Best external SSDs for 2024
In the past if you wanted to carry around large amounts of data with you, you’d have to use an external HDD. External HDDs are still very much viable, but they can be slow if you’re transferring larger files. This is where external SSDs come in. If you’re looking for an external SSD, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best external SSDs you can buy in 2024.
Crucial X9 Pro
If you need an external SSD but don’t want to spend too much, then the Crucial X9 Pro could be a good fit. It is a relatively affordable SSD that offers up to 4TB of storage, depending on your configuration. It also boasts pretty decent speeds of up to 1,050MB/s for read and write, plus it is also IP55 rated for water and dust resistance.
- Powerful performance for photographers: Edit photos directly from the drive with read and write speeds up to 1,050MB/s and...
- Durability in all-weather shoots: IP55 water and dust resistance and drop-proof durability up to 7.5 feet/2 meters for travel...
Lexar SL600
SSDs are already pretty fast compared to HDDs. However, some are faster than others. If you value and prioritize speed, then look no further than the Lexar SL600. It has read and write speeds that go up to a whopping 2,000MB/s. This will make transferring massive files, like photos, videos, and audio, a breeze, completing transfers in seconds rather than minutes.
This is thanks to the use of the USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface. The Lexar SL600 also features a sandblasted aluminum body. This will help with protection of the external SSD against shocks and vibration, making it a great companion for users who need to access their SSDs out in the wild. To top things off, the SSD comes with Lexar’s DataShield.
This is a 256-bit AES encryption software solution designed to protect your files from prying and unauthorized eyes. Lexar has also designed the SSD with a carabiner loop that will make it easy to hook onto a bag or your belt loop for quick and easy access. The SSD comes bundled with both USB-C and USB-A cables so you can choose the one that you need.
- Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen2x2 performance of up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write
- Features a durable aluminum enclosure with a sandblasted finish for added protection and shock and vibration resistance
Samsung T9
In addition to smartphones, Samsung also makes some pretty great SSDs and the Samsung T9 is a great choice that balances performance and price. It boasts read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s, making it an ideal companion for content creators on the move. Samsung has also included features like a dynamic thermal guard that keeps the SSD cool even under heavy loads.
- NONSTOP SPEED: Race through projects with our fastest SSD for creators; Load, edit and transfer with sustained read and write...
- DYNAMIC THERMAL GUARD: When you’re elbow-deep in a passion project, the T9 Portable SSD stays cool; Its advanced thermal...
LaCie Rugged SSD Pro
If you’re looking for an external SSD that can withstand the rigors of outdoors usage, then the LaCie Rugged SSD Pro is for you. According to the company, this external SSD has an IP67 rating for dust and water-resistance. It also boasts a 3-meter drop resistance, the ability to survive a two-ton car crush resistance, and it is also incredibly fast with read and write speeds of up to 2,800MB/s! This makes it perfect for photographers or videographers who shoot in outdoor conditions and need to make large file transfers on the go quickly.
- Harness top Thunderbolt 3 speeds with the 2TB Seagate FireCuda NV Me SSD for playback/recording of up to 2800MB/s on 6K, 8K,...
- Tackle any terrain with extreme IP67-rated water resistance, three-meter drop tolerance, two-ton car crush resistance, and...
SK hynix Beetle X31
One of the reasons why the SK hynix Beetle X31 made the list for one of the best external SSDs of 2024 is its size. SSDs in general are typically smaller and slimmer compared to HDDs, but the SK hynix Beetle X31 takes the cake. It is a tiny external SSD but still manages to fit 1TB of storage. It also offers up pretty fast read/write speeds of up to 1,050MB/s. It also sports an aluminum casing that makes it durable, perfect for bringing around with you everyday.
- BLAZING-FAST Data Speed: Supports a sequential read speed of up to 1,050MB/s equipped with DRAM
- DRAM Acceleration: DRAM(Dynamic Random-Access Memory) technology to Supercharge Data Transfer Speeds. Enjoy Lightning-Fast...
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