The Best External Solid State Drives
We compared 8 external SSDs on speed, durability, and price. The Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD is our top pick for its speed and reliability.
Updated
The bottom line
The Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD (B08HN37XC1) is our top pick for its combination of high speed, durability, and security features. It offers read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write speeds up to 1000MB/s, with 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance. The Samsung T7 Portable SSD (B0874XWW23) is a close runner-up with similar speeds and a compact design, but it lacks the same level of durability. For a budget option, the Sandisk 500GB Portable SSD (B0H4HKMBB4) offers solid performance at a lower price, though with less capacity and durability.
Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD $289.99
Fast, durable, and secure external SSD
The Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD delivers high read and write speeds, robust durability, and security features. At $289.99 for 2TB, it's a premium choice but offers good value for those needing fast, reliable storage. Those on a tighter budget should consider the Samsung T7 Portable SSD.
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Samsung T7 Portable SSD $309.99
High-speed, compact external SSD
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD offers fast transfer speeds and a compact design. At $309.99 for 1TB, it's slightly more expensive but provides excellent performance. It benefits users who prioritize speed and design over maximum durability.
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Sandisk 500GB Portable SSD $109.99
Affordable, fast external SSD
The Sandisk 500GB Portable SSD offers read speeds up to 1000 MB/s at a lower price point. At $109.99, it's a suitable option for users needing basic, fast storage without the premium features. Those needing more capacity or durability should opt for the top pick.
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- Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD Best for speed, durability, and security. 9.0/10 $289.99 Amazon
- Samsung T7 Portable SSD Excellent speed and design, less durability. 8.0/10 $309.99 Amazon
- Sandisk 500GB Portable SSD Good speed and affordability, less capacity and durability. 7.0/10 $109.99 Amazon
- Sandisk 1TB Portable SSD Solid speed and durability, mid-range price. 7.0/10 $228.47 Amazon
- Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD High speed and durability, premium price. 7.0/10 $359.99 Amazon
- Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD High speed, compact design, limited reviews. 6.0/10 $259.96 Amazon
- Sandisk 4TB Extreme Portable SSD High capacity and speed, very expensive. 6.0/10 $848.00 Amazon
- Sandisk 2TB Portable SSD Good speed and capacity, lacks reviews. 5.0/10 $349.99 Amazon
Where the differences show up in daily use
The Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD (B08HN37XC1) is noted for its combination of high speed, durability, and security features. Users report fast transfer times and reliable performance, even in rugged conditions. The Samsung T7 Portable SSD (B0874XWW23) offers similar speeds but with a more compact design and less durability. The Sandisk 500GB Portable SSD (B0H4HKMBB4) provides solid performance at a lower price, making it a good choice for basic storage needs.
What owners complain about after buying
Some owners of the Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD (B08HN37XC1) mention the premium price as a downside. A few users of the Samsung T7 Portable SSD (B0874XWW23) note that the drive could be more compatible with everyday USB cables. The Sandisk 500GB Portable SSD (B0H4HKMBB4) has received positive feedback overall, but some users caution against relying solely on the stated drop protection.