8 Best External Hard Drives

BEST ULTRA-PORTABLE

Samsung SSD T7

Type: Portable | Connection: USB 3.2 | Size: 1 TB | Dimensions (L x W x H): 3.3 x 2.2 x 0.3 in.

The Portable SSD T7 delivers fast speeds in a slim, portable package. The aluminum casing feels sturdy and is elegant looking as well. Samsung claims that the T7 includes heat control, so it stays at an optimal temperature even at fast speeds. In my recent tests, I noticed that it remained cool even when transferring large files. This drive was quickly recognized on all the Mac and Windows PCs I tested it on. If you’re finicky about what your equipment looks like, be aware that the T7’s aluminum casing easily shows fingerprints and scratches.

BEST POCKET-SIZE HARD DRIVE

SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable

Type: Portable | Connection: USB 3.2 | Size: 1 TB | Dimensions (L x W x H): 3.97 x 2.07 x 0.38 in.

If you need to keep tons of information in your pocket, this SanDisk model is your best option. At less than four inches long, the Extreme Portable feels more like a keyring than a hard drive capable of holding vast amounts of data. This drive is also tough; SanDisk claims it’s water- and dust-resistant and can survive a drop of up to two meters. An integrated carabiner loop lets you secure the drive to the outside of your backpack—or anywhere else you can think of to keep it from getting lost.