Are you in search of the best SSD hard drive external options for 2023? Look no further! In this article, we will explore and showcase the 11 top contenders in the market. As technology advances and data storage needs increase, it is essential to invest in a reliable and efficient external SSD hard drive. Whether you are a professional requiring fast data transfer or a casual user looking for ample storage space, we have got you covered. Join us as we dive into the world of SSD technology and help you find the perfect external hard drive to meet your requirements.
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 2T External Hard Drive is a high-speed portable SSD that offers a massive storage capacity of 2 terabytes. With reading speeds up to 500MB/s and a durable solid state drive, it is perfect for transferring large-sized data. The plug and play feature allows for easy and convenient use without the need for external power supply or software installation. Compatible with various devices including laptops, desktops, smart TVs, game consoles, Mac, and more, this compact and portable external hard drive fits in the palm of your hand and can be carried anywhere. Its reliability, durability, and low power consumption make it a great choice for professionals and entertainment enthusiasts alike.
Key Features
- ULTRA HIGH-SPEED: 500MB/s read speed and 450MB/s write speed
- PLUG AND PLAY: No external power supply or software installation required
- COMPATIBLE WITH MULTIPLE DEVICES: Works with laptops, desktops, smart TVs, game consoles, and more
- COMPACT AND PORTABLE: Fits in the palm of your hand
- RELIABLE AND DURABLE: Generates less heat, works quietly, and offers better durability and power consumption
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Size: M
Pros
- Fast reading and writing speeds
- Easy plug and play functionality
- Compatible with a wide range of devices
- Compact and portable design
- Reliable and durable performance
Cons
The 2T External Hard Drive is a reliable and high-speed portable SSD that offers a massive storage capacity. With its fast data transfer speeds, easy plug and play functionality, and compatibility with multiple devices, this external hard drive is a convenient solution for professionals and entertainment enthusiasts. Its compact and portable design allows for easy transportation, while its reliability and durability ensure long-lasting performance. Overall, the 2T External Hard Drive offers great value for its price and is a recommended choice for anyone in need of a reliable and high-capacity storage solution.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Crucial X8 2TB Portable SSD is a high-performance external solid-state drive that offers incredible read speeds of up to 1050 MB/s. It is compatible with various devices, including Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebook, Android, Linux, PS4, and Xbox One. The SSD features a durable design with an anodized aluminum core, making it drop-proof up to 7.5 feet. It is also resistant to extreme temperatures, shocks, and vibrations. With a storage capacity of 2TB, it provides ample space for storing files, documents, and multimedia. The Crucial X8 is backed by Micron, one of the leading manufacturers of flash storage in the world.
Key Features
- Read speeds up to 1050 MB/s
- Compatible with various devices
- Durable and rugged design
- 2TB storage capacity
- Backed by Micron
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 4.33Lx0.45Wx2.09H
- Size: 2TB
Pros
- Fast transfer speeds
- Large storage capacity
- Compact and portable design
- Wide compatibility with different devices
- Durable and rugged construction
Cons
- Write speed slows down as drive fills up
- Requires reformatting for optimal performance
- Slow file deletion
- Inconsistent write speeds during backups
The Crucial X8 2TB Portable SSD is a powerful and versatile external storage solution. With its impressive read speeds and large storage capacity, it offers excellent performance for data transfer and storage. The durable design ensures it can withstand drops, shocks, and extreme temperatures, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. However, users may experience slower write speeds as the drive fills up, and file deletion can be time-consuming. Additionally, reformatting may be necessary for optimal performance. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Crucial X8 SSD is a reliable and convenient choice for users in need of portable and high-speed storage.
Overall Score: 8/10
The BUFFALO External SSD 1TB is a compact and reliable solid-state drive designed to meet your on-the-go storage demands. It is compatible with PS4, PS5, Macs, and PCs, making it a versatile accessory for professionals and gamers alike. With its fast speeds and multi-tasking capabilities, you can easily connect it to your PC and perform large intensive tasks simultaneously. The shock-resistant and rugged design provides drop protection, making it durable and reliable for travel. Its compact form factor allows you to carry your data in your pocket, making it convenient for work or play. The BUFFALO External SSD also features USB 3.2 connectivity and comes with a three-year warranty for registered devices.
Key Features
- 1TB storage capacity
- Compatible with PS4, PS5, Macs, and PCs
- Fast speeds and multi-tasking capabilities
- Shock-resistant and rugged design
- Compact form factor
- USB 3.2 connectivity
- Three-year warranty
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimensions: 4.60Lx3.00Wx0.50H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- Versatile compatibility
- Fast and efficient performance
- Durable and reliable design
- Compact and portable
- Three-year warranty for registered devices
Cons
- Limited storage for simultaneous PS4 and PS5 games
- Formatted space reduced when using FAT system
The BUFFALO External SSD 1TB is a highly recommended storage solution for those in need of portable and reliable storage. With its versatile compatibility, fast speeds, and durable design, it is a great choice for professionals and gamers alike. The compact form factor allows for easy transportation, and the three-year warranty provides peace of mind. The only drawbacks include limited storage for simultaneous PS4 and PS5 games, as well as reduced formatted space when using the FAT system. Overall, the BUFFALO External SSD 1TB offers great value for its price and is a reliable option for on-the-go storage needs.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The JOIOT 250GB SSD External Hard Drive is a high-speed, portable solid-state drive that offers quick and convenient data transfer. With a speed of 540MB/s, this external SSD allows you to transfer large files with ease, making it ideal for storing photos, videos, applications, and games. The drive is extremely portable, with a small size of 87×38.5×11.7mm and a weight of only 30g, allowing you to carry your important data anywhere. It is made of a durable plastic material that provides shock and vibration resistance, ensuring the protection of your data. The drive is fully compatible with various devices, including PS4, PS5, Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux systems. It comes with a package that includes a data cable and adapter, and a 12-month warranty is provided. Overall, the JOIOT 250GB SSD External Hard Drive offers high-speed performance, portability, and compatibility for all your data storage needs.
Key Features
- High-speed external SSD drive with 540MB/s transfer speed
- Extreme portability with small size and light weight
- Shock and vibration resistance for data protection
- Fully compatible with various devices and systems
- Comes with necessary cables and adapter
Specifications
- Color: 250G
- Dimension: 3.40Lx1.50Wx0.50H
- Size: 250GB-Upgrade
Pros
- High-speed transfer saves time
- Compact and lightweight for easy portability
- Durable design for data protection
- Compatible with various devices and systems
- Comes with necessary cables and adapter
Cons
- Incompatibility issue with some TV models
- Compatibility issues with Mac OS
- Some users experienced performance issues
The JOIOT 250GB SSD External Hard Drive is a reliable and high-performance storage solution for those in need of fast data transfer. Its compact size and lightweight design make it incredibly portable, allowing you to carry your important files wherever you go. The shock and vibration resistance provided by its durable plastic material ensure the safety of your data during transportation. While there were some reported compatibility issues with certain TV models and Mac OS, overall, this external SSD offers great value for its price. Whether you’re a student needing extra storage for games or a professional requiring quick file transfers, the JOIOT 250GB SSD External Hard Drive is definitely worth considering.
Overall Score: 8/10
The WD 2TB My Passport SSD is a portable external solid state drive that offers fast speeds with blazing NVMe technology. It features password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption, making it secure and reliable for storing sensitive data. The drive is shock and vibration resistant, and can survive drops up to 6.5ft. It is cross compatible with USB 3.2 Gen-2 and USB-C, making it suitable for both newer and older systems. With a sleek silver design and sturdy build, this SSD is a convenient option for on-the-go storage needs.
Key Features
- Blazing fast NVMe technology with speeds of up to 1050MB/s
- Password enabled 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Shock and vibration resistant, drop resistant up to 6.5ft
- Cross Compatible USB 3.2 Gen-2 and USB-C
Specifications
- Color: Silver
- Dimension: 3.94Lx2.17Wx0.35H
- Size: 2TB
Pros
- Fast transfer speeds
- Secure password protection
- Shock and drop resistant
- Cross compatibility with USB types
Cons
- May run hot
- Pricey
- Inadequate customer support
The WD 2TB My Passport SSD is a reliable and high-performance storage solution for those in need of fast and secure data transfer. It offers impressive speeds, password protection, and durability against shocks and drops. While it may run hot and comes at a higher price point, its overall performance makes it worth considering. The drive’s compact and sleek design makes it easy to carry around, and its cross compatibility ensures it can be used with a variety of devices. Despite some customer support concerns, this SSD is a solid choice for individuals looking for a portable and reliable external storage option.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The HP P500 1 TB Portable Solid State Drive is a compact and efficient external storage solution. With its USB 3.1 (Gen 2) Type C interface, it offers quick data transfer speeds. This sleek black SSD is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for on-the-go use. The 1 TB capacity provides ample space for storing files and photos. Additionally, it comes with a 3-year warranty, giving you peace of mind. Customers rave about the P500's performance, noting its speed, reliability, and compact size. Some reviewers mention that the short cord and small size could potentially lead to misplacement, but overall, it receives high praise for its functionality and value.
Key Features
- UPC: 195122309480
- Weight: 0.250 lbs
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 3.11Lx2.12Wx0.39H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Fast and efficient data transfer
- Ample storage capacity
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
Cons
- Short cord
- Small size could lead to misplacement
The HP P500 1 TB Portable Solid State Drive is an excellent choice for those in need of portable storage. Its compact design and reliable performance make it a great companion for users on the go. The fast data transfer speeds and abundant storage capacity ensure that you can easily store and access your files, while the 3-year warranty provides added peace of mind. Although the short cord and small size may pose minor inconveniences, the overall value and functionality of the P500 make it a highly recommended product in the realm of portable SSDs.
Overall Score: 8/10
Looking for a portable external storage solution? The LQH TECH Portable Solid State Drive is here to deliver. With its handy size and fast speeds, this external drive is perfect for storing and transferring large files. It's compatible with 99% of PC systems and features a high-quality metal casing with a convenient keyring hole. While the transfer speeds may not be the fastest, it's more than sufficient for day-to-day use. The drive is durable and easy to use, making it a reliable choice for anyone in need of extra storage space. Overall, the LQH TECH Portable Solid State Drive is a great option for those seeking a fast, portable, and reliable external storage solution.
Key Features
- Portable Solid State Drive
- Super Fast Speeds
- Professional Use
- High Compatibility
- High Quality
Specifications
- Color: 128 GB
- Dimension: 2.76Lx0.67Wx0.28H
Pros
- Fast read and write speeds
- Easy to use
- Compatible with Windows 10 and 11
- Durable
Cons
- Slower transfer speeds compared to USB-C-based storage devices
- No USB-C adapter included
- Lacks an activity LED
- Gets hot during heavy usage
The LQH TECH Portable Solid State Drive is a reliable and convenient solution for those in need of extra external storage. While it may not have the fastest transfer speeds or come with a USB-C adapter, it makes up for it with its durable construction and easy-to-use design. Whether you need to store large files, transfer data quickly, or simply have a portable backup solution, this drive has you covered. Just keep in mind that for heavy data transfers, you may want to consider a USB-C-based nVme solution. Overall, the LQH TECH Portable Solid State Drive is a solid choice for anyone seeking a fast, portable, and reliable external storage option.
Overall Score: 9/10
The WD 1TB My Passport SSD is a blazing fast, portable external solid state drive that offers high-speed data transfer, exceptional durability, and reliable security. With speeds of up to 1050MB/s (read) and 1000MB/s (write), this SSD is perfect for professionals who need to transfer large files quickly. It features a password-enabled 256-bit AES hardware encryption to keep your data safe. The drive is shock and vibration resistant, with drop protection of up to 6.5ft (1.98m). Its compact design makes it easy to carry, and it is cross-compatible with USB 3.2 Gen-2 and USB-C (USB-A for older systems). With its sturdy build, fast performance, and secure encryption, the WD 1TB My Passport SSD is an excellent choice for those who need reliable and portable storage solution.
Key Features
- Blazing fast NVMe technology with speeds up to 1050MB/s
- 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Shock and vibration resistant, drop protection up to 6.5ft
- Cross compatible with USB 3.2 Gen-2 and USB-C
Specifications
- Color: Red
- Dimension: 3.54Lx1.77Wx0.39H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- Lightning-fast data transfer speeds
- Compact and portable design
- Exceptional durability
- Built-in hardware encryption for data security
- Cross compatibility with USB-C and USB-A
Cons
- More expensive than traditional hard drives
- 1TB storage may not be enough for some users
- Short USB cable included
The WD 1TB My Passport SSD is a top-notch storage solution that combines speed, durability, and security. Its blazing fast transfer speeds make it perfect for professionals who work with large files, while its compact design and exceptional durability make it a reliable option for those on the go. The built-in hardware encryption adds an extra layer of security to protect your data. Although it may be more expensive than traditional hard drives, the performance and reliability make it worth the investment. The only drawback is the included short USB cable. Overall, if you’re in need of a high-quality and reliable portable SSD, the WD 1TB My Passport SSD is definitely worth considering.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The Vansuny 1TB Portable External SSD is a high-speed data storage device that offers ultra-fast transfer speed of up to 540MB/s and 500MB/s for read and write operations respectively. Its compact and lightweight design makes it extremely portable and easy to carry around. The metal shell provides excellent performance, ensuring stable and secure data transfer. This portable SSD is compatible with various operating systems and supports both USB and Type-C ports. Additionally, it comes with a storage bag and includes a Type-A to Type-C data adapter and cable. With its impressive capacity and reliable performance, the Vansuny 1TB Portable External SSD is a great choice for users seeking a compact and efficient storage solution.
Key Features
- Ultra-Fast Transfer Speed – Read and write speed of up to 540MB/s and 500MB/s
- Mini Design & Lightweight – Portable size smaller than your palm
- Excellent Performance – Stable and secure data transfer with a metal shell
- Wide Compatibility – Compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Android systems
- What You Get – 1TB Mini SSD, Type-A to Type-C Data Adapter, Type-A to Type-C Data Cable, Storage bag, friendly service and technical support
Specifications
- Color: Red
- Dimension: 2.68Lx1.41Wx0.28H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- Ultra-fast transfer speed
- Compact and lightweight design
- Stable and secure data transfer
- Wide compatibility with different systems
- Includes storage bag and data adapter
Cons
- Not the fastest transfer rates
- May disconnect frequently on a Mac
- Not ideal for Time Machine backups
The Vansuny 1TB Portable External SSD offers impressive speed and a compact design, making it a convenient storage solution for users on the go. It provides reliable performance with stable and secure data transfer. While it may not have the fastest transfer rates and may have some compatibility issues with Macs, it still offers great value for its price. The inclusion of a storage bag and data adapter adds to its convenience. Overall, if you’re looking for a portable and efficient external SSD, the Vansuny 1TB Portable External SSD is worth considering.
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.
Buyer's Guide: SSD Hard Drive External
Benefits of an SSD Hard Drive External
- Fast performance: SSDs (Solid State Drives) offer faster data transfer rates compared to traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), resulting in quicker file transfers and improved overall system performance.
- Portability: External SSDs are compact and lightweight, making them highly portable for easy storage and transportation.
- Durability: SSDs have no moving parts, reducing the risk of mechanical failure and providing better resistance to shock, vibration, and drops.
- Quiet operation: Since SSDs don't rely on spinning disks, they operate silently, ensuring a noise-free environment.
- Energy efficient: SSDs consume less power than HDDs, helping to extend battery life for laptop users.
- Compatibility: External SSDs can be used with various devices, including desktop computers, laptops, gaming consoles, and smart TVs.
Factors to Consider when Buying an SSD Hard Drive External
- Storage capacity: Determine your storage needs based on the types of files you intend to store. Consider opting for higher capacities if you deal with large media files, games, or extensive data.
- Interface: Ensure compatibility between the external SSD and your device by checking the interface type. The most common interfaces are USB 3.0, USB-C, and Thunderbolt 3.
- Speed: Look for an external SSD with faster read and write speeds to enhance data transfer performance. Higher speeds are advantageous when dealing with large files or performing tasks like video editing.
- Physical size and weight: Consider the size and weight of the external SSD, especially if you plan to carry it with you frequently. Smaller and lighter options are more convenient for portable use.
- Build quality and ruggedness: If you require a rugged solution, look for models with shock-resistant enclosures and protective features like water and dust resistance. These qualities offer added durability during travel or outdoor adventures.
- Security features: Some external SSDs provide additional security measures like hardware encryption and password protection, ensuring the safety of your stored data.
- Brand reputation and warranty: Prioritize reputable brands known for their reliability, product support, and customer service. Check for warranties that cover defects or failures for a specific period.
Maintenance Tips for Your SSD Hard Drive External
- Back up important data: Regularly create backups of your data stored on the external SSD to prevent data loss in case of unexpected failures or accidents.
- Keep the drive updated: Check the manufacturer's website for firmware updates periodically. These updates often enhance performance, fix bugs, and improve compatibility.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: SSDs can be sensitive to extreme hot or cold temperatures. Store and operate the external SSD within the recommended temperature range to maintain optimal performance and longevity.
- Handle with care: Despite their durability, it's best to handle external SSDs with care. Avoid dropping or subjecting them to unnecessary impact to prevent any internal damage.
- Keep it clean: Regularly wipe down the external SSD's casing with a soft, dry cloth to remove dirt, dust, or fingerprints. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions about 11 Best SSD Hard Drive External For 2023
Yes, most external SSDs are compatible with both Mac and Windows systems. However, it is crucial to ensure the external SSD is formatted appropriately for the specific operating system you intend to use it with.
An external SSD is designed for portable use and typically connects to devices via USB or other interfaces. Internal SSDs, on the other hand, are installed directly into a computer or other compatible device.
Yes, many gaming consoles support external SSDs. However, verify the console’s specifications and compatible interfaces to ensure compatibility before purchasing.
External SSDs often come at a slightly higher price compared to internal SSDs due to their additional features like ruggedness and portability. However, prices vary depending on the brand, capacity, and other factors.
Yes, it is possible to use an external SSD as a boot drive, but ensure your computer’s BIOS supports booting from an external drive. Additionally, verify the transfer speed of the interface to ensure optimal performance.
