Choose an external HDD if you need lots of backup space for less money; choose an external SSD if portability and faster transfers matter more. Neither is a complete backup plan by itself: keep multiple copies, with at least one stored separately from your computer.
HDD or SSD: the quick decision
- Choose an external HDD for a large backup set, mostly stationary use, and a budget-conscious purchase. Seagate’s 2013 comparison describes HDDs as the lower-cost-per-gigabyte option, but that is a broad trade-off, not a current price survey. Check current prices and capacities before buying.
- Choose an external SSD if you carry the drive, move large files often, or want faster transfers. An SSD has no spinning platters, but it is still a device that can be damaged, lost, or fail.
If you are backing up a computer that stays at home and capacity is the priority, an HDD is usually the practical starting point. If you travel with your backup or regularly restore large files, an SSD may be worth the extra cost. The drive’s model, cable, USB port, and computer all affect transfer performance.
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How the two drive types compare for backups
| What matters | External HDD | External SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity and cost | Typically the capacity-focused, lower-cost-per-gigabyte choice in Seagate’s 2013 comparison; current prices vary by model and market. | Higher-capacity SSDs cost more per gigabyte in the same 2013 comparison; check current pricing rather than relying on an old ratio. |
| Transfer speed | Suitable for many routine backup jobs, though speed varies by model and interface. | Can transfer files faster. Seagate’s 2019 Expansion SSD datasheet lists speeds of up to 400 MB/s for that product family; this is a manufacturer-stated ceiling, not a guarantee for every SSD or setup. |
| Portability and handling | Contains moving mechanical parts, so avoid drops and jolts, especially while it is operating. | Solid-state storage has no spinning platters and is often a convenient compact choice for travel, but it is not indestructible. |
| Lifespan and reliability | Mechanical wear and physical damage can cause failure. | The available sources do not establish that current external SSDs last longer or fail less often than HDDs in typical use. |
| Best fit | Large, mostly stationary backups where capacity and budget lead. | Portable backups, frequent transfers, or situations where speed and compactness matter. |
A backup needs more than one drive
A second copy on an external drive helps if the computer’s internal storage fails, but it does not protect against every loss. If the computer and backup drive are stolen, damaged in the same incident, or affected by a fire, both copies may be gone. Seagate describes the 3-2-1 approach as keeping three copies including the original, on two types of media, with one copy off-site or remote. Western Digital also advises keeping data in at least two separate places. See Seagate’s backup guidance and Western Digital’s storage guidance.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →For a simple home setup, use the external drive as one backup copy and keep another copy somewhere separate, such as a different location or a remote backup service. A drive kept beside the computer is useful, but it is not an off-site copy. RAID may help with some hardware failures, but Seagate notes that RAID alone is not a self-contained backup.
#1 Best Overall
- Get NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds in a portable, high-capacity drive(1) (Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device & other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance mean this tough drive can take a beating(3) (Previously rated for 2-meter drop protection and IP55 rating. Now qualified for the higher, stated specs.)
- Use the handy carabiner loop to secure it to your belt loop or backpack for extra peace of mind.
- Help keep private content private with the included password protection featuring 256‐bit AES hardware encryption.(3)
- Easily manage files and automatically free up space with the SanDisk Memory Zone app.(5). Non-Operating Temperature -20°C to 85°C
Check compatibility before formatting
Confirm that the drive connects to your computer and works with the backup software you plan to use. Formatting choices also matter if you move the drive between Windows and macOS. Western Digital says NTFS is read/write on Windows but read-only on macOS, HFS+ is for macOS, and exFAT works on both platforms. Compatibility can depend on the current operating system and the drive, so check the manufacturer’s and OS vendor’s current instructions. Formatting can erase data; do not format a drive containing files you need to keep. See Western Digital’s external-drive troubleshooting guidance.
For example, Seagate’s 2019 Expansion SSD datasheet says reformatting may be needed to use that product with Time Machine. That is product-specific guidance, not a rule for every external SSD; check the instructions for the model you choose.
Rank #2
- Solid state performance with up to 800MB/s read speeds in a portable drive. (Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device, interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
- Back up your content and memories on a storage solution that fits seamlessly into your mobile lifestyle.
- Take it with you on your adventures—up to two-meter drop protection means this durable drive can take a beating. (Based on internal testing.)
- Secure it to your belt loop or backpack for extra peace of mind thanks to the tough rubber hook.
- From Sandisk, a brand professional photographers trust to take on assignments.
Set up a backup you can actually restore
- Choose capacity with room to grow. Estimate how much data you need to protect now and allow for future files. An HDD is often the more economical option when the backup set is large.
- Confirm connections and compatibility. Check the drive’s connector and interface against your computer, then verify filesystem and backup-software support for your operating system.
- Configure scheduled backups. Use your operating system’s backup feature or compatible backup software, and set a schedule that matches how often your files change.
- Test a restore. Retrieve a few files from the backup so you know the process works; a drive that has never been tested is an unverified copy.
- Keep another copy separately. Use a second drive or remote copy, and store at least one copy away from the computer.
- Handle and store the drive carefully. Western Digital recommends protecting stored drives from jostling, moisture, static, and extreme temperatures, and keeping them in a cool, dry place. If a drive reports errors, do not rely on it as your only backup.
Does an external SSD last longer than an HDD?
There is no reliable winner established by the cited sources for the lifespan of current external models in everyday use. HDDs have mechanical parts that can wear or be damaged by impact; SSDs avoid spinning platters and are generally more resistant to shock. Those design differences do not prove a particular drive will last longer. Keep another copy, monitor for errors, and replace a drive that becomes unreliable.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Easily store and access 5TB of content on the go with the Seagate portable drive, a USB external hard Drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Rank #4
- NEARLY 2X FASTER THAN OUR PREVIOUS GENERATION(8) – move 1,000 high-res photos in under 60 seconds(6) with up to 2000MB/s transfer speeds(2).
- IP65 RATING AND UP TO 3M DROP PROTECTION(3) – protects against spills and drops.
- POCKET-SIZED – fits easily in pockets and small bags.
- SPACE TO OWN YOUR AI CONTENT – speed and capacity to download your high-res clips and photo edits.
- 256-BIT AES ENCRYPTION(4) – helps keep private files secure with password protection.
Rank #3
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
