Best External SSDs
July 15, 2025
17 minute read
Discover how to choose the best external SSD for your needs. Explore external SSDs for work, gaming, or backup, and get expert tips, key features, and top models of 2025.
Need more space for your files, games, or creative projects? You’re not alone. As digital content continues to grow in size and importance, finding the right external storage solution has become a must for everyday users, professionals, students, and gamers alike. Sure, you could install a new internal SSD, or hard drive, or upload everything to the cloud, but if you want fast performance, reliable data access, and the freedom to take your files anywhere, an external SSD is the smart choice.
External solid-state drives (SSDs) offer a perfect blend of speed, portability, and durability. However, not all SSDs are created equal. From storage capacity and speed to ruggedness and security, there are many factors to consider when choosing the best external SSD for your setup.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key features you should look for to help match you with the best SSD based on how you work or play, and highlight some of the best SSD models available in 2025, including Seagate’s top picks. Whether you’re backing up family photos or editing 8K video on the go, we’re here to help you store your data smarter.
Not all external SSDs are built the same and that’s a good thing. The best external drive for you depends entirely on how you plan to use it. Whether you’re a creative professional juggling massive media files, a student looking for reliable backups, or a gamer trying to expand your library without opening your rig, certain features will matter more than others. In this section, we’ll walk through the key factors to consider, ranging from capacity and speed to durability and security, so that you can find the external SSD that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle. These are the same considerations that apply to choosing the best external hard drive.
These days, external SSDs span capacities from a few hundred gigabytes to multiple terabytes. That said, choosing the right size external drive starts with asking a few key questions about how you’ll use the drive:
As a rule of thumb:
Speed is one of the biggest advantages of an external SSD and one of the most important factors to consider, depending on how you plan to use the drive.
Read and write speeds determine how quickly you can transfer files to and from the SSD. For basic backups or storing documents, blazing-fast performance may not be essential. But if you’re working with large files—like high-resolution photos, video footage, or game installs—or if you’re editing media directly from the drive, then high-speed performance is critical to keeping your workflow smooth and frustration-free.
Most modern external SSDs use USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt interfaces, offering speeds that can exceed 1,000 MB/s and in some cases, even 2,000–3,000 MB/s with the right setup. That means copying a full 4K video project or entire photo library can take seconds, not minutes.
When evaluating speed, ask yourself:
Choosing an SSD with fast read/write speeds and pairing it with a high-performance port on your device can save hours over time, and make the difference between a smooth, responsive experience and one that slows you down. So, when choosing the best external SSD for your needs, look at the read/write speeds of the drive you’re considering.
The interface your external SSD uses and whether it’s compatible with your device(s) can have a major impact on both speed and convenience.
Most external SSDs connect via USB, but not all USB ports are the same. Older USB-A ports (like USB 2.0 or USB 3.0) offer slower transfer speeds, while newer USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and Thunderbolt™ 3 or 4 interfaces support much faster data transfer and are ideal for handling large files or real-time editing. Thunderbolt SSDs, for example, can deliver blazing-fast speeds upwards of 2,800 MB/s, but only if your device supports it.
So, before choosing an SSD, ask yourself the following questions:
Cross-platform compatibility is also important if you’re switching between operating systems. Some drives are preformatted for either Windows® (NTFS) or macOS (APFS), but many can be reformatted or come exFAT-formatted out of the box for universal use.
In short: for maximum performance and hassle-free use, choose an SSD that not only supports high-speed connections but is also plug-and-play compatible with the devices you plan to use the drive with.
When choosing an external SSD, portability and design can make a big difference, especially if you plan to use your drive in multiple locations or while traveling.
A truly portable SSD should be small, slim, and lightweight, making it easy to carry in your pocket, backpack, or laptop sleeve without adding bulk. Some models are even designed with travel in mind, featuring built-in cable storage or magnetic cable clips for added convenience.
Design also affects how seamlessly the SSD fits into your everyday workflow. Whether you prefer a sleek, minimalist look that complements your devices or a bold, eye-catching finish, the right design can enhance both form and function. Thoughtful details like rounded edges, matte finishes, or integrated LED indicators can improve usability and make the drive feel like a natural extension of your tech setup.
In short, a well-designed, portable SSD isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a smoother, more efficient user experience wherever your work or creativity takes you.
When choosing an external SSD, durability and build quality are essential considerations, especially if you plan to use your drive frequently or carry it with you on the go. SSDs are resistant to shocks and drops. However, the level of ruggedness varies widely between models, so it’s important to look beyond just the internal technology.
A high-quality external SSD will typically feature a solid, well-constructed enclosure made from materials like aluminum or reinforced polycarbonate. These materials protect the drive from physical damage and help with heat dissipation, which can improve the drive’s performance and longevity by preventing overheating during heavy use.
Many SSDs designed for mobile use offer additional protective features, such as water and dust resistance, shock absorption, and even military-grade certifications (MIL-STD-810), which test the drive’s ability to withstand drops, vibrations, and extreme temperatures. These features are especially valuable if you work in demanding environments or travel frequently, giving you confidence that your data is safe from unexpected accidents or harsh conditions.
It’s also worth noting that a durable design contributes to long-term reliability. A rugged build means fewer worries about everyday bumps, scratches, or minor mishaps, helping your SSD maintain optimal performance and protect your valuable data over time.
Ultimately, choosing an external SSD with strong durability and build quality is about safeguarding your investment and securing your important files, no matter where life takes you.
In today’s world, protecting your data is more important than ever, and many external SSDs come equipped with advanced security features to keep your files safe from unauthorized access. Whether you’re backing up sensitive work documents, personal photos, or confidential media, built-in security options can provide peace of mind.
One of the most common security measures is hardware encryption, often using AES 256-bit encryption, which safeguards your data by encrypting it directly on the drive. This means that even if your SSD is lost or stolen, the information remains unreadable without the proper password or encryption key.
Many drives also offer password protection via companion software, allowing you to easily lock and unlock your SSD. Some models even support biometric authentication, such as fingerprint scanning, which adds an extra layer of security that’s both convenient and effective.
Additionally, some external SSDs come with remote management tools or software to help you monitor the drive’s health, control access, and even remotely wipe data if necessary. These are features that are particularly valuable for professionals handling sensitive information.
When choosing an external SSD, it’s worth considering which security features align with your needs. For casual use, basic password protection might be enough, but for business, creative professionals, or anyone handling confidential data, investing in an SSD with robust encryption and advanced security options is a smart choice to protect your valuable files.
When selecting the best external SSD, price is naturally a key factor to consider. External SSDs come in a wide range of price points, influenced by factors such as storage capacity, speed, security features, and build quality. While it might be tempting to opt for the cheapest option available, it’s important to balance cost with the value and reliability you’re getting.
Generally, higher capacity and faster SSDs with advanced features will cost more, but investing a bit extra often pays off in performance, durability, and peace of mind. If you’re using the drive for critical tasks like professional media editing or important backups, it’s wise to prioritize quality over cost.
Brand reputation also plays a significant role. Established brands like Seagate with a proven track record in storage technology often provide better customer support, longer warranties, and more reliable products. Reading reviews and user feedback can help you gauge how well a brand stands behind its products and whether its SSDs deliver consistent performance.
Ultimately, consider your budget alongside your specific needs and the brand’s reputation for quality. Choosing a trusted brand with solid reviews may cost a little more upfront but can save you time, frustration, and potential data loss in the long run.
If you’re on the hunt for a reliable, high-performance external SSD this year, you’re in luck as 2025 brings some impressive options across the board. Whether you need blazing-fast speeds, massive capacity, or rugged portability, the market has something to fit your needs. Here are some of the top external SSD models making waves this year:
For those who want top-tier hardware but need it to be rough-and-ready no matter where they take it, we present the LaCie Rugged Pro line. Harnessing the power of Seagate FireCuda® NVMe SSDs, this highly durable external drive is designed to make the most of its Thunderbolt 3 connection, while also enduring real-world punishment.
Get transfer speeds up to 2800MB/s, and easily handle tough jobs like 8K resolution video and slow motion, all without the worry of accidents and environmental hazards. In a dust-resistant, palm-sized package, you get:
Anyone looking for a dependable workhorse with broad compatibility, decent speeds, and ample capacity options should consider the LaCie Portable SSD. With storage up to 2TB and speeds up to 1050MB/s, the LaCie Portable can handle most standard storage functions. It’s also compatible with Windows, Mac, and even iPad, so there’s no need to stress when swapping to a new device.
Sleek and travel-sized, it’s easy to take with you. And with the convenient, plug-and-play user experience, it’s sure to be your new favorite travel companion.
Wondering “can't I just use a thumb drive?” Well, yes, you can. You just need to pick the right one.
And if you ask us, the Ultra Compact SSD is that one. It offers:
The Ultra Compact features direct USB-C port connectivity, making it virtually effortless to use with any modern computer, and even capable of connecting to mobile devices and gaming consoles.
If you like the look of the LaCie Rugged Pro but have a more limited budget, LaCie Rugged Mini might be a better fit. With speeds, capacities, and durability specs just shy of the Rugged Pro, the Mini offers nearly all the functionality and user experience of its bigger sibling at a fraction of the cost:
You don’t have to take it all around the world. But with a drive like this, why wouldn’t you?
If you’re looking for high-capacity storage at a cost-effective price, external hard drives are an excellent choice. They’re perfect for backing up large files, archiving media, or expanding your storage. For more great options, check out our guide to choosing the best external hard drives. This post covers top external hard drive picks for reliability, capacity, and value.
Your ideal external SSD depends entirely on how you plan to use it. Whether you’re a creative professional working with large media files, a gamer running out of storage, or someone who just wants to back up important documents, your workflow should shape your choice.
Below, we’ve outlined five of the most common use cases to help you match your storage solution to your specific needs.
If you work with large assets like RAW photos, 4K–8K video, or layered design files, performance is critical. To avoid bottlenecks, choose a high-speed NVMe SSD with at least a USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt 3/4 interface. These allow for blazing-fast read/write speeds, which is ideal for editing directly from the drive with minimal latency.
Capacity is another key factor. For most creative workflows, 1TB is a practical starting point, but 2TB or more is recommended for editors working with video or 3D assets. If you often work on location, choose a drive that’s not only compact but also rugged, making it able to handle bumps, drops, and the occasional coffee spill.
Modern games can take up 100GB+ of space each, and console storage is rarely enough. Whether you’re gaming on a PC, PlayStation®, or Xbox®, an external SSD offers an easy way to expand storage and reduce load times without cracking open your console or case.
Look for an NVMe SSD with USB 3.2 Gen 2 or higher for the best gaming experience. A minimum 1TB capacity is recommended to handle growing libraries, game installs, and updates. Also check compatibility as some consoles, like the PS5™, allow external SSDs only for PS4™ game storage, not gameplay. Plug-and-play support is a must.
If you’re a mobile gamer or attend LAN parties, portability and durability should also be top priorities.
For mobile professionals, the ideal drive is compact, light, and dependable. But when you’re handling client presentations, confidential documents, or financial data, security becomes just as important as speed or size.
Look for SSDs that offer hardware-based encryption (like AES 256-bit) or password protection to keep your files private, even if the drive is lost or stolen. A capacity of 500GB to 1TB is usually sufficient for documents, spreadsheets, and media files.
Choose a drive with a durable enclosure. You get bonus points if it’s rated for shock resistance or weatherproofing. Also, make sure it’s universally compatible via USB-C or USB-A adapters for easy plug-in anywhere.
If your main concern is backing up personal data, such as photos, tax returns, or work files, then an external SSD is a fast, quiet, and more reliable alternative to traditional hard drives.
Transfer speed matters most if you’re backing up large volumes of data and/or doing so frequently. For occasional or scheduled backups, a SATA-based SSD with USB 3.0 is often sufficient.
Capacity needs vary, but 500GB to 1TB is usually plenty for most home users. Prioritize drives that include backup software or OS-level integration to automate the process and make restoring files easy, if something goes wrong.
If you’re constantly switching between school, work, and home, or you’re just working from everywhere, then versatility is key. Your external SSD should be lightweight, durable, affordable, and compatible with a wide range of devices.
Opt for USB-C or USB 3.2 Gen 1 connections to strike a balance between speed and broad compatibility across laptops, tablets, and desktops. Thunderbolt drives are faster but pricier, and often unnecessary for general-purpose use.
Capacity-wise, 500GB is a solid starting point, but if you’re storing videos, large project files, or virtual machines, consider 1TB. And since you’re likely to carry it daily, select a slim, pocket-friendly drive that can survive minor wear and tear.
To keep your external SSD running smoothly and extend its lifespan, a little bit of care goes a long way. These practical tips will help you protect your investment and get the most reliable performance over time:
By following these tips, you can help preserve your external SSD’s performance, reliability, and data integrity for years to come.
Investing in an external SSD is a smart way to boost your storage, enhance performance, and protect your data. With options for every use case and budget, Seagate has a solution for you.
With sleek, portable designs and ample storage capacities, Seagate external SSDs are perfect for taking your files, games, and projects anywhere.
**Promotion terms and conditions available at https://www.seagate.com/legal/sales-and-promotion/15-off-bundle-promo/
