Introduction
Having a reliable external hard drive for backing up important files and data is essential in the modern digital world. With the prevalence of ransomware, hardware failures, and accidental deletion, relying solely on your computer’s internal drive for storage is risky. That’s why having a dedicated external hard drive as part of your backup strategy is so important.
But with so many hard drives on the market to choose from, how do you select the right one for your needs? In this article, I outline the 10 best external hard drives for backup in 2024 based on factors like storage capacity, transfer speeds, durability, portability, and affordability. I provide a detailed overview of each hard drive so you can determine which is the best option for backing up your irreplaceable files.
The 10 Best External Hard Drives for Backup in 2024
1. Western Digital My Book Duo
The Western Digital My Book Duo is an excellent external storage device for users who need tremendous amounts of backup capacity.
Specifications:
- Storage: 4TB to 28TB
- Interface: USB 3.1 Gen 1
- Dimensions: 6.3 x 3.9 x 6.1 inches
This dual-drive RAID-optimized HDD provides enormous storage space, fast performance, and RAID flexibility. The RAID-0 striping configuration offers transfer rates up to 360 MB/s, while RAID-1 mirrors data for extra redundancy. The included software allows you to configure, manage, and monitor the RAID array. With massive capacity and great performance, the My Book Duo is ideal for backing up huge amounts of data.
2. Samsung T7 Touch
The Samsung T7 Touch is one of the best portable external SSDs thanks to its fast transfer speeds, compact design, and built-in fingerprint reader.
Specifications:
- Storage: 500GB to 2TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Dimensions: 3.3 x 2.2 x 0.3 inches
It can reach 1,050 MB/s read and 1,000 MB/s write speeds. This makes it excellent for on-the-go use and rapidly backing up large files and datasets. The engraved fingerprint scanner adds an extra layer of security. With drop protection up to 6 feet and a 3-year warranty, the T7 Touch is durable and reliable. The only downside is the storage tops out at 2TB.
3. Seagate Backup Plus Hub
With front-facing USB ports and huge capacity, the Seagate Backup Plus Hub is a versatile external HDD for backup.
Specifications:
- Storage: 4TB to 14TB
- Interface: USB 3.0
- Dimensions: 4.6 x 1.6 x 7.8 inches
It offers fast transfer speeds up to 160 MB/s and two front-facing USB 3.0 ports for conveniently charging devices and transferring data from cameras or flash drives. The Seagate Dashboard software allows for simple file backup and folder mirroring. With up to 14TB of capacity, the Backup Plus Hub has tons of room for storing backups and archives.
4. WD My Passport SSD
The WD My Passport SSD is a fast and reliable portable SSD protected by a durable metal exterior.
Specifications:
- Storage: 500GB to 2TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Dimensions: 3.5 x 1.8 x 0.4 inches
Transfer speeds reach up to 1,050 MB/s, making the My Passport SSD significantly faster than traditional HDDs for quick backups. The shock and vibration resistance keep data safe. AES-256 hardware encryption and password protection provide security, while WD Discovery software helps manage backups. The My Passport SSD hits a nice balance of speed, security, size, and affordability.
5. LaCie Rugged Mini
The LaCie Rugged Mini is a durable and portable external HDD that can handle bumps, drops, and crushing blows.
Specifications:
- Storage: 1TB to 5TB
- Interface: USB 3.0
- Dimensions: 3.4 x 0.7 x 5.3 inches
This external HDD features shock, rain, and pressure resistance for use in harsh environments. With a maximum capacity of 5TB, it provides ample storage, and transfer speeds up to 130 MB/s ensure efficient backup. The Rugged Mini includes data recovery services for one-year, so you have a safety net against disastrous drive failure. Overall, the ruggedness makes this external HDD ideal for backups when on-the-go.
6. Sabrent Rocket Nano
The Sabrent Rocket Nano is an ultra-compact and lightweight external SSD that’s super portable.
Specifications:
- Storage: 500GB to 2TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Dimensions: 2.75 x 0.5 x 2.25 inches
Weighing just 1.5 ounces, this SSD is perfect for slipping into a bag or pocket to take anywhere. Despite the tiny size, it delivers blazing fast transfers up to 1000 MB/s. The aluminum alloy body provides robust protection, and it has no moving parts, making it more durable than a traditional HDD. The Rocket Nano works with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebook, and even gaming consoles. For a super portable external SSD, the Rocket Nano packs a punch.
7. G-Technology ArmorATD
The G-Technology ArmorATD is a rugged, all-terrain external HDD for backups in harsh environments.
Specifications:
- Storage: 1TB to 5TB
- Interface: USB 3.0 and USB-C
- Dimensions: 5.8 x 1.0 x 3.4 inches
This drive is rain, dust, and crush resistant, with 1000lb of pressure resistance. It can withstand drops up to 3 meters. The customizable protective bumper fits cables and makes the drive easy to grip. Transfer speeds reach 140 MB/s over USB 3.0. Triple-layer shock protection keeps data safe if the drive takes a beating. For backing up in the rugged outdoors, the ArmorATD provides reliable performance.
8. SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD
The SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD delivers fast interface speeds in a durable, compact design.
Specifications:
- Storage: 500GB to 4TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
- Dimensions: 2.18 x 2.06 x 0.34 inches
With up to 2,000 MB/s read and write speeds, the Extreme Pro has blazing throughput for quick backups and data transfers. The forged aluminum chassis provides durability and dissipates heat to maintain performance. The IP55 rating makes it water and dust resistant. Hardware encryption and password protection add security. Weighing under 2 ounces, the Extreme Pro is super portable. The excellent transfer speeds make it ideal for professional photo and video editing workflows.
9. ADATA SE800 External SSD
The ADATA SE800 External SSD delivers fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds in an ultra-portable form factor.
Specifications:
- Storage: 512GB to 2TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.7 x 0.4 inches
This compact external SSD reaches read/write speeds up to 1000 MB/s for rapid data transfers and backups. The iPX8 waterproofing allows submersion up to 1.5 meters for 60 minutes. Integrated thermal management prevents overheating. AES 256-bit encryption, SSD locks, and antivirus software provide multi-layer security for your data. Weighing only 1.44 ounces with no moving parts, the ADATA SE800 is built to last. The combination of performance, durability, and portability make this external SSD super useful for data backup and storage.
10. Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC External Hard Drive
The Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC external HDD uses near field communication (NFC) for simple tap-and-go data transfers.
Specifications:
- Storage: 1TB to 2TB
- Interface: USB 3.0
- Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.2 x 0.9 inches
It offers transfer speeds up to 117 MB/s. Integrated wrap-around USB cable makes it super portable and NFC allows tap-and-go file transfers to compatible mobile devices. The ruggedized chassis is shock, water, and dustproof, designed to withstand damage from drops and elements. It is compatible with Windows and Mac right out of the box. If you want a fast and portable hard drive with unique tap-and-go functionality, the MiniStation Extreme NFC is worth considering.
Key Factors for Choosing the Best External Hard Drive
Storage Capacity – Choose adequate storage to back up all your important files. For maximum future proofing, a drive with at least 2TB is recommended.
Transfer Speeds – SSDs offer faster transfer speeds over traditional HDDs. Look for read/write speeds over 400 MB/s for quick file transfers.
Portability – If you travel with the drive frequently, slim and lightweight designs under 1lb are most portable.
Durability – All-terrain, shockproof hard drives withstand drops, dust, water, and crushing forces when on-the-go.
Security – Look for encryption like AES-256 and password protection to secure your backup.
Compatibility – Ensure the drive works with your OS and devices like Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, etc.
Affordability – Hard drives range in price from $50 to $700. Determine your budget and storage needs.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your data through reliable backups is one of the wisest investments you can make. Any of the external hard drives in this list will provide excellent performance and capacity to back up your important files for years to come. Just be sure to pick the drive that fits your specific needs in terms of storage space, speed, portability, and durability. Following proper backup procedures like the 3-2-1 rule will provide ample protection against data loss.
