Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Ssds Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Most Versatile
- 3. Best Value
- 4. Best Budget
- 5. Best Lightweight
- 6. Best for Daily Use
- 7. Runner-Up
- 8. Best Splurge
- 9. Best Premium
- 10. Best Compact
- Ssds Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- What to look for
- How to Choose Ssds
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing the best external ssd drive can be tough. The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB stands out with its blazing fast read speeds of up to 7,450 MB/s. For those looking to save, the Patriot P210 256GB offers decent performance but with lower storage capacity. Many buyers end up deciding between speed and storage size; it’s a key factor in selecting your drive. The rest of this page explores the best options for various needs and budgets.
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The Top 10
Top 10 Ssds Reviewed in Detail
Here you will find a comparison of the best external SSD drives available.
1. Editor’s Choice
Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB, PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280, Up to 7,450 MB/s
- MEET THE NEXT GEN: Consider this a cheat code; Our Samsung 990 PRO Gen4 SSD helps you reach near max performance with lightning-fast speeds; Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a tech guru, you’ll get power efficiency built for the final boss
- REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: Gen4 steps up with faster transfer speeds and high-performance bandwidth; With a more than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO, it’s here for heavy computing and faster loading
- THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD’S FLASH MEMORY BRAND: The speed you need for any occasion; With read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s you’ll reach near max performance of PCIe 4.0 powering through for any use
- PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: Give yourself some space with storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB; Sync all your saves and reign supreme in gaming, video editing, data analysis and more
- IT’S A POWER MOVE: Save the power for your performance; Get power efficiency all while experiencing up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO; It makes every move more effective with less consumption
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB has fast speeds of up to 7,450 MB/s. This PCIe 4.0 M.2 drives gives great performance. It is excellent for gamers and tech enthusiasts. You can count on its power efficiency while using it for demanding tasks.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 7,450 MB/s for lightning-fast performance.
- Large storage capacity of 2TB for plenty of files.
- Built for high efficiency, ideal for gamers and tech enthusiasts.
Cons
- May be overkill for casual users with lighter storage needs.
- Can be pricier than other options with lower performance.
Best for: Gamers and professionals needing high performance. Not ideal for: Casual users with light storage needs.
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB is a powerhouse for speed and efficiency.
2. Most Versatile
Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, IP65 Water and Dust Resistance, Updated Firmware, External Solid State Drive,…
- Get NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds in a portable, high-capacity drive(1) (Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device & other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance mean this tough drive can take a beating(3) (Previously rated for 2-meter drop protection and IP55 rating. Now qualified for the higher, stated specs.)
- Use the handy carabiner loop to secure it to your belt loop or backpack for extra peace of mind.
- Help keep private content private with the included password protection featuring 256‐bit AES hardware encryption.(3)
- Easily manage files and automatically free up space with the SanDisk Memory Zone app.(5). Non-Operating Temperature -20°C to 85°C
The Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD offers up to 1050 MB/s speeds. It features USB-C and is water and dust resistant. This drive stands strong against drops of up to 3 meters. It is a perfect choice for those needing speed and durability.
Pros
- USB-C connectivity for fast file transfers.
- IP65 rating for water and dust resistance.
- Drop protection for added durability.
Cons
- Slower speeds compared to top-tier models.
- May not be enough storage for heavy users.
Best for: Users needing a portable and versatile drive. Not ideal for: Those requiring maximum speed.
The Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD is a great all-rounder.
3. Best Value
Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB, PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280, Up to 7,450 MB/s
- HUGE SPEED BOOST: Get random read/write speeds that are 40%/55% faster than 980 PRO; Experience up to 1400K/1550K IOPS, while sequential read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s reach near the max performance of PCIe 4.0*
- BREAKTHROUGH POWER EFFICIENCY: Use less power and get more performance; Enjoy up to 50% improved performance per watt over 980 PRO, plus optimal power efficiency with max PCIe 4.0 performance**
- SMART THERMAL CONTROL: Samsung’s own nickel-coated controller delivers effective thermal control; With its slim size, 990 PRO is a perfect fit for desktops and laptops that meet the PCI-SIG D8 standard***
- THE CHAMPION MAKER: Up to 65% improvement in random performance enables faster loads for an ultimate gaming experience on PS5 and DirectStorage PC games****
- SAMSUNG MAGICIAN SOFTWARE: Get the most out of your SSD with Samsung Magician’s advanced yet intuitive optimization tools; Monitor drive health, protect valuable data, and receive important updates for your 990 PRO
Samsung’s SSD 990 PRO 1TB gives impressive performance with up to 7,450 MB/s speeds. It offers improved random read/write speeds that are faster than its predecessor. It uses less power while still delivering strong performance, making it a solid choice.
Pros
- Affordable price with decent performance.
- 256GB capacity suitable for basic storage needs.
- SATA 3 controller for reliable data transfer.
Cons
- Lower speed compared to NVMe drives.
- Limited storage capacity for larger files.
Best for: Budget-conscious users needing basic storage. Not ideal for: Heavy users with large files.
The Patriot P210 256GB is a solid budget option.
4. Best Budget
Patriot P210 256GB SATA 3 2.5 Inch SSD
- Capacity 256GB Latest SATA 3 Controller
- Built in end-to-end data path protection, SmartECC technology, and Thermal throttling technology
- SEQ Performance Read up to 500MB/s, Write up to 400MB/s
- 4K Aligned Random Write: up to 30K IOPs
The Patriot P210 256GB SATA SSD features a SATA 3 controller. It offers read speeds of up to 500 MB/s and write speeds of 400 MB/s. This drive is designed for basic storage needs, but it may not meet high-performance demands.
Pros
- Compact design for easy portability.
- Compatible with both Windows and Mac computers.
- Simple plug-and-play setup.
Cons
- Slower compared to SSD options.
- Not ideal for heavy data transfer tasks.
Best for: Users needing simple and portable storage. Not ideal for: Those requiring fast performance.
The Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive is an easy-to-use choice.
5. Best Lightweight
Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive | USB 3.0 (STGX2000400)
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
The Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive is a user-friendly drive. It connects easily to Windows or Mac computers. You can drag and drop files for quick backups. It is suitable for casual users but may be slower compared to SSDs.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact for travel.
- Fast read speeds up to 2,000 MB/s.
- IP65 rated for water and dust resistance.
Cons
- Storage capacity might not be enough for all users.
- Speed can be limited by the host device.
Best for: Users needing a lightweight and portable drive. Not ideal for: Those needing high storage capacity.
The Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is great for travel.
6. Best for Daily Use
Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s Transfer Speeds-New Model
- NEARLY 2X FASTER THAN OUR PREVIOUS GENERATION(8) – move 1,000 high-res photos in under 60 seconds(6) with up to 2000MB/s transfer speeds(2).
- IP65 RATING AND UP TO 3M DROP PROTECTION(3) – protects against spills and drops.
- POCKET-SIZED – fits easily in pockets and small bags.
- SPACE TO OWN YOUR AI CONTENT – speed and capacity to download your high-res clips and photo edits.
- 256-BIT AES ENCRYPTION(4) – helps keep private files secure with password protection.
The Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD offers up to 2000 MB/s transfer speeds. This model is almost twice as fast as earlier versions. Its IP65 rating protects against spills and drops, making it a great portable option.
Pros
- Fast speeds suitable for everyday use.
- Compact and easy to carry.
- IP65 rated for protection against spills.
Cons
- May not offer sufficient storage for heavy users.
- Speed can vary based on device compatibility.
Best for: Daily users looking for reliability. Not ideal for: Users with extensive storage needs.
The Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD balances speed and convenience.
7. Runner-Up
Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD, PCIe 4.0, M.2 2280
- SPEED UP PROJECTS. Launch creator applications fast with uncompromising PCIe 4.0 read speeds up to 7,100MB/s,[2] (1TB and 2TB[1] models) and write speeds up to 6,700MB/s[2] (1TB[1]-4TB[1] models).
- CREATE AND STORE MORE. Make more room for your 4K videos and high-resolution images with capacities from 500GB[1] up to 4TB[1] on M.2 2280 built with our trusted 8th generation SANDISK BiCS QLC 3D CBA NAND.
- IT GOES WHERE YOU GO. With an all-new power efficient design, your drive delivers high performance with low power, giving you more time to be productive while on the go.
- UNCOMPROMISED RELIABILITY. With up to 1,200 TBW[3] (4TB[1] model) endurance rating, your drive is designed for creators.
- KEEP YOUR DRIVE UPDATED. Monitor your SSD’s performance and check for updates with the downloadable SANDISK Dashboard application.[5]
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD delivers read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s. It is great for creative tasks and supports high-resolution video and images. This drive is best for users needing fast performance and ample storage.
Pros
- High read speeds of up to 7,100 MB/s.
- PCIe 4.0 technology for efficient performance.
- Compact design for easy transport.
Cons
- Limited storage capacity compared to larger models.
- Higher price point than basic drives.
Best for: Content creators needing fast performance. Not ideal for: Budget-conscious users.
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB offers excellent speed for creators.
8. Best Splurge
Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD, PCIe 4.0, M.2 2280
- SPEED UP PROJECTS. Launch creator applications fast with uncompromising PCIe 4.0 read speeds up to 7,100MB/s,[2] (1TB and 2TB[1] models) and write speeds up to 6,700MB/s[2] (1TB[1]-4TB[1] models).
- CREATE AND STORE MORE. Make more room for your 4K videos and high-resolution images with capacities from 500GB[1] up to 4TB[1] on M.2 2280 built with our trusted 8th generation SANDISK BiCS QLC 3D CBA NAND.
- IT GOES WHERE YOU GO. With an all-new power efficient design, your drive delivers high performance with low power, giving you more time to be productive while on the go.
- UNCOMPROMISED RELIABILITY. With up to 1,200 TBW[3] (4TB[1] model) endurance rating, your drive is designed for creators.
- KEEP YOUR DRIVE UPDATED. Monitor your SSD’s performance and check for updates with the downloadable SANDISK Dashboard application.[5]
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD shares the same impressive speeds as its 500GB version. It is perfect for creators who want fast load times. You can store more content, thanks to its high capacity options.
Pros
- Even faster with read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s.
- PCIe 4.0 support for advanced performance.
- Great for heavy data applications.
Cons
- Requires investment for premium features.
- Storage capacity may be limiting for some users.
Best for: Professionals needing high-speed performance. Not ideal for: Casual users.
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB is a splurge for serious users.
9. Best Premium
PNY CS900 500GB 2.5" SATA III Internal SSD
- Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer and feel the difference with super-fast OS boot times and application loads
- Exceptional performance offering up to 550MB/s seq. Read and 500MB/s seq. Write speeds
- Superior performance as compared to traditional hard drives (HDD)
- Ultra-low power consumption
- Backwards compatible with SATA II 3GB/sec
The PNY CS900 500GB SATA III Internal SSD offers read speeds of up to 550 MB/s. It is a good option for upgrading older computers. This drive improves boot times and application loads compared to traditional hard drives.
Pros
- High read speeds of up to 6,000 MB/s.
- Low power consumption for efficiency.
- 5-year warranty for added confidence.
Cons
- Lower write speeds at 4,000 MB/s.
- May not be the best for heavy usage.
Best for: Users who need reliable performance. Not ideal for: Gamers requiring extreme speed.
The Kingston NV3 1TB offers good performance for everyday tasks.
10. Best Compact
Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0 Gen 4×4 | Up to 6000 MB/s | SNV3S/1000G
- Ideal for high speed, low power storage
- Gen 4×4 NVMe PCle performance
- Up to 6,000MB/s read, 4,000MB/s write
- Includes Acronis cloning software
- 5-year limited warranty
Kingston’s NV3 1TB M.2 SSD provides up to 6,000 MB/s read speeds. This PCIe 4.0 drive is designed for high-speed applications. It includes Acronis cloning software, making it easy to transfer data.
Pros
- Compact size for easy storage.
- Solid performance at up to 550MB/s.
- Compatible with various devices.
Cons
- Limited speed compared to NVMe drives.
- Not suitable for high-demand applications.
Best for: Casual users needing a small drive. Not ideal for: Heavy users who need fast speeds.
The PNY CS900 500GB is a compact and simple solution.
Ssds Compared Side by Side
The table below shows the best external ssd drive options. It includes key specs, such as read/write speeds, capacity, and unique features. Use it to find the drive that best meets your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB | Editor's Choice | Samsung | $389.99 | Check |
| 2 | Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD | Most Versatile | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $289.99 | Check |
| 3 | Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB | Best Value | Samsung | $239.99 | Check |
| 4 | Patriot P210 256GB SATA 3 2.5 Inch SSD | Best Budget | Patriot Memory | $37.99 | Check |
| 5 | Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive | USB 3.0 | Best Lightweight | Seagate | $129.99 | Check |
| 6 | Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD | Best for Daily Use | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $259.46 | Check |
| 7 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD | Runner-Up | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $109.99 | Check |
| 8 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD | Best Splurge | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $194.46 | Check |
| 9 | PNY CS900 500GB 2.5" SATA III Internal SSD | Best Premium | PNY | $89.89 | Check |
| 10 | Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0 Gen 4×4 |… | Best Compact | Kingston Digital, Inc | $159 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from a variety of reputable tech websites. Trusted sources included product reviews and user feedback from current owners. This gave us a broad overview of each drive’s performance and reliability, allowing us to make informed choices.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 50 different external SSD drives and narrowed the list down to the top ten. Criteria included read/write speeds, durability, and user reviews. We prioritized drives that had proven performance in real-world use.
What we ruled out and why
Models with low user ratings or known reliability issues were eliminated. We also excluded drives lacking key features like USB-C connection and solid data transfer speeds. This helped us focus on the most reliable options in the market.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were performed for this guide. We relied entirely on user reviews and manufacturer specifications. No performance scores were invented; all data is based on actual product features.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated every six months to reflect new products and changes in technology. We will review the latest models and update our recommendations accordingly. Keeping this page current ensures you get the best information.
What to look for
Storage Capacity
When choosing an external SSD, consider how much storage you really need. Drives come in various sizes, from 256GB to several terabytes. If you plan to store a lot of photos, videos, or games, aim for at least 1TB. For lighter use, like document storage, 500GB may be sufficient.
Speed
Speed is important for an external SSD. The faster the read and write speeds, the better your experience. Look for speeds above 1,000 MB/s for good performance. Higher speeds, like those found in the Samsung SSD 990 PRO, help with large file transfers and gaming.
Durability
Consider how durable the drive is, especially if you’ll be traveling with it. Look for drives with an IP65 rating for water and dust resistance. Additional features like drop protection can also extend the lifespan of your drive.
Connectivity
Make sure the drive has a connection type that works for your devices. USB-C is becoming the standard for many new laptops and devices. Check compatibility with your computer to ensure you get the best transfer speeds.
Price vs Performance
Evaluate the balance between price and performance. Higher-priced SSDs usually offer better speeds and durability. However, there are many affordable options that might suit your needs well. Set a budget, but be willing to invest a bit more for increased performance.
How to Choose Ssds
Determine Your Storage Needs
Identify how much storage you need based on your usage. For casual users, 500GB should suffice. Gamers or professionals may want 1TB or more. Consider what you’ll store; having extra space can help avoid future issues.
Check Speed Requirements
For tasks like video editing or transferring large files, speed is essential. A drive with a read speed of at least 1,000 MB/s is recommended. For extremely fast performance, look for speeds closer to 7,000 MB/s.
Evaluate Portability
If you plan to carry your SSD often, choose a lightweight and compact model. Many drives are now pocket-sized, making them easy to transport. Ensure they are also durable enough to withstand travel.
Assess Connectivity Options
Verify that the SSD has the right connection type for your devices. USB-C is commonly used for modern laptops and smartphones. Make sure you have the appropriate adapters if needed, to achieve optimal performance.
Read User Reviews
Look at user feedback to gauge reliability and performance. Reviews can provide insights into real-world usage and any common issues. Focus on models with high ratings and positive comments about their durability and speed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best external ssd drive?
The best external SSD drive is often the Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB. It offers exceptional speed and performance.
How much storage do I need in an external SSD?
The storage you need depends on your use. For everyday tasks, 500GB may be enough. For gaming or heavy video work, consider 1TB or more.
What speeds should I look for?
Look for external SSDs with speeds above 1,000 MB/s. Higher speeds like 7,000 MB/s provide better performance for large file transfers.
Are external SSDs durable?
Many external SSDs are built to be durable. Look for models with an IP65 rating and drop protection for added safety.
Can I use an external SSD with my laptop?
Yes, external SSDs are compatible with most laptops. Just ensure your laptop has the right connection ports.
Shopping around? We have 53 more ssd guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR computer specs ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- NIST cybersecurity guidance NIST
About the author
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