Discover the ultimate guide to the best portable hard drives for travel storage in 2021 – your essential companions for on-the-go data storage and security.
Introduction
External USB/Thunderbolt drives, also known as direct-attached storage (DAS), are an incredibly convenient way to back up important files, store data, and transport information between devices. The primary reason for investing in an external drive is to ensure data backup, with the rule of three in mind: original data, a copy, and a copy of the copy kept off-site. This helps safeguard data against computer failure and local disasters. PCWorld, with decades of experience in testing computer hardware, provides expert recommendations on the best external drives for various needs, including performance, budget options, portability, and more.
Credibility
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– The Crucial X9 Pro is recommended as the best 10Gbps external SSD, offering a compelling balance between performance and affordability.
– The Crucial X6 Portable SSD is highlighted as the best budget 10Gbps external SSD, providing affordability and adequate performance for most users.
– The SK Hynix Tube T31 USB SSD stick is recommended as the best thumb drive SSD, combining portability and SSD performance.
– The Lexar SL600 Blaze is suggested as the best 20Gbps external SSD, offering competitive performance and pricing.
– The Teamgroup M200 is recommended as the best budget 20Gbps SSD, providing outstanding everyday performance at an affordable price.
– The Adata SE920 is highlighted as the best USB 4 external drive, offering fast performance at a more affordable price point.
– The SanDisk Desk Drive 10Gbps is recommended as the best external SSD for backups, offering high capacity and reliable SSD performance.
– The WD My Passport, Works with USB C, is suggested as the best portable hard drive, providing high capacity and affordability.
– The Seagate Expansion Desktop is recommended as the best desktop hard drive, offering high capacity and competitive pricing.
– The article provides insights on factors to consider before purchasing an external drive, such as storage capacity, USB variations, and value for money.
Criteria for selection
When selecting the best external USB/Thunderbolt drives, there are several criteria to consider. The first and most important factor is the storage capacity of the drive. The capacity should be at least twice the amount of data you need to back up or store, and it should be sufficient to meet your current and future storage needs.
Another important criterion is the speed of the drive, which is measured in gigabits per second (Gbps). The speed of the drive will determine how quickly you can transfer files to and from the drive, and it is especially important if you need to access large files or perform frequent backups.
In addition to capacity and speed, the durability and portability of the drive are also important considerations. A portable drive should be rugged and shock-resistant, while a desktop drive should provide ample capacity and reliability.
Key considerations for selection:
– Storage capacity: Ensure the drive has enough capacity to meet your current and future storage needs.
– Speed: Look for a drive with a high Gbps rating to ensure fast file transfers.
– Durability: Consider the ruggedness and shock resistance of the drive, especially for portable drives.
– Portability: For portable drives, consider the size and weight for easy transport.
Top 10 Best Portable Hard Drives for Travel Storage in 2021
When it comes to traveling, having a reliable portable hard drive to store your important data is crucial. Whether you’re a photographer, videographer, or simply need extra storage for your trip, a portable hard drive can be a lifesaver. In this list, we’ll cover the top 10 best portable hard drives for travel storage in 2021, taking into consideration factors such as capacity, speed, durability, and price.
1. Samsung T7 Touch Portable SSD
The Samsung T7 Touch Portable SSD offers fast transfer speeds, built-in fingerprint security, and a compact design, making it an excellent choice for travel storage. With capacities ranging from 500GB to 2TB, this SSD is perfect for storing large files while on the go.
2. WD My Passport Wireless Pro
The WD My Passport Wireless Pro is not only a portable hard drive but also a Wi-Fi hotspot and power bank. With up to 4TB of storage, built-in SD card reader, and long battery life, it’s a versatile option for photographers and travelers who need to back up and access their files on the fly.
3. LaCie Rugged Mini External Hard Drive
The LaCie Rugged Mini External Hard Drive is designed to withstand rough handling, making it an ideal choice for travel. With capacities up to 5TB, shock, rain, and pressure resistance, this hard drive will keep your data safe in any environment.
4. Seagate Backup Plus Slim Portable External Hard Drive
The Seagate Backup Plus Slim offers a sleek and compact design with capacities up to 5TB. It’s compatible with both Mac and Windows and comes with easy-to-use backup software, making it a convenient option for travelers.
5. SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is a rugged and durable option for travel storage. With high-speed transfers and water/dust resistance, this SSD is perfect for outdoor adventures and on-the-go professionals.
6. G-Technology G-DRIVE Mobile SSD
The G-Technology G-DRIVE Mobile SSD offers fast transfer speeds and a slim, portable design. With up to 2TB of storage, it’s a reliable choice for photographers and videographers who need to store and edit large files while traveling.
7. Transcend StoreJet 25M3
The Transcend StoreJet 25M3 is a rugged and shock-resistant external hard drive with capacities up to 2TB. It’s equipped with military-grade shock resistance and a three-stage shock protection system, making it an excellent choice for travelers who need extra durability.
8. Toshiba Canvio Advance Portable External Hard Drive
The Toshiba Canvio Advance offers up to 4TB of storage in a compact and stylish design. With easy plug-and-play operation and automatic backup software, it’s a convenient option for travelers who need extra storage on the go.
9. Silicon Power Armor A60
The Silicon Power Armor A60 is a rugged and durable external hard drive with military-grade shockproof protection. With capacities up to 5TB and water/dust resistance, it’s a reliable choice for travelers who need to keep their data safe in extreme conditions.
10. Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC
The Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC features a built-in NFC card reader for easy and secure unlocking of your data. With shock and water resistance, as well as capacities up to 2TB, it’s a versatile option for travelers who prioritize security and durability.
Benefits of using portable hard drives for travel storage
Using a portable hard drive for travel storage offers several benefits for individuals on the go. These devices are compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry in a backpack or suitcase. This portability allows users to have access to their important files and data while traveling, without the need for an internet connection. Whether it’s for work, school, or personal use, having a portable hard drive ensures that important information is always within reach.
Convenience and Accessibility
Portable hard drives provide a convenient way to store and access large amounts of data while traveling. Whether it’s a business presentation, a collection of photos and videos, or important documents, having a portable storage device ensures that users can access their files at any time. This eliminates the need to rely on cloud storage or internet connectivity, which may not always be available while traveling. Additionally, many portable hard drives offer plug-and-play functionality, allowing for quick and easy access to files without the need for additional software installation.
Data Security and Backup
Another benefit of using portable hard drives for travel storage is the ability to securely back up important data. In the event of a device malfunction or loss, having a backup of critical files can be a lifesaver. Portable hard drives provide a reliable and secure way to store backups of important documents, photos, and other digital assets. Additionally, many portable hard drives offer encryption and password protection features to ensure that sensitive information remains secure while traveling.
By using portable hard drives for travel storage, individuals can enjoy the convenience, accessibility, and security of having their important files and data readily available wherever they go. Whether for work, school, or personal use, these devices offer a reliable and efficient way to store and access digital information while on the move.
Conclusion
In conclusion, external USB/Thunderbolt drives are an essential tool for backing up important files, storing data off-site, and transporting data between devices. The primary reason for investing in an external drive is backup, and it’s important to follow the rule of three: keeping the original data, a copy, and a copy of the copy off-site. This is crucial for safeguarding data against computer failure and local disasters. Our expert recommendations on the best external drives cover a range of options, from budget-friendly choices to high-performance options.
Expert Recommendations
– Crucial X9 Pro: Best 10Gbps external SSD, offering a balance between performance and affordability.
– Crucial X6 Portable SSD: Best budget 10Gbps external SSD, providing a sleek and affordable option for most users.
– SK Hynix Tube T31 USB SSD stick: Best thumb drive SSD, offering a combination of portability and performance.
– Lexar SL600 Blaze: Best 20Gbps external SSD, providing fast performance and a unique design.
– Teamgroup M200: Best budget 20Gbps SSD, offering outstanding everyday performance at an affordable price.
– Adata SE920: Best USB 4 external drive, delivering the fastest USB 4 performance and portability.
– SanDisk Desk Drive 10Gbps: Best external SSD for backups, offering high capacity and reliable performance.
– WD My Passport, Works with USB C: Best portable hard drive, providing high capacity at an affordable price.
– Seagate Expansion Desktop: Best desktop hard drive, offering high capacity and competitive pricing.
In conclusion, the right external drive for you will depend on your specific needs, whether it’s capacity, performance, portability, or affordability. It’s important to consider the purpose of the drive and how it will be used before making a purchase. Our expert recommendations cover a range of options to help you find the best external drive for your needs.
In conclusion, portable hard drives are essential for travelers to safely store and access their data on the go. The best options offer ample storage capacity, rugged durability, and fast transfer speeds, making them an ideal choice for anyone in need of reliable travel storage.