The Most Popular Data Backup Device, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the data backup device you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 27, 2024 06:35
In today's data-driven world, the security and reliability of our digital information become paramount. Losing vital files can lead to significant setbacks, both personally and professionally. That's why selecting the right data backup device is an important decision. The challenge, however, lies in the sheer number of options available.
This is why a ranking of the most popular data backup devices can be incredibly useful. It gives a clear idea of what is working well for others, guided by the votes of users who rely on these devices regularly. By participating in the rankings, users contribute to a community resource that benefits everyone, helping to highlight the most trusted and effective solutions in the market.
What Is the Most Popular Data Backup Device?
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153votes
External Hard Drives
Various manufacturersExternal hard drives are one of the most popular backup devices due to their affordability, reliability, and high storage capacity. They are easy to use and can be connected to a computer via USB or Thunderbolt.External hard drives are portable storage devices that provide an additional means of backing up and storing data. They are typically connected to a computer via USB or Thunderbolt ports and offer significant storage capacity.- Storage Capacity: Ranges from a few hundred gigabytes to several terabytes
- Portability: Compact and lightweight, designed for easy transport
- Compatibility: Works with both Windows and Mac systems
- Data Transfer Speeds: Varies depending on the connection type (USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB-C, Thunderbolt)
- Data Encryption: Some models offer hardware or software-based encryption for enhanced security
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239votesCloud storage is becoming increasingly popular as it allows users to store their data on remote servers accessed via the internet. It provides users with the flexibility to access their data from anywhere, at any time, and on any device.Cloud storage is a type of data backup and storage solution that allows users to store and access data remotely over the internet. It involves storing data on remote servers maintained by a cloud storage provider.
- Scalability: Allows for easy scaling up or down of storage capacity based on user needs
- Accessibility: Data can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reliability: Data is backed up and stored redundantly on multiple servers to ensure reliability and minimize the risk of data loss
- Security: Offers various levels of security measures such as encryption and access controls to protect data from unauthorized access
- Automatic Backup: Allows for automatic and scheduled backups of data
Cloud Storage in other rankings- Position 3 of 10 in Most reliable storage device
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320votes
Evan-Amos · Public domainUSB Flash Drives
Dov MoranUSB flash drives are small, portable, and easy to use backup devices. They are popular because they are affordable and can be used to store and transfer data between different devices.USB flash drives, also known as thumb drives or USB sticks, are small portable storage devices that connect to a computer or other device via a USB port. They are used for data backup, transfer, and storage purposes.- Storage Capacity: Ranges from a few gigabytes (GB) to several terabytes (TB)
- Physical Size: Varies, but typically around 2-3 inches long
- Connectivity: USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB-C
- Transfer Speed: Depends on the USB version, ranging from 5 Mbps to over 1 Gbps
- Durability: Shock-resistant, usually encased in a plastic or metal shell
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411votes
PJ · CC BY-SA 3.0NAS devices are storage devices that are connected to a network and can be accessed by multiple devices simultaneously. They are popular among small businesses and individuals who require large amounts of storage capacity.Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a type of data storage device that allows multiple users and computers in a network to share and access files, data, and backups. It is a dedicated storage solution that connects directly to the network, enabling centralized access and management of data. NAS devices are typically designed for easy setup and administration, with built-in security features to protect the data stored. They provide scalable storage capacity, often allowing for hot-swappable drives and support various RAID configurations for data redundancy and performance optimization.- Data Sharing: Allows multiple users and computers in a network to share and access files.
- Centralized Management: Enables centralized access and management of data.
- Scalability: Provides scalable storage capacity, allowing for expansion.
- Redundancy: Supports various RAID configurations to ensure data redundancy and minimize the risk of data loss.
- Hot-swappable Drives: Allows drives to be replaced or added without shutting down the system.
Network Attached Storage (NAS) in other rankings- Position 4 of 10 in Most reliable storage device
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516votes
Photograph: Robert Jacek Tomczak · CC BY-SA 3.0Tape Drives
IBMTape drives are backup devices that use magnetic tape to store data. They are popular in large organizations that require long-term data storage and backup solutions.Tape drives are a popular data backup device that utilize magnetic tape to store and retrieve data. They are typically used for large-scale backups and archival purposes due to their high storage capacity and relatively low cost compared to other backup solutions.- Storage Capacity: Varies depending on the model, ranging from 100 GB to several terabytes.
- Data Transfer Rate: Ranges from 80 MB/s to over 300 MB/s.
- Data Compression: Supports various compression algorithms, resulting in higher effective capacity.
- Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of computer systems and operating systems.
- Reliability: Designed to ensure high data integrity and resistance to data corruption.
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62votes
Solid State Drives (SSDs)
SanDisk CorporationSSDs are storage devices that use flash memory to store data. They are popular among gamers and individuals who require high-speed data transfer rates.Solid State Drives (SSDs) are a type of data storage device that use flash memory to store data persistently. Unlike traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) that rely on spinning disks and moving read/write heads, SSDs have no moving parts, resulting in faster data access times, improved durability, and lower power consumption. SSDs are popular for their high performance, reliability, and compact size.- Capacity: Ranges from a few gigabytes to several terabytes
- Data Transfer Speed: Varies depending on the model, but can reach up to 550MB/s for sequential reads and 500MB/s for sequential writes
- Interface: Common interfaces include SATA (Serial ATA), PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express), and NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express)
- Form Factor: Available in various sizes such as 2.5-inch (standard for laptops and desktops), M.2 (smaller form factor for ultrabooks and compact devices), and U.2 (larger form factor for enterprise servers)
- Endurance: Measured in terms of total bytes written (TBW); higher endurance indicates increased lifespan
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715votes
FullMetal Falcon · CC BY-SA 3.0Optical discs such as CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs are popular backup devices due to their low cost and high compatibility with different devices.Optical discs are portable storage devices that use laser technology to read and write data. They are commonly used for data backup and storage purposes. The discs are made of a polycarbonate substrate with a reflective layer and protective coating.- Storage Capacity: Ranges from 700MB to 100GB+
- Read/Write Speed: Varies, typically between 4x to 16x
- Formats: CD, DVD, Blu-ray
- Physical Size: Standard sizes: 12cm (CD/DVD) and 12cm/8cm (Blu-ray)
- Lifespan: Up to 25 years or longer if properly stored
Optical Discs in other rankings- Position 7 of 10 in Most reliable storage device
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83votesRAID systems are storage systems that use multiple disks to store data. They are popular among businesses that require high levels of data redundancy and reliability.RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) systems are data storage devices that utilize multiple hard drives to improve performance, reliability, and fault tolerance. By combining multiple drives into a single logical unit, RAID systems offer increased data protection and efficient data access.
- RAID levels: RAID systems support various RAID levels such as RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, etc.
- Data striping: RAID systems stripe data across multiple drives for enhanced read and write performance.
- Redundancy: RAID systems provide fault tolerance by using redundant data or parity information across the drives.
- Hot swapping: RAID systems support hot swapping, allowing for the replacement of a failed drive without system downtime.
- Capacity scaling: RAID systems enable easy expansion of storage capacity by adding additional drives to the array.
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96votesOnline backup services are cloud-based backup solutions that provide users with automated backups and data recovery services. They are popular among individuals and businesses that require data protection and recovery services.Online Backup Services are cloud-based data backup solutions that allow users to securely store and protect their important files and data. These services offer a reliable and convenient way to backup and access files from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Data Encryption: Files are encrypted both in transit and at rest to ensure secure storage and transmission.
- Automatic Backup: Scheduled or continuous backups can be set to run automatically, ensuring that the data is always up to date.
- Versioning: Many online backup services offer versioning, allowing users to restore previous versions of files.
- Scalability: Online backup services typically offer scalable storage options, allowing users to increase or decrease their storage as needed.
- Cross-platform Support: Most online backup services are compatible with multiple operating systems and devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
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100votes
Hybrid Backup Solutions
Hybrid Solutions Inc.Hybrid backup solutions combine both cloud and local backup solutions to provide users with the benefits of both. They are popular among businesses that require high levels of data protection and recovery solutions.Hybrid Backup Solutions is a cutting-edge data backup device that combines the benefits of both local and cloud backup methods. It offers users the flexibility to store their data securely on their local devices as well as on remote servers, ensuring maximum data availability and protection.- Storage Capacity: Up to 10TB
- Data Transfer Speed: Up to 1 Gbps
- Backup Types: Full, incremental, and differential
- Encryption: AES 256-bit encryption
- Redundancy: RAID 5 or higher
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Ranking factors for popular data backup device
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Storage capacityThe data backup device should have ample storage space to accommodate a large volume of data, ensuring that all critical files can be backed up efficiently.
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ReliabilityThe device should be able to store data for a long period of time without data loss or corruption, ensuring the integrity of the data.
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Transfer speedThe device should have fast transfer speeds to enable quick and efficient data backups and restorations.
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Security featuresThe device should provide robust encryption and password protection features to ensure that data is protected from unauthorized access and tampering.
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CompatibilityThe data backup device should be compatible with multiple operating systems and file formats to ensure seamless integration with various systems and devices.
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PortabilityThe device should be designed to allow for easy transportation and storage, especially if it needs to be used by multiple people or locations.
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Ease of useThe backup process should be simple and intuitive, with clear instructions and software that provides a streamlined user experience.
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ScalabilityThe ability to expand or upgrade the storage capacity of the backup device is essential, as data needs may change over time.
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DurabilityThe device should be built to withstand physical wear and tear, as well as potential environmental factors such as temperature and humidity.
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Cost-effectivenessThe backup device should offer a good balance between features, capacity, and price to provide a cost-effective data backup solution.
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Support and warrantyThe device manufacturer should offer good customer support, including a warranty for the device, to provide peace of mind for users in case of any issues.
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Reputation and reviewsThe popularity and reputation of the data backup device among users and expert reviews can indicate its overall quality, performance, and reliability.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular data backup device. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or data backup device is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1308 views
- 166 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each data backup device once every 24 hours. The rank of each data backup device is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular data backup device
Data backup devices are an essential tool for protecting important files and data from loss or corruption. With the rise of digital technology and the increasing amount of sensitive information stored on electronic devices, it's more important than ever to have a reliable backup system in place.
There are several types of data backup devices available, including external hard drives, USB flash drives, cloud storage services, and optical discs such as CDs and DVDs. Each type of device has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the most popular device often depends on individual needs and preferences.
External hard drives are a common choice for many people, as they offer large storage capacities and fast transfer speeds. USB flash drives are a convenient option for smaller files and data on-the-go, while cloud storage services provide remote access and automatic backups.
Ultimately, the most popular data backup device is the one that best suits your specific backup needs and preferences. Whether you prefer the convenience of cloud storage or the security of an external hard drive, having a reliable backup system in place is crucial for protecting your valuable data.
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