
Too Many External Hard Drives? Here's How to Choose the Right One
Consider these key features when selecting the perfect external hard drive for your needs.
Last updated 2 days ago. Automatically generated content.


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Storage capacity determines how much data an external hard drive can hold, impacting how many files, photos, videos, and other content you can store. Choosing the right capacity is crucial for meeting your storage needs and ensuring you have enough space for current and future files.
Popular options
Up to 2 TB
Typical price
72.– to 130.–Suitable for basic storage needs, including documents, photos, and a few videos.
Ideal for users with moderate data requirements who need a portable solution for everyday use.
Bestseller
3 - 8 TB
Typical price
130.– to 400.–Offers ample space for storing large amounts of data, including HD videos and extensive photo libraries.
Great for professionals and enthusiasts who require significant storage for media files and backups.
Bestseller
9 - 22 TB
Typical price
360.– to 840.–Provides extensive storage capacity for massive data collections, such as 4K videos or extensive archives.
Best suited for users with demanding storage needs, such as video editors or small businesses needing extensive backups.
Bestseller
The interface of an external hard drive determines the speed and compatibility of data transfer between the drive and your computer. Choosing the right interface is essential for ensuring that data transfer is fast and seamless, improving efficiency and productivity.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
USB 3.0
Typical price
85.– to 240.–Offers transfer speeds up to 5 Gbps, significantly faster than USB 2.0.
Widely compatible with most devices, making it a reliable choice for general use.
Bestseller
USB-C
Typical price
140.– to 680.–Features a reversible connector design, supporting data transfer speeds up to 10 Gbps.
Ideal for modern devices, providing a streamlined and efficient connection experience.
Bestseller
Thunderbolt 3
Typical price
680.– to 1900.–Delivers ultra-fast transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps, far exceeding USB standards.
Perfect for professionals handling large files, such as video editors, ensuring quick and efficient workflow.
Bestseller
USB 3.2 Gen 2
Typical price
400.– to 940.–Supports data transfer rates up to 10 Gbps, doubling the speed of USB 3.0.
Great for users requiring faster data access, enhancing performance for tasks like gaming and media editing.
Bestseller
The form factor of an external hard drive refers to its physical size and shape, impacting portability and compatibility with different devices. Choosing the right form factor is essential for ensuring the drive meets your space requirements and fits your intended use, whether for desktop setups or on-the-go data storage.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
2.5"
Typical price
76.– to 150.–Compact and lightweight, making it highly portable and easy to carry around.
Ideal for users who need a travel-friendly option for backing up files or expanding storage on laptops and other mobile devices.
Bestseller
3.5"
Typical price
210.– to 890.–Larger and generally requires external power, offering higher storage capacities.
Suitable for desktop use, providing a cost-effective solution for storing large amounts of data, such as media libraries or backups.
Bestseller
Hard disk additional functions provide extra capabilities that enhance the usability and security of external hard drives. These features can significantly impact performance, convenience, and data protection, making them crucial factors for users with specific needs.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
Hardware encryption
Typical price
140.– to 490.–Provides built-in encryption to secure data directly on the hard drive, protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access.
Ideal for users who handle confidential files, ensuring privacy and security without needing additional software.
Bestseller
Charging external devices
Typical price
89.– to 890.–Allows the hard drive to charge other devices via USB, functioning as a power bank.
Convenient for users who need to power up devices on the go, offering dual functionality in one device.
Bestseller
Hot swapping
Typical price
680.– to 1300.–Enables the connection and disconnection of the hard drive without shutting down the computer.
Useful for individuals who frequently switch drives, providing flexibility and reducing downtime.
Bestseller
Choosing the right brand of external hard drive can greatly affect reliability, performance, and durability. Brands like WD, Seagate, and LaCie each offer unique benefits, from high-speed performance to rugged durability, influencing user satisfaction and long-term data security.
Popular brands (you can select more than one)
WD
Known for reliable and durable storage solutions, ideal for personal and professional use.
Offers extensive storage options with fast data transfer speeds, suitable for backup and bulk storage.
Bestseller
LaCie
Specializes in premium, design-focused drives that are rugged and reliable.
Ideal for creative professionals needing high-performance, portable storage solutions.
Bestseller
Seagate
Offers a wide range of external hard drives with varying capacities and high-speed data access.
Great for consumers seeking reliable performance with good value for money.
Bestseller
Toshiba
Renowned for affordable, high-capacity drives suitable for everyday use.
Provides reliable performance with easy plug-and-play features for quick backups.
Bestseller
Intenso
Known for budget-friendly drives with basic functionality for general storage needs.
Offers compact, portable options that are suitable for casual users and travelers.
Bestseller