Introduction
As our digital lives become more complex, the need for reliable and ample external storage increases. An external hard drive is a must-have for backing up important files and expanding the storage space on your computer or mobile devices. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best external hard drive for your needs?
In this comprehensive guide, I will discuss:
- Key factors to consider when buying an external hard drive
- The best external HDDs for different uses
- Tips for getting the most out of your external storage
By the end, you’ll know what to look for and be able to confidently choose the ideal external hard drive for backup, extra storage, or any other need.
What to Look for in an External Hard Drive
Storage Capacity
The first consideration is the storage capacity you need. External hard drives come in sizes from 100GB to 10TB and even larger. Think about not just your current storage needs but how your requirements might grow in the future.
For most users, 1-4TB offers a good balance of capacity versus price. But buy more if you plan to store very large files like high-res photos and videos.
Data Transfer Speeds
The data transfer speed of the external HDD determines how fast you can copy files to and from the drive. There are two main specs to look for:
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RPM – This measures the rotational speed of the hard disk inside the drive. Higher RPMs mean faster performance. A 7200 RPM drive is the best choice for quick data transfer.
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Connection interface – Faster connection interfaces allow higher data transfer speeds. USB 3.0, USB-C, Thunderbolt 3 and eSATA offer the fastest speeds. Make sure your computer also has a compatible port.
Build Quality and Reliability
Since you’ll likely use the external hard drive to backup important data, it must be durable and reliable. Look for solid construction with metal or rubber casings. Brand reputation is also a good indicator of quality.
Check that the drive has strong reviews for reliability and low failure rates. Long warranties of 3-5 years also offer peace of mind.
Security Features
If you intend to backup sensitive personal or work data, get a drive with security features like password protection and hardware encryption. This will prevent unauthorized access to your data.
Portability
Portable external HDDs are small and don’t need a power cord. This makes them easy to slip into a bag and use with laptops. Desktop external drives are bulkier but offer larger capacities for less money. Consider your mobility needs vs storage requirements.
The Best External Hard Drives for Backup
Backing up your computer’s internal drive to an external HDD prevents data loss if your computer crashes. For reliable backup, you need an external drive with ample capacity, fast speeds and strong reliability. Here are my top recommendations:
Overall Best – WD My Passport 4TB
Pros:
- Huge 4TB capacity
- Fast USB 3.0 transfer speeds
- Proven reliability
- Hardware encryption and password protection
- Stylish, compact design
Cons:
- Higher price point
For its excellent blend of speed, high capacity, security features, and reliability, I choose the WD My Passport 4TB as the best overall external HDD for backup. Its 4TB capacity handles even very large backups. Transfer speeds over USB 3.0 are fast at up to 5Gbps. This drive also has better reliability ratings than comparable models. And built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption keeps your data secure. The included backup software makes scheduling and managing backups a breeze.
Runner Up – Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Slim and portable design
- Fast USB 3.0 speeds
- Plug-and-play functionality
Cons:
- Max capacity limited to 2TB
If portability and value are your main concerns, the Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB is an excellent, budget-friendly alternative. Despite the slim size, it packs up to 2TB of storage. Speeds are fast thanks to USB 3.0 interface. The plug-and-play setup gets you backing up instantly without any required software installation. While the max capacity is lower than other drives, the combination of performance, portability and affordability makes this a great backup option.
Best for Macs – WD My Passport for Mac 5TB
Pros:
- Large 5TB capacity
- Designed for Apple Time Machine backup
- Password protection and hardware encryption
Cons:
- Only compatible with Mac computers
The WD My Passport for Mac 5TB is optimized for use with Apple computers. Its large 5TB capacity handles even very large Mac backups. It comes formatted for immediate Time Machine compatibility to simplify backups. I also appreciate the included password protection and 256-bit AES hardware encryption to secure your data. Overall, this is the best backup solution for Mac users who need copious external storage.
The Best External Hard Drives for Extra Storage
Media files like photos, videos, and games can quickly fill up your computer’s internal drive. An external HDD provides expanded storage for these large files – just plug in and enjoy the extra space. For hassle-free extra storage, prioritize capacity, value and portability:
Overall Best – WD Elements Desktop 8TB
Pros:
- Massive 8TB capacity
- Excellent value for money
- Compact design
- High speeds with USB 3.0
Cons:
- Needs external power source
The WD Elements Desktop 8TB drive offers a towering 8TB of storage space for a remarkably low cost per GB. It has fast USB 3.0 transfer speeds to quickly transfer media files. While not as portable as smaller 2.5″ drives, the compact footprint takes up minimal desk space. For the ultimate capacity and affordability, this is my top pick for extra storage.
Runner Up – WD My Passport Ultra 4TB
Pros:
- Large 4TB capacity
- Slim and portable
- USB-C and USB 3.0 compatibility
- Hardware encryption
Cons:
- Lower value per GB
If portability is a priority along with ample storage, look no further than the WD My Passport Ultra 4TB. Despite packing a sizable 4TB capacity, this drive is slim and light enough for everyday carrying. Compatibility with both USB-C and USB 3.0 provides versatile connectivity. The included encryption helps keep your data secure. While it costs more per GB, the portability and capacity combination make this the best portable option for additional storage.
Best for Photos – LaCie Rugged Secure 2TB
Pros:
- Durable rubber and aluminum casing
- Fast transfer speeds
- Hardware encryption
- Includes 1-month Adobe CC membership
Cons:
- Expensive
- Lower 2TB capacity
Photographers and creatives need rugged storage to protect precious photo libraries. With its durable construction, fast speeds and encryption, the LaCie Rugged Secure 2TB is tailored for photos. The rubber and aluminum casing can withstand drops and shocks during transport. Both USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 deliver speedy transfers in the field or studio. AES-256 encryption secures all your best shots. The included Adobe Creative Cloud membership provides helpful photo editing apps for a month. The higher price is justified by top-tier protection for photo data.
Tips for Getting the Most from Your External Hard Drive
To maximize the usefulness of your external storage, keep these tips in mind:
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Set up a regular backup schedule on your computer to automatically back up important files to the external drive.
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Enable encryption features like password protection and AES hardware encryption to keep your data secure if the drive is lost or stolen.
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Use the external drive to store less-accessed media files and documents so they don’t take up space on your main computer drive.
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Eject and disconnect the external drive using the “Safely Remove Hardware” function when not in use to prevent corruption.
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Consider an online cloud backup service for an additional layer of protection in case the external HDD fails.
Summary
Choosing the best external hard drive involves prioritizing key factors like capacity, speed, portability and reliability based on your specific needs. For backups, focus on ample storage, fast speeds and advanced security features. For extra storage, value and maximum capacity are most important. By matching your external HDD to your specific requirements, you can enjoy expanded digital storage and peace of mind knowing your data is safe.
