Introducing the ultimate guide to the "12 Best External Hard Drive Solid State Drive for 2023." Whether you are a tech enthusiast, professional content creator, or simply seeking to expand your storage capabilities, this comprehensive list will assist you in making informed decisions. In an era where data storage is paramount, solid state drives have emerged as the go-to solution for unparalleled reliability and performance. With our expertly curated roundup, we have carefully handpicked the top 12 external hard drives that are poised to dominate the market in 2023. Stay ahead of the curve and discover the cutting-edge options that will revolutionize your storage experience.
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: 8.6/10
The SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD is a high-performance external solid-state drive that offers powerful NVMe solid state performance with up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds. Its forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink, ensuring higher sustained speeds. With two-meter drop protection, IP55 water and dust resistance, and password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption, this SSD provides premium feel, added protection, and data security. Its compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for on-the-go professionals. With a color of black and a storage capacity of 4TB, this SSD delivers exceptional speed, durability, and reliability for filmmakers and professionals working with large media files.
Key Features
- Powerful NVMe solid state performance with up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds
- Forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink for higher sustained speeds
- 5-year limited manufacturer warranty and added data protection features
- Two-meter drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance
- Included password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 0.41Lx2.28Wx4.36H
- Size: 4TB
Pros
- Impressive transfer speeds for large files
- Compact and lightweight design for portability
- Rugged construction for durability
- Reliable performance with no data loss or corruption
Cons
- Slow transfer speeds when dealing with small files
- Confusion regarding maximum speed for Mac users
The SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD is a highly recommended storage solution for professionals in need of fast and reliable performance. Its exceptional transfer speeds, compact form factor, and rugged design make it an ideal choice for filmmakers and advanced users. With impressive read and write speeds, this SSD significantly reduces the time spent waiting for file transfers, enhancing workflow efficiency. While there may be some confusion regarding maximum speeds for Mac users, overall, the SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD delivers exceptional performance and reliability.
Overall Score: 8/10
The TEYADI 1TB Mobile Hard Drive is a powerful and secure external solid-state drive. It supports various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android, making it highly compatible. With lightning-fast read and write speeds of up to 270M/S, this portable hard drive offers high-performance data transfer. Its noiseless motherboard ensures a quiet working environment, and its compact size allows for easy portability. No external power supply or software installation is required, making it convenient to use. The TEYADI 1TB Mobile Hard Drive also comes with a 3-year manufacturer's warranty and lifetime technical support. Overall, it provides ample storage space and high-speed functionality, making it a reliable choice for PC and gaming enthusiasts.
Key Features
- 2.5 solid state drive supports Windows / Mac / Linux / Android
- Read and write speeds of up to 270M/S
- Noiseless motherboard for a quiet working environment
- Lightweight and portable design
- No external power supply or software installation required
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 4.72Lx3.11Wx0.51H
- Size: 1TBSpeed Edition
Pros
- Wide compatibility with various operating systems
- High-speed data transfer
- Quiet working environment
- Compact and portable
- No external power supply or software installation required
Cons
- Issues reported with high-quality data storage
- Build quality feels cheap and flimsy
The TEYADI 1TB Mobile Hard Drive is a reliable external solid-state drive that offers high-speed data transfer and wide compatibility with operating systems. Its compact and portable design makes it convenient for on-the-go use. However, some users have reported issues with high-quality data storage and the build quality feels cheap. Overall, it provides a good storage solution for PC and gaming enthusiasts who value speed and portability.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Totority 1pc Ssd Solid State Drive External Hard Drive is a portable and high-performance storage solution. With a capacity of 2TB, it allows you to store movies, files, and games with ease. The USB interface ensures fast data transfer speeds, providing you with the ultimate user experience. This external hard drive can be used without external power or software installation. The metal outer box design not only provides durability but also helps with heat dissipation. Whether you are transferring large files or dealing with complex projects, this hard drive can easily handle them. With its compact size and sleek design, it is the perfect companion for your computer or laptop.
Key Features
- Portable hard drive – easy to read
- High transmission USB interface
- 2TB capacity without external power or software installation
- Metal outer box design for heat dissipation
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 2.95Lx2.56Wx0.39H
- Size: 7.5X6.5X1CM
Pros
- Portable and high-performance
- Fast data transfer speeds
- No external power or software needed
- Durable metal outer box for heat dissipation
Cons
Overall, the Totority 1pc Ssd Solid State Drive External Hard Drive is a reliable and convenient storage solution. With its large capacity and high-speed data transfer, it provides an excellent user experience. The metal outer box design not only enhances its durability but also helps with heat dissipation. The compact size makes it easy to carry around, making it a great companion for users who need to store and transfer large files. Whether for personal or professional use, this external hard drive offers a reliable and efficient storage solution.
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: 9/10
The Hemobllo 2tb External SSD Portable Hard Drive offers high-speed data transfer, durability, and convenience. Its SATA3 and UASP Protocol ensure fast and efficient file transfer. Made with premium metal material, it is built to last. The compact size makes it easy to carry and use. Whether you are a professional or a casual user, this hard drive provides an ultimate user experience. It is compatible with both notebook and desktop computers, making it a versatile storage solution. Expand your storage capacity and stay organized with this must-have accessory.
Key Features
- High-Speed Data Transfer with SATA3 and UASP Protocol
- Durable and Premium Material
- Compact and Easy to Use
- Ultimate User Experience
- Perfect for Notebook or Desktop Computers
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 1.15Lx1.00Wx0.15H
- Size: 64G
Pros
- Fast and efficient data transfer
- Durable and reliable metal construction
- Compact and portable design
- Provides an excellent user experience
- Compatible with both notebook and desktop computers
Cons
The Hemobllo 2tb External SSD Portable Hard Drive is a reliable and efficient storage solution for professionals and casual users alike. Its high-speed data transfer, durability, and compact design make it a standout choice. With its versatile compatibility and premium construction, this hard drive is an essential accessory for anyone looking to optimize their digital life.
Overall Score: 8/10
The JOIOT Portable SSD is a compact and lightweight external solid-state drive that offers excellent performance and durability. With transfer speeds of up to 540MB/s, it allows for fast data backups and easy access. The mini design and metal construction make it highly portable and resistant to shocks and water. It is compatible with various operating systems and devices, including Windows, Mac OS, Android, laptops, and smartphones. The package includes a Mini SSD, Type-A to Type-C Adapter, Type-A to Type-C Data Cable, and a 12-Month Warranty. Overall, the JOIOT Portable SSD is an impressive storage solution for photographers, gamers, video editors, and music producers.
Key Features
- Transfer speed of up to 540MB/s
- Mini design and lightweight
- Excellent performance and durability
- Strong compatibility with various devices
- Includes Type-A to Type-C Adapter and Data Cable
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 3.39Lx1.42Wx0.28H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- Fast and stable data transfer
- Portable and durable design
- Compatible with multiple devices and operating systems
Cons
- Speed may vary depending on user's PC environment
- Cables included are short
The JOIOT Portable SSD is a reliable and high-performing external storage solution. Its impressive transfer speeds, compact size, and durability make it a great choice for professionals in various fields. The device’s compatibility with different devices and operating systems adds to its versatility. Although the speed may vary depending on the user’s PC environment, the overall performance is excellent. The only downside is that the included cables are quite short. Despite this, the JOIOT Portable SSD offers great value for its price and is definitely worth considering for anyone in need of fast and portable storage.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The JOIOT Portable SSD External Solid State Drive offers a compact and lightweight storage solution for all your data transfer needs. With its shockproof and drop-resistant design, this portable SSD ensures the safety of your digital data. It provides outstanding performance with fast read and write speeds, making it ideal for transferring large-sized files. The portable SSD is fully compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux systems, and comes with a 12-month warranty. Its sleek and portable design, along with its reliable performance, makes it a great choice for those on the go. Whether you're in the office or outdoors, the JOIOT Portable SSD is a reliable and efficient storage solution.
Key Features
- Shockproof & Drop Resistant
- Ultra-Light Extreme Portable
- Outstanding Performance
- Fully Compatible
- Package & Guarantee
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 2.54Lx1.10Wx0.39H
- Size: 120GB
Pros
- Shockproof and drop-resistant aluminum alloy body
- Ultra-lightweight and highly portable design
- High-speed data transfer with USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface
- Fully compatible with various operating systems
- Comes with a 12-month warranty
Cons
- May disconnect during large file transfers
- Issues with included USB-C to A cable
- Not suitable for booting Raspberry Pi 4
The JOIOT Portable SSD External Solid State Drive is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact and reliable storage solution. Its shockproof and drop-resistant design ensures the safety of your data, while its ultra-lightweight and portable form factor make it easy to carry anywhere. With fast data transfer speeds and compatibility with multiple operating systems, this portable SSD offers outstanding performance. However, users should be aware of potential issues with disconnects during large file transfers and the included USB-C to A cable. Overall, the JOIOT Portable SSD is a reliable and efficient external storage device that provides great value for money.
Overall Score: 9.1/10
Protect your SAMSUNG T7 Shield portable SSD with this hard travel case replacement from co2CREA. The case is shockproof, dustproof, and water-resistant, ensuring maximum protection for your portable external solid state drive. It has ample space to accommodate your SAMSUNG T7 Shield portable SSD and its accessories. The build-in high-quality lining provides superior protection against bumps, dents, and scratches. The strong zipper ensures a better user experience. The case is available in a stylish black color with a blue interior. Please note that this product includes the case only, and the SAMSUNG T7 Shield portable solid state drive and accessories are not included.
Key Features
- Hard EVA shell case is shockproof, dustproof, and water-resistant
- Ample space to accommodate the portable SSD and its accessories
- High-quality lining protects against bumps, dents, and scratches
- Strong zipper ensures a better user experience
- Compatible with SAMSUNG T7 Shield portable SSD
Specifications
- Color: Black Case + Inside Blue
- Dimension: 3.00Lx2.00Wx1.00H
- Size: For 1 Hard Drive
Pros
- Provides maximum protection for the portable SSD
- Ample space for accessories
- Stylish and durable design
- Convenient and easy to use
Cons
- Interior lining may shed fuzz
- Limited to SAMSUNG T7 Shield portable SSD compatibility
The co2CREA Hard Travel Case is a reliable and stylish solution for protecting your SAMSUNG T7 Shield portable SSD. With its shockproof, dustproof, and water-resistant design, it provides maximum protection for your valuable data. The case offers ample space for your portable SSD and its accessories, ensuring convenience and organization. While some users have reported issues with the interior lining shedding fuzz, overall, this case is highly recommended for its durability and functionality. If you’re looking for a secure and stylish travel case for your SAMSUNG T7 Shield portable SSD, the co2CREA Hard Travel Case is an excellent choice.
Overall Score: 8/10
The KOOTION 1TB External SSD Hard Drive is a compact and lightweight storage solution with high-speed performance. It features a Grade-A memory chip and host system, allowing it to read up to 500MB/s and write up to 450MB/s. With its small size and light weight, this portable solid state drive is convenient for on-the-go use. It is universally compatible with PC and Mac systems and comes with a 1-year warranty. The drive includes a Type-C to Type-C USB 3.1 data cable and a Type-A to Type-C USB 3.0 data cable. Customers have praised its reliable performance and fast speeds, making it ideal for gaming and virtualization. However, some users have noted that its write speeds do not meet the advertised claims. Overall, the KOOTION 1TB External SSD Hard Drive offers excellent value for its speed and portability.
Key Features
- High-speed Transaction with read up to 500MB/s & write up to 450MB/s
- Small and lightweight design for portability
- Universal compatibility with PC and Mac systems
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
- Includes Type-C to Type-C and Type-A to Type-C data cables
Specifications
- Color: D. 1TB – Black
- Dimension: 5.12Lx3.35Wx0.71H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- Compact form factor for easy portability
- Reliable performance and fast speeds
- Includes data cables
- Compatible with PC and Mac systems
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Write speeds may not meet advertised claims
- Higher price for lower storage capacities
The KOOTION 1TB External SSD Hard Drive offers high-speed performance and portability at an affordable price. It delivers excellent read and write speeds, making it suitable for gaming and virtualization. The drive is universally compatible with PC and Mac systems and includes a 1-year warranty for added peace of mind. While some users have reported lower write speeds than advertised, overall, the KOOTION 1TB External SSD Hard Drive provides reliable performance and convenient storage for your computing 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: 9/10
Experience lightning-fast data transfer speeds with the SSK Portable SSD 1TB. This external solid state drive features an impressive 20Gbps SLC CACHE and delivers unrivaled read and write speeds of up to 2000MB/s, ensuring seamless performance and eliminating lag. With its advanced architecture and durable construction, this SSD is built to last, providing over 35 years of reliable use with a 100G daily write usage. The SSK SSD 1TB is compatible with a wide range of devices, thanks to its USB 3.2 Gen2X2 connectivity. It offers both USB-C and USB-A cables for easy connection. With its low power consumption and LED indicator, this portable SSD offers convenience and protection for your data. Encased in durable aluminum, the SSK SSD 1TB ensures optimal heat conduction for stable operation. Expand your storage and enjoy fast, efficient performance with this reliable external SSD.
Key Features
- Impressive 20Gbps SLC CACHE
- Read and write speeds of up to 2000MB/s
- Durable construction with advanced architecture
- USB 3.2 Gen2X2 connectivity with USB-C and USB-A cables
- Low power consumption and LED indicator
- Optimal heat conduction with durable aluminum casing
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 2.50Lx1.30Wx0.40H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- Lightning-fast data transfer speeds
- Built to last with a 35-year lifespan
- Wide compatibility with various devices
- Efficient and low power consumption
- LED indicator for monitoring data transfer
Cons
- Limited color options
- May be slightly bulkier compared to other portable SSDs
The SSK Portable SSD 1TB is an impressive external solid state drive that offers lightning-fast data transfer speeds, durable construction, and wide compatibility. With its high read and write speeds, this SSD ensures seamless performance and eliminates lag. The advanced architecture and 100G daily write usage guarantee long-lasting durability, protecting your data for over 35 years. The USB 3.2 Gen2X2 connectivity and included USB-C and USB-A cables make it compatible with a wide range of devices. Additionally, the low power consumption and LED indicator offer convenience and data protection. Overall, the SSK Portable SSD 1TB is a reliable storage expansion solution.
Buyer's Guide: External Hard Drive Solid State Drive
Whether you are a digital hoarder or a professional in need of extra storage space, an external hard drive solid state drive (SSD) can be your ultimate solution. With fast data transfer speeds and the ability to store large amounts of data, an external SSD is a reliable companion for backing up files or expanding your storage capacity. To help you make an informed decision, we have put together this comprehensive buyer's guide.
1. Capacity
Choosing the right storage capacity is crucial when selecting an external SSD. Consider the amount of data you plan to store and anticipate any future needs. Keep these points in mind:
- Start with a baseline capacity of at least 500GB or 1TB, depending on your needs.
- If you work with large files or require ample space for multimedia, consider higher capacity options, such as 2TB or even 4TB.
- Don't compromise on storage space if you frequently backup your system or edit high-resolution videos.
2. Speed
The speed of an external SSD can significantly impact your data transfer experience. Look for these factors:
- Pay attention to the interface type of the external SSD. Common options include USB 3.0, USB 3.1, Thunderbolt 3, or even NVMe.
- For optimal performance, NVMe-based external SSDs offer lightning-fast read and write speeds compared to traditional SATA-based SSDs.
- If you merely transfer smaller files or do not require rapid data speeds, a USB 3.0 or 3.1 interface will usually meet your needs.
3. Durability
Portability is one of the key advantages of external SSDs. When you're always on the go, you need a device that can withstand the hustle and bustle. Here's what to consider:
- Look for an external SSD that features a sturdy and shock-resistant design. It should be able to withstand accidental drops or vibrations during transportation.
- Consider an SSD with water and dust resistance capabilities, allowing you to use it in various environments without worrying about damage.
- Some external SSDs come with added protective features like rubber casings or solid metal bodies for enhanced durability.
4. Compatibility
To avoid compatibility issues, ensure that the external SSD you choose is compatible with your devices and operating systems:
- Check the device interface compatibility. Make sure your computer or laptop has the necessary USB, Thunderbolt, or NVMe ports.
- Verify the operating system (OS) compatibility. Most external SSDs work with both Windows and macOS, but it's essential to double-check for seamless integration.
5. Portability
When it comes to external storage, convenience is key. Look for these features to ensure effortless portability:
- Opt for an external SSD with a compact and lightweight design. This makes it easier to carry around in your bag or pocket.
- Some SSDs come with additional travel-friendly features like cable management systems, allowing you to keep everything organized conveniently.
6. Security and Encryption
Depending on how sensitive your data is, you may need additional security measures for your external SSD. Consider these points:
- Look for built-in encryption options, such as AES 256-bit hardware encryption. This provides an added layer of protection to safeguard your data.
- Some external SSDs offer password protection and can even encrypt the entire drive, ensuring that your information remains secure, even if the drive falls into the wrong hands.
7. Warranty
Before making your final decision, it's vital to consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. Take the following into account:
- Always look for a longer warranty period. It demonstrates the manufacturer's confidence in the product's quality and provides peace of mind.
- Check what the warranty covers – whether it includes data recovery or only applies to specific types of defects.
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Frequently Asked Questions about 12 Best External Hard Drive Solid State Drive For 2023
Absolutely! External SSDs can be used as boot drives, providing faster startup times and improved overall performance.
No, most external SSDs are designed to draw power from the connected device through the USB or Thunderbolt connection, eliminating the need for an external power source.
Yes, many gaming consoles, such as PlayStation and Xbox, support external storage devices like SSDs, allowing you to expand your gaming library easily.
Most modern smartphones and tablets support USB OTG (On-The-Go) functionality, enabling you to connect external SSDs directly to your mobile devices for additional storage or file transfer.
Certainly! External SSDs are a popular choice for backups due to their reliability and fast transfer speeds. They can help protect your important data against loss or system failures.