Don't buy portable External SSD before you read this!
Portable external SSDs are often used as storage media because of their practicality. SSDs are also known to have fast data transfers and easy-to-carry around. Initially, SSD is a product that is difficult to get and the price is also expensive. However, now you can easily find economical SSDs with different capacities, sizes, and transfer speeds.
This time we will introduce how to choose a portable external SSD according to your needs and provide recommendations for some of the best external SSD products from Samsung, SanDisk, Toshiba, and others. All of these products can be used both on Windows and Mac.
What is an external portable SSD?
SSD is short for Solid State Drive. Instead of using disks, SSDs use semiconductor memory to record data. In short, SSD is a storage medium just like an USB flash drive.Until now, many computers are equipped with HDDs as a standard feature. However, SSDs are now often installed as system drives on high-spec computers because they are more durable and faster.
The speed of the SSD is also very varied, depending on the interface and connection method. However, generally the transfer speed reaches two times faster than ordinary HDD (Hard Disc Drive).
Unlike internal SSDs, external SSDs are more practical to be carried around, perfect for those of you who have high mobility. The size is very compact since it doesn't have a rotating disk in it.
Many external SSDs are also equipped with other additional features. So, choose the product that suits your needs to further support your productivity!
How to choose a portable external SSD?
Below we will explain some important points that you need to know before choosing an external SSD.Choose the SSD capacity that suits your needs.
The first thing you need to consider is the type of files to be saved and their estimate sizes. SSD is usually used as backup storage for various types of files such as text documents, photos, or videos. By knowing the size of the data to be stored, you can predict the SSD capacity needed.200 GB is enough to store photos from digital cameras and text documents.
200 GB SSD is enough to store photos from a digital camera, image files, or text documents. Those type of files consume less space in your SSD. For example, a 60-page Microsoft Word text file is less than 1 MB in size.If you want to save photos from a digital camera, in 1 GB you can store around 700 photos with 3 million pixel resolution. With an SSD capacity of 200 GB, photos that can be stored are around 140 thousand files. Unless you are a professional photographer, a 200GB SSD is sufficient.
500 GB - 1 TB for high quality photo backups.
To backup high-resolution photos such as from DSLR cameras, you need a larger capacity SSD. Consider the number of high-resolution photos that you want to keep in it.For example, one photo captured by a DSLR camera with a resolution of 3264 x 2448 has a size of around 3 MB. So, in 1 GB can only store about 300 photos.
With this file size, 100GB SSD capacity will fill up quickly. Therefore, we recommend choosing at least 500GB SSD.
If you need to backup high-quality video, we recommend that you buy a 2 TB SSD, or 1 TB SSD at least.
Compare the maximum transfer rate and read/write speed.
Compared to USB 2.0 which is still commonly used today, USB 3.0 transfer speeds can reach ten times faster. So, it is recommended to choose SSDs that are already supported with USB 3.0 or 3.1.Currently there are many SSDs that have a USB 3.0 connection or higher. However, in reality there are differences in transfer speeds even though SSDs are supported by USB 3.0. Therefore, you still need to compare the interface of each SSD and the maximum transfer speed.
The speed of reading/writing data from the SSD is also important because it shows the performance of the SSD itself.
Therefore, choose an SSD with data read/write speeds of around 350-500 Mbps so that you get good performance.
Choose SSD ExFAT to use it on Windows and Mac together.
Not every external SSDs are compatible with all types of OS. Some products are only compatible with Windows or Mac. You should choose an exFAT SSD that is compatible with all types of OS. With this SSD all data can be transferred without problems on both Windows and Mac systems.The types of OS supported on SSDs are usually listed in their specification table. Choose an SSD that can be used on many OS so that it can be compatible with the OS you are using.
Choose an SSD that is resistant to vibration and shock.
If you often carry a portable SSD everywhere, choose products that are resistant to vibration, shock, dust, and water. Some SSD products do not have good durability so the data inside can be damaged.Shock-resistant SSDs are recommended because they have passed a series of tests, so that the data inside it remains safe even if it is shaken or dropped.
In addition, if you often do outdoor activities with an SSD, make sure your SSD is waterproof. If it is not waterproof, water or rain might damage the SSD machine.
There are several waterproof SSDs on the market. We advise you to pay attention to this point for consideration when choosing.
Choose an SSD that has data protection security.
The security features on SSDs are quite diverse, but we recommend that you choose a good and easy to use one.The security system on the SSD is very important to be on guard if the SSD is lost or stolen, especially if you use the SSD to backup your job's file.
Duw to its portability, external SSDs are vulnerable to being lost and stolen. Therefore, it is very dangerous if the data stored is confidential and does not have any additional security.
Due to this risk, In Japan there are several external SSDs that use IC cards as the unlock keys. By holding the iPhone integrated with the IC card, only the verified owner can open the SSD.
We recommend that you use SSDs that have high security features to maintain the confidentiality of work data or other sensitive files.
Check the size of SSD to carry around.
You also need to pay attention to the size and weight of the SSD so that it can be carried comfortably in a bag. Some SSD products are a little heavy and too large to carry around.On the other hand, there are some SSDs that have a very light weight. Therefore always compare the size and weight of each SSD before buying it.
For easy carrying, we recommend choosing a SSD sizing a business card to fit in your pocket. As a guide, you can choose product measuring only around 10 cm x 7 cm.
In addition to size, it is also recommended to use an SSD that has a strap to make it easier to carry. Choosing a product that is already equipped with an additional USB cable will also be beneficial.
10 best portable external SSD recommendations.
After explaining the important things in choosing a portable external SSD, here we will provide the best product recommendations. Choose the product that suits your needs. Please pay attention!10. Toshiba Portable SSD X10
Lightweight! easy to carry everywhere.
For those of you who like to travel with an SSD, Toshiba Portable SSD X10 is a lightweight product. Toshiba Portable SSD has a very light weight compared to other products.
Weighing 24 grams with a simple shape like a smartphone, this SSD is easy to carry anywhere. Simply tuck it in a bag or pouch.
Capacity: 120GB, 250GB, 500GB
Compatible OS: Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, and Mac OS X
Dimensions (p x l x t): 80 mm x 49.5 mm x 9.5 mm
Weight: 24 gr
Interface: USB3.1 Gen 1 (USB2.0 compatible)
Maximum transfer speed: Read/write: 430/400 mbps
9. Seagate Fast SSD
The SSD surface is elegant and futuristic in design.
Seagate Fast SSD has a silver-black surface color and made of smooth metal material. This makes the SSD look very futuristic. This feature is best for you who are looking for SSDs with a luxurious appearance.
Not only that, this product is also supported with a very fast read and write speed. Besides being beautiful, its performance is also extraordinary.
Capacity: 250 GB, 500 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB
Compatible OS: Windows 7 or higher, Mac OS X 10.9 or higher
Another advantage: Shock resistance
Dimensions (p x l x t): 94 mm x 79 mm x 9 mm
Weight: 82 gr
Interface: USB 3.0
Maximum transfer speed: Read/write: 540/500 mbps
8. Tammuz External SSD EX1
Anodized design, without worrying about scratches or fingerprint marks.
This product is suitable for you who often put the SSD in a bag with lots of stuff. You no need to worry about scratches anymore. This is because the design is made of anodized material to protect the SSD from blisters when rubbing against other objects.
Fingerprints will not stick to the surface. That way, the appearance can stay clean even though it is often used.
Capacity: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
Compatible OS: Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, Mac OS 8.6, Linux, Android
Dimensions (p x l x t): 180 mm x 53 mm x 9 mm
Weight: 49 gr
Interface: USB 3.1 Gen1
Maximum transfer speed: Read/write: 420/400 mbps
7. Western Digital My Passport Go
Protected by a rubber bumper, safely dropped from 2 meters.
External SSDs will be vulnerable to damage if accidentally dropped. If damaged, the data becomes inaccessible and corrupted. Luckily there is My Passport Go from Western Digital.
On each side, the SSD is protected by rubber bumpers that will keep the device safe when dropped. In fact, this SSD is claimed to remain safe despite falling from a height of 2 meters. Very appropriate for you who are looking for more protection on your SSD!
Capacity: 500 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB
Compatible OS: Windows 10, macOS 10.13
Other advantages: Drop resistance, vibration resistance
Dimensions (p x l x t): 95 mm x 67 mm x 10 mm
Weight: 55 gr
Interface: USB 3.0
Maximum transfer speed: Not listed
6. Samsung Portable SSD T1
Only the size of a business card, can be put in a pocket.
If you have high mobility and don't want to bother carrying an SSD, try using this product. Having a relatively small size, this SSD is just the size of a business card.
Not only that, Samsung Portable SSD T1 also has a qualified security protection using AES 256 bit encryption system. Use a strong password and your data will be securely encrypted.
Encryption will ensure that even if your data is stolen, the files inside will not be able to be read because the contents have been coded. Only our passwords can reverse the code into readable data.
Capacity: 250 GB, 500 GB, 1 TB
OS compatible; Windows 7 or higher/Mac OS 10.7 or higher
Other advantages: Resistant to vibration and shock
Dimensions (p x l x t): 71 mm x 53 mm x 9.2 mm
Weight: 26 gr
Interface: USB 3.0, 2.0
Maximum transfer speed: Read/write: 450/450 mbps
5. Transcend SSD Portable ESD350C
Maximum performance without making the engine hot.
When the SSD is working fully, often the hardware inside becomes too hot and thus decreasing the performance. This problem will not occur if you select this product.
Transcend SSD Portable ESD350C uses aluminum to release heat while protecting the chips inside. Therefore, the temperature on the SSD remains cool even though it is working hard.
Capacity: 240 GB, 480 GB, 960 GB
Compatible OS: Windows 7, Windows 8. Windows 10, Mac OS X 10.5 or above
Other advantages; Shock resistant
Dimensions (p x l x t): 96.5 mm x 53.6 mm x 12.5 mm
Weight: 87 gr
Interface: USB 3.1 Gen 2
Maximum transfer speed: Read/write: 1,050/950 mbps
4. XPG External SSD SD700X
Four times faster than HDD, best for gamer.
Need an SSD for gaming? Choose this product! This SSD is claimed to have read/write speeds four times higher than the internal HDD on Xbox One and PS4.
With XPG External SSD SD700X, you don't have to wait long to load the games you want to play. Another advantage, this product is the first gaming SSD that is IP68 certified.
IP68 are deemed fit enough to stand dust, dirt and sand. IP68 are also resistant to water submersion up to a maximum depth of 1.5m underwater for up to thirty minutes.
Capacity: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
Compatible OS: Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, Mac OS X 10.6 or above, Linux Kernel 2.6 or above, Android 5.0 or above
Other advantages: Waterproof, dustproof and waterproof
Dimensions (p x l x t): 83.5 mm x 83.5 mm x 13.9 mm
Weight: 100 gr
Interface: USB 3.2 Gen1
Maximum transfer speed: Read/write: 440/430 mbps
3. Samsung SSD Portable T5
Updating SSD firmware is easier with a modern software management.
Samsung manufactures SSDs with a variety of capacity, ranging from 250 GB to 2 TB so you can choose the SSD capacity as needed. For file transfer speeds, Samsung SSD Portable T5 is claimed to be able to transfer data 4.9 times faster than an external HDD.
This product is also equipped with the latest management software. These features will make it easier for you to set a password and update the SSD firmware. Suitable for those of you who want to be practical in storing external files.
Capacity: 250 GB, 500 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB
Compatible OS: Windows 7 or above, Mac OS X 10.9 or above, Android 4.4 (KitKat) or above
Another advantage: Shock resistance
Dimensions (p x l x t): 74 mm x 57.3 mm x 10.5 mm
Weight: 51 gr
Interface: USB 3.1 Gen2
Maximum transfer speed: Read/write: 540/540 mbps
2. SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD
High data read performance, suitable for video editors.
For a video editor, an SSD with an above-average performance is needed to support its work. Therefore, we recommend this product.
SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD uses NVMe technology which increases read speeds up to 1,050 mbps. In addition, you can also edit files directly from the drive. Your work will also be more secure with the password feature.
Capacity: 500 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB
Compatible OS: Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 and Mac OS X v. 10.9+
Other advantages: shock resistant, dust proof, waterproof
Dimensions (p x l x t): 110.26 mm x 57.34 mm x 10.22 mm
Weight: 78.9 gr
Interface: USB 3.1 Gen 2
Maximum transfer speed: Read: 1050 mbps
1. LaCie Rugged Thunderbolt USB-C
Very though! Data remain safe even if run over by a vehicle weighing 1 ton.
This product has become a mainstream because it has durability and an excellent data security system. The LaCie brand SSD is able to withstand loads up to 1 ton and stay safe when falling from a height of 2 meters.
For data security, there is a 256-bit AES encryption system which is the most sophisticated protection system.
The design is very trendy, covered with rubber on the edges which is useful as a protector. Then, bright orange rubber makes it stand out when searched.
In addition, the cable is already integrated directly so you don't need to worry about forgetting to bring the cable.
Capacity: 500 GB, 1 TB
Compatible OS: Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, Mac X 10.6.8 or above
Other advantages: Shock resistance, vibration resistance, waterproof, dust proof
Dimensions (p x l x t): 140.1 mm x 88.9 mm x 25 mm
Weight: 400 gr
Interface: USB 2.0, USB 3.0
Maximum transfer speed: 510 mbps
Also read the Best Asus Monitor Recommendations.
We have reviewed in detail the portable external SSD in detail. However, there are also other data storage media such as HDD, internal SDD, or SD cards that may be needed. If you are looking for these products, please read on this website.
Conclusion.
There are many SSD products that you can find with various specifications. Each product has its own advantages and disadvantages. Therfore, choose the right SSD according to your needs. Hope this review helps you!
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