption for mac users, and 2000 MB/s sequential reads, making it a drive like internal NVMe yet fully bus-powered for smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
When should an editor still choose an external hdd or desktop hard drive instead of a solid-state drive?
If you need to store data from year-long projects at the lowest cost per gigabyte, a standard external HDD allows 8-16 TB capacities that an external solid-state drive cannot match without breaking budgets.
How does a flash drive differ from a portable ssd in everyday file shuttling between a PC and a Mac?
A thumb-sized flash drive is convenient for quick PowerPoint moves, but it lacks DRAM caches, throttles under sustained writes, and rarely exceeds 400 MB/s, whereas even a best external ssd sustains high performance for large video folders.
What testing metrics distinguish the best mechanical desktop models from mediocre hard drives and ssds in 2025 lists?
Review labs evaluate sustained write endurance, random 4 K IOPS, drop protection, and controller temperatures; only units that balance quiet operation with swift data transfer speeds earn a spot on the list of the best computer keyboards—sorry, storage devices—of 2025.