20 Best External Hard Drives

Enough budget external hard drive 500 GB. Made in the optimal form factor of 2.5 inches and received a high-speed USB 3.1 connector, so it provides fast data exchange. The case is plastic, but at the same time, in general, the device turned out to be not the easiest - about 270 grams. Note the resistance to high temperatures: this model can easily heat up to 55 degrees.

Otherwise, nothing remarkable.This is also confirmed by the opinions of experts who call the Silicon Power Armor A80 hard drive well balanced, but not particularly distinguished from competitors. There is no strong negative in the reviews either, and the key disadvantage in them is the ultra-short standard cable, convenient when connected to a laptop, but completely unsuitable for a PC.

A reliable half-terabyte option from a well-known American company. This 2.5-inch model is very quiet even when copying large volumes of information. Equipped with a USB 3.0 connector, which guarantees high speed data transfer to a PC or laptop. It is worth noting the stylish appearance with neatly rounded edges and a pleasant to the touch surface.

As for the reviews, in addition to the speed of work, users note the absence of a tendency to overheat, but, alas, only when used without a cover for the HDD. Without it, the case is easily scratched and the appearance of the hard drive suffers. Another customer niggle is the length of the standard USB cable, which many consider too short.

A high-quality and popular hard drive from Seagate, which pleases customers with several parameters. The first is cost. The company does not chase the ruble and sets sparing price tags for its products. The second is ease. The weight of 170 grams is no doubt pleasing. There are no quibbles about the design either, because the upper face is covered with something like a geometric pattern, combined with an unobtrusive load indicator.Everything else is made of matte plastic, and apart from the USB 3.0 port, there is nothing else on the disk.

A 2.5-inch disk with a rotation speed of approximately 5400 rpm is installed inside the case. The rest of the indicators are also average, and the buyers themselves in the reviews put a plus on the durability of use and speak negatively about the short bundled cable.

Another representative of the budget segment of the rating, but from the Japanese. In addition to the standard set of features, the device has a stylish and modern design. The case with rounded corners turned out to be durable, despite the matte plastic. At the factory, it is specially made rough so that during transportation it does not fall out of hands or slide on the table.

During operation, the disk works according to the “install and use” system, which means that there are no requirements for drivers and other data. Despite the default USB 3.0 connection interface, the external drive also supports the previous generation channel, but the data transfer rate will drop in this case. Of the positive features of the model, buyers in the reviews note the practicality and ergonomics of the case, as well as a durable cable for connection.

Quite an interesting product from Transcend. Its distinguishing feature was an additional power connector. The disk turned out to be quite energy-intensive, so one more power source will not be superfluous for it. In addition, not all laptops and power sources are able to provide sufficient power to powerful removable drives.

The entire Store Jet M series to which the disc belongs has been awarded for its impact resistance. In particular, our hero is not afraid of falling, and the combination of green and black colors give the case a modern look. According to customer reviews, the main advantages of the drive are shock protection, an additional power connector and a separate button for backing up files.

An interesting option for 1 TB with a very attractive design. The model was developed for users who lead an active lifestyle and use equipment on the road or hiking. For this reason, the hard drive received a housing made of impact-resistant plastic, complemented by silicone pads on the corners. But the key point is hidden inside - a special protection system protects the HDD components from destruction when the device falls. We also note the use of a USB 3.2 connector with a bandwidth of 5 Gb / s.

Reviews for this external HDD do not contain much criticism, but there are complaints about the insufficient area of ​​​​silicone pads, because of which the plastic part of the case is quickly scratched and can burst when dropped at an unfortunate angle, for example, on a sharp ledge of a stone. In addition, under a high continuous load, the disk may spontaneously turn off.

A small external hard drive with a capacity of 1 TB.Made in a 2.5-inch form factor, offered in three colors, connected via USB 3.0 interface and looks very stylish in terms of design. The spindle here is not the fastest, it rotates at 5400 rpm, i.e. ultra-fast data exchange is not to be expected. On the other hand, there is a rubberized protection of the case along the edges, i.e. the model is quite reliable and is not afraid of falling to the floor. In addition, the StoreJet 25H3P has been in production for about 10 years and is still in high demand.

Reviews for this hard drive are mostly positive. It is noted compact dimensions, shock resistance, no slip on the table, fairly quiet operation and no risk of overheating. On the other hand, some buyers complain about the data transfer speed and the standard USB cable being too short.

Expensive, but well-protected external HDD with a capacity of 1 TB. It attracts with an unusual design with a bright orange color, but it is this format of execution with a massive rubber lining around the entire contour of the metal case that allows you to provide the most maximum protection when the device falls. Another distinguishing feature that has affected the price is the presence of a USB Type-C port, which guarantees faster data transfer and compatibility with MacOS.

In their reviews, users praise the model for its high level of protection not only from shock, but also from dust and moisture. In addition, there is a fast operation and a rather low weight (about 110 g) of the device in the presence of a metal case. There are no critical complaints, but some buyers consider the price a bit high.

Of its obvious trump cards, ADATA DashDrive Durable HD650 1TB buyers distinguish a stylish and modern design. It is especially recommended for young people, as the bright main color (red or blue) is successfully combined with an insert disguised as carbon in the middle. The appearance hides both decorative and practical functions to protect vital modules from damage. The device is quickly recognized by the computer, and a large amount of memory makes it possible to store many files.

Thanks to reliability, important information will always remain safe and sound. From several color options, you can choose the one that will suit your taste. Men will be pleased with the black color scheme, and women will love the elegant and glamorous design in pink. The small size makes it easy to carry the hard drive in your pocket or purse.

Among the main drawbacks, according to reviews of real buyers, one can single out the insufficient length of the USB cable and a weak connector on the drive itself, which loosens over time, which can lead to contact breakage.

Western Digital is one of the most well-known and respected firms in the information storage industry. The 1TB model in question is sold in a huge number of stores, which means you will almost certainly find it in the nearest. The design is typical for the “My Passport” series – the case is completely made of glossy plastic, but is textured into two parts: smooth and corrugated. Plastic, unfortunately, easily soiled, poorly resists scratches.But there are a lot of colors - there are both classic (black, white) and bright (yellow, blue, red, etc.) colors. There are rubber feet on the bottom to prevent slipping on the table. The weight is small - only 170 grams. With ports, everything is traditional - one USB 3.2 connector.

Inside, like most other participants, nothing remarkable. Used HDD 1 TB with a speed of 5400 rpm. The average read / write speed at the level of competitors is 110-120 Mb / s. Note that WD has specialized software that allows you to easily make backups to an external hard drive, check the disk's performance, protect data with a password, etc. Advantages: high reliability, useful proprietary software and good speed indicators.

The Japanese company Toshiba pleased lovers of stylish things with an external HDD Canvio Flex. This 2TB hard drive is compatible with the widest range of devices including iPad Pro, game consoles, TVs and Macs. For data transfer, a USB 3.2 Type micro B connector is used, while the package includes two adapters for classic USB and Type-C. In addition, the hard drive is very compact and weighs no more than 150 g.

Users in the reviews note the high quality of the assembly of the disk, its design with a pleasant surface texture of the case, the versatility of use with various equipment and a decent data exchange rate.It also talks about quiet operation under load and a reduced risk of overheating during long-term copying of massive files. Among the negatives are the lack of anti-slip feet and the use of aluminum-imitating plastic instead of real metal.

Reliable external hard drive with a protected case. Available in a wide range of colors from modest grey-black to vibrant hues that appeal to young people. It holds 2 TB of data, provides a fairly high speed of information exchange with a PC via a USB 3.2 Type A connector. The spindle rotates at a speed of 5400 rpm, it does not make much noise or overheat. We add that against the background of many competitors, the model from AData demonstrates the best energy savings.

If we analyze customer reviews, then users attribute the advantages of this hard drive to high speed, compatibility with game consoles, good protection of the case from impacts and the absence of slipping on the table. The disadvantages are traditional for the segment: a short USB cable, a soiled case and flimsy connector contacts that can break if the wire is connected carelessly.

Some people use external hard drives as a large home file storage, but many more people transport them regularly. It is very important for them to keep the data secure. Yes, information can be encrypted, but encryption will not save the hard drive from a banal fall or drowning. But a protected case, like the StoreJet 25M3, will save.It meets the requirements of the military standard MIL-STD-810F 516.5, which means it will survive drops, shocks and submersion under water. But the connectors are not covered with plugs. Yes, and users complain that over time they become loose, because of which contact is lost.

The speed of work is also frustrating. The average read speed is about 32 Mb/s, which is a bit strange considering the USB 3.0 interface. Power is supplied through two USB ports for greater stability. It is a pity only the cost is the highest in the top three. Pros: Military grade security and dual USB power. Disadvantages: loose connector, low speed and high price.

Seagate products often earn the title of the lightest and most compact device. This model is not in vain included in the Slim line - the thickness of the disk with a capacity of 2 TB is only 11.7 mm. Most competitors are at least 20 mm thick! Small and mass - 126 grams. But do not think that we have a Chinese craft before us - numerous tests and user reviews indicate high reliability. The case is combined: metal on top, side faces are covered with glossy plastic, durable matte plastic on the bottom.

Everything inside is standard. Read/write speeds may vary between instances. In the reviews, users talk about 200-250 Mb / s, tests of profile resources 170-265 Mb / s. In any case, these speeds will be enough for most users. Already from the factory, there are about 500 MB of data on the disk. This is a proprietary Seagate Dashboard utility for data backup, warranty terms and other useful information.Advantages: thin and light body, high reliability, the presence of proprietary software. Disadvantages: as in the entire line, a short and hard cable.

Western Digital is one of the recognized leaders in the production of data storage systems. External hard drive WD My Passport 2 TB differs little from competitors in terms of technical characteristics. Reading speed is about 100-110 Mb/s. The interface is, of course, USB 3.0.

Judging by the reviews, there are no complaints about the device. The build quality is excellent, the materials are pleasant. Is that the gloss is very quickly covered with scratches, taking on an untidy appearance. The hard drive itself does not sin with broken sectors. Reliability is just great. The manufacturer himself is sure of this, and therefore offers a 3-year warranty. Advantages: good technical characteristics, excellent reliability and excellent proprietary software. Disadvantages: glossy body, covered with scratches.

Toshiba once again proved that they know how to make equipment and components. Immediately 4 colors are offered to the buyer to choose from. Available in classic black and white, as well as navy blue and red. The appearance combines the efficiency and elegance inherent in the company, as well as low heat generation during operation.

4 TB of volume fit into an elegant case without any protection from external influences. This product is the epitome of safe use, build quality and durability in use. The scope of delivery is extremely modest and includes only a connection cable. In addition, the buyer receives a two-year product warranty. The only LED indicator is located at the top right in the form of a circle.

If most external HDDs are produced in 2.5 format, then Seagate decided not to deviate from the classics and released their product in 3.5 format. The form of positioning is also different, this option is located vertically, and not horizontally. There are also ports for connection, the role of which was taken over by 2 USB versions 3.0. When working at maximum loads, it almost does not make noise, and at medium and low it is not audible at all.

On the front panel there is an indicator of the operating status of the device. Backups of any file types will be created with high speed and reliability, thanks to the device's support for various platforms. The monolithic plastic case is non-separable, the surface is non-staining, matte.

A product from not the most popular company Lacie. It costs more than many competitors due to its reliability and the use of advanced technologies. Massive at first glance, the case is made of aluminum, enclosed in a rubber shell, damping part of the impact when falling.There is also protection against water class IP54, which prohibits "bathing" the drive in water, but it saves you from splashes and rain (if you get under it).

The interface and the speed it gives out are not bad. USB Type-C is used for connection. For different testers, reading and writing readings ranged from a modest 50 Mb / s to 250 Mb / s unattainable for most competitors. According to customer reviews, the drive is well protected, works fast and has an up-to-date connection interface. The only downside is the very high price.

The Expansion Portable Drive model from the American company Seagate is an external 4 TB HDD drive designed to store large data archives. This hard drive is made in a 2.5-inch form factor and received an interesting case design. Data transfer interface - USB 3.0 with a maximum theoretical speed of 500 MB / s. Dimensions can be considered compact, and the weight is a little less than 240 g.

According to customer reviews and expert opinions, this model provides one of the best price-to-storage ratios. Also in the advantages of the device, users attribute its quiet operation, compatibility with a large number of different types of devices and compact dimensions. As for the minuses, the most important drawback is the possible overheating during prolonged work with constant copying of information.

This model is a copy of the version from the previous category. The body is the same, including dimensions.Accordingly, the problems remained the same - it scratches. But inside there is a 4 TB hard drive. The recording speed is slightly higher - about 115 Mb / s, USB 3.0 interface. Heating is moderate. The only drawback identified by buyers is vibration. Because of the small legs, it is transferred to the table, which is not very pleasant. But there are no problems with reliability - after all, Western Digital are deservedly considered leaders.

Several useful utilities are preinstalled on the disk. WD Backup allows you to set up automatic backup of important files to an external hard drive. WD Security - Protect your data from unauthorized access with a password. You can also enter your details so that if the disk is lost, the finder can find you. Advantages: high speed, better reliability, useful proprietary utilities. Disadvantages: the glossy case is scratched.