πŸ’½ Best External Hard Drives 2026

Find the best external hard drives with expert comparisons

Last Updated: December 17, 2025 πŸ‘οΈ 1 viewing now

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Marcus Johnson
Reviewed by Marcus Johnson Tech Editor
# Product Price Rating Reviews Action
1
$31.91
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.4 / 5
509 View Deal
2
$51.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.4 / 5
58,884 View Deal
3
$53.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.3 / 5
2,287 View Deal
4
$51.11
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.4 / 5
3,810 View Deal
5
$89.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…
4.5 / 5
24,106 View Deal
6
$61.00
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…
4.6 / 5
17,332 View Deal
7
Check Price
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.3 / 5
2,780 View Deal
8
$134.00
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…
4.5 / 5
115,106 View Deal
9
$79.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…
4.6 / 5
294,872 View Deal
10
$66.49
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.3 / 5
308 View Deal
11
$154.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.3 / 5
19,554 View Deal
12
$79.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…
4.6 / 5
268,261 View Deal
13
$80.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…
4.6 / 5
40,707 View Deal
14
$179.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…
4.6 / 5
36,761 View Deal
15
$28.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.4 / 5
68 View Deal
16
$25.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.3 / 5
138 View Deal
17
$189.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.3 / 5
3,744 View Deal
18
$149.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…
4.5 / 5
19,690 View Deal
19
$135.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.2 / 5
407 View Deal
20
$114.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…
4.5 / 5
39,759 View Deal

Detailed Reviews

#1

500GB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0 Type-C Slim High-Speed HDD for Backup...

by ModusTech
500GB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0 Type-C Slim High-Speed HDD for Backup and Storage Compatible with PC Mac PS4 PS5 Xbox Best Seller
$31.91
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† (4.4)
509 reviews

Our Take

The ModusTech 500GB Portable External Hard Drive features high-speed USB 3.0 Type-C connectivity, enabling transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbps for efficient data backup and storage. Compatible with PC, Mac, PS4, PS5, and Xbox, this slim and lightweight drive is ideal for users seeking reliable, on-the-go storage solutions. With a solid 4.4-star rating from 509 reviews, it offers exceptional value at $31.91, ensuring your important files are always accessible.

Key Features
  • Ultra-Fast USB 3.0 Connectivity for Effortless Data Transfers The ModusTech external hard drive deli...
  • Massive Storage Capacity for All Your Needs Choose between 500GB, 1TB or 2TB of storage, perfect for...
  • Compact & Portable Design - Slim for Easy Carrying The ModusTech external hard drive is slim, lightw...
  • Plug-and-Play, No Software Installation Required Ready to use straight out of the box! ModusTech’s e...
Pros
  • Customers say: "simple to install and has done a very re"
  • Solid 4.4β˜… rating with proven track record
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Amazon's Choice for value and quality
  • Prime eligible with fast, free delivery
Cons
  • Compact size may not suit larger households
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"Excellent product that was very simple to install and has done a very reliable job of backing up my Mac."

β€” Amazon Customer
Check Price on Amazon β†’
#2

Maxone 1TB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0 for PC and Laptop, Ch...

by Maxone
Maxone 1TB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0 for PC and Laptop, Charcoal Grey Best Seller
$51.99 $56.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† (4.4)
58,884 reviews

Our Take

The Maxone 1TB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive offers a sleek and durable all-aluminum design, measuring just 0.4 inches thick for easy portability. With USB 3.0 connectivity, it ensures fast data transfer speeds, making it ideal for backing up files or expanding storage for PCs and laptops. Trusted by users with a 4.4-star rating from nearly 59,000 reviews, this reliable drive combines functionality and style at an affordable price of $51.99.

Key Features
  • Ultra Slim and Sturdy Metal Design Merely 0.4 inch thick. All-Aluminum anti-scratch model delivers r...
  • Compatibility It is compatible with Microsoft Windows 7/8/10, and provides fast and stable performan...
  • Improve PC Performance Powered by USB 3.0 technology, this USB hard drive is much faster than - but ...
  • Plug and Play This external drive is ready to use without external power supply or software installa...
Pros
  • Slim and Sturdy Metal Design Merely 0
  • What's Included Portable external hard drive, 19-inch(48
  • 0.4 inch capacity for versatility
  • Customers say: "easy to store"
  • Solid 4.4β˜… rating with proven track record
Cons
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
  • Check current stock and delivery times
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"I picked this up to keep a backup of all my photos in a fire safe, and it’s been great so far. It’s slim and easy to store, plus it connects quickly with USB 3.0. No issues with speed or reliability at all.Holds everything I need with plenty of room left over. For the price, it’s a solid choice if y..."

β€” Amazon Customer
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#3

Portable External Hard Drive 1TB USB 3.0 USB-C for PC, Mac, Laptop, PS4, PS5, Xb...

by YOTUO
Portable External Hard Drive 1TB USB 3.0 USB-C for PC, Mac, Laptop, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S (Black) Best Seller
$53.99 $56.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† (4.3)
2,287 reviews

Our Take

The YOTUO Portable External Hard Drive provides 1TB of storage with USB 3.0 and USB-C connectivity, ensuring compatibility with PCs, Macs, laptops, and gaming consoles like PS4, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. Its plug-and-play functionality allows for easy setup, making it an ideal solution for expanding storage for both professional and gaming needs. With a solid 4.3-star rating from over 2,287 reviews, this reliable hard drive combines performance and versatility at an affordable price of $53.99.

Key Features
  • Plug And Play Compatibility - Easily connects to Windows and Mac systems without additional software...
  • Easy Setup For Gaming Devices - Follow on-screen prompts to install and format the drive for PS5 and...
  • Game Compatibility Limitations - PS5 can run PS4 games from the drive, but requires moving PS5 games...
  • Shock-Resistant Design - Patented silicone sleeve provides enhanced protection against drops and imp...
Pros
  • Solid 4.3β˜… rating with proven track record
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Amazon's Choice for value and quality
  • Currently $3 off regular price
  • 6k+ purchased last month
Cons
  • Not Prime eligible - shipping times may vary
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"The YOTUO Portable External Hard Drive is exactly what I needed for extra storage. Setup was plug-and-play with USB 3.0 and USB-C compatibility, and file transfers are fast and smooth. It’s compact enough to carry anywhere, yet provides plenty of storage space. So far, it’s been reliable and durable..."

β€” Amazon Customer
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#4

1TB External Hard Drive Ultra Slim Portable HDD USB 3.0 USB-C for PC Mac Laptop ...

by Aiolo Innovation
1TB External Hard Drive Ultra Slim Portable HDD USB 3.0 USB-C for PC Mac Laptop PS4 Xbox One Xbox 360 Best Seller
$51.11 $54.79
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† (4.4)
3,810 reviews

Our Take

The Aiolo Innovation 1TB External Hard Drive offers ultra-fast data transfer speeds of up to 133 MB/s, thanks to its USB 3.0 and USB-C compatibility. Its ultra-slim design makes it highly portable, ideal for users on the go, whether for gaming on PS4 and Xbox or for backing up important files on PC and Mac. With a strong 4.4-star rating from over 3,800 reviews, this reliable storage solution combines performance and convenience at an attractive price point.

Key Features
  • Ultra fast data transfers the external hard drive works with USB 3.0 thickened copper cable to provi...
  • Ultra-thin and quiet the motherboard adopts a noise-free solution, giving you a quiet working enviro...
  • Compatibility compatible with PS4/xbox one/Windows/Linux/Mac/Android,Stable and fast downloading on ...
  • Plug and Play no software to install, just plug it in and the drive is ready to use. The hard drive ...
Pros
  • Fast data transfers the external hard drive works with USB 3
  • Thin and quiet the motherboard adopts a noise
  • Solid 4.4β˜… rating with proven track record
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Amazon's Choice for value and quality
Cons
  • Not Prime eligible - shipping times may vary
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"I bought it as a gift for a friend, and he loved it.The hard drive is really slim, works fast with USB 3.0, and connects smoothly to PC, Mac, and consoles like PS4 or Xbox. It’s portable, lightweight, and the 1 TB is plenty for games, photos, or work. A very good option for the price."

β€” Amazon Customer
Check Price on Amazon β†’
#5

LaCie Rugged Mini 2TB Portable External Hard Drive - USB 3.0/2.0 Compatible, Dro...

by LaCie
LaCie Rugged Mini 2TB Portable External Hard Drive - USB 3.0/2.0 Compatible, Drop Shock Dust Rain Resistant, Orange Best Seller
$89.99 $99.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… (4.5)
24,106 reviews

Our Take

The LaCie Rugged Mini 2TB Portable External Hard Drive offers a reliable storage solution with its impressive capacity and durable design. Compatible with USB 3.0 and 2.0, it is built to withstand drops, shocks, dust, and rain, making it ideal for on-the-go professionals and outdoor enthusiasts. With a strong reputation backed by thousands of positive reviews, this hard drive ensures your data is safe and accessible wherever you are.

Key Features
  • Shock, drops up to 4 feet, dust and water resistant for all-terrain use.Specific uses Personal
  • For Mac compatibility this Hard Drive requires reformatting. Refer to Application Guide for more det...
  • Password protection built in
  • Uses USB 3.0 which is up to 4 times faster than USB 2.0 (USB 2.0 compatible)
Pros
  • Mac compatibility this Hard Drive requires reformatting
  • 4.5β˜… rating from 24,106 verified buyers
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Amazon's Choice for value and quality
  • Currently $10 off regular price
Cons
  • Some note: con on the task bar
  • Not Prime eligible - shipping times may vary
  • Compact size may not suit larger households
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"this was recommended to me by a friend who retired from a career in computer science. It is fantastic. very easy to use, I didn't need to go through the whole process and registration. Just plug and go; the directions for setting up various plans for back up are right on the screen and I've put t..."

β€” Amazon Customer
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#6

Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0 Black HDTB510XK3A...

by TOSHIBA
Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0 Black HDTB510XK3AA Best Seller
$61.00 $64.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… (4.6)
17,332 reviews

Our Take

The Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB Portable External Hard Drive provides a user-friendly, plug-and-play experience with no software installation required, making it ideal for quick data storage and transfer. Featuring USB 3.0 connectivity, it ensures fast data transfer speeds, while its compact design allows for easy portability. With a strong 4.6-star rating from over 17,000 reviews, this hard drive combines reliability and convenience, making it a valuable solution for your storage needs.

Key Features
  • Sleek profile design with a matte, smudge-resistance finish
  • Plug & Play - Easy to use with no software to install
  • Quickly add more storage capacity to your PC and other compatible devices
  • USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 compatible with no external AC power cord needed
Pros
  • Easy to use with no software to install
  • Customers say: "great for everyday use β€” I’ve moved large folders"
  • 4.6β˜… rating from 17,332 verified buyers
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Amazon's Choice for value and quality
Cons
  • Compact size may not suit larger households
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"I bought the Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB external hard drive (model HDTB520XK3AA) to back up my files, and it’s been absolutely reliable. It’s truly plug-and-play β€” I connected it to my laptop and it was ready to use within seconds, no setup or software required. The transfer speed is great for everyd..."

β€” Amazon Customer
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#7

Seagate Game Drive for PlayStation Consoles 2TB External Hard Drive USB 3.2 Gen ...

by Seagate
Seagate Game Drive for PlayStation Consoles 2TB External Hard Drive USB 3.2 Gen 1 (STLV2000101) Best Seller
Check Price
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† (4.3)
2,780 reviews

Our Take

The Seagate Game Drive for PlayStation Consoles offers 2TB of officially licensed storage, ensuring seamless compatibility with both PS5 and PS4 systems. Designed for gamers, this external hard drive features USB 3.2 Gen 1 technology for fast data transfer speeds, allowing you to store and access your favorite games effortlessly. With a strong customer rating of 4.3 stars from over 2,780 reviews, it provides a reliable solution for expanding your gaming library.

Key Features
  • OFFICIALLY LICENSED Built with matching firmware to seamlessly work with all models of PS5 and PS4.
  • PS5 READY Store your PS5 games and transfer them to the console when it’s time to play.
  • WORKS WITH PS4 Store and play all your PS4 games directly from the external hard drive.
  • BUILD YOUR GAME VAULT 2 TB of capacity means no more sacrificing, deleting or redownloading games.
Pros
  • Solid 4.3β˜… rating with proven track record
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
Cons
  • Some note: but they can’t be played immediately
  • Not Prime eligible - shipping times may vary
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"This is a great upgrade to your PS5 but there seems to be a lot of confusion as to how it works. This is an external hard disk drive (HDD) as opposed to a more expensive, internal solid state drive (SDD). An HDD (like this one from Seagate) plugs into your PS5 with an included USB cable and allows y..."

β€” Amazon Customer
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#8

WD My Passport 5TB Portable External Hard Drive, Black, USB 3.1/3.0 Compatible, ...

by WD
WD My Passport 5TB Portable External Hard Drive, Black, USB 3.1/3.0 Compatible, Backup Software, Password Protection Best Seller
$134.00
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… (4.5)
115,106 reviews

Our Take

The WD My Passport 5TB Portable External Hard Drive provides extensive storage capacity in a sleek, portable design, making it ideal for backing up important files and documents. Compatible with USB 3.1 and 3.0, it features built-in backup software and password protection for enhanced security against data loss and unauthorized access. With a strong customer rating of 4.5 stars from over 115,000 reviews, this hard drive offers reliable performance and peace of mind for your data storage needs.

Key Features
  • Slim durable design to help take your important files with you
  • Vast capacities up to 6TB[1] to store your photos, videos, music, important documents and more
  • Back up smarter with included device management software[2] with defense against ransomware
  • Help secure your important files with password protection and hardware encryption
Pros
  • Durable design to help take your important files with you
  • Customers say: "simple to use and hasn't messed up"
  • 4.5β˜… rating from 115,106 verified buyers
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Amazon's Choice for value and quality
Cons
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
  • Check current stock and delivery times
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"Had it for 3+ years with no issues. Works great, simple to use and hasn't messed up. Small, light weight and no issues even in 100 degrees Fahrenheit temps."

β€” Amazon Customer
Check Price on Amazon β†’
#9

WD 2TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive, USB 3.2 Gen 1/USB 3.0, Compatible ...

by WD
WD 2TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive, USB 3.2 Gen 1/USB 3.0, Compatible with PC and Mac, WDBU6Y0020BBK-WESN Best Seller
$79.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… (4.6)
294,872 reviews

Our Take

The WD 2TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive offers reliable, high-capacity storage with USB 3.2 Gen 1/USB 3.0 connectivity, ensuring fast data transfer rates for both PC and Mac users. Its compact design makes it ideal for on-the-go use, while the 2TB capacity provides ample space for documents, photos, and videos. With a strong reputation backed by numerous positive reviews, this external hard drive is a practical solution for anyone needing dependable and portable storage.

Key Features
  • High capacity in a small enclosure – The small, lightweight design offers up to 6TB* capacity, makin...
  • Plug-and-play expandability
  • Vast capacities up to 6TB[1] to store your photos, videos, music, important documents and more
  • SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps)
Pros
  • Plug-and-play expandability
  • 4.6β˜… rating from 294,872 verified buyers
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Amazon's Choice for value and quality
Cons
  • Not Prime eligible - shipping times may vary
  • Compact size may not suit larger households
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"The WD 2TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive has been exactly what I needed for reliable, high-capacity storage! This drive delivers outstanding performance and convenience for backing up files, expanding storage, and transferring data.The 2TB capacity is perfect for storing massive amounts of p..."

β€” Amazon Customer
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#10

1TB External Hard Drive, USB C Multiport Hub, 7-in-1 Docking Station, USB 3.0, S...

by YOTUO
1TB External Hard Drive, USB C Multiport Hub, 7-in-1 Docking Station, USB 3.0, SD/TF Card Reader, Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android Best Seller
$66.49 $69.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† (4.3)
308 reviews

Our Take

The YOTUO 1TB External Hard Drive offers extensive storage and a versatile 7-in-1 docking station that includes a USB C multiport hub and SD/TF card reader. Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Android devices, this hard drive enhances connectivity and simplifies data transfer. With a strong 4.3-star rating from 308 reviews, it provides a reliable solution for users seeking efficient and multifunctional storage options.

Key Features
  • All-in-One Design 1TB external hard drive, multi-port hub and SD/TF card reader combine to provide a...
  • Multiple Interface Support The product has a built-in 1TB hard disk and supports USB-C, USB 3.2, USB...
  • Dual Socket Data Connection Cable Equipped with USB 3.2 and USB-C dual socket data connection cable,...
  • Wide compatibility Supports Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android, iOS and other operating systems. Suppor...
Pros
  • In 1TB hard disk and supports USB
  • Socket Data Connection Cable Equipped with USB 3
  • Solid 4.3β˜… rating with proven track record
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Amazon's Choice for value and quality
Cons
  • Some note: but doing those things didn't help
  • Some note: but it doesn't say how or show a diagram
  • Not Prime eligible - shipping times may vary
  • Compact size may not suit larger households
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"The "owner's manual" is a small card with a diagram showing the device and two cables on one side, and text with nine numbered points on the other. The manual says what to do if the device won't read, but doing those things didn't help. It also says to make another connection if using USB 3.0, but i..."

β€” Amazon Customer
Check Price on Amazon β†’
#11

WD My Passport Ultra 5TB Portable External Hard Drive for Mac, USB-C, USB 3.1, B...

by WD
WD My Passport Ultra 5TB Portable External Hard Drive for Mac, USB-C, USB 3.1, Backup Software, Password Protection Best Seller
$154.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† (4.3)
19,554 reviews

Our Take

The WD My Passport Ultra 5TB Portable External Hard... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Standout features include style with refined metal cover and bit aes hardware encryption.

Key Features
  • USB-C and USB 3.1 compatible.Specific uses Business, personal
  • Innovative style with refined metal cover
  • Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption
  • Formatted for Mac
Pros
  • Style with refined metal cover
  • Bit AES hardware encryption
  • Solid 4.3β˜… rating with proven track record
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Amazon's Choice for value and quality
Cons
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
  • Check current stock and delivery times
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"I was using a WD 1T Passport with the original USB connection from practically the dark ages and it was performing so slowly, taking hours to back up. I finally bought this 5T model and it backs up in bare minutes. It plugs directly into my MacBook Pro with USB C. No complaints, it works seamlessly ..."

β€” Amazon Customer
Check Price on Amazon β†’
#12

Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox ...

by Seagate
Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox - STGX2000400 Best Seller
$79.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… (4.6)
268,261 reviews

Our Take

The Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive USB 3.... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Key specs include 18 inch capacity. Customers particularly praise that it perfect for transport. With 10,000+ bought last month, it's clearly a popular choice.

Key Features
  • Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external har...
  • Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just dr...
  • To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software r...
  • This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
Pros
  • 18 inch capacity for versatility
  • Customers say: "perfect for transport"
  • 4.6β˜… rating from 268,261 verified buyers
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Amazon's Choice for value and quality
Cons
  • Compact size may not suit larger households
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"I bought this external hard drive a little while ago, and I have to say it’s been a solid purchase. The first thing I noticed was how sturdy and well-made it feelsβ€”no cheap materials or flimsy parts. It does exactly what it’s supposed to do, and it’s been reliable every time I’ve used it.Setup was s..."

β€” Amazon Customer
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#13

Toshiba Canvio Gaming 2TB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0 Black for PlaySta...

by TOSHIBA
Toshiba Canvio Gaming 2TB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0 Black for PlayStation Xbox PC and Mac HDTX120XK3AA Best Seller
$80.99 $88.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… (4.6)
40,707 reviews

Our Take

The Toshiba Canvio Gaming 2TB Portable External Har... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. A key highlight is sleek, compact form factor lets you take your games on the go. Customers particularly praise that it easy to carry when traveling. Currently 9% off at $80.99, it represents excellent value.

Key Features
  • Designed for Gaming Console and PC (check compatibility at Toshiba's Consumer HDD website).
  • Built for gamers. Features a firmware-customized β€œAlways-On” mode for a responsive gaming experience...
  • Expand your game library. Store up to 50 games (2TB (1)) ( Estimated game storage assumption is 36 G...
  • Compatible with PlayStation 5 (Play and store PS4 games / Store PS5 games) and Xbox Series X|S (Play...
Pros
  • Customers say: "easy to carry when traveling"
  • 4.6β˜… rating from 40,707 verified buyers
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Currently $8 off regular price
  • Prime eligible with fast, free delivery
Cons
  • Compact size may not suit larger households
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"Fast, Reliable, and Compact β€” Great Storage Solution! πŸ’ΎπŸ’šI bought the Toshiba Canvio Advance 2TB external hard drive, and it’s been working perfectly! The setup was super easy β€” just plug it in and it’s ready to go. The transfer speed is fast with USB 3.0, and it handles large files without any lag..."

β€” Amazon Customer
Check Price on Amazon β†’
#14

WD Black 6TB P10 Game Drive Portable External Hard Drive for PlayStation Xbox an...

by WD_BLACK
WD Black 6TB P10 Game Drive Portable External Hard Drive for PlayStation Xbox and PC WDBZ7D0060BBK-WESN Best Seller
$179.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… (4.6)
36,761 reviews

Our Take

The WD Black 6TB P10 Game Drive Portable External H... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. A key highlight is up to 130mb/s2 to push your console or pc to new levels. Customers consistently report high satisfaction with this purchase.

Key Features
  • World’s First 6TB 2.5” Portable Hard Drive
  • Up to 6TB[1] that can hold up to 150 games[3], so that you can save old favorites and still have roo...
  • Portable form factor with sleek metal top covering that provides fast access to your growing game li...
  • Speeds up to 130MB/s[2] to push your console or PC to new levels
Pros
  • Up to 130MB/s2 to push your console or PC to new levels
  • 4.6β˜… rating from 36,761 verified buyers
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Amazon's Choice for value and quality
  • Prime eligible with fast, free delivery
Cons
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
  • Check current stock and delivery times
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"I use it for backups, since the additional speed makes that process less painful. It definitely works faster than a standard external HDD. However, it's still a HDD so speeds won't be nearly as fast as SSD or NvME. Given the price difference between SSD / NvME and this product, you can't beat the pr..."

β€” Amazon Customer
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#15

500 GB Portable External Hard Drive for Windows, Mac, Laptop, PS4, Xbox One, Xbo...

by Kosbees
500 GB Portable External Hard Drive for Windows, Mac, Laptop, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Plug and Play Ready Best Seller
$28.99 $32.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† (4.4)
68 reviews

Our Take

The 500 GB Portable External Hard Drive for Windows rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Currently 12% off at $28.99, it represents excellent value.

Key Features
  • Plug And Play - No software installation required; simply plug in the drive to start using it on Win...
  • Fast Data Transfers - USB 3.0 cable provides read speeds up to 133MB/s and write speeds up to 103MB/...
  • High Capacity - Offers 500GB storage in a lightweight design, perfect for large files and backups, w...
  • Wide Compatibility - Works with PS4, Xbox One, Windows, Linux, Mac, and various laptops and desktops...
Pros
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Amazon's Choice for value and quality
  • Currently $4 off regular price
  • Prime eligible with fast, free delivery
Cons
  • Newer product with limited long-term reviews
  • Compact size may not suit larger households
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"A good valueA good value. It’s proven to be reliable and easy to use."

β€” Amazon Customer
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#16

NRICO Ultra Slim 500GB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0 Compatible with PC, ...

by NRICO
NRICO Ultra Slim 500GB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0 Compatible with PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox One (Black) Best Seller
$25.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† (4.3)
138 reviews

Our Take

The NRICO Ultra Slim 500GB Portable External Hard D... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Standout features include compatibilitymac/windows/2000/7/8/10,vista,linux,android, and includes 1 x portable hard disk , 1 x usb 3. Key specs include 0.51 inch capacity. Customers particularly praise that it works great, and you can plug it directly. At just $25.99, it's accessible for most budgets.

Key Features
  • Metal DesiginMerely 0.51 inch thick.ABS Plastic+Aluminum external hard drive,with aluminum finish-st...
  • System CompatibilityMAC/Windows/2000/7/8/10,Vista,Linux,Android,
  • Improve PC Performance Powered by USB 3.0 technology, this USB hard drive is much faster than - but ...
  • Plug and PlayWith no software to install, just plug it in and the drive is ready to use.
Pros
  • CompatibilityMAC/Windows/2000/7/8/10,Vista,Linux,Android,
  • Includes 1 x Portable Hard Disk , 1 x USB 3
  • 0.51 inch capacity for versatility
  • Customers say: "works great, and you can plug it directly"
  • Solid 4.3β˜… rating with proven track record
Cons
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
  • Check current stock and delivery times
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"It is a great hard drive, works great, and you can plug it directly into an HDMI source ex. TV, computer monitor etc."

β€” Amazon Customer
Check Price on Amazon β†’
#17

SanDisk Professional 5TB G-Drive ArmorATD Portable External Hard Drive, USB-C, U...

by SanDisk Professional
SanDisk Professional 5TB G-Drive ArmorATD Portable External Hard Drive, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1, SDPH81G-005T-GBA1D Best Seller
$189.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† (4.3)
3,744 reviews

Our Take

The SanDisk Professional 5TB G rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Standout features include with macos right out of the box, and windows via reformat and rates of up to 130mb/s read (1 mb/s = 1 million bytes per second.

Key Features
  • USB-C (5Gbps) drive for quick file backup and storage
  • Works with macOS right out of the box, and Windows via reformat.
  • Transfer rates of up to 130MB/s read (1 MB/s = 1 million bytes per second. Based on internal testing...
  • Premium, anodized aluminum enclosure for strength you can feel
Pros
  • With macOS right out of the box, and Windows via reformat
  • Solid 4.3β˜… rating with proven track record
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
Cons
  • Not Prime eligible - shipping times may vary
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"Well made and good value for price. However it is still an old fashioned spinning disc drive and therefore quite slow compared to more modern drives."

β€” Amazon Customer
Check Price on Amazon β†’
#18

Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 5TB External Hard Drive, USB 3.2 Gen 1, Black, Xbox ...

by Seagate
Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 5TB External Hard Drive, USB 3.2 Gen 1, Black, Xbox Certified, Model STKX5000403 Best Seller
$149.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… (4.5)
19,690 reviews

Our Take

The Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 5TB External Hard D... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Standout features include in led bar illuminates your gaming center in xbox green and year rescue data recovery services and 1. Customers particularly praise that it love the green led light too. With 2,000+ bought last month, it's clearly a popular choice.

Key Features
  • BUILD YOUR GAME VAULT 5TB of capacity to build the ultimate Game Vault without sacrificing titles
  • XBOX-CERTIFIED Compatible with Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and all generations of Xbox One
  • BRILLIANT DESIGN A bold and refined design, crafted to compliment your Xbox
  • LIGHT IT UP A built-in LED bar illuminates your gaming center in Xbox green
Pros
  • In LED bar illuminates your gaming center in Xbox green
  • Year Rescue Data Recovery Services and 1
  • Customers say: "Love the green LED light too"
  • 4.5β˜… rating from 19,690 verified buyers
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
Cons
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
  • Check current stock and delivery times
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"Works great on my XBox One. Love the green LED light too. Playing games that were installed on this hard-drive. Speeds up the console by freeing up space."

β€” Amazon Customer
Check Price on Amazon β†’
#19

iDiskk MFi Certified 2TB External Hard Drive for iPhone, iPad, MacBook, PC, and ...

by iDiskk
iDiskk MFi Certified 2TB External Hard Drive for iPhone, iPad, MacBook, PC, and Android Mobile Backup Best Seller
$135.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† (4.2)
407 reviews

Our Take

The iDiskk MFi Certified 2TB External Hard Drive fo... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Standout features include protect your files with password encryption, ensuring privacy and security and ensures stable data transfer across a wide range of apple and android devices.

Key Features
  • Data Backup - Easily transfer content among iPhone, iPad, PC, and Mac with 2TB of additional storage...
  • One-Tap Backup - Automatically back up photos and videos from your iPhone/iPad with a single tap.
  • Data Encryption - Protect your files with password encryption, ensuring privacy and security.
  • Plug & Play - Simple operation; just connect to your device and access files without software instal...
Pros
  • Solid 4.2β˜… rating with proven track record
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Prime eligible with fast, free delivery
Cons
  • Price-to-value ratio debated by some buyers
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
Check Price on Amazon β†’
#20

Western Digital WD 5TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.2 Gen 1 for P...

by Western Digital
Western Digital WD 5TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.2 Gen 1 for PC and Mac WDBU6Y0050BBK-WESN Best Seller
$114.99 $139.99
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… (4.5)
39,759 reviews

Our Take

The Western Digital WD 5TB Elements Portable Extern... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. A key highlight is plug-and-play expandability. Customers consistently report high satisfaction with this purchase. Currently 18% off at $114.99, it represents excellent value. With 10,000+ bought last month, it's clearly a popular choice.

Key Features
  • Plug-and-play expandability
  • SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps)
Pros
  • Plug-and-play expandability
  • 4.5β˜… rating from 39,759 verified buyers
  • Amazon Best Seller in its category
  • Currently $25 off regular price
  • 10k+ purchased last month
Cons
  • Compact size may not suit larger households
  • Compare specs with alternatives before deciding
What Customers Say
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Top Review Verified Purchase

"The Western Digital WD 5TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive is a formidable companion for anyone navigating the vast terrain of digital data. Its generous storage allows one to carry an immense archiveβ€”documents, photos, videos, and moreβ€”without concern for space or compromise. Compact and unas..."

β€” Amazon Customer
Check Price on Amazon β†’

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best external hard drive for budget-conscious buyers?

For those on a budget, the ModusTech 500GB Portable External Hard Drive at $31.91 offers a slim design and USB 3.0 connectivity, making it a great value. It has a solid rating of 4.4β˜… from 509 reviews, providing a reliable option for basic storage needs.

Which external hard drive offers the best storage capacity for the price?

The Maxone 1TB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive is a strong contender at $51.99, offering ample storage for a variety of files and a high number of reviews (58,884) that reflect its reliability. This makes it a great choice for users needing significant space without breaking the bank.

What key features should I look for in an external hard drive?

When selecting an external hard drive, consider factors like storage capacity, portability, and connectivity options. For instance, drives like the Aiolo Innovation 1TB External Hard Drive provide USB 3.0 compatibility for faster data transfer, while the LaCie Rugged Mini 2TB is designed for durability, making it ideal for those who travel frequently.

How do LaCie and Maxone compare in terms of reliability and user satisfaction?

Both LaCie and Maxone have strong reputations, but LaCie's Rugged Mini 2TB stands out with a slightly higher customer rating of 4.5β˜… from 24,106 reviews, indicating exceptional reliability. In contrast, Maxone's drive also has a solid 4.4β˜… rating, but with a much larger user base, suggesting broad satisfaction with its performance.

What maintenance tips can help prolong the life of my external hard drive?

To extend the lifespan of your external hard drive, store it in a cool, dry place and avoid physical shocks or drops. Additionally, regularly back up your data and safely eject the drive before unplugging it to prevent data corruption and hardware issues.

Are there any specific benefits to USB Type-C connectivity in external hard drives?

USB Type-C connectivity, as seen in the ModusTech 500GB model, offers faster data transfer speeds and a reversible connector for convenience. This can significantly enhance the overall user experience, especially for those using newer devices that support Type-C technology.

πŸ“– Complete Buying Guide: External Hard Drives

External Hard Drives: The Spinning Disk vs SSD Decision

External storage purchases involve a fundamental technology choice: traditional spinning hard drives (HDD) offer massive capacity cheaply, while solid-state drives (SSD) provide speed and durability at higher per-gigabyte costs. Understanding this tradeoffβ€”plus interface speeds and reliability factorsβ€”leads to better storage investments.

HDD vs SSD Technology

The core technology difference:

Hard Disk Drives (HDD):

  • Spinning magnetic platters with read/write heads
  • Moving parts mean mechanical failure risk
  • Slow compared to SSD (100-200 MB/s typical)
  • Sensitive to shock and vibration
  • Excellent cost per gigabyte
  • Best for archival storage, large media libraries

Solid State Drives (SSD):

  • Flash memory chips, no moving parts
  • More durable, shock resistant
  • Fast (500-2000+ MB/s depending on interface)
  • Silent operation
  • Higher cost per gigabyte
  • Best for active files, portable use, speed-sensitive tasks

The 500GB portable drives around $20-30 are typically HDDβ€”spinning disk technology at budget-friendly capacity.

Interface Speeds

Connection type limits maximum speeds:

USB 2.0: 480 Mbps theoretical, ~35 MB/s real-world. Obsolete bottleneck.

USB 3.0/3.1 Gen 1: 5 Gbps theoretical, 400-500 MB/s real. Sufficient for HDD, bottlenecks fast SSD.

USB 3.1 Gen 2: 10 Gbps theoretical, 800-1000 MB/s real. Good for SATA SSD.

USB 3.2 Gen 2x2: 20 Gbps. Rare but fast.

Thunderbolt 3/4: 40 Gbps. Maximum speeds for NVMe SSD.

Most affordable external drives use USB 3.0β€”adequate for HDD and basic SSD speeds.

Capacity Planning

How much storage do you need?

500GB: Fits basic backup of documents, photos, some video. The entry-level capacity.

1TB: The Maxone HDD at around $30β€”comfortable for most personal backup needs.

2-4TB: Media libraries, full computer backups, video editing.

8TB+: Serious media archives, business backup.

Cloud storage complements rather than replaces external drivesβ€”local backup remains faster for large files.

Portable vs Desktop Drives

Form factor affects convenience and performance:

Portable/bus-powered:

  • Small, lightweight
  • USB power sufficient (no wall plug)
  • 2.5" drives, lower capacity ceiling
  • Slightly slower than desktop versions
  • Best for travel, laptop backup

Desktop/wall-powered:

  • Larger, requires power outlet
  • 3.5" drives, higher capacity available
  • Often faster due to larger platters
  • Best for stationary backup, NAS-like use

Portable drives dominate the consumer market for convenience.

Reliability Factors

External drive reliability varies:

Brand reputation: Western Digital, Seagate, Toshiba have long track records. Unknown brands may use inferior components.

Warranty length: 2-3 years indicates manufacturer confidence.

Failure mode: HDDs fail mechanically or electrically. SSDs have limited write cycles but warn before failure.

Backup principle: Any single drive can fail. Important data belongs on multiple drives or cloud + local.

Speed Test Reality

Marketing speeds rarely match real-world performance:

Sequential reads: Large file transfers approach advertised speeds.

Random access: Small file operations are much slower, especially on HDD.

File count: Many small files transfer slower than fewer large files.

Drive fullness: Nearly full drives perform worse, especially HDD.

Use Case Recommendations

Match storage to purpose:

Phone/tablet backup: 500GB-1TB HDD handles photos and videos affordably.

Laptop backup: Match or exceed laptop storage capacity.

Video editing scratch disk: SSD essentialβ€”HDD too slow for editing workflows.

Long-term archive: HDD capacity makes bulk storage affordable.

Daily carry: SSD survives bag abuse better than HDD.

Photo/Video Backup Devices

The PhotoStick devices ($80-150) market as simplified photo backup:

Target audience: Non-technical users wanting photo backup without complexity.

What they are: Flash drives with pre-installed backup software.

Premium pricing: Capacity costs more than comparable generic drives.

Alternative: Regular external drive plus backup software achieves same result cheaper.

Encryption Options

Security for portable data:

Hardware encryption: Built into drive, protects data even if drive removed.

Software encryption: BitLocker, VeraCryptβ€”requires password to access.

Self-encrypting drives (SED): Premium feature, transparent encryption.

For sensitive data, hardware-encrypted drives prevent casual access if drive is lost.

Practical Recommendations

For budget backup: 1TB HDD around $30-40 provides ample storage for most personal needs.

For portable work files: 500GB-1TB SSD justifies premium for speed and durability.

For media archives: 4TB+ HDD offers best capacity per dollar.

For non-technical users: Simple drives with included backup software reduce complexity, though PhotoStick premium may not be worthwhile.

The key insight: HDD remains excellent for bulk storage and backup. SSD makes sense for files you access regularly or drives you transport frequently. Many users benefit from bothβ€”SSD for active files, HDD for archives.

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