Best external hard drives

The hard disk is the main element of computer technology, the function of which is to accumulate and store information. The main indicator of the quality of a hard drive is capacity, speed of reading information, rotation speed, noise level, shock resistance. The review presents the best external hard drives from different manufacturers, examines the advantages and disadvantages of each model.

Which external hard drive is better to choose

For the rating review, we selected products from popular manufacturers that are supplied all over the world. The TOP includes the best brands that users trust. External HHD drives from the top rated companies deserve to be called the best.

• Seagate - an American company, the first 5Mb hard drive was released by the company in 1980. The introduction of innovative caching technologies in the development of HDD drives made the brand a world leader. Seagate was named Company of the Year in 2006 by Forbes economics magazine. The brand is considered the largest manufacturer of hybrid internal hard drives.
• Samsung – famous company, world brand. Founded in 1938. Slowly but surely, since 1983, technologists have moved on to the development of components for computers and laptops. Samsung's 2.5-inch hard drives for laptops have become very popular. The model has a low noise level, reduced rotation speed gives notebooks better performance.
• Toshiba – a large manufacturer has been operating since 1938. External HDDs of this brand are famous for their reliability, affordable cost and maximum technical characteristics for home use. The best models of hard drives for budget assemblies of desktop PCs, for set-top boxes and video surveillance systems.
• Transcend – a famous brand from Taiwan produces modules for RAM, solid-state drives, external hard drives, flash memory cards, multimedia equipment, a wide range of technical accessories. The manufacturer has located branches in Japan, Germany, the Netherlands, England, America, Hong Kong, China.
• Western Digital (WD) - a well-known corporation from the USA. Founded in 1970 Launches several lines of HDD-drives on the market, each has its own purpose. These are budget models for the office, for increased and super-heavy loads, shock-resistant with low power consumption. A separate line of external hard drives for video surveillance systems, an ecological line.
• ADATA – a global brand known for the production of high-end memory solutions: DRAM modules, USB drives, memory cards, solid state drives, removable hard drives. The company was founded in 2001. Professionalism, innovation has brought the brand to the leaders of the world market.
• Silicon Power – The Taiwanese company, founded by a group of enthusiasts in 2003. Blazing fast to the global level, in about 10 years has grown into a global brand trusted by millions of users. The main activity is the development of cards and memory modules, card readers, portable and SSD, HDD disks, USB-drives. In 2006 the company was awarded the Taiwan Rising Star.
• Sandisk – is an American corporation, the main activity is the development and production of information carriers based on flash drives. Today the brand has conquered 1/3 of the global memory card market. The share of goods on the market is over 40%. SanDisk, a subsidiary of Western Digital.
• Maxtor – American company, the main activity is the production of solid-state, portable and external hard drives. In the early 2000s, Maxtor became the largest supplier of HDDs to the global market. In 2006, the company was acquired by the Seagate brand. A distinctive feature of Maxtor hard drives is reliability, high operating time to failure, low noise level, light weight and shock resistance.
• Lacie – computer brand from France, is engaged in the production of external hard drives, RAID arrays, flash drives. The manufacturer produces several versatile lines of hard drives with a capacity of up to several terabytes with different interfaces. Original design is the hallmark of LaCie products.

External hard drives rating

External hard drives were rated according to all technical rules. Each hard drive has been tested by experts to meet quality standards. User reviews, demand, availability in the price segment were also taken into account. The selection of the best nominees was made taking into account the following indicators:

• Capacity;
• Noise level;
• Data reading speed;
• Energy consumption;
• Form Factor;
• Interface;
• Impact resistance;
• The weight;
• Price.

Based on the data received, our experts answered the question of how to choose an external hard drive. 12 models of HDD-drives with the best characteristics of speed and performance were selected for the rating. The nominees showed an optimal quality / price ratio.

Best SSD drives

Best 500GB external hard drives

Winchesters with a minimum volume of 500Gb represent the budget category. A portable external hard drive is a practical choice for PC users. It is often used when it is necessary to reinstall the operating system with 150-200 Gb programs. An external drive will help to save working information for using data on other devices. Based on user feedback, 3 best models were selected.

Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 500 GB

The most compact, lightweight portable hard drive. An excellent external hard drive for a laptop that pleases users with several nice options. The first is the price, the brand does not chase the big ruble, it always sets a pleasant price for its goods. The second is lightness, weight 170 gr. will undoubtedly please. Thoughtful design, perforated top panel, so that the box does not slip, it is comfortable to install. The body is made of matte shock-resistant plastic. Form factor 2.5 inches. The maximum data transfer rate is 500 Mb / s. USB 3.0 connection interface. Cost 2 458 rubles.

Advantages

• Good file transfer speed;
• Low weight;
• Compactness;
• Quiet work;
• Slim and lightweight.

disadvantages

• USB connector loosens quickly.

According to numerous user reviews, the model meets all the developer's characteristics: read and write speed. Thanks to the perforated surface, it does not slip even on inclined surfaces.

Samsung Portable SSD T5 500GB

An external SSD-type drive has a compact size, a form factor of 1.8 inches, which captivates at first glance. There is support for 4 KB sectors, TRIM support. Provides optimal AES data encryption using a 256-bit key. The kit includes two connection wires, which makes it easy to connect to equipment with USB-A & USB-C connectors. It is possible to set a password for data safety. The developer provides a 3-year warranty. Impact resistant solid metal body. Equipped with maximum performance, the interface speed is 540 Mb / s. Connection interface Usb 3.1 Type-C, weight 51 g.

Advantages

• Fast, compact;
• Compatible with any device;
• The ability to set a password;
• 3 year warranty.

disadvantages

• Slippery body;
• Short cables included.

Good interoperability compatibility with outdated computer technology. Quickly connects to PCs, laptops and mobile gadgets as well as a TV panel.

Toshiba Canvio Ready 500 GB

Removable hard drive with the most practical enclosure. An attractive budget option.The portable HDD has a built-in shock sensor, which stops the power supply in case of shock or shock to protect data. Stylish casing with rounded edges made of durable matte plastic. Rough surface provides good grip on sloping surfaces, does not slip. Equipped with ramp load technology, which protects the hard drive from damage during transportation. The maximum interface speed is 500 Mb / s, the form factor is 2.5 inches. Usb 3.0 connection interface.

Advantages

• Convenient network indicator;
• Low noise level;
• Compatible with Apple technology;
• Slim, lightweight body.

disadvantages

• Short cable.

Users rate this model 5 for its universal plug-and-play connectivity, functionality and compatibility with modern and legacy devices.

Best 1TB external hard drives

Average storage is in the most requested category. These models are preferred by ordinary users who do not need to store huge amounts of data. HDDs are used as compact media libraries, they have enough space for system backups. To select the best 1TB external hard drives, experts conducted rigorous tests and opted for 4 models.

Transcend StoreJet 25M3 1 TB

Shock-resistant hard terabyte bag with anti-slip rubberized body. Equipped with a dedicated quick reconnect button that allows you to safely use a remote USB drive without disconnecting and reconnecting. Has a three-level protection, provides reliable storage of information. The silicone shell of the case softens the impact when dropped, reduces vibration.

Quickly connects to any gadget, there is no binding to the manufacturer. Form factor 2.5 inches. Works with Windows 7 and higher, Mac OS 10.7 and higher, Linux Kernel 2.6.31 and higher. Rotation speed 5400 rpm. The maximum interface speed is 500 MB / sec. Usb 3.1 connection type.

Advantages

• Increased protection class;
• Quiet work;
• Shockproof rubberized body;
• Inexpensive.

disadvantages

• Unreliable proprietary connector;
• Short rigid cord.

The Transcend StoreJet 25M3 external hdd has a built-in shock-absorbing suspension, making it the most durable model on the market. According to experts, the shock-resistant level of protection meets US Army standards.

Western Digital WD Elements Portable 1 TB

The quietest hard drive. The body is made of glossy plastic, divided into smooth and grooved parts. The surface is easily soiled, weakly resists scratches. The lineup is presented in different colors. Synchronizes seamlessly with Elements Portable devices without additional software. Has standard password protection. It is possible to set a backup according to your own schedule.

The USB 3.0 connection interface also interfaces with the earlier version of the 2.0 connector. Regardless of the connection interface, it maintains stability, speed, reliability. Maximum speed 500 MB / sec. Form factor 2.5 inches. The warranty period is 2 years.

Advantages

• Stable quiet operation;
• Good write speed;
• Password protection;
• Built-in “My Passport” option in case of loss.

disadvantages

• Too bright indicator;
• Connector loosens quickly.

According to user reviews, the hard drive is compact and fits comfortably in the hand. It absorbs vibration well due to 4 rubber feet on the bottom panel.

ADATA HD330 1TB

ADATA HD330 is not just a good external hard drive, it is modern design, increased vibration protection, presentable design. This model is the most in demand today. Among the strengths, users note a beautiful appearance, optimal performance, shockproof housing. Winchester is compatible with most modern devices, from smartphones, laptops, computers to television panels. The optimal ratio of working temperatures is from 5 ° to 50 ° С. Interface of connection Usb 3.1. Data transfer speed 500 MB / sec. Form factor 2.5 inches.

Advantages

• Silent work;
• Stylish design;
• Protected case;
• Compact size, light weight;
• 3 year warranty.

disadvantages

• Short cord;
• Poor build quality.

Most experts confirm that the Chinese build leaves a lot to be desired. However, many users note that it is completely silent and has a long service life.

Silicon Power Stream S03 1 TB

A portable model with a unique design. Good performance, full compatibility with Windows 7, 8, Vista, XP; Linux 2.6.31 and later; Mac OS 10.5 or later. AES encryption algorithm with a 256-bit key. The hard disk per terabyte supports SP Widget software with 7 security levels, the software can be downloaded for free from the manufacturer's resource. Form factor 2.5 inches. Usb 3.0 connection interface (interacts with Usb 2.0). Maximum rotation speed 5400 rpm. The warranty is 3 years.

Advantages

• Low power consumption;
• Low noise level up to 24 dB;
• Indicator light;
• Stylish design;
• Compactness.

disadvantages

• Smooth slippery surface.

Many users note that the matte plastic surface of the case prevents fingerprints and smudges. The spectacular appearance visually resembles a hardback notebook with one of the corners bent.

Best hard drives

Best 2TB external hard drives

Winchesters with such a capacity are often in demand where it is necessary to store large amounts of information in one place. On an external drive, you can save important files, music, your favorite selection of films. Up to 50 4K UltraHD movies can be stored on one 2TB drive. Experts have chosen 3 best models from ten nominees.

SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 2TB

The compact size, stylish shape of the drive looks more like a miniature smartphone. The sides and back panel are protected from slipping by a rubberized surface, the front panel is made of hard perforated plastic. The body material is tactilely pleasant. In the corner of the case, a hole for fastening is correctly provided. There are no moving parts inside, reliable shock-resistant protection with full preservation of all information in case of falling, shaking, increased vibration. Built-in support for 4K sectors. Maximum read speed 550 MB / sec. Usb 3.1 Type-C connection interface. Form factor 1.8 inches.

Advantages

• Compact size;
• Good shock resistance;
• Increased protection;
• Rubberized surface.

disadvantages

• Heats up quickly during operation;
• High price.

An interesting fact is that, despite its compactness and sufficient volume, the hard drive has not received demand in the market due to its high cost. According to users, for this money, you can buy a productive laptop with a large SSD-drive.

Maxtor M3 Portable 2 TB

Sufficiently productive external hard drive, user reviews note that the device interacts well with personal computers and TVs. It has a democratic cost, which makes the hard drive quite popular on the market. Durable plastic case, textured perforation on the front side. Due to the corrugation, it holds well in the hands, does not slip. The back side does not have rubber feet, so there is a risk of slipping on the surface. High reading speed allows you to comfortably work with both large files and photos and documents. Standard 2.5-inch form factor. Usb 3.0 connection interface. Temperature range from 5 ° to 40 ° C.

Advantages

• Attractive cost;
• Stylish, durable body;
• High speed of work;
• Low power consumption;
• Brand guarantee.

disadvantages

• No rubber feet;
• Perforations on the case are quickly erased.

The obvious advantages include speed and affordable cost, but the absence of rubber feet is bad for the HDD stability on a smooth surface, there is a risk of slipping.

Lacie Rugged Thunderbolt USB-C 2TB

The Lacie Rugged Thunderbolt USB-C 2TB Portable Hard Drive is designed to be more resilient to shock, drop and vibration. An extremely interesting offer for Apple technology owners. The drive is a one-piece aluminum case, partially framed in a high-quality rubber bumper cover.The cover, due to the massive protector, reliably protects not only the edges of the hard drive, but also the entire case. There is protection against moisture, dust and shock at the IP54 level. No additional software or drivers are required to work. Usb 3.1 Type-C connection interface. The model has a Thunderbolt interface. Maximum speed 1259 MB / sec. Standard 2.5-inch form factor.

Advantages

• Instant connection;
• High rotation speed;
• Protected shockproof housing;
• Thunderbolt cable.

disadvantages

• Bulky weight 400 gr;
• High price.

Due to the increased shock resistance of the aluminum case and the high protector, a fall even from a height of 2 meters cannot damage the drive.

Best 4TB external hard drives

4 TB is quite an impressive amount. Terabyte drives are ideal for use in server systems. For an ordinary user, devices are meaningless. For professionals, this is enough storage to offload the server by transferring most of the data to portable storage.

Seagate Backup Plus Hub 4 TB

A good hard drive with many advantages. First, it is cross-platform, exceptional speed that allows you to quickly create backups of almost everything. Secondly, the software of this drive model easily interacts with several cloud storages, multimedia services, and popular social networks. After installing a special application, the backup option will become available. Plastic matte non-separable body. Positioning form - vertical installation. There is an indicator light on the front panel. However, no fall protection is provided. Maximum speed 500 MB / sec. Usb 3.0 connection interface. Form factor 3.5 inches.

Advantages

• Laconic, no frills;
• Built-in hub;
• Integration into NAS;
• Low noise level;
• Brand warranty 5 years.

disadvantages

• Bulky dimensions;
• No impact protection.

Users often point out one significant drawback - the lack of protection for the case when falling from impacts. Cracks and marks are visible on the glossy surface. However, the built-in hub for two USBs makes me happy.

Western Digital My Passport 4 TB

The My Passport line is built-in automatic backup features, strong password protection. A portable HDD does not require additional software. The functionality is installed by default directly into the device memory. Compatible with Widows 7, 8, 10. Reformatting required for Mac OS. The plastic case is made of two parts, different in texture. One part has a glossy flat surface, the other half has a corrugated surface in the form of longitudinal depressions. Standard 2.5-inch form factor. Usb 3.0 connection interface. Maximum speed 500 MB / sec. Working temperature from 5 ° C to 35 ° C. Weight 250 gr., Warranty period 3 years.

Advantages

• Strong encryption and password protection;
• Interaction with cloud services;
• There is a "sleep" mode;
• Various colors available;
• High speed of writing, reading.

disadvantages

• It gets very hot during long work;
• Vibration is observed.

The glow of the LED indicator is realized with an expressive thin strip. Many users have noted that this makes the indicator light less irritating to the eyes by blinking.

Which external hard drive is better to buy

To understand which external hard drive is best suited for a specific task, you need to look at certain characteristics. If the goal is simply to save a small amount of information on a portable medium, then you should choose a compact hard drive with a volume of up to 1 TB. If it comes to large amounts of data, for example, on server sites, you should buy a hard drive of the maximum size. Among the entire review, there are models that are worth paying attention to first of all:

• Samsung Portable SSD T5 500GB - compact and fast HDD-drive, convenient to take on the road, excellent compatibility with smartphones, laptops.
• Toshiba Canvio Ready 500 GB - full compatibility with Apple technology, no additional software or driver required.
• Transcend StoreJet 25M3 1 TB - high three-level protection class, suitable for storing important information.
• ADATA HD330 1TB - inexpensive Chinese, completely silent operation and long service life.
• Silicon Power Stream S03 1 TB - Stylish market leader in the form of a hardcover notebook, encryption and 7 security levels.
• Maxtor M3 Portable 2 TB - Stable performance with low power consumption, full interaction with PCs and TVs.
• Lacie Rugged Thunderbolt USB-C 2TB - a good choice for the road, the body is protected by massive rubber protectors, which provides good protection in case of falls.
• Seagate Backup Plus Hub 4 TB - cross-platform storage, exceptional speed, backup of almost everything, synchronization with cloud services.
• Western Digital My Passport 4 TB - large volume with built-in functionality, does not require additional software, reliable protection with encryption and password.

At first glance, it may seem that an external hard drive is not the most important item for a PC, laptop or server. But when it comes to significantly relieving the workspace, increasing volumes or returning speed to your equipment - this element acquires value!