Introduction
Backing up your data is one of the most important things you can do to protect your files. External hard drives provide a great way to backup your data and take it with you anywhere. As technology advances, external hard drives continue getting faster, higher capacity, and more portable. In this article, I will share my top 10 picks for the best external hard drives to use for backups this year.
Top 10 External Hard Drives for Backup
1. Western Digital My Passport
The Western Digital My Passport external hard drive is one of the most popular and reliable drives on the market. Key features include:
- Available capacities up to 5TB
- USB 3.0 interface for fast transfer speeds
- Automatic backup software
- Hardware encryption and password protection
- Stylish, slim design
- Compatible with PC and Mac
The My Passport from WD hits the sweet spot of affordability, capacity, speed, and reliability. It’s my top choice for backing up a MacBook or Windows laptop.
2. Samsung T5 Portable SSD
The Samsung T5 is the best high-performance portable solid state drive. Key specs:
- Available capacities up to 2TB
- Blazing fast read/write speeds over 500 MB/s
- USB-C connection
- Optional password protection and AES 256-bit hardware encryption
- Aluminum unibody construction
- Compact size
If you want the fastest external drive for quick backups and transfers, the Samsung T5 is a great option despite the higher price.
3. Seagate Backup Plus Hub
The Seagate Backup Plus Hub is a spacious external hard drive that also includes two integrated USB ports on the front, allowing you to connect and recharge other devices. Key features include:
- Up to 10TB capacity
- Dual front-facing USB 3.0 ports
- 160 MB/s disk speed
- Downloadable backup software
- Plug-and-play functionality
With its huge capacity, fast speeds, and extra ports, this drive provides exceptional versatility for backups and expanding your computer’s storage.
4. WD My Book Duo
The WD My Book Duo is an excellent choice if you need tons of storage space and RAID capabilities. Key features:
- Enormous 20TB capacity
- RAID-0 ready with speeds up to 360 MB/s
- RAID-1 ready for redundancy
- USB-C and USB 3.1 Gen 1 compatibility
- 256-bit AES hardware encryption
With the ability to configure your drive for max speed or redundancy, the WD My Book Duo provides flexibility for your storage needs.
5. LaCie Rugged Mini
The LaCie Rugged Mini is designed to withstand extreme conditions with shock, drop, and crush resistance. Key details:
- Up to 5TB capacity
- Rugged, durable enclosure
- USB 3.0 and USB-C connections
- 130 MB/s transfer speeds
- Automatic backup software
- 2-year warranty including data recovery
If you need an external drive built to handle travel and outdoor adventures, the LaCie Rugged Mini is a smart option.
6. Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC
The Buffalo MiniStation has integrated NFC security to prevent unauthorized access. Key features:
- 1TB or 2TB capacity
- Integrated wrap-around USB 3.0 cable
- NFC (Near Field Communication) card reader
- 256-bit AES security
- Durable, rugged enclosure
This is a great drive if you want wireless security along with your backups. The NFC card access provides an extra layer of protection.
7. SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD delivers fast solid state performance in a compact design. Key specs:
- Up to 2TB capacity
- 550 MB/s read and write speeds
- USB-C and USB 3.1 compatible
- Shock and vibration resistant
- 3-year limited warranty
When portability and speed are your priorities, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is an excellent option.
8. Seagate Expansion Desktop
The Seagate Expansion Desktop is an easy add-on storage solution for your desktop computer. Key details:
- Up to 16TB capacity
- Compatible with USB 3.0/2.0
- Plug-and-play functionality
- Fast file transfers with USB 3.0
- Drag-and-drop file saving
With its huge capacity and fast USB 3.0 interface, the Seagate Expansion Desktop is great for easily expanding the storage of your desktop computer.
9. WD Elements Desktop Hard Drive
The WD Elements Desktop provides simple, reliable add-on storage for your desktop computer. Key features:
- Up to 14TB capacity
- USB 3.0 interface for fast data transfers
- Plug-and-play ready for Windows
- Compact design
- 2-year manufacturer’s limited warranty
This spacious, affordable drive from Western Digital is excellent for backups, media storage, file archives, and more.
10. Apricorn Aegis Padlock Fortress
The Apricorn Aegis Padlock Fortress offers the ultimate security with PIN authentication and real-time 256-bit AES encryption. Key features:
- Capacities up to 8TB
- Tough epoxy coating
- Integrated USB cable
- Programmable PIN access with self-destruct feature
- Brute force protection
- Compatible with various OS
If data security is your top concern, the Apricorn Padlock Fortress provides the encryption and authentication required for highly sensitive data.
Key Considerations When Buying
Some key factors I consider when choosing the best external hard drive for backups are:
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Capacity – The larger the capacity, the more data you can back up. Look for at least 1TB.
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Speed – Faster USB interfaces like USB 3.0 or USB-C allow quicker file transfers. Or choose an SSD for blazing speeds.
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Reliability – Look at reviews and the manufacturer’s reputation. Established brands like WD and Seagate are safe bets.
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Portability – If you travel frequently, choose a compact and lightweight drive with durable enclosure. SSDs are ideal for portability.
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Security – If the data is sensitive, look for drives with encryption like the WD My Passport or hardware PIN access like the Apricorn Padlock.
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Warranty – A longer warranty like 2-3 years provides more peace of mind.
Conclusion
Protecting your data with regular backups is critical. An external hard drive offers a simple, affordable way to backup your important files. Use this list of my top 10 recommended external hard drives to choose a device that fits your budget, performance needs, and security requirements. With their speed, high capacities, and reliability, these drives are perfect for performing regular backups of your PC or Mac.
