Are you in need of reliable and high-performance storage solutions for your data? Look no further than our expertly curated list of the 11 Best Solid State Drive External for 2023. In today's fast-paced digital world, having a dependable SSD external drive is crucial to ensure that your files are secure, easily accessible, and can keep up with your demanding needs. Whether you are a professional content creator, a gamer, or simply someone who wants to store important documents and media files, our selection of the best SSD externals for 2023 has got you covered. With lightning-fast data transfer speeds, ample storage capacities, and durable designs, these SSDs will undoubtedly enhance your overall computing experience. Stay ahead with the top-notch performance and reliability of the 11 Best Solid State Drive External for 2023.
Overall Score: 9/10
The SAMSUNG SSD T7 is a portable and reliable external solid state drive designed for gamers, students, and professionals. With its fast transfer speeds and durable construction, it provides easy and secure data storage for transferring large files. The SSD T7 features USB 3.2 Gen 2 technology, delivering incredible speeds of up to 1,050MB/s. It is built with strong and secure materials, including a solid aluminum unibody construction. The T7 also includes a reliable thermal solution to control heat and a sleek and compact design for portability. It comes in a variety of colors and capacities to fit different needs. The T7 is easy to set up with embedded software and is backed by a 3-year limited warranty. Overall, it is a highly recommended SSD for its reliability and performance.
Key Features
- Portable storage with fast transfer speeds
- Built strong and secure with durable materials
- Reliable thermal solution to control heat
- Sleek and compact design for portability
- Comes in a variety of colors and capacities
- Easy setup with embedded software
Specifications
- Color: Titan Gray
- Dimension: 3.30Lx2.20Wx0.30H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- Fast and reliable data transfer
- Durable and secure construction
- Optimal temperature control
- Compact and portable design
- Variety of colors and capacities to choose from
- Easy setup with embedded software
Cons
- Clunky software
- Limited compatibility with password protection
- Lower speed for EXFAT formatting
- Issues with decryption on Linux
- Possible gray market product
The SAMSUNG SSD T7 is a highly recommended external solid state drive for gamers, students, and professionals. With its fast transfer speeds, durable construction, and secure data storage, it provides reliable performance for transferring large files. The T7’s thermal solution ensures optimal temperature control, while its compact and portable design allows for easy on-the-go storage. The variety of colors and capacities makes it suitable for different lifestyles, and the embedded software simplifies setup. Although it has some drawbacks, such as clunky software and limited compatibility with password protection, the overall performance and reliability of the T7 solid state drive make it an excellent choice for anyone in need of dependable external storage.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is a high-capacity, portable solid state drive that offers fast NVMe performance with read speeds of up to 1050MB/s and write speeds of up to 1000MB/s. It features up to two-meter drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance, making it durable and suitable for outdoor use. The included password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption ensures that private content remains secure. With the SanDisk Memory Zone app, users can easily manage files and free up space. This SSD is compatible with both Windows and macOS systems and comes with a handy Carabiner loop for easy attachment to a belt loop or backpack.
Key Features
- Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds
- Two-meter drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance
- Carabiner loop for easy attachment
- Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- San Disk Memory Zone app for file management
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 0.38Lx2.07Wx3.97H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- Fast transfer speeds for seamless file sharing
- Durable and rugged design
- Password protection for privacy
- Easy file management with San Disk Memory Zone app
Cons
- May get warm during prolonged use
The SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is an impressive storage solution for those seeking high-capacity, fast, and reliable performance. With its fast transfer speeds, rugged design, and password protection, it offers both convenience and security. The inclusion of the SanDisk Memory Zone app further enhances file management capabilities. While it may get warm during prolonged use, this is a minor drawback compared to its overall performance. Whether you’re a content creator, photographer, or simply in need of portable storage, this SSD is a worthy investment.
Overall Score: 8.7/10
The SanDisk 1TB Portable SSD is a high-performance external solid state drive that offers blazing-fast read speeds of up to 800MB/s. It is designed to fit seamlessly into your mobile lifestyle, allowing you to conveniently back up your content and memories wherever you go. The drive is also built to withstand two-meter drops, making it a durable option for adventures. With its tough rubber hook, you can secure it to your belt loop or backpack for added peace of mind. This portable SSD is trusted by professional photographers and comes from the reliable brand, SanDisk.
Key Features
- Solid state performance with up to 800MB/s read speeds
- Back up your content and memories on the go
- Two-meter drop protection for durability
- Tough rubber hook for secure attachment
- Trusted brand for professional photographers
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 3.81Lx1.85Wx0.39H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- Fast read speeds
- Durable and compact design
- Trusted brand
- Secure attachment option
Cons
- Possible compatibility issues with Mac OS Ventura
- Misleading speed claim
The SanDisk 1TB Portable SSD is an excellent choice for those in need of high-performance external storage. With its fast read speeds and durable design, it offers convenience and reliability. While there may be some compatibility issues with Mac OS Ventura, overall, this SSD delivers on its promises. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a casual user, this portable SSD is sure to meet your storage needs. Just be aware that the speed claim may not be entirely accurate. With its compact size and secure attachment option, it’s a reliable companion for your mobile lifestyle. Grab this SanDisk SSD and enjoy fast and reliable storage wherever you go!
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Seagate Game Drive For Xbox is a 1TB external solid-state drive designed for Xbox One consoles. It offers quick and easy setup with plug and play USB 3.0 connectivity, eliminating the need for a separate power cable. The drive is lightweight and shock-resistant, with a sleek black finish that complements the Xbox One X. It also comes with a three-year limited warranty and a one-year Rescue Service for added peace of mind. With a membership to Xbox Game Pass, users can gain free access to over 100 great games. The drive has received positive reviews for its performance and ease of use, although some users have noted that the pricing is high. Overall, it is a reliable and convenient storage solution for Xbox gamers.
Key Features
- Compatible devices: Gaming Console
- Quick and easy setup with plug and play USB 3.0 connectivity
- Lightweight and shock-resistant design
- Sleek black finish to complement the Xbox One X
- Includes three-year limited warranty and one-year Rescue Service
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 3.11Lx3.68Wx0.36H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- Convenient plug and play setup
- Lightweight and portable
- Fast and reliable performance
- Includes Xbox Game Pass membership
- Includes three-year limited warranty
Cons
- High pricing
- Actual storage capacity may be slightly less than advertised
The Seagate Game Drive For Xbox is a reliable and convenient storage solution for Xbox gamers. It offers quick and easy setup, fast performance, and a sleek design. The included Xbox Game Pass membership provides access to a wide range of games, adding value to the drive. Although the pricing may be high for some users, the drive delivers on its promises and is worth considering for those who need additional storage for their Xbox consoles. Overall, it is a solid choice for gamers who want to expand their storage capacity and enhance their gaming experience.
Overall Score: 8/10
The 1TB Portable SSD External Hard Drive offers reliable and high-speed storage that is perfect for Windows PC, Mac, PS5, and Xbox. With its cutting-edge technology and high-quality components, this external hard drive ensures consistent and dependable performance for storing important files and valuable data securely. Experience lightning-fast transfer speeds with the USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface, allowing for quick and efficient transfer of large files and multimedia content. The durable and shock-resistant design makes it perfect for everyday use, with an aluminum housing and reinforced inner frame that can withstand shocks, vibrations, and drops of up to 10ft. Its sleek and compact design makes it easy to carry on the go, providing convenient access to your data anytime, anywhere. Additionally, the product comes with exceptional customer service to address any inquiries or technical difficulties you may encounter.
Key Features
- Reliable storage with cutting-edge technology
- High-speed transfer with USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Built strong and durable with shock-resistant aluminum housing
- Sleek and compact design for portability
- Exceptional customer service
Specifications
- Color: Grey
Pros
- Reliable and consistent performance
- Fast transfer speeds for quick file transfers
- Durable and shock-resistant design
- Compact and lightweight for easy portability
- Exceptional customer service
Cons
Overall, the 1T Portable SSD External Hard Drive is a reliable and high-performance storage solution. With its cutting-edge technology, it ensures consistent and dependable performance for your important files and data. The lightning-fast transfer speeds make it convenient for transferring large files and multimedia content. Its durable and shock-resistant design provides extra protection during travel or rough handling. The sleek and compact design makes it perfect for professionals working remotely or students needing extra storage. Additionally, the exceptional customer service adds value to the product. If you’re in need of a portable and high-speed external hard drive, this is a great choice.
Overall Score: 9/10
The SanDisk 1TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD is a high-performance external solid-state drive that offers powerful NVMe solid state performance with read/write speeds of up to 2000MB/s. It features a forged aluminum chassis that acts as a heatsink, providing higher sustained speeds. The drive is protected with 2-meter drop protection and has an IP55 water and dust resistance rating. It also comes with password protection featuring 256-bit AES hardware encryption to keep your content secure. With a compact design and a 5-year limited manufacturer warranty, this SSD is perfect for tech enthusiasts and advanced users who need fast and reliable storage for their data. The SanDisk 1TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD is a must-have tool for filmmakers and professionals who require fast and reliable storage for their creative work.
Key Features
- Up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds
- Forged aluminum chassis for higher sustained speeds
- 2-meter drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance
- Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 0.41Lx2.28Wx4.36H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- High-performance NVMe solid state performance
- Compact and portable design
- Rugged construction for durability
- 5-year limited manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Requires compatible devices capable of reaching maximum speeds
- Drive encryption system may require additional steps to disable
The SanDisk 1TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD is an impressive storage solution that offers exceptional speed, compact design, and reliable performance. Its high read/write speeds make it perfect for transferring and storing large files, making it a valuable tool for filmmakers and professionals. The rugged construction and durable materials ensure that the drive can withstand tough conditions, providing extra peace of mind when using it on the go. Although it may require additional steps to disable the drive encryption system, the overall performance and reliability of this SSD make it highly recommended for tech enthusiasts and advanced users.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Crucial X8 1TB Portable SSD is a high-performance external solid-state drive that offers incredible speeds and compatibility with various devices. With read speeds up to 1050 MB/s, this portable SSD is perfect for transferring large files, editing photos and videos, and more. It works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebook, Android, Linux, PS4, and Xbox One, thanks to its USB-C 3.1 Gen2 and USB-A connectors. The drive features a beautiful and durable design with an anodized aluminum unibody core, making it drop-proof up to 7.5 feet and resistant to extreme temperatures, shock, and vibration. Backed by Micron, one of the largest manufacturers of flash storage in the world, the Crucial X8 offers reliable performance and storage. Overall, it is a compact, fast, and reliable storage solution for anyone in need of extra space for their digital files.
Key Features
- Read speeds up to 1050 MB/s
- Compatible with multiple devices and operating systems
- Beautiful and durable design
- Drop-proof up to 7.5 feet
- Backed by Micron
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 4.33Lx0.45Wx2.09H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- High-performance speeds for fast file transfers
- Versatile compatibility with various devices and operating systems
- Durable and rugged design for added protection
- Backed by a reputable manufacturer
Cons
- Occasional error notification on Mac devices
- Inconsistent transfer speeds
- Requires reformatting for optimal performance
The Crucial X8 1TB Portable SSD is a reliable and fast storage solution for individuals in need of additional space for their digital files. With impressive read speeds, versatile compatibility, and a durable design, this SSD delivers on both performance and durability. While some users may experience occasional error notifications and inconsistent transfer speeds, these issues can be mitigated through reformatting and troubleshooting. Overall, the Crucial X8 offers great value for its price and is highly recommended for those looking to enhance their storage capabilities.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Crucial X6 1TB Portable SSD is a high-capacity and fast external storage device that is compatible with PC, Mac, Android, and iPad Pro. It offers read speeds up to 800MB/s, making it 3.8x faster than most hard drives. Despite its large storage capacity, it is incredibly tiny and lightweight, fitting between your fingertips and weighing less than your car keys. This portable SSD is backed by Micron, one of the largest manufacturers of flash storage in the world, ensuring its reliability and durability. With enough space for up to 20,000 photos, 100 hours of video, 6,000 songs, or 400GB of documents, the Crucial X6 is perfect for storing and transferring all your important files. It is also easy to use, simply connect it to your device using the USB-C port. Overall, the Crucial X6 is a fantastic storage solution for both personal and professional use.
Key Features
- HUGE CAPACITY: Up to 4TB, storage capacity
- FAST: Read speeds up to 800MB/s
- TINY, LIGHTWEIGHT: Fits between your fingertips and weighs less than your car keys
- BROAD COMPATIBILITY: Works with PC, Mac, Android, i Pad Pro
- RELIABLE AND DURABLE: Backed by Micron
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 2.72Lx0.43Wx2.52H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- High storage capacity
- Fast read speeds
- Compact and lightweight design
- Broad compatibility
- Backed by a reliable manufacturer
Cons
- May require USB-A adapter for certain devices
- Limited write cache for video editing
- Slow write speed for small files
- Short USB-C cable included
The Crucial X6 1TB Portable SSD is an excellent choice for anyone in need of high-capacity and fast external storage. It offers ample storage space, fast read speeds, and a compact design that is incredibly portable. The broad compatibility ensures that it works well with various devices, and with the backing of Micron, you can trust in its reliability and durability. While it may have some limitations, such as the need for a USB-A adapter and slower write speeds for small files, overall it provides a fantastic storage solution. Whether you’re a student, professional, or casual user, the Crucial X6 is a reliable and efficient choice for storing and transferring your important files.
Overall Score: 9.2/10
The WD 4TB My Passport SSD External Portable Solid State Drive offers blazing fast NVMe technology with speeds of up to 1050MB/s. It features password-enabled 256-bit AES hardware encryption and is shock and vibration resistant. The drive is cross compatible with USB 3.2 Gen-2 and USB-C, making it suitable for both newer and older systems. It comes with a 5-year manufacturer's limited warranty. The drive is available in a sleek gray color and has a compact dimension of 3.50Lx1.18Wx0.39H. With its impressive speed and portability, it is an excellent choice for those looking for reliable and high-performance external storage.
Key Features
- Blazing fast NVMe technology with speeds of up to 1050MB/s
- 256-bit AES hardware encryption for enhanced security
- Shock and vibration resistant, drop resistant up to 6.5ft
- Cross compatible with USB 3.2 Gen-2 and USB-C
- 5-year manufacturer's limited warranty for peace of mind
Specifications
- Color: Gray
- Dimension: 3.50Lx1.18Wx0.39H
- Size: 4TB
Pros
- Fast transfer speeds
- Durable and reliable build quality
- Cross compatibility with newer and older systems
- 5-year warranty for added assurance
- Password-enabled hardware encryption for enhanced security
- Compact and portable design
Cons
- Lack of activity LED
- No included auto-backup software
The WD 4TB My Passport SSD External Portable Solid State Drive is a top-performing and reliable solid-state drive. With its impressive transfer speeds, compact design, and robust build quality, it is an excellent choice for those in need of high-speed and secure external storage. The cross compatibility with both USB 3.2 Gen-2 and USB-C ensures that it can be used with a wide range of systems. While it lacks an activity LED and auto-backup software, these are minor drawbacks compared to its overall performance and durability. With a 5-year warranty, users can have peace of mind knowing they have a reliable storage solution.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The MUSISALY 1pc SSD is a high-quality external solid state drive designed for computer users. With its high transmission rate, it serves as a reliable accessory for data-heavy applications and transfers. The drive has a capacity of 2TB, providing ample space for storing files and documents. Made with premium metal material, it ensures durability and longevity. The compact and portable design allows for easy portability, making it convenient to carry anywhere. The MUSISALY 1pc SSD is not only easy to use but also offers fast data reading and writing speeds of up to 430MB/s and 370MB/s respectively. If you're looking for a reliable external SSD with a significant storage capacity, this product is worth considering.
Key Features
- High transmission rate for data-heavy applications
- 2TB capacity for ample storage
- Durable construction with premium metal material
- Compact and portable design
- Fast data reading and writing speeds up to 430MB/s and 370MB/s
Specifications
- Color: Black 1
- Dimension: 2.56Lx2.56Wx2.56H
- Size: 7.5X6.5X1CM
Pros
- High transmission rate for efficient data transfer
- Large capacity for storing numerous files
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting use
- Compact and portable design for easy carrying
- Fast data reading and writing speeds
Cons
The MUSISALY 1pc SSD is a reliable external solid state drive that offers a high transmission rate and ample storage capacity. Its durable construction and compact design make it a great option for users who need to carry their data with them. With fast data reading and writing speeds, it ensures efficient performance for data-heavy applications. However, it would be beneficial to have some customer reviews available to provide a clearer picture of its overall performance. Overall, the MUSISALY 1pc SSD is a solid choice for those in need of a portable and efficient external SSD.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The BUFFALO External SSD 1TB is a compact and reliable solid state drive designed to meet your on-the-go demands. With compatibility for PS4/PS5, Macs, and PCs, it allows you to save space and reduce loading time on your console by storing game data on the SSD. This SSD is not only perfect for gamers but also professionals in need of fast and secure storage. It offers blazing fast speeds of up to 600 MB/s, allowing you to perform large intensive tasks simultaneously. The shock-resistant and rugged design provides drop protection, making it durable and reliable for on-the-go use. With USB 3.2 connectivity and a three-year warranty, the BUFFALO External SSD 1TB is a versatile and reliable storage solution for any user.
Key Features
- Compact and reliable SSD
- Compatible with PS4/PS5, Macs, and PCs
- Blazing fast speed of up to 600 MB/s
- Shock-resistant and rugged design
- USB 3.2 connectivity
- Three-year warranty
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 2.70Lx0.90Wx0.40H
- Size: 1 TB
Pros
- Compact and portable design
- Fast transfer speeds
- Durable and shock-resistant
- Compatible with multiple devices
- Three-year warranty
Cons
- Feels like a thin hollow piece of plastic
- Requires downloading and installing necessary drivers
- Limited formatting options
The BUFFALO External SSD 1TB is a reliable and versatile storage solution, perfect for both gamers and professionals. Its compact design and fast transfer speeds make it easy to carry and use on-the-go. The shock-resistant and rugged construction ensures durability and data protection. With its compatibility with multiple devices and a three-year warranty, it offers peace of mind and convenience. However, some users mentioned the plastic feel of the device and the need to install drivers. Overall, if you are looking for a reliable and compact external SSD, the BUFFALO External SSD 1TB is a great choice.
BUYER'S GUIDE: Solid State Drive External
Benefits of Solid State Drive External
- Faster Performance: Solid State Drive (SSD) externals provide faster data transfer speeds compared to traditional hard drives. They are built with flash memory, allowing for quick read and write operations.
- Durability: SSDs have no moving parts, making them more resistant to physical damage. They are better equipped to withstand drops, shocks, and vibrations, which makes them a reliable choice for portable storage.
- Compact and Portable: External SSDs are designed with compact form factors, making them highly portable. They easily fit in your pocket or bag, allowing you to carry large amounts of data wherever you go.
- Energy Efficient: SSDs consume less power compared to traditional hard drives, extending the battery life of laptops or other devices when connected.
- Silent Operation: As SSDs have no moving parts, they work silently, ensuring a noise-free working or entertainment environment.
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Considerations before Buying
When purchasing a solid state drive external, it's essential to consider the following factors:
- Storage Capacity: Determine the amount of storage space you require for your needs. SSDs come in a range of capacities, from 256GB to several terabytes. Choose the capacity that suits your data storage requirements.
- Connectivity: Check the connectivity options available on the SSD. The most common interfaces are USB 3.0 and USB-C. Ensure the SSD is compatible with the ports on your devices.
- Speed: Consider the read and write speeds of the SSD. Faster speeds allow for quicker file transfers and improved performance. Look for SSDs with high data transfer rates to minimize waiting times.
- Compatibility: Verify the compatibility of the external SSD with your operating system. Ensure it is compatible with your device, whether it's a PC, Mac, smartphone, or gaming console.
- Physical Design: Consider the physical design and construction of the SSD. Look for a durable and robust enclosure that can endure the rigors of travel or everyday use. Some SSDs feature ruggedized or waterproof designs for added protection.
- Encryption and Security: If you deal with sensitive information, consider SSDs that offer hardware encryption and additional security features to safeguard your data.
- Price: Compare prices of different SSD options to find the best value for your budget. It's important to balance the features you need with the price you can afford.
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Frequently Asked Questions about 11 Best Solid State Drive External For 2023
Solid state drive externals are compatible with a wide range of devices, including PCs, Macs, gaming consoles, and smartphones. However, it’s always recommended to check the compatibility of the particular SSD with your device before purchasing.
Most SSDs use USB connections, such as USB 3.0 or USB-C. Simply connect the appropriate cable provided with the SSD to the corresponding port on your device, and it should be recognized as an external storage drive.
Generally, SSDs tend to be slightly more expensive than traditional hard drives. However, their prices have been steadily decreasing over time, making them more affordable and accessible to consumers.
SSDs have a longer lifespan compared to traditional hard drives due to their lack of mechanical parts. On average, an SSD can last for several years, but the exact lifespan varies depending on usage patterns and brand quality.
No, the storage capacity of solid state drive externals is fixed and cannot be upgraded. It’s essential to choose an SSD with sufficient storage capacity based on your needs and anticipated future storage requirements.
