Best Portable SSD External Hard Drive 2024

The first one on our list is the Samsung T9. The T9 SSD emerges as a powerhouse in the realm of external solid-state drives, particularly catering to the needs of content creators. Packed with outstanding features, this sleek device commands attention.

The design of the T9 is not just about performance but also aesthetics. At 0.3 by 3.5 by 2.4 inches and 4.3 ounces, it strikes a balance between portability and functionality. The textured wave pattern on the black, rubberized frame not only adds grip but also lends it a distinctive look.

In terms of performance, the T9 doesn’t disappoint, delivering good, if not record-setting, results. Utilizing SuperSpeed USB 20Gbps, it nearly doubles the sustained throughput of its predecessor, the T7. While it may not lead the pack among 20Gbps drives, it holds its own and excels in 48GB transfers, shaving off significant time compared to competing drives. The drive comes in capacities up to a staggering 4TB, providing ample storage space for large multimedia projects.

One of its standout features is the support for 256-bit AES hardware-based encryption, setting a gold standard for data security. The T9 doesn’t just prioritize speed but also durability, as it is certified drop-proof and shock-resistant for drops up to 9.8 feet, thanks to its rugged, rubberized sheath.

The T9 employs NVMe internals and features a USB Type C port for connectivity. Samsung includes both Type-A to Type-C and Type-C to Type-C cables, enhancing its versatility. The inclusion of the upgraded Samsung Magician software suite enhances the overall user experience, offering features like drive health monitoring, performance optimization, power usage control, and data protection.

Despite its slightly higher price point, the Samsung T9 stands out as a reliable and stylish choice for users in need of a performant external SSD. As the price decreases over time, the T9 is likely to become a favorite among those who prioritize both aesthetics and functionality in their portable storage solutions.

Next up, we have the Crucial X9 Pro. The X9 Pro is a standout external SSD that combines impressive features with a compact and lightweight design. Boasting a sturdy, ruggedized frame, this tiny yet capacious storage solution offers up to 4TB of storage capacity, making it an excellent choice for users seeking reliable and portable storage.

In terms of specifications, the X9 Pro supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 and is compatible with most laptops and desktops featuring USB-C or USB-A ports. The design of the X9 Pro is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Measuring only 0.3 by 2.6 by 2 inches and weighing a mere 1.5 ounces, its anodized aluminum construction with a black, rubberized base ensures a balance of durability and portability. The inclusion of an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance, coupled with drop-proof capabilities up to 7.5 feet, enhances its ruggedness.

One of the notable features of the X9 Pro is its hardware-based encryption, providing users with enhanced data security through 256-bit AES encryption. The inclusion of a five-year warranty adds to its appeal, assuring users of its durability and reliability over an extended period.

In performance tests, the Crucial X9 Pro excels across all supported USB standards, topping the charts for USB 3.2 Gen 2 portable SSDs. It handles large file transfers seamlessly and maintains cool operation throughout extended usage. However, the device is not without its drawbacks. The included USB-C cable is on the shorter side, and there’s a lack of a USB-C-to-A cable or adapter, which might inconvenience some users.

In conclusion, the Crucial X9 Pro is a compelling choice for users seeking a versatile, reliable external SSD. Its combination of features, performance, and affordability make it a standout in its category.

The WD_BLACK P40 is on our list as well. The P40 Game Drive SSD offers a compelling storage solution for gamers, particularly those who play on both Xbox and PC platforms. With a sleek design and solid build quality, it aligns well with Western Digital’s reputation as a leading digital storage manufacturer. The compact and durable design, coupled with shock-absorbent features, ensures portability and protection.

The design of the WD BLACK P40 is familiar, resembling the P50 with a rugged metal casing and a single USB-C port. It is smaller than its predecessor and lacks ventilation grills, relying solely on the metal casing for heat dissipation. The P40 is reported to be shock-resistant, capable of surviving a drop of up to two meters, though it is not waterproof.

One standout feature is the RGB lighting, which adds a touch of customization to your gaming setup. While the lighting is subtle and may feel somewhat disconnected from the overall design, the WD Dashboard on Windows PC allows for easy customization, offering a variety of color and pattern options.

The P40’s versatility extends to compatibility with various gaming platforms, including PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, and Series X, as well as Mac systems. Storage options range from 500GB to 2TB, catering to different user needs. 

In terms of speed and performance, the P40 Game Drive impresses with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support, boasting read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s. During testing, the P40 demonstrated reliable performance, excelling in tasks such as media handling and game capture storage, with no reported failures or corruptions. This makes it an excellent choice for PC gaming, where the faster speeds can be fully utilized. However, it’s worth noting that even the latest Xbox Series X|S consoles may not leverage the drive’s full potential.

In conclusion, the WD_BLACK P40 Game Drive impresses with its balanced features, providing gamers with a cost-effective storage solution without compromising on essential performance aspects.

The next one on our list is SanDisk Extreme Pro V2. This Portable SSD from SanDisk stands out as a reliable and robust storage solution for photographers, offering a combination of smart design and impressive performance. With a sleek, compact, and rugged build, this SSD is tailor-made for life in a photographer’s bag. 

The build quality of the Extreme Pro Portable SSD V2 is commendable. Crafted from forged aluminum, it strikes a balance between strength and lightness. The silicon coating adds an extra layer of durability, making the SSD resistant to water splashes and drops from a height of 2 meters. The inclusion of a 5-year warranty provides additional peace of mind for users. However, the absence of a power indicator may be a minor drawback. 

One of its standout features is the rapid data transfer capability, boasting read and write speeds of up to 2000MB/s. This ensures swift and efficient file transfers, making it a valuable asset for photographers dealing with large image and video files. The use of NVMe technology further enhances its performance, making it a strong contender among portable SSDs.

While the SSD’s performance is top-notch, a minor drawback lies in the length of the supplied cables. Measuring around 25cm may prove short for users with desktop setups. Despite this, the overall positive attributes, including impressive data transfer speeds and durability, overshadow this minor inconvenience. The inclusion of hardware-based AES 256-bit encryption and password protection ensures a robust security framework for safeguarding your data.

In conclusion, the SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD V2 is an excellent choice for photographers seeking a compact and high-performance storage solution. Its fast transfer speeds, rugged design, and compatibility with a range of devices make it a versatile tool for on-the-go professionals.

Next up, we have the Samsung T7. The T7 Portable SSD offers a compelling mix of vibrant design, security features, and efficient storage solutions. Available in three eye-catching colors—Titan Gray, Indigo Blue, and Metallic Red—the T7 is not only a functional storage device but also a style statement.

Measuring a mere 0.3 by 3.3 by 2.2 inches and weighing only 2 ounces, the T7’s tiny form factor makes it one of the most compact external SSDs available. The USB Type-C port supports high-speed data transfer up to 10Gbps, although the actual speeds may vary. Samsung offers the convenience of providing both Type-C and Type-A USB cables in the package, accommodating a range of devices without the need for additional adapters.

In terms of capacity, the T7 comes in 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB options, catering to diverse storage needs. The utilization of Samsung’s latest 92-layer TLC V5 V-NAND flash ensures fast and reliable performance. With a USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface, the T7 achieves impressive sequential read and write speeds of up to 1,050 MBps, making it an excellent choice for users on the go.

The inclusion of hardware-based AES 256-bit encryption enhances data security, providing peace of mind for users concerned about the safety of their files. Despite lacking touch-based security, the T7 compensates with a more budget-friendly price tag compared to its premium counterpart.

However, the DRAMless architecture poses a performance challenge during large transfers that exceed the TurboWrite cache. The limited 3-year warranty may also leave some users wanting more extended coverage. Additionally, the absence of an IP rating raises questions about the durability in challenging environments.

In summary, the Samsung T7 Portable SSD stands out for its attractive design, color options, and hardware-based security. While its DRAMless architecture may impact performance in certain scenarios, the T7 offers a competitive and stylish storage solution at a lower cost per gigabyte compared to its touch-enabled variant.

The last one on our list is Crucial X6.  The Crucial X6 SSD impresses with its blend of affordability, performance, and design. Operating at commendable SATA speeds, this portable SSD manages to pack a substantial amount of NAND storage into a sleek and ergonomic design. The square-shaped X6, measuring about 2.4 inches tall by 2.6 inches wide and a mere 0.35 inches thin, stands out in a market often plagued by bulky alternatives.

The rounded edges add to the comfort, easily slipping into your pocket without causing any inconvenience. The inclusion of a USB Type-C port on the right edge, along with both a Type-C-to-Type-C cable and a Type-C-to-Type-A adapter, enhances connectivity convenience.

Durability is not compromised, as the X6 is tested to survive a 6.5-foot drop and is resistant to shock, vibration, and extreme temperatures. These features make it an ideal choice for those on the move, offering peace of mind against potential accidents.

Performance-wise, the X6 holds its ground during normal file transfer operations, offering good read speeds under all circumstances. However, it faces a performance dip when the cache runs out during write operations, particularly noticeable in prolonged tasks. Despite this drawback, for the average user seeking an affordable and portable storage solution, the X6 is a solid choice.

Available in capacities ranging from 500GB to 4TB, the X6 is a budget-friendly option. While there are faster drives on the market, the X6 delivers a balance of performance and design at an attractive price point. It’s a pocket-friendly solution that caters well to everyday storage needs. 

In conclusion, the Crucial X6 Portable SSD is a compelling option for users seeking affordable and portable storage without compromising on performance. Its combination of a compact design, impressive speed, and rugged durability make it a winner in its price range.