When it comes to storing important files and data, having a reliable external hard drive is essential. With so many different brands and models available, it can be tricky to know which ones stand out for their durability and performance. This article will provide a comprehensive look at the most reliable external hard drive options on the market.
What should you look for in a reliable external hard drive?
There are a few key factors to consider when determining the reliability of an external hard drive:
- Build quality – A sturdy, durable enclosure and high-quality internal components are important for withstanding bumps and drops.
- Reputation of the brand – Well-known brands like Western Digital and Seagate are generally known for making reliable drives.
- Warranty – A longer warranty (3-5 years) often indicates confidence in the drive’s longevity.
- Connectivity – Look for modern connectivity standards like USB 3.0 or USB-C for fast transfer speeds.
- Drive technology – Solid state drives (SSDs) are more reliable than mechanical hard disk drives (HDDs) due to no moving parts.
Reviews of the most reliable external hard drive brands
Western Digital My Passport
Western Digital (WD) is one of the most established brands for storage devices. The My Passport line of portable external hard drives is a very popular and reliable option.
Here are some key features of WD My Passport drives:
- Slim, compact design with capacities up to 5TB.
- USB 3.0 compatible; also available with USB-C ports.
- Automatic backup software helps protect your files.
- Password protection and hardware encryption provide security.
- 3-year limited warranty from WD for reliability.
- Trusted drive with excellent Amazon reviews and ratings.
The My Passport series comes in a range of colors with WD’s tried and true hard drive technology inside. Overall, they offer an excellent balance of portability, ample storage, speed, security, and reliability.
Samsung T5 Portable SSD
For those needing an extremely durable and fast external drive, the Samsung T5 Portable SSD is a top choice. This solid state drive (SSD) is very lightweight and compact, while providing fast transfer speeds and shock resistance.
Here are some of the Samsung T5’s best features:
- SSD technology means no moving parts and better shock protection.
- Speeds up to 540 MB/s for fast file transfers.
- Weighs only 1.8 ounces for extreme portability.
- Sleek metal design available in several colors.
- Works with PC, Mac, Android for wide compatibility.
- 3-year limited warranty from Samsung.
The Samsung T5 gets rave reviews as one of the best portable SSDs thanks to its blazing speeds, compact size, and durability. It’s on the pricier side, but delivers premium performance and reliability.
Seagate Backup Plus Slim
From Seagate, another leader in storage, the Backup Plus Slim external hard drive is well-rated for its streamlined design and reliability.
Here are some of the benefits of Seagate’s Backup Plus Slim:
- Ultra-slim portable hard drive with metal enclosure.
- Up to 2TB capacity models for ample storage.
- Plug-and-play USB 3.0 connectivity.
- Seagate Dashboard software for easy file backup.
- Available in eye-catching colors and aluminum finish.
- 3-year limited warranty from Seagate.
Overall, the Backup Plus Slim offers a great mix of portability, ample capacity, quick file transfers, backup features, and reliability. And with Seagate’s reputation, it’s a great choice for an external drive.
G-Technology ArmorATD
The G-Technology ArmorATD external hard drive has rugged durability while still being slim and lightweight. If you need a drive to handle travel, outdoor adventures, or other rough situations, this is an excellent choice.
Key advantages of the G-Technology ArmorATD include:
- Rugged rain and dust resistance with IP54 rating.
- Withstands shock/drops up to 1.5m with soft silicone enclosure.
- Up to 5TB storage capacity options available.
- USB-C ready for fast data transfers.
- Designed for travel with compact size.
- 3-year limited warranty.
You can feel confident taking the ArmorATD drive with you anywhere while getting fast file transfers. It provides reliable protection for your data in harsh environments.
Comparison table of key specs
To help summarize the key features, here is a comparison table of specs for the external hard drive models mentioned:
| Drive | Interface | Capacity | Warranty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WD My Passport | USB 3.0 | Up to 5TB | 3 years | $50 – $150 |
| Samsung T5 SSD | USB 3.1 | Up to 2TB | 3 years | $80 – $350 |
| Seagate Backup Plus Slim | USB 3.0 | Up to 2TB | 2 years | $50 – $80 |
| G-Technology ArmorATD | USB-C | Up to 5TB | 3 years | $80 – $150 |
Factors to consider when selecting an external hard drive
When picking out the best external hard drive for your needs, there are several important factors to keep in mind:
- Storage capacity – Consider how much storage you need for your files and backups. Larger capacity drives of 1-5TB are best for storing huge media libraries.
- Portability – If you travel frequently, look for a slim and lightweight drive that’s easy to transport.
- Durability – Drives with solid state drives and rugged enclosures can better withstand shock, drops, dust, etc.
- Connectivity – Make sure the connection interface (USB, Thunderbolt, etc.) is compatible with your computer system.
- Speed – Faster drives with SSD technology or USB 3.0/3.1 offer quicker file transfers.
- Security – Password protection and encryption keep your sensitive data safe from prying eyes.
- Warranty – A longer 2-5 year warranty suggests the brand has confidence in the drive’s reliability.
- Price – How much you invest should depend on your budget and needs. SSDs cost more than hard disk models.
Steps to use an external hard drive
Once you’ve selected the right external hard drive, using it is simple and straightforward:
- Connect the drive – Plug your drive into your computer’s USB, Thunderbolt, or other port using the included cable.
- Install software – Some external drives come with separate software to install for added functionality.
- Format the drive – Before first use, you may need to format the drive for your operating system.
- Create a backups – Use backup software or simple drag-and-drop to move files and folders to the external drive.
- Safely eject – Always properly eject the external drive before disconnecting it from your system.
- Reconnect and access – To access your data again, simply reconnect your drive to your computer.
Following these basic steps makes it easy to start using your external hard drive for expanded storage and backups.
Tips for using an external drive safely and effectively
To get the most out of your external hard drive and keep your data secure, follow these tips:
- Keep the drive on a flat, stable surface when operating to prevent falls and shock.
- Be gentle and avoid excessive force when connecting/disconnecting cables.
- Always eject the drive properly before unplugging it.
- Keep the drive in a cool, dry location away from magnets and static.
- Consider an extra protective case for travel or other transport.
- Periodically check Disk Utilities for any disk errors or bad sectors.
- Clean the drive exterior gently with a soft, dry cloth only.
- Update your backups regularly for best disaster recovery protection.
- Keep a backup of your most critical files in a separate location as well.
- Password protect and encrypt personal/sensitive data if needed.
Following best practices like these will help ensure your external hard drive lasts for many years of reliable service. Be sure to handle your drive with care and perform regular maintenance.
Conclusion
Choosing a dependable external hard drive boils down to a few key factors – a reputable brand like WD, Seagate, Samsung, capacity to meet your storage needs, durability for your use case, and portability if traveling with a drive. Models like the WD My Passport, Seagate Backup Plus Slim, Samsung T5 SSD, and G-Technology ArmorATD stand out for their proven reliability.
Just remember the basics when using an external drive – connect securely, eject properly, handle gently, keep in a safe place, and regularly maintain and backup your data. Following drive tips and best practices will ensure you get excellent performance and reliability with any external hard drive you choose.