External hard drives are an essential tool for backing up important data and files. With so many options available, it can be difficult to determine which one is the best for backup purposes. Choosing the right external hard drive can save time, money, and frustration in the long run.
When selecting an external hard drive for backup, it is important to consider factors such as storage capacity, durability, and transfer speed. The best external hard drive for backup will depend on the individual’s specific needs and preferences. Some users may prioritize storage capacity above all else, while others may require a device that is rugged and can withstand physical damage.
In this article, we will explore some of the best external hard drives for backup in 2023. We will provide an overview of each device’s features and specifications, as well as their pros and cons. By the end of this article, readers will have a better understanding of which external hard drive is best suited for their backup needs.
Factors to Consider
When choosing an external hard drive for backup purposes, there are several factors to consider. These include storage capacity, connectivity options, durability, and portability.
Storage Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an external hard drive for backup is storage capacity. The size of the drive you choose will depend on the amount of data you need to backup. For most users, a drive with a capacity of 1TB to 4TB should be sufficient. However, if you have a large amount of data to backup, you may need to consider a drive with a capacity of 8TB or more.
Connectivity Options
Another important factor to consider is connectivity options. External hard drives can be connected to your computer via USB, Thunderbolt, or FireWire. USB is the most common and affordable option, while Thunderbolt and FireWire are faster but more expensive. You should also consider whether the drive requires an external power source or is powered through the USB connection.
Durability
Durability is an important consideration if you plan to take your external hard drive with you on the go. Look for a drive that is built to withstand bumps and drops, and has a sturdy casing. Some drives are also water-resistant or shock-resistant, which can be useful if you plan to use the drive in extreme environments.
Portability
Finally, consider the portability of the drive. If you plan to take the drive with you on the go, you’ll want a drive that is lightweight and easy to transport. Some drives are designed to be slim and pocket-sized, while others are bulkier but offer more storage capacity.
Overall, when choosing an external hard drive for backup, it’s important to consider your specific needs and use case. By considering factors such as storage capacity, connectivity options, durability, and portability, you can find a drive that meets your requirements and provides reliable backup for your important data.
Top External Hard Drives for Backup
- PORTABLE STORAGE: The light, pocket-sized Portable SSD T7 delivers fast speeds with easy and reliable data storage for transferring large files, including crucial business documents, games, or movies.Computer Platform:PC
- TRANSFER IN A FLASH: Transfer massive files within seconds with the incredible speed of USB 3.2 Gen 2; Embedded PCIe NVMe technology delivers blazing fast sequential read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, respectively, making the T7 2x as fast as the previous T5 model
- BUILT STRONG AND SECURE: Unlike HDDs, the Portable SSD T7 has no moving parts so it's more resistant to shock; Plus, its solid aluminum unibody construction adds further protection, keeping your data safe from falls of up to 6 ft and is backed by a 3-year limited warranty
- Customize your drive’s RGB lighting with the downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) to show off your style and make every play personal.
- Kick loading into overdrive with a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 interface and speeds up to 2,000MB/s. (Based on read speed. 1 MB/s = 1 million bytes per second. Based on internal testing; performance may vary depending upon host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors.)
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles. {Compatible with PlayStation 4 Pro or PS4 with system software version 4.50 or higher, PlayStation 5 (Play and store PS4 games; archive PS5 games), Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S (Play and store Xbox One games; archive Xbox Series X|S games).}
- ADOBE MEMBERSHIP: Get a two-month membership of Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan on us when you purchase and register an eligible 1TB or 2TB Samsung SSD*
- RUGGED DURABILITY: Tough, fast, and compact, the all new rugged PSSD T7 Shield is built to endure with the space to create thanks to an IP65 rating for Dust and Water resistance, High-tech rubber exterior controls heat to maintain steady performance .date transfer rate:1050.0 megabytes_per_second
- KEEP COOL AT HIGH SPEED: Transfer massive files in seconds; USB 3.2 Gen 2 and PCIe NVMe achieve soaring sequential read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, allowing you to edit directly from the drive; The high-tech rubber exterior with Dynamic Thermal Guard controls heat to maintain steady performance for even giant projects
- Get fast solid state performance with 520MB/s read speeds in a portable drive. (Up to 520MB/s read speed. Write speeds lower. Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device, interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
- Back up your content and memories on a storage solution that fits seamlessly into your mobile lifestyle.
- Take it with you on your adventures—up to two-meter drop protection means this durable drive can take a beating. (Based on internal testing)
- TRANSFER IN A FLASH: Transfer massive files within seconds with the incredible speed of USB 3.2 Gen 1. HP P500 delivers read and write speeds of up to 420 MB/s, saving time on loading videos, photos, and games.
- UP TO 1 TB CAPACITY: With up to 1 TB capacity, massive photo libraries, files, games, and movie collections can now all fit in your pocket. At less than 50 grams, the HP P500 takes your digital world anywhere.
- SLEEK AND COMPACT STYLE: Weighing only about 45.4 grams, the P500 fits comfortably in your pocket and is light enough to take your files whereever you go.
- Save time storing and transferring data with powerful NVMe solid state performance featuring up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds. Requires compatible devices capable of reaching such speed. Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device, interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.
- A forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink to deliver higher sustained speeds in a portable drive that’s tough enough to take on any adventure.
- Travel worry-free with a 5-year limited manufacturer warranty(1) and a forged aluminum chassis-silicon shell combo that offers a premium feel and added protection.
When it comes to backing up important files, having a reliable external hard drive is essential. Here are some of the top external hard drives for backup:
Western Digital My Passport
The Western Digital My Passport is a popular choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable external hard drive for backup. It comes in a range of storage capacities, from 1TB to 5TB, and offers fast transfer speeds. The My Passport also comes with backup software that allows users to schedule automatic backups.
Seagate Backup Plus Slim
The Seagate Backup Plus Slim is another popular choice for those in need of an external hard drive for backup. It is slim and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go. It comes in a range of storage capacities, from 1TB to 5TB, and offers fast transfer speeds. The Backup Plus Slim also comes with backup software that allows users to schedule automatic backups.
Toshiba Canvio Basics
The Toshiba Canvio Basics is a reliable and affordable external hard drive for backup. It comes in a range of storage capacities, from 1TB to 4TB, and offers fast transfer speeds. The Canvio Basics also comes with backup software that allows users to schedule automatic backups.
Samsung T5 Portable SSD
For those who need faster transfer speeds and more durability, the Samsung T5 Portable SSD is a great option. It is an SSD, which means it uses flash memory instead of a spinning disk, making it faster and more durable than traditional hard drives. It comes in a range of storage capacities, from 250GB to 2TB, and offers fast transfer speeds. The T5 also comes with backup software that allows users to schedule automatic backups.
Overall, when choosing an external hard drive for backup, it is important to consider factors such as storage capacity, transfer speeds, and durability. The Western Digital My Passport, Seagate Backup Plus Slim, Toshiba Canvio Basics, and Samsung T5 Portable SSD are all great options to consider.
