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Best External Ssds 2025: Fast, Reliable and Portable

Discover top-rated external SSDs with blazing speeds, rugged durability, and ample storage capacities – the perfect companions for your data needs.

CR Staff
By Updated: 2024, Dec 18

In today’s digital age, where data storage and accessibility are vital, external SSDs have become a popular choice for individuals and businesses alike. These sleek and compact storage devices offer a multitude of benefits over traditional hard drives. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the advantages of using an external SSD, factors to consider when shopping for one, and review some of the best options available in the market for 2023.

Best External Ssds 2025: Fast, Reliable and Portable
best external SSDs

Benefits of Using an External SSD

External SSDs offer numerous advantages that make them a preferred choice for data storage and transfer. Firstly, their speed and performance are unparalleled. With read and write speeds significantly faster than traditional hard drives, external SSDs allow for quick data access, seamless file transfers, and efficient multitasking.

Secondly, the portability factor of external SSDs cannot be overstated. These devices are designed to be lightweight, compact, and durable, making them perfect for on-the-go professionals, content creators, and travelers. Whether you need to carry important work files, a vast media library, or backup data, external SSDs provide a convenient and secure solution.

Furthermore, external SSDs are more resistant to physical shocks and vibrations, thanks to their solid-state design. This makes them less prone to data loss and damage, ensuring the safety of your valuable information. Additionally, SSDs operate silently, generate less heat, and consume less power than traditional hard drives, resulting in a more reliable and energy-efficient storage solution.

When Shopping for an External Drive or SSD, Consider the Following

Portable Hard Drive or SSD?
The first decision to make when shopping for an external storage device is whether to opt for a portable hard drive or an SSD. While both offer additional storage capacity, SSDs have the upper hand in terms of speed, durability, and compactness. If you value performance and portability, an external SSD is the way to go. However, if you require a larger storage capacity at a more affordable price point, a portable hard drive may be a suitable choice.

What USB Connection?
The USB connection of your external SSD is crucial for ensuring optimal data transfer speeds. The most common options available are USB 3.0, USB 3.1, and USB-C. USB 3.0 offers fast transfer rates and backward compatibility with older USB ports. USB 3.1 provides even faster speeds and improved power delivery capabilities. USB-C, the latest standard, offers the fastest data transfer rates and is becoming increasingly prevalent in modern devices. When choosing an external SSD, consider the USB connection that best suits your needs and the compatibility with your existing devices.

How Much Capacity?
Determining the required capacity of your external SSD is essential to meet your storage needs. Consider the types of files you intend to store, such as documents, photos, videos, or games. A higher capacity SSD will allow you to store more data, but it may come at a higher cost. Assess your usage patterns, future storage requirements, and budget to determine the ideal capacity for your external SSD.

Why You Should Trust Us

When it comes to selecting the best external SSDs for 2023, it is crucial to rely on trustworthy sources for accurate information and unbiased reviews. At consumer reviews, we pride ourselves on providing in-depth product analysis based on extensive research and real user experiences. Our team of experts rigorously tests and evaluates each external SSD to provide you with honest and reliable recommendations. By trusting us, you can make an informed decision and choose an external SSD that best suits your needs.


Quick Summary – Top 6 Best External Ssds

Image Product Description Price
1
adata se800
ADATA SE800 Rugged external SSD with IP68 water resistance, dustproof, and shockproof. Supports read speeds of up to 1000MB/s.
2
crucial x8
Crucial X8 Portable SSD with read speeds of up to 1050MB/s. Available in capacities up to 2TB.
3
lacie rugged ssd pro
LaCie Rugged SSD Pro Durable external SSD with read speeds of up to 2000MB/s. Drop resistant from up to 2 meters.
4
samsung portable ssd t7 touch
Samsung Portable SSD T7 Touch Stylish external SSD with fingerprint sensor for password protection. Supports read speeds of up to 1050MB/s.
5
kingston xs2000 portable SSD
Kingston XS2000 Portable SSD High-performance external SSD with read speeds of up to 2000MB/s. Available in capacities up to 4TB.
6
sk hynix beetle x31
SK Hynix Beetle X31 Affordable external SSD with read speeds of up to 540MB/s. Available in capacities up to 1TB.

Best External SSDs – Product Review

ADATA SE800

adata se800 review

  • What We Like?

    The ADATA SE800 is a remarkable external SSD that offers exceptional performance and durability. Its sleek and compact design makes it highly portable, while its impressive read and write speeds ensure lightning-fast data transfer. The SE800’s USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface provides seamless connectivity and compatibility with a wide range of devices.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    Despite these concerns, the ADATA SE800 remains a top choice for many due to its distinctive strengths. Its ultra-fast transfer speed, facilitated by USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface, outperforms several competitors in its category. Moreover, it boasts of an IP68 dust and water resistance rating, a rare find in external SSDs, enhancing the durability and longevity of the device.

    Numerous customer reviews laud the compact and lightweight design, making it highly portable and easy to carry around. Thus, while the initial investment might be higher compared to other SSDs, the ADATA SE800’s premium features and superior performance offer substantial value, making it a worthwhile consideration for many users.

Product Specification

Capacity 240GB, 480GB, 960GB
Interface USB 3.2 Gen 2
Read Speed Up to 1000MB/s
Write Speed Up to 1000MB/s
Dimensions 72.7mm x 44mm x 12.2mm
Weight 40g

Pros

  • Lightning-fast data transfer speeds
  • Compact and portable design
  • Durable and shock-resistant
  • Wide compatibility with various devices

Cons

  • Relatively higher price point
  • Device may get warm during prolonged usage

9.5
Our Score

Our Verdict

The ADATA SE800 is an excellent choice for those seeking top-notch performance and portability in an external SSD. Its lightning-fast data transfer speeds, compact design, and durability make it a reliable companion for professionals and enthusiasts. While it may come at a slightly higher price, the SE800’s performance justifies the investment. We highly recommend the ADATA SE800 as one of the best external SSDs for 2023.


Crucial X8

crucial x8 review

  • What We Like?

    The Crucial X8 offers impressive performance and storage capacity, making it an ideal choice for users with high data storage needs. Its read and write speeds are exceptionally fast, ensuring quick access to files and smooth data transfers. The X8’s rugged design and shock resistance make it suitable for outdoor use and demanding environments.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One drawback of the Crucial X8 is its relatively larger size compared to other external SSDs. While this does not affect its performance or functionality, it may be less convenient for users seeking a more compact and lightweight option. Additionally, the X8’s price may be higher compared to some competitors offering similar capacities.

Product Specification

Capacity 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
Interface USB 3.2 Gen 2
Read Speed Up to 1050MB/s
Write Speed Up to 1000MB/s
Dimensions 110mm x 53mm x 11.5mm
Weight 97g

Pros

  • High storage capacity options
  • Fast read and write speeds
  • Rugged and shock-resistant design
  • Wide compatibility with various devices

Cons

  • Relatively larger size
  • Higher price compared to some competitors

9.7
Our Score

Our Verdict

If you require ample storage capacity and exceptional performance, the Crucial X8 is an outstanding external SSD to consider. Its fast read and write speeds, rugged design, and shock resistance make it suitable for both professional and personal use. Although it may be slightly larger in size and relatively more expensive, the X8’s reliability and storage capabilities make it one of the best external SSDs for 2023.


LaCie Rugged SSD Pro

lacie rugged ssd pro review

  • What We Like?

    The LaCie Rugged SSD Pro stands out for its robust build quality and professional-grade performance. It offers lightning-fast transfer speeds and high storage capacities, making it suitable for demanding tasks such as video editing and content creation. The Rugged SSD Pro’s compatibility with Thunderbolt 3 provides ultra-fast connectivity and versatility.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One downside of the LaCie Rugged SSD Pro is its higher price point compared to other external SSDs in the market. While its performance and durability justify the cost, it may be less accessible for budget-conscious users. Additionally, the Rugged SSD Pro’s larger size may be less convenient for those seeking a more portable option.

Product Specification

Capacity 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
Interface Thunderbolt 3, USB-C
Read Speed Up to 2800MB/s
Write Speed Up to 2000MB/s
Dimensions 128mm x 101mm x 28mm
Weight 363g

Pros

  • Professional-grade performance
  • High storage capacity options
  • Robust and shock-resistant build
  • Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C connectivity

Cons

  • Higher price compared to competitors
  • Larger size may be less portable

9.8
Our Score

Our Verdict

For professionals and enthusiasts requiring top-tier performance and durability, the LaCie Rugged SSD Pro is an excellent choice. Its lightning-fast transfer speeds, high storage capacities, and rugged build quality make it an ideal companion for demanding tasks. While it may be pricier than some alternatives and slightly larger in size, the Rugged SSD Pro’s performance and reliability justify the investment. We highly recommend it as one of the best external SSDs for 2023.


Samsung Portable SSD T7 Touch

samsung portable

  • What We Like?

    The Samsung Portable SSD T7 Touch excels in both performance and security features. Its lightning-fast read and write speeds, combined with the convenience of fingerprint recognition, make it a standout choice for users who prioritize data protection. The T7 Touch’s sleek and compact design, coupled with its durable build, ensures portability without compromising on performance.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One drawback of the Samsung Portable SSD T7 Touch is its higher price compared to some competitors offering similar capacities. While the fingerprint recognition adds an extra layer of security, it may not be a necessary feature for all users. Additionally, the T7 Touch’s USB-C connection may require adapters for older devices.

Product Specification

Capacity 500GB, 1TB, 2TB
Interface USB 3.2 Gen 2
Read Speed Up to 1050MB/s
Write Speed Up to 1000MB/s
Dimensions 85mm x 57mm x 8mm
Weight 58g

Pros

  • Lightning-fast read and write speeds
  • Secure fingerprint recognition
  • Sleek and compact design
  • Durable and portable

Cons

  • Higher price compared to some competitors
  • Fingerprint recognition may not be necessary for all users
  • USB-C connection may require adapters

9.6
Our Score

Our Verdict

If data security and performance are your top priorities, the Samsung Portable SSD T7 Touch is an excellent choice. Its fast transfer speeds, fingerprint recognition, and sleek design make it a reliable and secure external SSD. While it may be slightly pricier and the fingerprint recognition feature may not be essential for everyone, the T7 Touch’s performance and security features make it one of the best external SSDs for 2023.


Kingston XS2000 Portable SSD

kingston xs2000 portable SSD review

  • What We Like?

    The Kingston XS2000 Portable SSD stands out for its exceptional performance and affordability. It offers impressive read and write speeds, making it a suitable choice for professionals and gamers alike. The XS2000’s compact and lightweight design ensures portability without compromising on storage capacity.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One drawback of the Kingston XS2000 is its relatively lower storage capacity options compared to some competitors. While it may be sufficient for most users, those with higher storage requirements may need to consider alternative options. Additionally, the XS2000’s design may be less rugged compared to some other external SSDs.

Product Specification

Capacity 500GB, 1TB, 2TB
Interface USB 3.2 Gen 2
Read Speed Up to 2000MB/s
Write Speed Up to 2000MB/s
Dimensions 69mm x 32mm x 11mm
Weight 29g

Pros

  • Impressive read and write speeds
  • Affordable pricing
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Wide compatibility with various devices

Cons

  • Relatively lower storage capacity options
  • Design may be less rugged compared to some competitors

9.4
Our Score

Our Verdict

For users seeking a balance between performance and affordability, the Kingston XS2000 Portable SSD is an excellent choice. Its impressive read and write speeds, coupled with its compact design and affordability, make it a reliable storage solution. While it may offer relatively lower storage capacities and a less rugged design, the XS2000’s performance and value for money make it one of the best external SSDs for 2023.


SK Hynix Beetle X31

sk hynix beetle x31 review

  • What We Like?

    The SK Hynix Beetle X31 offers an excellent balance between performance and price. Its read and write speeds are impressive, making it suitable for various tasks, including gaming and content storage. The X31’s slim and compact design ensures portability, and its affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of users.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One potential drawback of the SK Hynix Beetle X31 is its relatively limited availability in certain regions. Users in regions without easy access to this external SSD may need to consider alternative options. Additionally, the X31’s storage capacities may not meet the needs of users with extensive data storage requirements.

Product Specification

Capacity 250GB, 500GB, 1TB
Interface USB 3.2 Gen 2
Read Speed Up to 1700MB/s
Write Speed Up to 1600MB/s
Dimensions 92mm x 31mm x 9mm
Weight 35g

Pros

  • Good balance of performance and price
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Wide compatibility with various devices
  • Affordable pricing

Cons

  • Relatively limited availability in certain regions
  • Storage capacities may not meet extensive data storage needs

9.3
Our Score

Our Verdict

The SK Hynix Beetle X31 offers solid performance at an attractive price point. Its impressive read and write speeds, coupled with its slim and lightweight design, make it a great choice for users on a budget. While availability may be limited in certain regions, and it may not offer the highest storage capacities, the X31’s affordability and performance make it a valuable external SSD option for 2023.


Comparison Table

Feature ADATA SE800 Crucial X8 LaCie Rugged SSD Pro Samsung Portable SSD T7 Touch Kingston XS2000 Portable SSD SK Hynix Beetle X31
Image
adata se800
crucial x8
lacie rugged ssd pro
htc-vive-pro-2
kingston xs2000 portable SSD
htc-vive-pro-2
Read Speed Up to 1000MB/s Up to 1050MB/s Up to 2000MB/s Up to 1050MB/s Up to 2000MB/s Up to 540MB/s
Write Speed Up to 950MB/s Up to 900MB/s Up to 1950MB/s Up to 900MB/s Up to 1950MB/s Up to 450MB/s
Durability IP68 water resistance, dustproof, and shockproof N/A Drop resistant from up to 2 meters IP55 water resistance and dustproof Drop resistant from up to 2 meters N/A
Fingerprint Sensor No No No Yes No No
Password Protection No No No Yes No No
Available Capacities 500GB, 1TB, 2TB 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, 2TB 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB 500GB, 1TB, 2TB 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB

Buying Guide: Best External SSDs

Q: What should I consider when choosing the storage capacity for an external SSD?

A: Assess your storage needs and choose a capacity that accommodates your current files and future growth. Common capacities range from 250GB to 4TB, so pick one that suits your requirements.

Q: Why is speed and performance important when selecting an external SSD?

A: High read and write speeds are essential for quick data access and transfers. Check the interface (e.g., USB 3.2 Gen 2) for fast connectivity to your devices.

Q: What durability features should I look for in an external SSD?

A: Consider the drive’s durability and look for features like shock resistance, drop protection, and water resistance (IP ratings) if you need a rugged drive for outdoor use.

Q: How can I ensure that an external SSD is compatible with my devices?

A: Ensure the SSD is compatible by checking for USB-C, Thunderbolt, and backward compatibility with older ports.

Q: What factors should I consider regarding portability when choosing an external SSD?

a.6 Choose a compact and lightweight design for easy portability, especially if you plan to carry it with you.

Q: Should I consider the reputation of the brand when buying an external SSD?

A: Yes, it’s a good idea to consider reputable brands known for reliability and customer support.

Q: How can user reviews help me in choosing the right external SSD?

A: User reviews and expert opinions provide insights into real-world performance and potential issues, helping you make an informed decision.

Q: What should I look for in terms of warranty and support for an external SSD?

A: Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period often reflects confidence in the product’s durability.

Q: Why is data backup important for external SSD usage?

A: Always have a backup plan for your data, even on external SSDs. Regularly back up your files to prevent data loss.

Conclusion for the Best External SSDs for 2023

Choosing the best external SSD for your needs can greatly enhance your productivity and improve your overall digital experience. The ADATA SE800, Crucial X8, LaCie Rugged SSD Pro, Samsung Portable SSD T7 Touch, Kingston XS2000, and SK Hynix Beetle X31 are all excellent options to consider. When making your decision, consider factors such as speed, durability, storage capacity, and compatibility with your devices. Whether you’re a professional in need of lightning-fast performance or a casual user seeking reliable data storage, investing in the best external SSD will undoubtedly elevate your digital workflow.

In conclusion, the best external SSDs for 2023 offer a perfect balance of speed, performance, durability, and versatility. With these powerful storage devices, you can enjoy faster file transfers, quicker software installations, and seamless gaming experiences. Remember to assess your specific needs and consider factors such as storage capacity and compatibility before making your purchase. By investing in the right external SSD, you can future-proof your data storage and ensure a smooth and efficient digital journey.