As we enter the year 2024, the need for reliable and spacious external hard drives has only grown. From storing high-resolution photos and videos to backing up important documents and files, these devices have become an essential tool for both personal and professional use. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. That’s where we come in.
After extensive research and testing, we have narrowed down the top 7 external hard drives that will make your life easier and your data more secure in 2024. Get ready to say goodbye to storage limitations and hello to effortless storage with these top picks. Let’s dive in!
Criteria for Best External Hard Drives
When determining the cream of the crop in external hard drives, we considered several key factors.
- The first is storage capacity – simply put, more is better. In an era of high-quality images and videos, space runs out quickly, so a hard drive with ample storage is crucial.
- Next, we considered the speed of data transfer. No one wants to wait hours for files to move from one place to another, so a fast transfer rate is a must.
- Durability is another significant factor. A hard drive is often used on the go, so it needs to withstand potential drops or bumps. Additionally, we looked at compatibility – the device must work seamlessly with various operating systems.
- Security is also of utmost importance; encryption and password protection ensure your data stays safe.
- Lastly, price is always a consideration. A great hard drive doesn’t have to break the bank; it’s all about value for money. Keep these criteria in mind as we explore the top 7 external hard drives of 2024.
1. iStorage diskAshur PRO2 HDD 2TB – Best External Hard Drives
Stepping into the spotlight first is the iStorage diskAshur PRO2 HDD 2TB. This powerhouse of an external hard drive doesn’t skimp on security, ensuring your digital assets are well protected. With its PIN authentication, your data is only accessible via a 7-15 digit PIN. It’s as easy as plugging it in and inputting your code. Unplugged, all data is locked down with AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption, requiring no additional software.
The diskAshur PRO2 stands as the first and only PIN authenticated, hardware encrypted portable HDD to achieve multiple global certifications such as FIPS 140-2 Level 2/3, NCSC CPA, NLNCSA BSPA, and NATO Restricted. This device helps you adhere to data regulations like GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA. It’s an essential asset for both personal and professional use.
Carrying it around is no hassle either; its rugged design is dust and water-resistant, making it ideal for travel. And compatibility? You’ll find it to be a non-issue. The diskAshur PRO2 is harmonious with any device boasting a USB port, from MS Windows and macOS to Linux, Chrome, Android, and even Thin Clients, Zero Clients, Embedded Systems, Citrix, and VMware.
File transfer is swift with USB 3.2 data transfer speeds, boasting read speeds of up to 160MB/s and write speeds of up to 143MB/s. The iStorage diskAshur PRO2 HDD 2TB is a trusted companion in today’s digital world.
2. BUFFALO 1TB MiniStation External Hard Drive
The BUFFALO 1TB MiniStation External Hard Drive is a solid choice for those who require durability and portability. This robust device is built to withstand drops up to 2 feet, making it shock-resistant to the usual bumps and mishaps of everyday use. It’s simplicity itself when it comes to operation, providing a secure and straightforward solution for storing or backing up your valuable data.
What sets it apart is the Lock and Go feature, which adds an extra layer of security with password protection, ensuring your files are safe from unauthorized access. The MiniStation’s compact design means you can carry it wherever you go, keeping your essential data close at hand.
But don’t let its small size fool you – this hard drive boasts speedy file transfers with USB 3.2 (Gen 1) connections, significantly outpacing the speeds of USB 2.0, while still retaining backward compatibility. The BUFFALO 1TB MiniStation External Hard Drive is a high-performing, secure, and compact storage solution.
3. LaCie Rugged Mini 1TB External Hard Drive
Take on the rugged terrains of digital storage with the LaCie Rugged Mini 1TB External Hard Drive. Designed for resilience, this portable hard drive offers shock resistance and can withstand drops up to 4 feet, making it a reliable companion for on-the-go users. It also provides defense against dust and rain, ensuring your data stays safe under varying conditions.
To ensure compatibility with Mac users, this hard drive simply requires reformatting – a simple process detailed in the provided Application Guide. With inbuilt password protection, the LaCie Rugged Mini adds another layer of security for your peace of mind. Perhaps the most impressive feature of this hard drive is its use of USB 3.0 technology, which allows for data transfer speeds up to 4 times faster than USB 2.0, while maintaining compatibility with USB 2.0 systems.
The LaCie Rugged Mini 1TB External Hard Drive gives you resilience, speed, and security, making it a solid contender for your storage needs.
4. Crucial X8 1TB Portable SSD – Best External Hard Drives
Meet the Crucial X8 1TB Portable SSD, a game-changer in the realm of external storage. Built for speed, this device flaunts an exceptional performance, sporting read speeds of up to 1050 MB/s. Say goodbye to time-wasting file transfers! The Crucial X8 ensures universal compatibility, working seamlessly with an array of devices from Windows and Mac to iPad Pro, Chromebook, Android, PS4, and Xbox One.
It owes this versatility to its USB-C 3.1 Gen2 and USB-A connectors. Its beautiful and sturdy design, featuring an anodized aluminum unibody core, is drop-proof up to 7.5 feet. Rest assured, your data is safeguarded against extreme temperatures, shocks, and vibrations. The Crucial X8 is supported by Micron, a leading giant in the flash storage world.
With this hard drive, you’re not just purchasing storage space, but also the assurance of quality and reliability. The Crucial X8 1TB Portable SSD is a testament to the blend of aesthetics, resilience, and stellar performance.
5. SSK 2TB Portable External Wireless Hard Drive
Unleash the power of wireless storage with the SSK 2TB Portable External Wireless Hard Drive. This innovative hard drive comes with its Wi-Fi hotspot, enabling you to enjoy high-speed data transfer rates of up to 300 Mbps, no matter where you are. It’s not just about speed – this device offers a substantial 2TB storage capacity, enough to cater to your hefty storage needs.
If you’re always on the go, you’ll appreciate the compact design of this device, which can easily fit into your pocket. One of its standout features is the smart control, provided through a dedicated app compatible with both iOS and Android. From swift one-click backups to remote access, managing your data has never been easier.
What’s more, it supports multi-person sharing simultaneously, ensuring your team can access needed files anytime. The SSK 2TB Portable External Wireless Hard Drive is more than just a storage device; it’s a convenient, powerful, and smart solution for managing and accessing your data wirelessly.
It centralizes all your files, allowing you to easily access your photos, videos, music, and more from any device, be it iOS, Android, Windows, or MAC. All these features combine to make this hard drive a solid choice for your storage needs in 2024.
6. Western Digital 20TB My Book External Hard Drive
Step into a new realm of storage capacity with the Western Digital 20TB My Book Duo Desktop RAID External Hard Drive. This behemoth device offers an unparalleled 20TB of storage, providing ample room for your most important files, photos, and videos. Featuring auto and system backup, it takes the hassle out of manually saving your data.
It comes RAID-0 ready out of the box, primed for high performance. With USB 3.1 Gen 1 readiness and USB 3.0 compatibility, fast and seamless data transfers are assured. To boost your productivity, it includes two USB 3.0 hub ports for additional connectivity. The security of your data is paramount, and this hard drive delivers with 256-bit AES hardware encryption and password protection.
Your data is not just stored; it is fortified. The Western Digital 20TB My Book Duo Desktop RAID External Hard Drive is a massive, secure, and efficient storage powerhouse.
7. SAMSUNG SSD T7 Portable External Solid State Drive
Meet the SAMSUNG SSD T7 Portable External Solid State Drive – your compact, sleek solution to portable storage. Roughly the size of a credit card and weighing in at a mere 2 oz, this external SSD packs a punch with its transfer speeds. Boasting the latest USB 3.2 Gen 2 technology and embedded PCIe NVMe, you can effortlessly transfer large files with sequential read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s.
With its solid aluminum unibody construction, it can resist shocks and survive falls up to 6 feet, ensuring your data stays safe. Additionally, it’s equipped with the Dynamic Thermal Guard, maintaining an optimal temperature even at top speeds. Plus, get a 2-month Adobe Creative Cloud Photography membership when you purchase and register this SSD.
With color options from classic gray to striking blue and red and capacities from 500 GB to 2TB, the SAMSUNG SSD T7 is designed to fit your lifestyle, whether you’re a gamer, student, or professional.
You Might Also Like