Running out of storage and tired of deleting files just to make room? You’re not alone—and that’s exactly where the best external hard drive comes in to save the day. Whether you’re a student with tons of project files, a gamer needing extra space for massive downloads, or a creative professional editing large videos, an external drive can be your digital lifesaver. But not all drives are built the same. From SSDs offering blazing-fast speeds to portable HDDs with massive storage at budget-friendly prices, we’ll help you navigate the chaos. Let’s dive into this complete guide and discover which external hard drive fits your needs best!
What is an External Hard Drive, and Why Do You Need One?
An external hard drive is a storage device that connects to your computer via USB or Thunderbolt, allowing you to save, back up, or transfer large amounts of data efficiently. However, not all external drives are the same—SSD (Solid-State Drives) are faster and more durable than traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), making them ideal for users on the go.
Best External Hard Drives in 2025
1. Samsung T7 Portable SSD
Alright, let’s talk about one of the fan-favorite external drives out there — the Samsung T7 Portable SSD. If you’re someone who hates waiting around while your files transfer, this one’s a no-brainer. This little beast is built for speed. I’m talking up to 1,050MB/s fast. Whether you’re moving big video files, a stack of high-res photos, or doing system backups, it handles it all without breaking a sweat (okay, maybe just a little bit warm under pressure — but that’s normal for SSDs).
The sleek design is another win. It’s super lightweight, pocket-sized, and comes in a few color options if you’re into that. It’s also got USB 3.2 Gen 2 support, which makes a noticeable difference in speed — assuming your device can take advantage of it. Security-wise, you can enable password protection with AES 256-bit hardware encryption, which is super handy if you’re storing sensitive stuff.
The only little downside? It tends to get a bit warm when you’re transferring massive files nonstop. But to be fair, most high-performance SSDs do the same. It’s not a dealbreaker at all, just something to keep in mind.
So, if you’re in the market for a reliable, blazing-fast external drive that won’t weigh you down, the Samsung T7 is easily one of the best options to snag in 2025.
Related Products: SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD, WD My Passport SSD, Crucial X9 Pro SSD
2. Seagate Backup Plus Slim
Now, if you’re not super concerned with speed and just want something that’s affordable and dependable, the Seagate Backup Plus Slim is where it’s at. It’s a traditional external hard drive (so yeah, not as speedy as an SSD), but it’s got a ton of storage space for the price — which is perfect for backing up your photos, videos, or even your entire laptop.
It comes in multiple sizes, from 1TB all the way up to 5TB, and the compact build makes it pretty easy to take on the go. The drive connects via USB 3.0, so while it won’t hit SSD-level transfer speeds, it’s totally fine for everyday use. Plus, it works with both Windows and Mac, and Seagate offers backup software that’s super user-friendly, even if you’re not a tech whiz.
One cool bonus is that it comes with a free subscription to Mylio Create and a trial of Adobe Creative Cloud Photography Plan — which is pretty awesome if you’re into photo editing or want to try it out.
Downsides? Yeah, it’s not going to win any speed races. This drive is best for folks who need a lot of space without spending a fortune. If you’re moving tons of data every day or editing 4K videos, maybe consider an SSD. But for general backup and media storage, this one’s a winner.
Related Products: WD Elements Portable HDD, Toshiba Canvio Basics, LaCie Mobile Drive
3. SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
Alright, if you live a bit of a rugged lifestyle — or you’re just super clumsy (no judgment) — the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is gonna be your best friend. This thing is seriously tough. It’s got a rubberized build that can survive drops and has an IP55 rating, meaning it’s water and dust resistant. Basically, it’s ready for travel, outdoor shoots, or chaotic desk setups.
Performance-wise, this drive is no slouch. You get read speeds up to 1,050MB/s and write speeds that are not far behind. It’s a solid option if you’re a content creator, photographer, or someone who just wants to move files without twiddling your thumbs. Plus, it supports USB-C and comes with a USB-C to USB-A adapter, so it’ll play nice with most setups.
Yes, it’s a bit pricier compared to regular hard drives, but the speed and durability kind of justify it. And honestly, if you’ve ever dropped a cheaper drive and lost everything, you already know the peace of mind this thing gives is priceless.
One heads-up though — since it’s an SSD, it costs more per GB than an HDD. But if you’re prioritizing performance and protection, it’s totally worth the upgrade.
Related Products: Samsung T7 Shield, WD My Passport SSD, Crucial X10 Pro SSD
Why Should You Choose an SSD External Hard Drive?
Traditional HDDs offer larger storage capacities at a lower cost, but they tend to be slower and bulkier. SSD external hard drives, on the other hand, are:
✅ Up to 10x faster than HDDs
✅ More compact and portable
✅ Shock-resistant, reducing the risk of data loss due to drops
Key Factors to Consider When Buying an External SSD
Storage Capacity
Think about how much space you need. For videos and large files, 1TB or more is recommended. For documents, 500GB might be sufficient.
Speed
Look for read/write speeds between 500MB/s and 2,000MB/s to ensure fast file transfers.
Device Compatibility
Make sure the external drive is compatible with Windows, macOS, and other operating systems you use. USB-C and Thunderbolt support are also useful for faster connections.
Price vs. Performance
Higher-end SSDs offer premium speeds, but if you’re not transferring large files daily, a mid-range SSD might be a better investment.
Where to Buy a Reliable External Hard Drive?
You can purchase external hard drives from reputable retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Newegg. Before buying, check reviews and ratings to avoid counterfeit or refurbished products.
Pro Tip: Always buy from authorized sellers or directly from brands like Samsung, Seagate, or Western Digital to ensure product authenticity.
Pros and Cons of External SSDs
✅ Advantages:
✔ Faster file transfers compared to HDDs
✔ More compact and travel-friendly
✔ Less prone to physical damage due to no moving parts
❌ Limitations:
✖ More expensive than traditional HDDs
✖ Storage capacity can be limited at lower price points
✖ Some models require additional software for encryption
Final Verdict: Which External Hard Drive is Best for You?
- If speed and durability are your top priorities, the Samsung T7 Portable SSD is an excellent choice.
- If you need a rugged and travel-friendly option, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is worth considering.
- If you’re on a budget and need more storage, the Seagate Backup Plus Slim is a solid HDD option.
Ultimately, the best external hard drive for you depends on your storage needs, budget, and usage habits. Choose wisely and enjoy seamless storage expansion!