# 💾 Best External Hard Drives and SSDs for 2025

> We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

*Published: 2024-03-28 | Updated: 2025-01-06 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/best-picks/best-portable-hard-drive*

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In a world where data is everything, having a reliable external hard drive or SSD is a must. The options for 2024 are vast—varying in storage capacity, speed, durability, and price. To help you navigate, we've sifted through the best picks based on extensive research.

Whether you need a quick SSD, a durable drive for your travels, or just an affordable, trusty storage option, you'll find something that suits you in our list.

## Recommendations

### 1. Samsung T7 Portable SSD (Overall Pick)
**Brand:** SAMSUNG

Our top pick for 2024 is the Samsung T7 Portable SSD, perfect for users seeking speed and reliability in a compact package. Boasting impressive read speeds of up to 1,050 MB/s and write speeds of up to 1,000 MB/s, this NVMe SSD ensures quick file transfers, ideal for professionals on the go. The T7's sleek, shock-resistant design can handle everyday wear and tear, while 256-bit AES hardware encryption ensures your data remains secure. Available in storage capacities from 500GB to 2TB, it offers flexibility to meet various storage needs. According to our research, its performance and durability make the Samsung T7 a standout choice for any user.

### 2. SanDisk Extreme 1 TB Portable SSD (Runner-Up)
**Brand:** ‎SanDisk

The SanDisk Extreme 1 TB Portable SSD is our runner-up, renowned for its blend of speed and ruggedness. Featuring read and write speeds up to 1,050 MB/s, it competes closely with higher-priced models. Its IP55 rating means it's resistant to both water and dust, making it a solid choice for adventurers and outdoor aficionados. Compact and lightweight, it fits easily in your pocket or bag. With a 5-year limited warranty, the SanDisk Extreme promises long-term reliability and peace of mind. This device is perfect for anyone who requires fast, durable, and portable storage.

### 3. Crucial X6 Portable SSD (Budget Pick)
**Brand:** ‎Crucial

For budget-conscious buyers, the Crucial X6 Portable SSD stands out. Offering read and write speeds up to 800 MB/s, it's a dependable and affordable solution for everyday use. Compatible with USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, it promises decent transfer speeds without breaking the bank. The X6 is available in sizes ranging from 500GB to a whopping 4TB, offering flexible storage options. According to our research, while it may not rival the speed of top-tier models, its price-performance ratio makes it an excellent pick for backups and general storage.

**Best Price:** $94.27 at Amazon

### 4. Samsung T7 Shield
**Brand:** ‎SAMSUNG

If rugged durability is your priority, the Samsung T7 Shield is unmatched. Encased in a robust rubberized shell, it provides protection from drops up to three meters and boasts an IP65 rating for water and dust resistance. This makes it ideal for harsh environments and active lifestyles. Despite its tough exterior, it doesn't compromise on speed, offering read and write rates up to 1,050 MB/s. Available in 1TB and 2TB capacities, the T7 Shield combines resilience with high performance, making it a top choice for users working under demanding conditions.

### 5. Seagate 8TB Expansion Desktop
**Brand:** ‎Seagate

For those who need an abundance of storage, the Seagate 8TB Expansion Desktop drive is a stellar choice. With 8TB of space, it can accommodate extensive video libraries, years' worth of photos, and an immense amount of data. It features steady read and write speeds around 150 MB/s and supports both USB 3.0 and 2.0 interfaces. While it does require its own power supply, its massive capacity and reliable performance make it indispensable for users seeking a high-capacity desktop solution.

### 6. WD_BLACK P40
**Brand:** WD_BLACK

Gamers will appreciate the WD_BLACK P40, designed to handle the rigors of game storage with efficiency. Providing swift read speeds, it helps reduce load times significantly, ensuring smoother gaming sessions. Although specific speeds might vary depending on the game and system, the P40 offers a balance of speed and storage that caters to gamers' needs. According to our research, it’s a strong addition to any gaming setup, providing the extra space required for large game files.

### 7. WD 5TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive
**Brand:** WD

The WD 5TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive offers an impressive storage capacity in a device that's both slim and lightweight. Equipped with everything you need for immediate use, including necessary cables, it also comes with useful features such as password protection and automatic backup software. Ideal for users who need significant storage on the go, this drive ensures your data is secure and readily accessible wherever you are.

**Best Price:** $123.35 at Amazon


## How They Compare

| Product | Typical Price | Stands Out For |
|---------|--------------|----------------|
| Samsung T7 Portable SSD | Check price | Strong all-around pick |
| SanDisk Extreme 1 TB Portable SSD | Check price | Runner-up |
| Crucial X6 Portable SSD | ~$94 | Budget-friendly option |
| Samsung T7 Shield | Check price | Best Rugged Option |
| Seagate 8TB Expansion Desktop | Check price | Best High Capacity Desktop Drive |
| WD_BLACK P40 | Check price | Best for Gamers |
| WD 5TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive | ~$123 | Best for Portability |

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*How we chose these: We compared prices across thousands of retailers, read through user reviews, and tracked how prices have changed over time to get a sense of value. Our recommendations are not sponsored or paid for.*