As technology advances and our digital lives expand, the need for reliable external storage solutions has never been greater. Whether you’re a photographer, gamer, or just someone looking to back up important files, Amazon offers a wide range of external storage drives to suit various needs. Let’s explore some of the top-rated options currently available.
Hard Disk Drives (HDDs)
Seagate Portable External HDDs
Seagate’s Portable External HDDs consistently rank among Amazon’s best sellers, offering excellent value for those seeking high-capacity storage at affordable prices[1]. The 2TB model is particularly popular, providing ample space for most users’ needs. These drives are compatible with PC, Mac, PlayStation, and Xbox, making them versatile options for various devices[1].
Toshiba Canvio Basics
Another strong contender in the HDD category is the Toshiba Canvio Basics line. Available in capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB, these drives offer reliable performance at competitive prices[1]. Their compact design makes them ideal for users who prioritize portability.
Solid State Drives (SSDs)
SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
For those willing to invest in faster, more durable storage, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD series is a top choice[3]. These drives offer speeds up to 1050MB/s, significantly outpacing traditional HDDs. They also feature IP65 water and dust resistance, making them suitable for outdoor use or travel[3].
Crucial X9 Portable SSD
The Crucial X9 series is another excellent option in the portable SSD market. These drives offer similar speeds to the SanDisk Extreme, with read speeds up to 1050MB/s[3]. They’re particularly appealing for their compact size and lightweight design, making them perfect for on-the-go use.
Rugged Options
LaCie Rugged Mini
For users who need extra durability, the LaCie Rugged Mini series stands out. These drives are designed to withstand drops, shocks, and even rain, making them ideal for outdoor professionals or frequent travelers[1].
High-Performance Internal SSDs
While not external drives, it’s worth mentioning some high-performance internal SSDs for those looking to upgrade their systems:
Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink
This PCIe Gen4 M.2 SSD offers blazing-fast speeds up to 7,450MB/s, making it perfect for high-end computing, workstations, and even compatible with PlayStation 5[4].
Western Digital WD_BLACK SN770
Another excellent choice for gamers and power users, the WD_BLACK SN770 delivers speeds up to 5,150 MB/s, significantly enhancing system performance[4].
Conclusion
When choosing an external storage drive, consider your specific needs in terms of capacity, speed, durability, and budget. HDDs offer great value for large storage needs, while SSDs provide faster speeds and better durability. For those seeking to upgrade their internal storage, modern NVMe SSDs can dramatically improve system performance. Regardless of your choice, always remember to keep your important data backed up in multiple locations for added security.
Citations:
[1] https://www.amazon.com/Best-Sellers-External-Hard-Drives/zgbs/pc/595048
[2] https://www.wired.com/story/best-portable-external-storage-drives/
[3] https://www.amazon.com/Best-Sellers-External-Solid-State-Drives/zgbs/pc/3015429011
[4] https://www.amazon.com/Best-Sellers-Data-Storage/zgbs/electronics/1292110011
[5] https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-external-hard-drives
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/DataHoarder/comments/ujt6qz/best_external_drives_out_there_in_amazon/
[7] https://www.amazon.com/external-hard-drive/s?k=external+hard+drive
