The best external hard drives you can buy: Expert tested
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Cloud storage isn't always the answer, and sometimes, for various reasons, having the data stored on an external hard drive is just the best solution.
Not only does it alleviate the strain on your computer's limited storage, but it also provides a secure, reliable way to safeguard your data against hardware failures or other unforeseen disasters, and it doesn't rely on having a fast internet connection to move your data about. With an external hard drive, you can ditch storage limitations and ensure your data is always accessible, secure, and totally under your control. And best of all, there are no monthly subscription charges like there are with cloud services!
What's the best external hard drive right now?
After dedicating countless hours to hands-on testing and scouring online reviews, we've made our pick for the best external hard drive on the market: The Lexar SL500. This drive stands out because it is small, fast, highly portable, and tough. However, if your priorities include different storage capacities or a drive capable of withstanding rain and dust, don't worry, this list caters to those needs as well.
Also: Best cloud storage services of 2025
The best external hard drive of 2025
The SL500 breaks the mold with its size. It's thin, light, and roughly the size of a credit card at only 4.8mm thick. The solid aluminum unibody construction fits comfortably in the palm of your hand and slips unobtrusively into a pocket.
Review: Lexar SL500 Portable SSD with Magnetic Set
The design not only protects the drive from bumps and scrapes but also does a fantastic job of dissipating heat. The SL500 is also fast, capable of reaching up to 2,000MB/s read and 1,800MB/s write speeds, making it easy to move large files. Performance on Macs and other systems that don't support USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 may be significantly lower.
If you're looking for a thin, light drive that allows you to record ProRes video on your iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max, the Lexar SL500 is definitely worth a look. Plus, it can easily slip into a pocket or bag.
If you plan on using this with your iPhone, then I highly recommend that you grab the SL500 drive with the Magnetic Set, which comes with a MagSafe-compatible case.
Lexar SL500 features: USB-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface | 1TB to 4TB capacities | 256-bit AES software encryption | 2.5-inch form factor | 5-year limited warranty
A common mistake I often see is people purchasing the largest, bulkiest external hard drive they can find under the impression that it's the best solution for their needs. Later, they find themselves with a huge, noisy device that occupies too much desk space and is inconvenient to carry to the office or on the road.
This is why I recommend the WD My Passport Ultra to those who need a compact, easy-to-use hard drive for a few critical files, data transfer between systems, or travel.
Over the years, I've recommended this drive to dozens of people, from home users in need of a backup solution to amateur photographers and videographers facing disk space limitations. Everyone who has purchased one has reported being satisfied with their choice.
What sets this drive apart are two key features: It includes WD Backup software for PCs, which simplifies and optimizes the backup process, and it offers built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption, ensuring that data on the drive is secure.
Given the solid reputation of the WD brand and the quality of their hard drives, I have little concern about premature data loss.
WD My Passport Ultra features: USB-C and USB 3.1 interface | 1TB to 5TB capacities | 256-bit AES hardware encryption | 2.5-inch form factor | 3-year limited warranty
There are tons of secure storage drives (SSDs) out there that can withstand water and dust but drives that protect your data from the elements as well as cybercriminals are rare.
iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3 is an external drive that James Bond would feel confident using to keep his secrets locked away. The drive has been certified to FIPS 140-2 Level 2 standards, helping organizations comply with data regulations such as GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, and TAA. It uses AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption, meaning all data on the drive is always encrypted, and the drive has its own keypad for passcode entry so there's no software to install on the host computer.
Review: iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3
The DiskAshur Pro 3 also features a wear-resistant, backlit alphanumeric keypad for entering an 8- to 64-character passcode. This keypad is crucial because it prevents attackers from using wear patterns to guess the code. If someone tries to brute-force the passcode, the drive has robust countermeasures.
The drive is also built to withstand physical tampering. Accessing the internal components requires physically breaking the enclosure. Even then, every internal component is encased in layers of strong epoxy resin. This makes it virtually impossible to access the components without irreparably damaging them.
Additionally, the drive is sealed against the elements and rated IP56 for dust and water resistance. This means the device is protected against harmful dust and strong jets of water from all directions.
iStroage DiskAshur Pro 3 features: USB 2.0/3.0 interface | 500GB to 2TB capacities | 2.5-inch form factor | 3-year limited warranty
This is the go-to choice for those who require an enormous amount of storage but want to avoid the extra hardware and setup complexities of a NAS (Network Attached Storage) system. With capacities ranging from 4 to 22 terabytes, the WD Digital Elements is perfect for even the most demanding data hogs.
However, don't assume that high capacity translates to a high price tag. The cost of the 24TB version breaks down to a reasonable $23 per terabyte. This makes it an ideal solution for individuals who manage or work with large media files, especially videos. It's a popular choice among drone pilots who do extensive filming.
Also: The best NAS devices
I personally relied on similar drives for many years before my storage needs grew and I transitioned to a NAS system. Throughout all those years, these drives never failed me; they consistently performed well until I required even more storage capacity.
The only downside I've noticed is that the drive can be rather noisy. In my case, this was partly due to me operating several drives on my desk simultaneously, but even a single drive can be far from silent on its own.
WD Digital Elements features: USB 2.0/3.0 interface | 4TB to 24TB capacities | 3.5-inch form factor | 2-year limited warranty
While most external hard drives are destined for a sedentary life on a desk at home or in the office, this particular model is engineered for adventure. With its IP54 rain and dust rating and crush resistance of up to 1000 pounds, this drive is ideally suited to endure the toughest environments.
Considering the inevitable drops onto hard surfaces that occur during outdoor activities, the drive is equipped with rubber bumpers and internal shock absorbers. These features offer added protection to the drive's delicate components.
However, it's important to note that this is still a hard disk drive with spinning platters that store data. Despite the robust protection, any device with moving parts is inherently susceptible to damage from drops and vibrations. Therefore, exercising caution is advisable when handling this drive.
I have owned several ArmorATD drives and found them exceptionally durable. They have been particularly useful for backing up data. I usually carry multiple drives with me, ensuring that important photos and videos are duplicated across several units for added security.
SanDisk Professional G-Drive ArmorATD features: USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 3 interface | 1TB to 5TB capacities | 3.5-inch form factor | 3-year limited warranty
This is the ideal budget-friendly choice for those seeking simplicity without the high cost or complexity. It's a straightforward drive that can be easily connected to a system as needed. Remarkably compact, it's only slightly larger than the 2.5-inch hard drives found in laptops, making it one of the smallest and lightest external drives available.
This drive is perfectly suited for individuals who manage small amounts of data, such as students or home users looking to back up essential files.
Furthermore, this drive comes from Toshiba, a manufacturer known for its excellent track record. Toshiba's drives are renowned for their reliability, and you can expect years of dependable service from this model.
Toshiba Canvio Basics features: USB 2.0/3.0 interface | 1TB to 4TB capacities | 2.5-inch form factor | 1-year limited warranty
If you're worried about data loss, then this is the external hard drive for you. Why? Because it takes a regular external hard drive and adds a second drive. This second drive can be used in one of two ways:
- It can be used alongside the first drive, doubling the unit's capacity.
- It can be used as a redundant backup of the first drive in a RAID array. This way, if one drive fails or the data is corrupted, the data remains safe on the other.
And I need to say this clearly: Drive failure is rare, but it happens, especially when you're transferring a lot of data (the kind of thing you might do if you are processing high-definition video, for example). If you have irreplaceable data, then an external hard drive like this is an important part of the solution for preventing data loss.
WD My Book Duo features: USB 3.2 interface | 8TB to 44TB capacities | 3.5-inch form factor | 3-year limited warranty
What are the tariffs in the U.S.?
The recent U.S. tariffs on imports from countries like China, Vietnam, and India aim to boost domestic manufacturing but are likely to drive up prices on consumer electronics. Products like smartphones, laptops, and TVs may become more expensive as companies rethink global supply chains and weigh the cost of shifting production.
Also: Tariff war has tech buyers wondering what's next. Here's what we know
Storage device such as external hard drives and NAS units have also hit hard by the new U.S. tariffs, with import duties potentially increasing prices by up to 35%. Many major brands still rely on Chinese and Vietnamese factories for assembly, meaning consumers could soon pay significantly more for everything from budget Chromebooks to high-end gaming rigs.
Manufacturers are exploring options like relocating production to countries with lower tariffs, but such shifts are complex and may not provide immediate relief. In the short term, shoppers should anticipate higher costs for accessories due to these trade policies.
Right now, it looks like some tech may be exempt from the issued tariffs, but since it's always changing and developing, we are keeping an eye on it and will update you on the latest.
Also: Tariff exemptions for electronics offer a break for tech - but not for long
What is the best external hard drive?
Recognizing that your external hard drive requirements might vary from mine, my aim is to guide you toward options that cater to a broad spectrum of needs and preferences.
Accordingly, my top selection is the WD My Passport Ultra. In my experience dealing with a wide range of users, this drive meets the needs of a good 90-95% of users. It stands out for delivering excellent value and reliability, comes with useful backup software, and includes the added benefit of built-in hardware encryption.
However, if you're among the 10% seeking something a bit different, I've compiled a comprehensive list of external drives. This resource is designed to help you effortlessly compare their specifications and find the one that best matches your unique circumstances.
External hard drive | Price | Capacity | Interface | Form factor | Hardware encryption | Warranty |
Lexar SL500 | $63 to $320 | 1, 2, and 4TB | USB-C and USB 3.2 | 2.5-inch | No | 5-year limited |
WD My Passport Ultra | $60 to $160 | 1, 1.5, 2, 4, 5 and 6TB | USB-C and USB 3.1 | 2.5-inch | Yes | 3-year limited |
iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3 | $318 to $4,568 | 500GB, 1, 2, 4, 5, 8 and 16TB | USB 3.0 | 2.5-inch | Yes | 3-year limited |
Western Digital Elements | $160 to $550 | 6, 8 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24TB | USB 2.0/3.0 | 3.5-inch | No | 2-year limited |
SanDisk Professional G-Drive ArmorATD | $90 to $216 | 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6TB | USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 3 | 3.5-inch | No | 3-year limited |
Toshiba Canvio Basics | $55 to $105 | 1, 2 and 4TB | USB 2.0/3.0 | 2.5-inch | No | 1-year limited |
WD My Book Duo | $135 to $1,199 | 4, 6, 8, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 28,36 and 44TB | USB 3.2 | 3.5-inch | No | 3-year limited |
Which is the right external hard drive for you?
Choose this external hard drive… | If you want… |
Lexar SL500 | Need a drive that so thin and light you forget it's in your pocket, yet fast enough to be able to keep up with ProRes recording on your iPhone Pro/Pro Max? This is the drive for you! Available in capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB, you only have to pay for the capacity you need. |
WD My Passport Ultra | A drive for people who want an inexpensive yet reliable drive with the added protection of hardware encryption. This drive is perfect for most users wanting a backup drive or a way to store files when their computer starts running out of space. |
iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3 | You want insane levels of data security, from built-in 256-bit hardware encryption to bruteforce self destruct. This drive is as secure as they get! |
Western Digital Elements | A drive for data hogs who keep everything. Yes, it's bigger and noisier -- and more expensive -- but this is a solid, reliable performer. |
SanDisk Professional G-Drive ArmorATD | To your external hard drive out with you on adventures. Water and dust-resistant, and built to survive bumps and drops, this drive is perfect for adventure. |
Toshiba Canvio Basics | A minimalist, no-frills drive. This one is perfect for those who know they need to backup their data, but think it's going to need a lot of expensive hardware. |
WD My Book Duo | To never get paranoid about losing data. This drive offers masses of capacity or the ability to have the data copies across two drives for added security. |
Factors to consider when choosing an external hard drive
External hard drives may not be the most exciting pieces of technology, but they become indispensable when you need to back up important data or recover from data loss. Choosing the right external hard drive can feel overwhelming due to the variety of options available. Below, we break down the key factors to consider when selecting an external hard drive to meet your needs.
Reliability
This is one of the most critical factors when choosing an external hard drive. Opt for drives from reputable brands known for their durability and performance. While hard drives are generally reliable, they do have a finite lifespan. Most external hard drives are expected to last around 5 to 7 years with proper use, after which replacement is recommended to avoid data loss. Regular backups and monitoring the drive's health can further ensure reliability.
Features
External hard drives come with a variety of features to suit different needs. Some of the most notable features include:
- Hardware encryption: Automatically encrypts all data on the drive for enhanced security.
- Water and dust resistance: Ideal for users who need extra protection in rugged environments.
- Drive redundancy: Some drives offer RAID configurations, which duplicate data across multiple drives for added protection against failure.
Consider your specific use case to determine which features are essential for you.
Capacity
Storage capacity is a key consideration. External hard drives are available in a wide range of sizes, from 500GB to 20TB or more. Choose a capacity that aligns with your needs:
- Casual users: A 1TB or 2TB drive is sufficient for storing documents, photos, and videos.
- Professionals or data hoarders: Larger capacities (4TB and above) are better for storing large files, such as video projects or extensive backups.
Avoid overpaying for storage you won't use, but also ensure you have enough space for future needs.
Desktop vs Portable
External hard drives come in two main form factors:
- Portable drives (2.5-inch): Lightweight and compact, these drives are powered via USB and are ideal for users who need to carry their data on the go.
- Desktop drives (3.5-inch): Larger and typically require an external power source, these drives are better suited for stationary use, such as at a desk or as part of a home backup system.
Choose based on whether you need portability or a more permanent storage solution.
Encryption
Data security is increasingly important, especially for sensitive information. External hard drives offer three encryption options:
- No encryption: Basic drives without built-in security.
- Software encryption: Requires an application to encrypt and decrypt files.
- Hardware encryption: Automatically encrypts all data on the drive, offering the highest level of security.
If you handle sensitive data, hardware encryption is highly recommended, and depending on your industry, may be mandatory.
Performance
The speed of your external hard drive depends on its interface and type:
- Interface: USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB-C, and Thunderbolt are common options. USB-C and Thunderbolt offer faster data transfer speeds, making them ideal for large file transfers.
- Drive type: Solid-state drives (SSDs) are faster and more durable than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), but they are also more expensive. HDDs, on the other hand, offer larger capacities at a lower cost.
Price
External hard drives are available at a wide range of price points. Budget-friendly options are great for basic storage needs, while premium drives with advanced features (e.g., SSDs or hardware encryption) come at a higher cost. It's important to balance your budget with your storage and feature requirements.
Other considerations
- Brand reputation: Stick to trusted brands like Seagate, Western Digital, or Samsung for quality assurance.
- Warranty: Look for drives with a solid warranty (typically 2-5 years) to protect your investment.
- Compatibility: Ensure the drive is compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, etc.) and devices.
How we test external hard drives
Having worked with technology for nearly three decades and being a pro-am photographer and videographer for much of that time, I've had extensive experience testing and using backup solutions. Over the years, I've handled and tested a wide range of external hard drives from various manufacturers. This hands-on experience has given me practical insights into their features, performance, and long-term reliability.
While most of the drives I recommend have been personally tested, there is one exception: the SanDisk Professional G-Drive ArmorATD. This drive is new to me, though I've owned an earlier version of it. For all other drives listed in this guide, I have direct, personal experience, allowing me to provide a detailed and informed assessment of their capabilities.
In addition to my own testing, I've also taken into account user reviews. These reviews are invaluable for identifying and excluding products with potential design flaws or reliability issues. This combination of personal experience and community feedback ensures that the recommendations provided are trustworthy and well-rounded.
FAQs on external hard drives
What is the difference between an SSD and an HDD external hard drive?
When choosing an external hard drive, it's important to understand the two primary storage technologies available: Solid State Drives (SSDs) and Hard Disk Drives (HDDs). Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different use cases. Below is a breakdown of their key characteristics to help you decide which is best for your needs.
SSDs
SSDs are a newer storage technology that uses flash memory instead of mechanical parts. This design offers several advantages:
- Speed: SSDs are significantly faster than HDDs, making them ideal for tasks that require high-speed data transfer, such as video editing or running applications directly from the drive.
- Durability: With no moving parts, SSDs are more resistant to physical shocks and less prone to mechanical failure, making them a great choice for frequent transport.
- Power Efficiency: SSDs consume less power, which is especially beneficial for portable devices like laptops.
- Compact and Lightweight: SSDs are smaller and lighter than HDDs, making them easier to carry.
However, SSDs tend to be more expensive per gigabyte and may not offer the same large storage capacities as HDDs.
HDDs
HDDs are the traditional storage technology, relying on spinning magnetic disks and a mechanical arm to read and write data. While they are slower and less durable than SSDs, they have their own advantages:
- Cost-Effective: HDDs are more affordable, offering a lower cost per gigabyte, which makes them ideal for users who need large amounts of storage on a budget.
- Higher Capacities: HDDs are available in much larger capacities, making them suitable for archiving large files, such as movies, photos, or backups.
- Easier Data Recovery: In some cases, data recovery from a damaged HDD can be easier compared to an SSD.
However, HDDs are more susceptible to damage from physical shocks due to their moving parts, and they consume more power than SSDs.
Which should you choose?
- Choose an SSD if you prioritize speed, portability, durability, and power efficiency. SSDs are ideal for professionals, frequent travelers, or anyone who needs fast and reliable performance.
- Choose an HDD if you need a cost-effective solution for storing large amounts of data and don't require the fastest speeds or the highest durability.
By understanding the differences between SSDs and HDDs, you can select the external hard drive that best suits your specific needs and budget.
Also: The best SSDs
How do I choose the right capacity for my external hard drive?
The appropriate capacity for your external hard drive depends largely on your individual storage needs. To make the best choice, it's important to consider the types of files you plan to store-such as documents, photos, videos, or software-and their respective sizes. Below is a guide to help you determine the right capacity for your use case.
- 500GB to 2TB: This range is suitable for most users. It provides ample space for storing documents, photos, and videos, as well as backups for a single device. For casual users or students, a 1TB drive is often the most common and practical choice.
- 4TB and beyond: If you work with large volumes of high-resolution media files (e.g., 4K videos or RAW photos) or need to back up multiple devices, a larger capacity drive is essential. Drives in this range are ideal for professionals, content creators, or anyone with significant storage demands.
If the external hard drive uses RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) for data protection, the usable storage capacity may be reduced. RAID works by spreading data across multiple drives to improve reliability and safeguard against data loss. For example:
- RAID 1: Mirrors data across two drives, meaning only half of the total capacity is usable.
- RAID 5 or 6: Uses part of the storage for redundancy, reducing the overall usable space.
When choosing a RAID-enabled drive, ensure you account for this reduction in usable capacity.
To avoid running out of space too quickly, it's wise to plan for future storage requirements. A good rule of thumb is to:
- Estimate your current data volume.
- Double that capacity to ensure you have enough space for at least the next year or two.
This approach provides flexibility for growing file sizes, additional backups, or new projects.
Can I use one external hard drive for both Windows and Mac computers?
Yes, you can use one external hard drive with both Windows and Mac computers, but it requires formatting the drive in a file system that is compatible with both operating systems.
The exFAT file system is widely recommended for this purpose because:
- It is supported by both Windows and Mac operating systems.
- It does not have the file size limitations of FAT32, which restricts individual files to a maximum size of 4GB.
- It allows for seamless read and write access on both platforms without the need for additional software.
To use the drive with both systems, you'll need to format it to exFAT. Keep in mind that formatting will erase all data on the drive, so it's essential to back up your files before proceeding. Most external hard drives come pre-formatted for one operating system (usually NTFS for Windows or HFS+ for Mac), but they can be reformatted to exFAT for cross-platform compatibility.