Fastest External Hard Drive: Speedy Storage Solutions
Note: We have researched 13 external hard drives for you.
Last updated on 05.07.24 um 01:33
In today's data-driven world, speed is of the essence. Whether you're a video editor working with large files, a gamer looking to expand your console's storage, or a professional always on the move, having an external hard drive that keeps up with your pace can make all the difference. This is where high-velocity storage solutions come into play, offering not just additional space but lightning-fast data transfer rates that save time and boost productivity.
As the demand for quick data access and transfer skyrockets, the market has responded with an array of external drives that promise to deliver exceptional performance. These storage powerhouses are engineered to support various interfaces, from USB to Thunderbolt, ensuring compatibility and peak performance with a host of devices. In this ranking, we delve into the crème de la crème of the bunch, showcasing the models that stand out for their blistering speeds and steadfast reliability.
As the demand for quick data access and transfer skyrockets, the market has responded with an array of external drives that promise to deliver exceptional performance. These storage powerhouses are engineered to support various interfaces, from USB to Thunderbolt, ensuring compatibility and peak performance with a host of devices. In this ranking, we delve into the crème de la crème of the bunch, showcasing the models that stand out for their blistering speeds and steadfast reliability.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.
Pictured: Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB Portable Ex...
What to Look for in Fastest External Hard Drives
Important criteria
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High data transfer speeds
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USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB 3.2, or USB4 / Thunderbolt 3 or 4 compatibility
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Good read/write speeds
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Reliability and durability
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Brand reputation and warranty
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Sufficient storage capacity
1.) Interface and Speed
When purchasing the fastest external hard drive, the interface through which it connects to your system is critical. Look for drives featuring USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB 3.2, or Thunderbolt 3 and 4 interfaces as they offer the highest data transfer speeds. Thunderbolt 3 and 4, in particular, provide lightning-fast speeds, which are ideal for large file transfers and are essential for those working with high-resolution video or large datasets. Additionally, check the drive's internal hardware as SSDs generally have faster read/write speeds compared to traditional HDDs.
2.) Durability and Reliability
The external hard drive's durability is paramount, especially if you need to transport it frequently. Solid-state drives (SSDs) are generally more durable than hard disk drives (HDDs) as they lack moving parts and are better at withstanding shocks and drops. Ensure that the drive also has a robust casing that provides additional protection. Reliability is also an important factor, as you will want a drive from a reputable brand with a proven track record and good warranty. Reading user reviews and professional ratings can be beneficial in assessing the reliability.
3.) Capacity and Price
Consider the storage capacity you need, as it will affect the price of the external hard drive. Higher-capacity drives will naturally cost more, so balance your storage requirements with your budget. Additionally, SSDs are typically more expensive per gigabyte than HDDs but offer better performance and durability. Determine the amount of storage space necessary for your tasks and find the best drive that aligns with your financial constraints. It's often worth it to invest slightly more for a drive that will last longer and transfer files quicker.
4.) Portability and Form Factor
The size and weight of the external hard drive are important if you plan on carrying it around. Smaller, more compact drives are easier to transport and usually powered directly via the USB connection, eliminating the need for an external power source. If portability is a significant concern, look for a compact SSD with sufficient storage capacity. However, stationary users may opt for larger drives that often come with additional features like built-in cooling systems or extra connectivity options.
The Fastest External Hard Drives of our Choice
Our Pick
SSK Portable SSD 1TB
Model: SD600
Type/Color: Silver
Size: 1TB
Features
- 20Gbps SLC CACHE for unrivaled read/write speeds
- Efficient and durable performance with Ultra chip and 3D NAND
- Built to last with 100G daily write usage
- Ideal storage expansion solution with USB 3.2 Gen2X2
- Sips power with less than 5W energy consumption
- LED indicator for monitoring data transfer status
- Durable aluminum casing for optimal heat conduction
In other categories
- Rank 11 of 18 in Fastest External SSD
$ 86.99 *
View
on Amazon
2
SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD
Type/Color: Titan Gray
Size: 1TB
Features
- Portable storage with fast and reliable data transfer
- Transfer massive files in seconds with incredible speed
- Solid and durable construction for enhanced protection
- Thermal solution to control heat and maintain optimal temperature
- Compatible with various devices and operating systems
- Choose from a range of colors and capacities
- Easy setup with password protection and firmware updates
In other categories
- Rank 2 of 18 in Fastest External SSD
- Rank 12 of 16 in Largest External SSD
3
Seagate Portable 5TB External Hard Drive
Type/Color: Black
Size: 5TB
Features
- Easily store and access 5TB of content
- Works with both Windows and Mac computers
- Backup made easy with simple drag and drop
- Automatic recognition, no additional software needed
- Plug and play simplicity with included USB 3.0 cable
In other categories
- Rank 2 of 18 in Cheapest External Hard Drive
4
SanDisk Professional 5TB G-Drive ArmorATD
Type/Color: Black
Size: 5TB
Features
- USB-C (5Gbps) drive for quick file backup and storage
- USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 3 compatible
- Transfer rates up to 130MB/s read
- Premium, anodized aluminum enclosure for strength
- Built tough with easy-grip bumper for durability
In other categories
- Rank 10 of 17 in Most Reliable Hard Drive
Price Pick
Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB Portable External
Type/Color: Black
Size: 2TB
Features
- Sleek profile design with matte, smudge-resistant finish
- Plug & Play - Easy to use, no software required
- Add storage capacity to PC and compatible devices
- USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 compatible, no AC power cord needed
- Pre-formatted NTFS for Windows PC, reformat for Mac
In other categories
- Rank 12 of 18 in Cheapest External Hard Drive
6
SK hynix Beetle X31 1TB Portable SSD with DRAM
Type/Color: Champagne Gold
Size: 1TB
Features
- Reliable and stable: Equipped with buffer DRAM.
- High performance: Read/write speeds up to 1,050MB/s and 1,000MB/s.
- Stylish and ergonomic design: Compact size (74x46mm) and lightweight (53g).
- Durable aluminum casing in metallic champagne gold.
- Versatile storage solution for gamers, remote workers, content creators, students, and professionals.
- Includes USB connection cables (C-to-C and C-to-A).
- Includes clear silicone case for protection.
In other categories
- Rank 4 of 18 in Fastest External SSD
7
WD_BLACK 5TB P10 Game Drive
Type/Color: Black
Size: 5TB
Features
- Capacities up to 5TB for storing games
- Comes with 18-inch USB Type-A to Micro-B cable
- SuperSpeed interface with up to 5Gbps
- Compatible with Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5
- Store Xbox One and PS4 games, archive newer ones
- Portable form factor for easy game library access
- Sleek metal top covering for a sleek design
- Premium HDD with 3-year limited warranty
- Purpose-built for gamers with WD_BLACK quality
8
SanDisk 2TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD
Type/Color: Black
Size: 2TB
Features
- Powerful NVMe solid state performance up to 2000MB/s.
- Forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink for sustained speeds.
- 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance.
- Included password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption.
- Manage files and free up space with SanDisk Memory Zone app.
In other categories
- Rank 6 of 6 in Fastest 2TB SSD
- Rank 6 of 18 in Fastest External SSD
- Rank 14 of 16 in Largest External SSD
9
WD 5TB My Passport
Type/Color: Black
Size: 5TB
Features
- Slim design suitable for personal, gaming, and business use.
- Software available for device management, backup, and password protection.
- 256-bit AES hardware encryption for enhanced security.
- SuperSpeed USB 3.0 port with 5Gbps transfer speed.
- USB 2.0 compatibility.
- 3-year limited warranty.
10
SanDisk Professional 8TB G-Drive Enterprise
Type/Color: Dark Grey
Size: 8TB
Features
- USB-C (10Gbps) drive for fast backup
- Up to 260MB/s read and 260MB/s write
- High-capacity, enterprise-class 7200RPM drive
- Mac Ready, Apple Time Machine compatible
- Easily reformatted for Windows use
- Stackable, durable aluminum enclosure
- Three adjustable modes of LED light brightness
11
Seagate Expansion Desktop STKP14000400 14TB External
Type/Color: Black
Features
- Portable design for easy portability and storage.
- Provides ample space for files and documents.
- USB 3.0 interface enables fast data transfer rates.
- Compatible with laptops and desktops for versatility.
- 2 year rescue service for peace of mind.
In other categories
- Rank 14 of 18 in Cheapest External Hard Drive
12
WD 2TB Elements Portable External Hard
Type/Color: Black
Size: 2TB
Features
- Adds extra storage for videos, music, photos, and files.
- Operates between 5°C to 35°C.
- Transfers data at maximum speed with USB 3.0.
- Compatible with USB 2.0.
- Improves PC performance by freeing up space.
- Ready to use with Windows PC.
- Offers high capacity in a small enclosure.
- Small and lightweight design.
- Provides up to 5TB* capacity.
- Ideal companion for consumers on the go.
In other categories
- Rank 4 of 17 in Most Reliable Hard Drive
- Rank 5 of 18 in Cheapest External Hard Drive
$ 79.99 *
View
on Amazon
13
WD 5TB My Passport Ultra for Mac Silver
Type/Color: Silver
Size: 5TB
Features
- USB-C and USB 3.1 compatible
- Suitable for business and personal use
- Innovative style with metal cover
- Password protection with strong hardware encryption
- Formatted for Mac
* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.
Top Choices for Speedy External Storage Solutions
Tech Enthusiasts
For those who crave top-tier performance and cutting-edge technology in their external storage, speed is crucial. Discover drives that stand out in speed and durability for demanding tasks.
Professional Users
Professionals require reliable and quick external hard drives to keep up with their workflow. Explore options that offer swift data transfer and robust build quality.
Budget-Conscious Shoppers
Seeking a speedy external hard drive without breaking the bank? Find the perfect blend of performance and value that meets your storage needs.
Gamers
Gamers need external hard drives with quick read and write speeds to reduce load times. Look for drives that can boost your game storage and loading performance.
Casual Users
Casual users seeking a simple, fast storage solution to back up their media and documents will find easy-to-use, high-speed drives perfect for everyday use.
Questions You Might Ask
Before purchasing an external hard drive, consider storage capacity, compatibility with your devices, data transfer speeds, portability requirements, durability, and whether you need any additional features such as encryption or backup software.
Storage capacity is critical. It determines how much data you can store. Choose a capacity that fits your current needs and anticipated future requirements. Typical sizes range from 500GB to several TB (terabytes).
HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) use mechanical parts and are generally cheaper and offer more storage, but are slower and more vulnerable to physical damage. SSDs (Solid State Drives) are faster, more durable, and energy-efficient but come at a higher cost-per-gigabyte. Your choice should be based on your budget, speed requirements, and handling conditions.
Data transfer speed indicates how quickly data can be read from or written to the drive. It affects how fast you can move files between the drive and your computer. Factors like the drive’s technology (HDD or SSD), connection type (e.g., USB 3.0, USB-C, Thunderbolt), and your computer's capabilities will influence these speeds.
Yes, durability varies. SSDs are generally more resistant to physical shocks because they have no moving parts. Some HDDs come with rugged casings or built-in shock absorbers to mitigate potential damage. If you travel frequently or work in tough environments, consider a drive designed for durability.
Currently Active Poll
How to Choose the Fastest External Hard Drive
Our Pick: SSK Portable SSD 1TB
When speed is the name of the game and you're in the market for an external hard drive, you can't settle for just any storage device. Whether you're a creative professional, a gamer, or someone who simply values quick access to your digital life, selecting the fastest external hard drive is crucial. In this guide, we will explore important factors to consider to ensure that you get the best blend of speed, capacity, and reliability for your needs.
Understanding Speed Metrics
Speed is a crucial aspect when evaluating external hard drives. Two key speed metrics you should pay attention to are the read and write speeds. Read speed determines how quickly data can be retrieved from the drive, while write speed indicates how fast data can be transferred onto the drive. Manufacturers often list these speeds in megabytes per second (MB/s) or gigabytes per second (GB/s). Higher numbers translate to faster data transfer rates, which means less waiting and more doing.
Besides the raw speed figures, the drive's interface technology also affects performance. For instance, USB 3.0 can offer decent speeds, but for the fastest data transfer rates, look for drives featuring USB 3.1 Gen 2, Thunderbolt 3, or Thunderbolt 4 interfaces. These newer standards support much faster data transfer rates compared to older USB versions.
Don't forget to consider the internal technology of the drive. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are typically much faster than their Hard Disk Drive (HDD) counterparts due to the lack of moving parts and faster data access times. If speed is your priority, an external SSD is likely the better choice over an HDD.
Capacity and Performance
While the allure of the fastest drive might be strong, it's essential to balance speed with storage capacity. Think about the amount of data you plan to store on this external hard drive. Do you work with large video files, or are your storage needs more modest with mostly documents and images? Today's external SSDs come in a range of capacities, typically from 250GB to 4TB or more.
While larger drives offer more space, they can also come with a steeper price tag. It's important to determine what capacity meets your needs without overpaying for unnecessary storage. In many cases, a 1TB or 2TB drive provides a solid balance between space and cost for most users.
Be aware that in some cases, higher-capacity drives can actually offer better performance due to increased cache size or advanced controller technologies. However, this isn't always the case, so be sure to check the performance ratings for the specific drive model and capacity you're considering.
Durability and Portability
If you're often on the move with your external hard drive, durability becomes a significant factor. Many of the fastest external drives are built with tougher materials like aluminum or feature reinforced casings to withstand drops, shocks, and the rigors of travel. An SSD by nature is more durable than an HDD because it has no moving parts, making it a better companion for those who are always on-the-go.
Size and weight also play into the portability of your external hard drive. Fast external drives come in various sizes, with some so compact they can fit in a pocket. Consider the physical dimensions and weight of the drive if you plan to carry it regularly, and ensure it balances the speed and capacity you require with the convenience of portability.
Price and Brand Considerations
Faster external hard drives can come with higher price tags, but investing in a reputable brand can be worth the cost for reliability and warranty services. Well-known manufacturers often provide better customer support and more reliable warranty claims, potentially saving you from data loss headaches in the long run.
When looking at the price, consider the drive's longevity and the brand's reputation for quality. Sometimes, paying a bit more upfront for a drive with a known track record and solid warranty can offer better value in the long-term, especially if you rely on your external drive for critical data.
Finding the Best Deal
Once you've determined your needs and narrowed down your options, it’s time to find the best deal on your fast external hard drive. Keep an eye on sales and promotions, especially during holiday seasons or back-to-school periods when tech products often see discounts.
Shopping around and comparing prices across different retailers can also help you find a competitive price. Online marketplaces and electronics stores frequently have deals that brick-and-mortar stores may not offer. Don't hesitate to check out customer reviews and tech forums for feedback on the best performing drives in your price range.
Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards
The following section provides a curated selection of resources related to the fastest external hard drives. We've sourced and arranged these materials into four distinct categories for your convenience: product reviews, forum discussions, Reddit threads, and informative videos. These links have been chosen based on their credibility and the quality of insights they offer into the topic at hand.
Nov 8, 2023 — 1. SanDisk Pro-G40 SSD. The Best Portable SSD · 1TB, 2TB ; 3. Crucial X10 Pro. Best Professional-grade Portable USB 20 Gbps SSD · 1TB, 2TB, 4TB ; 4.
4 days ago — Best external drives 2023: Backup, storage, and portability · Crucial X9 Pro – Best external SSD overall · SK Hynix Beetle X31 – Best external...
Dec 7, 2023 — The best external hard drives you can buy today · 1. WD My Book (WDBBGB, USB 3.0, 4TB ) · 2. G-Technology ArmorATD (0G10435, USB 3.1, 2TB and 4TB).
Jun 9, 2022 — Hi, I need a normal external hard drive (non-SSD so it is cheaper) at least 4TB or more for storing backups. Please recommend a reliable one
forums.tomshardware.com
Hi,
I need a normal external hard drive (non-SSD so it is cheaper) at least 4TB or more for storing backups. Please recommend a reliable one
-no need any...
Hard drives are limited to ~250MB/s burst max. Far below the ~480MB/s USB 3.0 is capable of. You want more speed, you have to go with an SSD.
As in, if you use 200mbps max, a lacie d2 Pro hdd 8-14TB works just fine; if 400-500 is your thing, Sandisk SSD (or any other) go just fine; if...
If it absolutely has to be a hard drive, G-RAID 2 has decent speed for a desktop drive. Portables LaCie leads the way, G-Drive Armor is second.
SEAGATE 8TB External Hard Drive Speed Test and Review ...
The Seagate One Touch hard drive is a great value for both quality and speed in the external hard drive market! I cover the read/write speed...
