TOP 20 best external hard drives: rating 2024-2025 and which one is better to choose

1Portable drives have appeared on the market for quite a long time and today their range is huge.

External hard drives are more reliable than solid state drives, which is why their popularity is growing day by day.

We bring to your attention several models that are popular for 2024-2025 in terms of price / quality ratio: study their features, understand the characteristics and choose a model for yourself.

Rating of the TOP 20 best external hard drives

Place Name Price
TOP 5 best external hard drives by price/quality for 2024-2025
1 Seagate Backup Plus Portable Drive 5 TB Ask for a price
2 Seagate Expansion+ Portable drive 1 TB Ask for a price
3 Transcend StoreJet 25M3 1TB Ask for a price
4 Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 500 GB Ask for a price
5 Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 500 GB Ask for a price
TOP 3 best external hard drives
1 Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 1 TB Ask for a price
2 Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 2 TB Ask for a price
3 Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 2 TB Ask for a price
TOP 3 Best 1TB External Hard Drives
1 Western Digital WD Elements Portable 1 TB Ask for a price
2 Toshiba Canvio Ready 1TB Ask for a price
3 Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 1TB Ask for a price
TOP 3 Best 2TB External Hard Drives
1 Transcend StoreJet 25M3 2TB Ask for a price
2 Seagate Backup Plus Slim Portable Drive 2TB Ask for a price
3 Western Digital My Passport 2 TB Ask for a price
TOP 3 Best 4TB External Hard Drives
1 Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 4 TB Ask for a price
2 Seagate Expansion desktop drive 4 TB Ask for a price
3 Seagate Backup Plus Hub 4TB Ask for a price
TOP 3 best gaming external hard drives for PS4
1 Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 4 TB Ask for a price
2 Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 2 TB Ask for a price
3 Seagate Game Drive for PS4 2 TB Ask for a price

What to look for when choosing an external hard drive?

To choose the right external hard drive, it is very important to study the main technical specifications.

These include:

  • Memory size. The most optimal is from 1 to 4 TB. The more memory, the more expensive the device.
  • Connection interface. There are a lot of standards, but experts recommend paying attention to a device with a USB 3.0 interface, since it can be connected to almost all modern devices.
  • Power Supply. Disks that come with this device are much faster and much more stable.
  • Form Factor. The most popular at present is the 2.5-inch disc type. It can be connected to both a laptop and a computer. The power supply is enough for the full operation of the PC.
  • Protection. Its presence significantly increases the service life of the disk and reliably protects it from mechanical damage.
In addition, before buying an external hard drive, it is important to study user reviews.

3

TOP 5 best external hard drives for 2024-2025

Seagate Backup Plus Portable Drive 5 TB

Stationary pocket-type container for your convenience. One of the most capacious and 1potentially interesting representatives of the Seagate Backup Plus line. Outwardly, it looks like a bar with an indicator and a logo on different corners of the case.

There are several options for a plastic box: dark gray, light gray, blue and red.

It does not require additional power, the volume is enough to store a lot of information.

The indicator light is in the form of a dot, its brightness changes smoothly, and does not blink. The edges of the body are not rounded.

Lies comfortably in the hand. Cooler than similar drives from WD (if you write 600-700 GB of data, the temperature does not rise above 49 degrees).

It copes with the tasks of the archive without any complaints, the recording is fast, it is instantly identified when connected.

There are no clicks, noise and rattle during operation. Form factor - 2.5?.

Specifications:

  • capacity: 5000 GB;
  • number of installed HDDs: 1;
  • maximum interface speed: 500 MB/s;
  • width: 80 mm;
  • height: 20.9mm;
  • length: 115.3 mm;
  • weight: 265 g.

pros

  • looks nice;
  • quiet;
  • large volume;
  • almost no noise;
  • build quality.

Minuses

  • warms up a little
  • In fact, the memory is less than declared.

Seagate Expansion+ Portable drive 1 TB

A portable small hard drive at an affordable price. Fit even in your pocket 2work shirt.

Connects to all devices and even to the TV (although in this case you have to tinker a bit).

Well assembled: not flimsy, no gaps in the case. The data is recorded at high speed, it is determined in a couple of seconds. It heats up a little at the junction of the cable with the disk, the cable itself is short and durable.

Makes a barely audible crackle when requested to copy. Case material - plastic, pleasant to the touch. The dimensions are small, the case is narrower than that of similar devices. Large files are recorded at speeds up to 147 MB ​​per second. Place of assembly - China. Type of drive - portable.

Spindle speed - 5400 rpm. The buffer size is 16 MB. The interface bandwidth is 5 Gbps. Comes with a hard thick USB 3.0 cable.

Specifications:

  • capacity: 1000 GB;
  • form factor: 2.5?;
  • number of installed HDDs: 1;
  • width: 80 mm;
  • height: 14.8mm;
  • length: 117 mm;
  • weight: 170 g.

pros

  • compact;
  • assembly of good quality;
  • high data processing speed;
  • available for sale;
  • light.

Minuses

  • the price tag is above average;
  • not always detected by older PCs.

Transcend StoreJet 25M3 1TB

Reliable, durable, high-quality hard drive that can save 3valuable information to you.

Family photos, videos from children's holidays, favorite musical compositions, e-books - everything will be carefully stored on this compact and very nice device.

The “stuffing” is hidden in a rubberized case, durable, with shock-absorbing properties, thanks to which the box sits firmly in the hands and will not slip even from sweaty palms.

You can connect it to a computer, laptop, and TV. It does not make noise during operation (does not whistle and does not rattle), which allows you to connect the disk at night.

Even with long work, you will not feel that the disk has warmed up (and even more so, do not be afraid that it will overheat).

Anti-shock protection is installed, which not every disk can boast of. Due to its low weight, it is convenient to carry it with you, it fits not only in bags and backpacks, but also in pockets. Body color - grey.

Specifications:

  • capacity: 1000 GB;
  • form factor: 2.5?;
  • type: HDD;
  • rotation speed: 5400 rpm;
  • maximum interface speed: 500 MB/s.

pros

  • great guarantee;
  • serves for a long time;
  • lasting;
  • powerful;
  • silent.

Minuses

  • hard cord;
  • proprietary connector.

Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 500 GB

This hard drive, thanks to its classic design, looks stylish and appropriate in any 4travel, and on the office desktop.

It is the youngest "sister" in the Expansion series, but slightly improved - the case has become more durable and even more stylish.

Judging by the reviews, in 2024-2025 this model was bought quite often. An additional power source is not needed to work with it, since the device is economical in itself, it is powered when connected from the USB port (up to 500 Mbps).

Working temperature is not higher than 37 degrees. According to users, S.M.A.R.T. remain normal even after years of operation.

Instantly recognized by any Windows operating system, it does not require any special software or system settings.

Saving data is easier than ever: click the mouse on the desired file and drag it to the desired location on the disk.

The device is ready for use immediately after connection. The information stored on the disk can be used by all devices to which the disk is connected.

The kit includes a USB 3.0 cable of sufficient length and detailed instructions for use..

Warranty - 2 years. Made in China.

Specifications:

  • width: 80 mm;
  • height: 14.8mm;
  • length: 117 mm;
  • weight: 170 g;
  • spindle speed: 5400 rpm;
  • buffer size: 8 MB;
  • interface bandwidth: 5 Gbps.

pros

  • data reading speed;
  • write speed;
  • energy saving mode;
  • appearance;
  • build quality.

Minuses

  • the contact of the USB3.0 cable with the disk is flimsy;
  • high price.

Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 500 GB

A drive that does a great job protecting your data wherever you go 6headed.

Popular model for 2024-2025. Outwardly, it has a classic design: a discreet black rectangular box with rounded corners.

High-speed data transfer (up to 5 GB) is guaranteed by the installed modern USB 3.0: it will be convenient for you to copy and move large files.

The volume of the external drive - 500 GB - is enough to save a lot of video and audio files, as well as text documents. You can restore data with one click of the mouse, and even a novice user who does not have experience in such events can do it. Don't like noise?

This disk is just for you: at a speed of 5400 rpm, it does not produce any noise, and even at night you can work with data without disturbing the household.

The form factor is 2.5?. The country of origin is the Philippines. The buffer size is 8 MB.In the kit, in addition to the disk, there is a cable for connecting to a PC and documentation.

Specifications:

  • width: 78 mm;
  • height: 14 mm;
  • length: 109 mm;
  • weight: 140 g;
  • maximum interface speed: 500 MB/s.

pros

  • compact;
  • does not heat up;
  • quiet work;
  • nimble;
  • affordable.

Minuses

  • short cord;
  • there is no protection from external influences.

Overview of the best models in terms of reliability and quality

This category contains the best models of external drives, which are of high quality, reliability, durability and at the same time have an acceptable cost.

Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 1 TB

Reliable portable drive in a rugged shockproof housing with 1 TB of memory will allow you to store a lot of data on your computer.7 number of different files of any size.

The compact dimensions allow it to be used even for very small devices.

The 2.5-inch form factor makes the drive versatile. The USB 3.0 Type A interface makes it possible to download a large amount of information in a fairly short time.

No need for external power greatly simplifies the operation of the device.

Specifications:

  • memory - 1 TB;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable.
pros
  • large amount of memory;
  • high speed;
  • does not heat up;
  • does not make noise;
  • compact.
Minuses
  • not detected.

Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 2 TB

The compact model in a black case allows you to store a large amount of information, including8 quite resource intensive games.

USB 3.0 Type A interface fast transmission and interaction. Light weight and light weight makes it easy to transport.

Innovative technology reliably protects the device from overheating even during prolonged use.

No need for additional power makes the use of the device very comfortable.

Specifications:

  • memory - 2 TB;
  • rotation - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable.
pros
  • silent;
  • compact;
  • excellent interface bandwidth;
  • does not heat up;
  • stable work.
Minuses
  • not detected.

Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 2 TB

The practical model in the strong shockproof case differs in reliability and durability.9

High rotation speed eliminates the need for additional power sources. A large amount of memory of 2 TB will allow you to store even very resource-intensive files.

Synchronization with the Windows operating system makes it possible to use the disk without the need for additional programs.

The presence of the economy mode will significantly save on energy consumption.

Specifications:

  • memory - 2 TB;
  • rotation - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable.
pros
  • there is a sleep mode;
  • high write and read speed;
  • large amount of memory;
  • low cost;
  • no noise.
Minuses
  • not detected.

Overview of 1 TB models

External drives with a memory capacity of 1 TB allows you to store a fairly large amount of information. However, its amount does not affect the speed of reading and writing.

This category contains the best models with high technical characteristics.

Western Digital WD Elements Portable 1 TB

An elegant model that can become both the main and additional source of memory.10

Massive capacity, a wide range of connection options, and high read/write speeds ensure maximum user comfort.

The innovative USB 3.0 interface makes the drive compatible with almost all devices, including USB 2.0.

The shock-resistant case reliably protects the mechanism from damage when dropped or hit.

Specifications:

  • memory - 1 TB;
  • rotation - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable.
pros
  • light;
  • ease of connection;
  • reliability;
  • compact;
  • large memory.
Minuses
  • not detected.

Toshiba Canvio Ready 1TB

The small-sized model differs in reliability and durability. Bandwidth up to 5Gbps 11thanks to the USB 3.0 interface.

The compact size and light weight make the drive as easy to transport as possible.

The case made of durable plastic reliably protects the device from mechanical damage.

An impressive amount of memory allows you to store a fairly large number of files, even very large ones.

Specifications:

  • memory - 1 TB;
  • rotation - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable.
pros
  • does not heat up;
  • Has rubber feet
  • high write and read speed;
  • does not make noise during operation;
  • nice design.
Minuses
  • stamped body.

Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 1TB

One of the brand's best models from the Expansion series, it is lightweight and compact in size. it12 allows you to use the drive not only at home, but also take it with you on trips.

The 2.5-inch form factor and large memory capacity ensure uninterrupted stable operation of the device.

The USB 3.0 interface and high rotation speed make the device economical and allows you to use the drive without additional power supplies.

Synchronization with the Windows operating system allows you to install the drive without using additional programs.

Specifications:

  • memory - 1 TB;
  • rotation - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable, disk with software.
pros
  • great quality;
  • good build;
  • high read and write speed;
  • large amount of memory;
  • compactness.
Minuses
  • short USB cable.

Overview of 2 TB models

This category includes external hard drives with a capacity of 2 TB, which allows you to use them both in the office and at home. At the same time, they are distinguished by reliability, durability and high data transfer speed.

Transcend StoreJet 25M3 2TB

A stylish model with a three-stage degree of protection against mechanical damage differs to the maximum13 long service life and reliability.

A fairly large memory allows you to store any amount of information on the disk.

Proprietary software will make the installation of the drive very simple and convenient. The built-in heatsink protects the device from overheating even during prolonged use.

Slim design and light weight make it easy to take it with you on your travels.

Specifications:

  • memory - 2 TB;
  • rotation - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable, shock protection.
pros
  • high write and read speed;
  • does not make noise;
  • does not heat up;
  • very strong case;
  • fast synchronization with PC.
Minuses
  • not detected.

Seagate Backup Plus Slim Portable Drive 2TB

Stylish model in a durable metal case is ideal for use as a main,14 as well as an additional source of memory.

Proprietary software Seagate Dashboard allows you to backup information automatically.

The device comes with a free OneDrive subscription, which makes it possible to store the necessary information in the cloud storage.

The innovative USB 3.0 interface delivers high speeds up to 5Gbps.

Specifications:

  • memory - 2 TB;
  • rotation - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable.
pros
  • excellent build quality;
  • high speed;
  • thin body;
  • damage protection;
  • no noise during operation.
Minuses
  • USB cable is too short.

Western Digital My Passport 2 TB

The original model with a fairly large memory allows you to store information of any size.15

Proprietary software makes it possible to install the drive quickly and without any problems.

Automatic backups and password protection keep your files safe even if your computer crashes.

USB 3.0 connection support makes the device work smoothly and stable.

Specifications:

  • memory - 2 TB;
  • rotation - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable.
pros
  • proprietary software;
  • support for three utilities;
  • high speed;
  • large memory;
  • excellent build quality.
Minuses
  • stamped body.

Overview of 4 TB models

External hard drives can be used at home, in offices and for servers. The best discs are characterized by high technical characteristics, strength and durability.

Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 4 TB

The stationary model with a high speed disc of 7200 rpm stays cool even during extended use.16

The presence of 32 MB of cache memory and the innovative USB 3.0 interface allows you to comfortably work even with large amounts of information.

Saving files takes little time even without the use of additional programs.

The USB 3.0 connection interface makes reading and writing almost instantaneous.

Specifications:

  • memory - 4 TB;
  • rotation - 7200 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable, power supply.
pros
  • high write and read speed;
  • large volume;
  • quiet work;
  • stylish design;
  • quality assembly.
Minuses
  • not detected.

Seagate Expansion desktop drive 4 TB

The black model has a high write and read speed. Large memory capacity allows you to store even17 resource intensive files. During operation, the disk does not make noise and does not vibrate.

The 3.5 form factor and the innovative USB 3.0 interface keep your computer stable and uninterrupted.

The case in the shock-proof case will reliably protect the mechanism from damage in case of accidental fall or impact.

Compatibility with the Windows operating system allows you to install the disc without the use of additional programs.

Specifications:

  • memory - 4 TB;
  • rotation - 500 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable, power supply.
pros
  • high write and read speed;
  • large amount of memory;
  • low cost;
  • quality assembly;
  • reliability.
Minuses
  • a little noisy during operation.

Seagate Backup Plus Hub 4TB

A non-separable model in a durable non-marking case is ideal for both office and home18 use.

The automatic backup function will reliably protect data in the event of a computer breakdown.

High rotation speed and innovative USB 3.0 interface ensure smooth and stable operation.

The device is compatible with various operating systems, including Mac. To do this, it comes with a disk with an NTFS driver.

Thanks to multiple USB outputs, the drive can be used not only as storage, but also as a charger for other devices.

Specifications:

  • memory - 4 TB;
  • rotation - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable, power supply, disk with software.
pros
  • low cost;
  • good speed;
  • does not make noise;
  • reliable;
  • does not heat up.
Minuses
  • unstable.

Overview of game models for PS4

The best hard drives for game consoles are large in storage, fast in data transfer, reliable, and protected against hacking and data theft.

Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 4 TB

The stylish model in a snow-white case has a rather impressive amount of memory of 4 TB, which allows you to store19 there are quite a lot of different games on it, even very voluminous ones.

Designed specifically for Xbox One1, you can start playing as soon as you connect your device to your computer.

USB 3.0 Type A physical interface and support for 2.5-inch form factor will make the download speed as fast as possible. The manufacturer has provided for almost all the desires of the consumer and prepared for him free access to all games on the Xbox Game Pass portal.

The compact size allows you to take the drive with you when you travel.

Specifications:

  • memory - 4 TB;
  • rotation - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB cable, subscription to Xbox Game Pass for 2 months.
pros
  • stylish design;
  • an impressive amount of memory;
  • quality assembly;
  • exorbitant speed;
  • does not heat up.
Minuses
  • not detected.

Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 2 TB

A functional model designed specifically to increase the memory of the game console.20

An impressive amount of memory makes it possible to download even very large games. At the same time, the download speed does not suffer, which is very important when completing game missions.

The case made of durable plastic will reliably protect the device from mechanical damage.

The drive comes with a free 1-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass, which gives you the opportunity to pick up games for every taste at no cost.

The compact dimensions and the absence of a power cable greatly facilitate the transportation of the device.

Specifications:

  • memory - 2 TB;
  • rotation - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • complete set - USB cable, subscription to Xbox Game Pass for 1 month.
pros
  • large amount of memory;
  • good speed;
  • a light weight;
  • compact size;
  • fast connection.
Minuses
  • not detected.

Seagate Game Drive for PS4 2 TB

The ultra-thin model features high performance, making it ideal for21 PlayStation 4 game console.

Large memory makes it possible to store up to 50 games of various sizes on the drive. The durable case made of plastic and metal will reliably protect the device from mechanical damage.

Its compact size and light weight make it easy to take the drive with you when you travel. A simple USB connection makes the device much easier to use.

Automatic setup allows you to play almost immediately after installing the drive.

Specifications:

  • memory - 2 TB;
  • rotation - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB0 Type A;
  • complete set - USB-cable.
pros
  • quality assembly;
  • sufficient memory;
  • long warranty period;
  • high speed;
  • a light weight.
Minuses
  • not detected.

What is the difference between SSD and HDD? Which is better?

To determine which removable SSD or HDD is better to buy for your computer, you need to understand the principle of their operation and carefully study all the pros and cons of the devices.

SSD is a solid state drive that works with the help of chips. HDD is a magnetic hard disk, the maintenance of which requires a large number of additional devices: a drive, a board, a motor.

The advantages of an SSD drive are much greater than those of an HDD.

These include:

  • high speed;
  • resistance to mechanical damage;
  • low power consumption;
  • no noise during operation;
  • a light weight;
  • reliability.

The only advantage of a magnetic disk is its low cost.

An SSD is a more modern device that has a lot of advantages compared to an HDD, so it is recommended to purchase it.

External hard drive or flash drive - which is better?

A flash drive and a hard external hard drive essentially perform the same functions. To understand which is better, you need to learn about all the pros and cons of these devices.

Pros of an external hard drive:

  • large amount of memory;
  • durability;
  • high read and write speed;
  • synchronization with PC;
  • there is no limit on the number of write cycles.

Flash drive pros:

  • no noise;
  • reluctance to overheat;
  • acceptable cost.

When choosing a drive, you need to decide for what purpose it is purchased. For long, uninterrupted work, an external hard drive is ideal, for storing a small amount of information - a flash drive.

How to choose an external hard drive for the console (PS4)?

External hard drives for game consoles offer plenty of storage space for hardcore gamers. In total, there are 3 types of drives used for consoles - SSD, SSHD, HDD.

To find out what type portable drive is most suitable for PS4, you need to study the speed characteristics of each type. The fastest are SSDs, the slowest are HDDs. At the same time, the cost of HDD is much lower.

Therefore, it is not necessary to purchase a solid state drive, you can also buy a magnetic one. It is important to pay attention to models with a rotation speed of 7200 rpm. and high recording density.

Popular manufacturing companies

When buying, first of all, it is recommended to pay attention to models from well-known manufacturers of digital equipment. Their products are of high quality, reliable and have excellent technical characteristics.

The most popular brands currently include:

  • western digital. The disks of this manufacturer are distinguished by stable operation, no noise, do not heat up and do not fail.
  • Seagate. The brand's drives are known for their high speed and work in several levels of cache mode.
  • TOSHIBA. The models presented by this manufacturer are distinguished by durability, excellent speed and large memory.
  • HITACHI. The brand offers a wide range of different drives for any needs and budget.
  • Samsung. The discs of this manufacturer have excellent technical characteristics.

On the model of which company from the above to pay attention to depends only on personal preferences, since the products of each of them deserve only praise.

Customer Reviews

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