Top 20 external hard drives: rating 2021-2022 and which one to choose

1Portable drives have been on the market for quite some time and today the range is huge.

External hard drives are more reliable than solid state drives, so their popularity grows day by day.

Here are a few popular models for 2021-2022 in the price/performance ratio: study their features, understand the characteristics and choose a model for yourself.

Top 20 Best External Hard Drives

Place Name Price
Top 5 best external hard drives by price/performance for 2021-2022
1 Seagate Backup Plus Portable Drive 5TB Check price
2 Seagate Expansion+ Portable drive 1TB Check out the price
3 Transcend StoreJet 25M3 1TB Check out the price
4 Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 500GB Check out the price
5 Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 500GB Check out the price
Top 3 Best External Hard Drives
1 Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 1TB Check price
2 Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 2TB Check price
3 Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 2TB Check out the price
Top 3 Best 1TB External Hard Drives
1 Western Digital WD Elements Portable 1TB Check price
2 Toshiba Canvio Ready 1TB Check out the price
3 Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 1TB Check price
Top 3 best 2TB external hard drives
1 Transcend StoreJet 25M3 2TB Check out the price
2 Seagate Backup Plus Slim Portable Drive 2TB Check out the price
3 Western Digital My Passport 2TB Check out the price
Top 3 Best 4TB External Hard Drives
1 Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 4TB Check price
2 Seagate Expansion desktop drive 4TB Check out the price
3 Seagate Backup Plus Hub 4TB Check out the price
Top 3 Best Gaming External Hard Drives for PS4
1 Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 4TB Check out the price
2 Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 2TB Check out the price
3 Seagate Game Drive for PS4 2TB Check price

What to look for when choosing an external hard drive?

In order to choose the right external hard drive, it is very important to study the main technical characteristics.

These include:

  • Memory capacity. The most optimal is between 1 and 4 TB. The more memory, the more expensive the device.
  • Connection interface. There are many standards, but experts recommend paying attention to the device with a USB 3.0 interface, as it can be connected to almost all modern devices.
  • Power supply. Disks that have this device included, work much faster and much more stable.
  • Form Factor. The most popular at the moment is the 2.5 inch drive type. It can be connected to both a laptop and a computer. The power supply is quite sufficient for the full operation of the PC.
  • Protection. Its presence greatly increases the life of the drive and reliably protects it from mechanical damage.
In addition, it is important to study user reviews before buying an external hard drive.

3

Top 5 best external hard drives for 2021-2022

Seagate Backup Plus Portable Drive 5TB

Stationary, pocket-sized capacity for your convenience. One of the highest capacity and 1potentially coolest member of the Seagate Backup Plus lineup. Looks like a bar with an indicator and logo on different corners of the case.

Several plastic box options are available: dark gray, light gray, blue and red.

Does not require additional power, the volume is enough to store tons of information.

The light indicator - in the form of a point, its brightness is changing smoothly, not blinking. The edges of the case are not rounded.

It is held comfortably in the hand.. It is cooler than WD's analog disks (if you write 600-700 Gb of data the temperature doesn't get higher than 49 degrees).

It copes with the tasks of the archive without any complaints, it records quickly, is instantly identified when plugged in.

No clicks, noise or grinding during operation. The form factor is 2.5?

Specifications:

  • Capacity: 5000 GB
  • Number of installed HDD: 1;
  • max interface speed: 500MB/sec;
  • width: 80 mm
  • height: 20.9 mm
  • length: 115.3 mm
  • weight: 265 g.

Pros of

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

Cons

  • It heats up a little;
  • Actual memory is less than advertised.

Seagate Expansion+ Portable drive 1TB

Portable little hard drive at an affordable price. Will even fit in the pocket of your 2work shirt.

Plugs into any device, even your TV (though that could be a bit of a pain).

Well assembled: not flimsy and not noticeable gaps in the case. The device records data at high speed, detects it in a couple of seconds. It gets a little warm where the cable connects to the disk, the cable itself is short and sturdy.

Makes a barely audible crackling sound when asked to copy. The case material is plastic, pleasant to the touch. The dimensions are small, the housing is narrower than that of similar devices. I can record big files at up to 147 mbps. The device is assembled in China. The storage device is portable.

Spindle speed - 5400 rpm. Buffer capacity - 16 MB. Interface bandwidth - 5 Gbps. USB 3.0 hard drive cable is included.

Specifications:

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

Pros of

  • compact;
  • good quality build;
  • high-speed data processing;
  • available for sale;
  • lightweight.

Cons

  • higher-than-average price tag;
  • not always detected by older PCs.

Transcend StoreJet 25M3 1TB

A reliable, durable, high-quality hard drive that can protect your 3Your most precious information..

Family photos, videos from the holidays of children, favorite music, eBooks - all will be safely stored on this compact and very nice device.

"Stuffing" is hidden in a rubberized case, durable, with shock-absorbing properties, so that the box sits firmly in the hands and will not slip out even of sweaty palms.

You can connect it to your computer, laptop, or TV. Noise-free operation (no whistling or rattling noise) allows you to plug it in at night.

Even during long work you will not feel that the drive is heated (and for sure, do not be afraid that it overheats).

Shock protection is included, which not every disk can boast.. Due to its light weight it is easy to carry, fits not only in bags and backpacks, but also in pockets. The color of the case is gray.

Specifications:

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

Pros of

  • big warranty;
  • long life;
  • rugged;
  • powerful;
  • quiet.

Cons

  • stiff cord;
  • proprietary connector.

Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 500GB

This hard drive, with its classic design, looks stylish and appropriate for both 4on the road or in the office.

Is the youngest Expansion sibling, but has been improved slightly with a sturdier and more stylish enclosure

Judging by the reviews, this model was bought quite often in 2021-2022. It doesn't need any additional power source because the device is thrifty by itself and is powered when connected to the USB port (up to 500 Mbps).

The operating temperature is not higher than 37 degrees Celsius.. According to users, S.M.A.R.T. attributes. 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 easy - just click and drag and drop the desired file to the desired location on the drive.

And you're ready to go - just plug and play. And it's easy to share what's on the drive with all the devices it's connected to.

USB 3.0 cable and comprehensive user's manual are included..

Warranty - 2 years. Made in China.

Specifications:

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

Pros of

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

Disadvantages

  • The contact between the USB3.0 cable and the drive is flimsy;
  • high price.

Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 500GB

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

Popular for 2021-2022. Classic look, in a sleek black box with a rectangular shape and rounded corners.

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

The 500GB external drive has enough capacity to store a ton of video and audio files as well as text documents. Data can be restored with a click of the mouse, and it can be done even by a novice user who has no experience in such activities. Don't like noise?

This disk is just for you: running at 5400 rpm it makes absolutely no noise, so even at night you can work with your data without disturbing the housemates while they are sleeping.

Form factor is 2.5? The country of manufacture is the Philippines. The buffer capacity is 8 MB. In addition to the disk, the package includes a cable for connection 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 of

  • compact;
  • no heat;
  • quiet operation;
  • fast;
  • affordable.

Cons

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

Overview of the best models for reliability and quality

This category contains the best external drive models that are high quality, reliable, durable, and affordable.

Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 1TB

Rugged, portable drive in a rugged, shockproof casing with 1TB of memory for storing a wide variety of files on your computer.7 No matter how many files you need, you can store in it.

Compact size fits even the smallest of devices.

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

The absence of the need for an external power supply greatly simplifies the operation of the device.

Specifications:

  • memory - 1TB;
  • Connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • Supplied with USB cable.
Pros of
  • large capacity of memory;
  • high speed;
  • does not heat up;
  • does not make noise;
  • compact.
Disadvantages
  • none.

Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 2TB

Compact, black, can hold a huge amount of data, including8 Resource-intensive games.

USB 3.0 Type A interface for fast transfer and interaction. Lightweight and lightweight for easy portability.

Innovative technology protects against overheating even during extended use.

No need for additional power supply makes using the device very comfortable.

Specifications:

  • memory - 2TB;
  • spin - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • USB cable.
Pros of
  • noiseless;
  • compact;;
  • excellent interface bandwidth;
  • no heat;
  • stable performance.
Disadvantages
  • none

Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 2TB

Practical model with a tough, shockproof casing for reliability and durability.9

High spin speed lets you do without extra power supplies. Its generous 2TB storage capacity lets you store even the most demanding files.

Synchronization with your Windows operating system lets you use the drive without the need for additional programs.

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

Specifications:

  • memory - 2TB;
  • spin - 5400 rpm;
  • connectivity - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • USB cable.
Pros of
  • sleep mode;
  • high speed of reading and writing;
  • large memory capacity;
  • low cost;
  • no noise.
Disadvantages
  • were not detected.

Overview of 1TB models

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

In this category are the best models with high technical characteristics.

Western Digital WD Elements Portable 1TB

Sleek model that can be both primary and supplemental source of memory.10

Its generous capacity, versatile connectivity and fast read/write speeds will make your mobile computing experience comfortable.

Its innovative USB 3.0 interface makes it compatible with virtually any device, including USB 2.0.

Shock-resistant housing protects the mechanism from damage if dropped or bumped.

Specifications:

  • memory - 1TB;
  • spin - 5400 rpm;
  • connectivity - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • Supplied with USB cable.
Pros of
  • lightweight;
  • easy to connect;
  • reliability;
  • compact;
  • large memory.
Disadvantages
  • none.

Toshiba Canvio Ready 1TB

The small-sized model is reliable and durable. Grants up to 5Gb/s bandwidth 11USB 3.0 interface.

It's compact and lightweight for easy portability.

Rugged plastic enclosure protects device from mechanical damages.

The impressive amount of memory allows you to store a sufficiently large number of files, even of very large size.

Specifications:

  • memory - 1TB;
  • spin - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • USB cable.
Pros of
  • no heat;
  • rubber feet;
  • high speed of reading and writing;
  • no noise during operation;
  • pleasant design.
Cons
  • Deteriorating casing.

Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 1TB

One of the brand's best Expansion Series models is lightweight and compact in size. That's12 It's lightweight and compact enough to take with you wherever you go.

The 2.5-inch form factor and generous storage capacity ensure uninterrupted, consistent performance.

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

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

Specifications:

  • memory - 1TB;
  • spin - 5400 rpm;
  • connectivity - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • USB cable, software disk.
Pros of
  • great quality;
  • good build;
  • high speed of reading and writing;
  • large memory;
  • compactness.
Cons
  • short USB cable.

Overview of 2TB models

This category includes external hard drives with 2TB of storage capacity, allowing them to be used both in the office and at home. At the same time, they are characterized by reliability, durability and high data transfer rate.

Transcend StoreJet 25M3 2TB

Stylish model with a three-stage degree of protection against mechanical damage is characterized by the maximum13 durable and reliable.

The fairly large memory allows you to store any amount of information on the drive.

The proprietary software makes installing the drive very easy and convenient. The built-in heatsink protects the device from overheating even during prolonged operation.

Slim body and light weight allows you to take it with you on trips.

Specifications:

  • memory - 2TB;
  • spin - 5400 rpm;
  • connectivity - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • Supplied with USB cable, anti-shock protection.
Pros of
  • high speed of reading and writing;
  • no noise;
  • no heat;
  • very rugged housing;
  • fast synchronization with the PC.
Disadvantages
  • none.

Seagate Backup Plus Slim Portable Drive 2TB

Stylish model in a rugged metal casing, perfect for use as both a primary14 or as a secondary storage drive.

Seagate's proprietary Dashboard software makes backups easy and automatic.

Included with the device is a free OneDrive subscription so you can store what you need in the cloud.

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

Specifications:

  • memory - 2TB;
  • spin - 5400 rpm;
  • connectivity - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • USB cable included.
Pros of
  • excellent build quality;
  • high speed;
  • slim design;
  • protection from damage;
  • no operating noise.
Cons
  • USB cable is too short.

Western Digital My Passport 2TB

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

The proprietary software lets you install the drive quickly and easily.

Automatic backup and password protection keeps your files even if your computer crashes.

Support for USB 3.0 connectivity makes the device smooth and stable.

Specifications:

  • memory - 2TB;
  • spin - 5400 rpm;
  • connectivity - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • USB cable.
Pros of
  • proprietary software;
  • support for three utilities;
  • high speed
  • large memory;
  • excellent build quality.
Cons
  • Dirty casing.

4TB Models Overview

External hard drives can be used at home, in offices and for servers. The best drives offer high performance, ruggedness and durability.

Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 4TB

A stationary model with a high 7200 RPM disk speed stays cool even during long hours of operation.16

32MB of cache memory and an innovative USB 3.0 interface let you work comfortably with even large amounts of data.

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

USB 3.0 connection interface makes reading and writing almost instantaneous.

Specifications:

  • memory - 4TB;
  • spin - 7200 rpm;
  • connectivity - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • Supplied with USB cable, power adapter.
Pros of
  • high speed of reading and writing;
  • large capacity;
  • quiet operation;
  • stylish design;
  • high quality build.
Disadvantages
  • none.

Seagate Expansion desktop drive 4TB

Black model has fast read/write speeds. Big capacity allows to store even17 intensive files. Drive doesn't make noise or vibrate during operation.

The 3.5 form factor and innovative USB 3.0 interface ensure stable and smooth operation of your computer.

The shock-resistant casing protects the mechanism from damage if it is accidentally dropped or bumped.

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

Specifications:

  • memory - 4TB;
  • spin - 500 rpm;
  • connectivity - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • Supplied with USB cable, power adapter.
Pros of
  • high speed of reading and writing;
  • large memory capacity;
  • low cost;
  • high quality build;
  • reliability.
Disadvantages
  • Makes a bit of a ruckus when it's working.

Seagate Backup Plus Hub 4TB

Rugged, non-marking, non-disassembled model that's perfect for both office and home use.18 at home.

Automatic backup feature keeps your data safe in the event of a computer crash.

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

The device is suitable for various operating systems, including Mac. For this purpose, it comes with an NTFS driver disk.

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

Specifications:

  • memory - 4TB;
  • spin - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • Supplied with USB cable, power adapter, software disk.
Advantages of
  • low cost;
  • good speed;
  • no noise;
  • reliable;
  • does not heat up.
Cons
  • unstable.

Review of gaming models for the PS4

The best hard drives for gaming consoles have large storage capacity, accelerated data transfer, reliability, and protection against hacking and data theft.

Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 4TB

The stylish model in a snow-white casing has quite an impressive 4TB of memory, which allows you to store19 On it quite a variety of games, even very large.

The drive is designed specifically for the Xbox One1, which allows you to start playing immediately after connecting the device to your computer.

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

Quite compact size allows you to take the drive with you on trips.

Specifications:

  • memory - 4TB;
  • spin - 5400 rpm;
  • connectivity - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • Accessories - USB cable, subscription to Xbox Game Pass for 2 months.
Pros of
  • stylish design;
  • a large amount of memory;
  • high-quality build;
  • top speed;
  • does not warm up.
Cons
  • not detected.

Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 2TB

Functional model designed specifically to boost your game console's memory.20

The impressive amount of memory allows you to load even very large games. It does not damage the loading speed, which is very important when playing missions.

Rugged plastic casing protects your device from mechanical damages.

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

Compact size and lack of power cable makes it much easier to transport the device.

Specifications:

  • memory - 2TB;
  • spin - 5400 rpm;
  • connection - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
  • Accessories - USB cable, 1 month subscription to Xbox Game Pass.
Pros of
  • large amount of memory;
  • good speed;
  • light weight;
  • compact size;
  • fast connection.
Disadvantages
  • were not detected.

Seagate Game Drive for PS4 2TB

The ultra-thin model offers high performance, making it the perfect drive for the21 PlayStation 4 game console.

The large memory capacity makes it possible to store up to 50 games of varying capacities on the drive. Rugged plastic and metal casing protects the device from mechanical damage.

Its compact size and light weight make it easy to take with you when you travel. Simple connection via USB-port makes the device easy to use.

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

Specifications:

  • memory - 2TB;
  • spin - 5400 rpm
  • connection - USB0 Type A;
  • USB cable.
Pros of
  • high-quality construction;
  • ample memory;
  • long warranty;
  • high speed;
  • light weight.
Cons
  • none.

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

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

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

The pros of the SSD drive are much more than the HDD.

They include:

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

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

SSD is a more modern device, which has a lot of advantages compared to HDD, so it is recommended to buy it.

The external hard disk or a flash drive - what is better?

A flash drive and an 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.

Advantages of an external hard drive:

  • Large storage capacity;
  • durability;
  • high speed of reading and writing;
  • synchronization with PC;
  • no limitations on the number of write cycles.

Advantages of the flash drive:

  • absence of noise;
  • tendency to overheat;
  • reasonable cost.

When choosing a flash drive, you must decide for what purpose it is purchased. For a long, continuous operation is ideal for an external hard drive, for storing small amounts of information - USB flash drive.

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

External hard drives for gaming consoles allow you to store a large volume of games, which will undoubtedly appeal to avid gamers. There are a total of 3 types of drives used for consoles - SSD, SSHD, HDD.

To find out, which type portable drive is the 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 HDDs is much lower.

Therefore it is not necessary to buy an SSD, you can also buy a magnetic disk. It is important to pay attention to models with a rotational speed of 7200 rpm and a high recording density.

Popular manufacturers

When buying in the first place it is recommended to pay attention to models from well-known manufacturers of digital technology. Their products are quality, reliable and have excellent technical specifications.

The most popular brands currently include:

  • Western Digital. Disks from this manufacturer are characterized by stability, lack of noise, do not get warm and do not fail.
  • Seagate .. Brand drives are known for their high speed and work in several levels of caching mode.
  • TOSHIBA .. Their models are known for their durability, excellent speed and massive storage capacity.
  • HITACHI. The brand offers a large selection of different drives for every need and wallet.
  • Samsung. Disks of this manufacturer have excellent technical characteristics.

In the model of which firm of the above to pay attention, it depends only on personal preference, because the products of each of them deserve only praise.

Customer Reviews

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