With internet speeds getting faster and file sizes ballooning with high-res content, creatives and professionals require high-capacity external storage that’s just as fast, portable and durable. While traditional external hard disk drives (HDDs) are more affordable, they are bulky, prone to failures, and much slower with data transfer speeds of just 100-200 MB/s.
This is where external solid state drives (SSDs) come in. By storing data on instantly-accessible flash memory chips instead of magnetic platters, they enable much faster access with no moving parts that can break down. Compact external SSDs combine these speed advantages in a durable form factor fit for life on-the-go.
As per IDC research, the global external SSD market grew at impressive CAGRs of over 25% year-on-year from 2020-2022 and will sustain double-digit growth rates going forward. With Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and PCIe Gen 4 interfaces now mainstream, consumers can unlock up to 2800 MB/s read/write speeds from bleeding-edge external SSDs.
We have compiled this definitive guide to help you find an ideal portable SSD in 2022-23 for backups, gaming, creative workflows or as supplementary storage for PCs/laptops that need more space. Compared across various usage scenarios, metrics and pricing tiers, here are the top external SSDs that deliver unmatched portability without compromising on speed or reliability.
What To Consider When Selecting An External SSD
Keep the following parameters in mind while picking a future-proof external SSD:
- Interface & Compatibility: Faster interfaces like USB 3.2 Gen2x2, Thunderbolt 3 & 4 unleash max performance but need compatible hardware. Check laptop/desktop compatibility before purchase.
- Read-Write Speeds: Key metrics like max sequential and random read-write speeds determine real-world transfer performance. For professional workloads, 1000MBps+ speeds are ideal.
- Size & Weight: Super compact external SSDs with smaller physical dimensions are designed keeping portability as the top priority. But they can heat up under peak loads.
- Build & Protection: Aluminum or metal enclosures offer durability while silicone covers, IP67 or MIL-Spec ratings add dust, shock and water resistance for using SSDs outdoors.
- Security: Password protection and AES hardware encryption prevent unauthorized access of sensitive data if the SSD gets lost or stolen.
- Software: Value-added tools include backup utilities, device health monitoring, remote device wiping apps and advanced drive partitioning.
Keeping these factors in mind, we have curated the top external SSDs across various pricing bands for backups, gaming, professional workloads and rugged portability…
1. Samsung T7 Touch Portable SSD
With max 1050MB/s read & 1000 MB/s write over USB 3.2 Gen 2, the Samsung T7 Touch is the perfect compact external SSD for 10Gbps interface support. It builds on the slick, durable design of previous Samsung T-series drives with excellent real-world sustained speeds to ensure smooth 4K video editing and gaming. The engraved LED square indicates activity status.
The added fingerprint unlock functionality via the touch sensor helps securely access your data on-the-move without passwords. At just 58 grams, the rugged aluminum unibody construction does not feel cheap either but stays cool for long transfer sessions.
Sequential Read Speed: 1050 MB/s
Sequential Write Speed: 1000 MB/s
Interface: SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen2, USB-C connector
Warranty & Support: 3 years limited warranty
Advanced Features: AES 256-bit encryption, Fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication, Password protection, Samsung Portable SSD Android app for device monitoring & management, Built-in heat control
As per StorageReview benchmarks, the Samsung T7 Touch registered 1082MB/s & 1019 MB/s peak read/write speeds over a Thunderbolt 3 connection. Priced at premium segment, it offers the perfect balance of functionality, industrial design and real-world performance for encrypting sensitive data on the move…
2. WD My Passport SSD
Coming in capacities up to 2TB with read speeds crossing 1050MB/s over Gen 2 USB, the new WD My Passport SSD brings excellent value without compromising on performance or reliability from a reputed brand…
3. SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
Best Rugged External SSDs
If you need to carry external storage while traveling to harsh environments or extreme conditions, a rugged SSD is your best bet…
4. ioSafe Rugged Portable SSD
5. ADATA SE800 External SSD
External SSDs vs HDDs
While HDDs are more affordable, SSDs are much faster with no moving parts and compact, durable designs fit for life on-the-go…
| Metrics | SSDs | HDDs |
|---|---|---|
| Read-Write Speeds | Up to 1050 MB/s | Up to 190 MB/s |
| Latency | Almost instantaneous | Significant Delays |
| Durability | Shock/Vibe resistant | Prone to damage |
| Noise | Silent operation | Audible spinning disks |
| Power Draw | Ultra low | Higher consumption |
| Operating Temps | Lower heat output | Heating issues |
With rapid developments in 3D NAND flash and newer interface standards on the horizon, experts predict external SSD speeds crossing 50GBps over the next 5 years!
Most Durable External SSDs
For mission-critical data that cannot afford any risk of corruption or loss, you need an external SSD engineered for maximum endurance…
6. Samsung X5 Portable SSD
Best High Capacity External SSDs
As file sizes continue to balloon with high-res photos, videos, games and movie collections, you need a massive external SSD to carry your entire portfolio or library…
7. Crucial X6 4TB Portable SSD
8. Western Digital 4TB My Passport SSD
Best Budget External SSDs Under $100
If you need affordable external storage for non-critical data, these value-focused SSDs offer decent real-world speeds at pocket-friendly price points…
9. PNY Elite Portable SSD
10. Silicon Power 1TB Rugged Portable External SSD
Closing Thoughts
We hope this detailed guide comparing 15 top external SSDs for backup, gaming and content creation use cases has helped identify the right solution for your specific needs without blowing your budget.
While professional use cases demand bleeding edge performance and durability with premium price tags, more affordable SSDs also offer significantly better speeds and portability over HDDs for everyday backups.
As NAND flash densities hit 176 layers and groundbreaking interfaces like USB4 & Thunderbolt 5 emerge over the next 2 years, greater advancements in transfer speeds, hardware security and compact form factors will usher an exciting era for external solid state storage.
