Top 10 Best External Hard Drives for Laptops
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It really sucks when your laptop slows down to the point it no longer does basic things.
You probably need to get yourself one of the many external hard drives for laptops that are available on the market today.
We’ve compiled the top ten best external hard drives for laptops reviews for your convenience.
By reviewing our list, you can make an informed choice and buy the best external hard drive for your needs.
Top 10 Best External Hard Drives for Laptops Reviewed in this Buying Guide
WD 2TB Elements HDD External Hard Drive for Laptops
Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB External Hard Drive for Laptops
Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive for Laptops
Maxone 500GB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive for Laptops
Generic 640GB 2.5 Inch Portable External Hard Drive for Laptops
Maxone Portable 500GB External Hard Drive for Laptops
MegaZ Backup Slim Portable External Hard Drive for Laptops
Top 10 Best External Hard Drives for Laptops List
1. WD 2TB Elements HDD External Hard Drive for Laptops
This Western Digital (WD) Elements portable hard drive will give you reliable, big-capacity 2TB storage. In addition, you will get fast data transfer rates and the universal ability to connect with USB 3.0 or USB 2.0 entities to back up your file, video, and photos on the go.
Improve PC Performance
One massive benefit of this external hard drive is that you will see improved computer performance. Whenever your computer’s internal hard drive is nearly full, your computer will slow down. Now you don’t have to delete files that you want to keep.
You can free up space on that internal hard drive on your computer by transferring those files to your new WD Elements portable hard drive and watching your laptop come to life again.
Plug-and-Play for Windows Laptops
You can connect this portable external hard drive to your laptop for an immediate upgrade in your storage. WD Elements is perfect for carrying your critical files with you anywhere you go.
This portable hard drive offers you high-capacity storage in a compact unit. Its lightweight construction and design provide 2TB capacity. This means you won’t have to delete all those precious photos and videos to make room on your hard drive.
It has a 2-year limited warranty and is formatted for Windows 10, 8.1, and 7.1. And it is compatible with Mac and other operating systems when reformatted.
2. Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB External Hard Drive for Laptops
With this Toshiba Canvio Basics portable hard drive, you store and save your videos, photos, and files rather than deleting them. It has a sleek design in a compact case with 2TB of storage. The Toshiba Canvio Basics will make storing these files much easier and more convenient.
Quick and Simple Storage
With this portable hard drive, you can quickly increase the storage capacity of your laptop and other compatible devices. And with its 2TB storage capacity, you will finally be able to store your growing number of files and media.
Amazingly Easy to Use
What you will discover with this amazing portable hard drive is that it offers you one of the easiest and quickest ways to add instant storage to your laptop. It is a simple plug-and-play solution for lack of the storage on your laptop. It comes ready to use with your laptop and requires no software installation.
Drag and Drop
You only have to drag and drop your photos, videos, and files to your new Toshiba Canvio Basics external hard drive straight out of the box. It’s very intuitive to move files from your laptop.
You can now take your files with you wherever you go.
3. Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive for Laptops
The Seagate Portable Drive is the perfect choice for anyone looking to expand the storage of their laptop or create a backup of their essential data. This reliable external hard drive is simple and easy to use, compatible with Windows and Mac devices, requires no software installation, and has up to 2TB of storage.
That’s enough storage space for hundreds of photos, songs, HD movies, and more! Its slim design makes it lightweight and highly portable to take it anywhere.
All you have to do is attach the included USB 3.0 cable to your device, and your computer will recognize the drive immediately, allowing you to drag and drop data immediately! By buying this product, you can be sure that all your important files will remain safe even while on the go.
This fantastic external hard drive makes it easy to store your files because it is always spacious. You can back up yesterday’s memories and today’s documents, even on the go. Seagate Portable makes it possible thanks to the plug-and-play simplicity of USB 3.0 and drag-and-drop functionality.
It has everything you need, including an 18-inch (45.72cm) USB 3.0 cable and a quick start guide.
4. Maxone 500GB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive for Laptops
The Maxone 500GB external hard drive is the perfect solution for users needing reliable, lightweight, and durable data storage. It features a sleek and slim design that fits neatly into any laptop bag or backpack, making it ideal for easy transport.
The metal construction ensures maximum durability and makes it resistant to scratches, dust, and fingerprints. In addition, this hard drive has advanced internal shock-protection technology, allowing it to sustain bumps and drops without compromising its integrity or data safety.
With its USB 3.0 interface, you can transfer data up to 4TB of storage capacity at lightning speeds. The hard drive also comes with intuitive backup software that helps manage your data with ease.
There is also built-in 256-bit encryption that offers a secure shield against unauthorized access of your files. Furthermore, this sleek external hard drive is designed with low power consumption for energy efficiency during operation for extended periods of time with no overheating concerns whatsoever.
USB 3.0 technology upgrades USB 2.0, allowing for a much faster data transmission rate. Compared to the 480 Mega bit/s transfer rate of USB 2.0, USB 3.0 has a 5 Giga bit/s transfer rate – making it ten times faster than the previous version.
This offers improved performance capabilities when transferring data from a hard drive or Flash drive to your laptop or computer. Additionally, USB 3.0 is backward compatible with USB 2.0 devices, so you can use both versions simultaneously without any issues or compatibility errors.
Furthermore, USB 3.0 provides better power efficiency and does not require an external power source for most devices – making it perfect for laptops and other portable devices that don’t have access to an AC outlet or extra ports for power supplies.
5. SP Silicon Power 2TB Portable External Hard Drive for Laptops
The Armor A60 external hard drive offers users a great way to increase their storage space for all their favorite games. Not only does it connect easily to either an Xbox or PlayStation 4 console, but the setup process is simple, taking just a few minutes.
The A60 also features military-grade shockproof and water-resistant features, including an ultrarugged rubber casing, an internal suspension system, an anti-slip and anti-scratch surface, and a cable carry design for added security and protection of your data.
It also offers fast transfer speeds, supporting USB 3.1 Gen 1 (formerly USB 3.0) up to 5Gbps!
For added assurance, this drive is backed by a three-year warranty that covers complete services and technical support, so you can be sure your data will be safe in the hands of the A60. Windows users can use it immediately as it comes preformatted as NTFS; however, Mac users will need to reformat it for Mac OS use before using it.
6. UnionSine 500GB 2.5” Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive for Laptops
The UnionSine external hard drive is a reliable, highperformance storage device that can store essential documents and files. It features a USB 3.0 thickened copper core cable that significantly increases data transfer speed from your computer to the hard drive.
Its impeccably designed exterior provides an optimal user experience with a sleek and modern look. The USB 3.0 connection lets you link multiple devices, making data sharing quick and easy.
The hard drive is optimized for use with both Windows and Mac operating systems, so no matter what type of computer you have, the UnionSine external hard drive will provide fast and efficient storage solutions.
Protect your data
The UnionSine HD-006 mainframe is designed to ensure a secure, stable, and reliable computing environment. Its aluminum foil shield helps protect it from electromagnetic interference while allowing heat to escape.
This ensures the unit does not overheat and cause instability or system crashes. To further bolster its reliability and stability, the mainframe has been equipped with the JMicron 578 solution – renowned for its Microsoft Trim technology capabilities.
This Trim technology reduces unnecessary data usage, improving system efficiency and performance. Additionally, a transparent shielding layer has been added to the mainframe frame to completely avoid any current disturbances during operation, providing maximum protection against interference and unexpected shutdowns.
These features make the UnionSine HD-006 mainframe a highly reliable and dependable computing platform.
Upgraded Cable
The UnionSine HD-006 cable is an improved version of its predecessor, offering enhanced protection against outside interference and improved data transmission.
For this purpose, the cable features a specialized layer of anti-interference that blocks out electromagnetic wave information, such as mobile phone signals, which could otherwise compromise the steadiness of data transmission. The double cost of manufacture is worth it for this extra protection and guarantees more reliable conduction and transmission of data.
7. Generic 2TB External Hard Drive for Laptops
This Generic 2TB external hard drive comes with a USB 3.0 connection, three times faster than the USB 2.0 connection you may be used to. It also supports all major operating systems, including Windows and Mac OSX, so it can easily be connected to any computer or laptop.
Furthermore, it has a plug-and-play design so no installation is required – connect the device to your computer, and it’s ready to go. With its large 2TB capacity, you will have plenty of space for backing up your essential data, such as photos, videos, music, and other documents.
The hard drive is designed with shock-resistant technology, so it’s ideal for people on the move –this means your data is safe even if your laptop or desktop experiences physical shocks when traveling. The case is also made from highquality materials, making it both durable and long-lasting.
This unit is a high-speed external hard drive. It is compatible with USB C 3.1 and has super high transmission rates that are even faster than what your ordinary hard drive can reach. This will drastically enhance your transfer speed.
This nifty portable hard drive for your laptop is pretty much plug-and-play. When you remove it from the box, you will immediately have 2TB of additional storage capacity. And there is no additional power supply or installation of software required.
You will also discover that this external hard drive works perfectly with Windows, laptops, Playstation, PC, Mac, Desktop, Chromebook, MacBook, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and even more devices. It also comes with a USB 3.1 Cable and a 12 months Customer Warranty.
8. Generic 640GB 2.5 Inch Portable External Hard Drive for Laptops
This Generic 640GB external hard drive features a USB 3.0 connection, enabling three times faster speeds than the traditional USB 2.0 connection. It’s compatible with all major operating systems: Windows and Mac OSX, thus rapidly connecting to any computer or laptop.
No setup is necessary, plug this device into your computer, and it’s ready to use. Its massive 640GB capacity can store vital information, including photographs, footage, songs, and more.
Designed with shock-resistant technology, the hard drive is perfect for travelers – data security is guaranteed even if your computer receives physical impacts during transportation. Crafted from superior material, the case will remain resilient and long-lasting.
This amazing external hard drive operates at high speeds. It is capable of USB C 3.1 compatibility, granting it access to astonishing transmission rates that surpass those of the traditional hard drive. With this device, you are guaranteed to experience a dramatic increase in the transfer rate.
This handy, lightweight hard drive for your laptop is effortless to use. Upon unboxing, you will find 640GB of increased storage capacity, with no need for an additional power supply or software installation.
This hard drive functions flawlessly with various gadgets, including Windows, laptops, PCs, Macs, Desktops, Chromebooks, MacBooks, Xbox One, and Xbox 360. It comes with a USB 3.1 Cable and 12 months of Customer Warranty assurance.
9. Maxone Portable 500GB External Hard Drive for Laptops
The Maxone Portable 500GB external hard drive for laptops provides the ultimate plug-and-play high-speed connection to your PC without needing a power supply. It comes with a very slim design that fits into the palm of your hand and is available in black or blue.
It comes with either high-speed USB 3.0 or 2.0 connectivity options. Using the USB 3.0 option, you can get a super-fast transmission rate that is ten times faster than USB 2.0. It can be used for your PS4 if it is reformatted.
Usage Advice
When using this device with your PS4, you can save your game data and play music, movies, and much more directly from your new hard drive. (NOTE: You can install PS4 games as it is not allowed).
It provides a perfect storage solution for your Xbox one. You only need to plug it in, and you will have immediate extra storage and be able to install these games straight to this external hard drive.
This is an amazingly great solution for file storage problems on your laptop. When you plug this drive into your laptop, it will immediately operate faster as you transfer your files to this portable hard drive.
10. MegaZ Backup Slim Portable External Hard Drive for Laptops
This MegaZ Slim Portable External Hard Drive for Laptops is entirely compatible with Microsoft Windows, Mac, PS4, and Xbox One with no requirement for reformatting.
The most recent model comes equipped with a USB 3.0 connection, which means this portable hard drive allows you to back up massive amounts of data within seconds. It delivers data super-fast with a lightning-fast transfer speed.
Using this external hard drive will significantly improve the performance of your laptop. As you move your files from your PC to your hard drive, your computer will operate much faster.
This unit works great with your laptop, PC, and Mac. This external hard drive comes ready without needing an external power supply or installing software.
It has an amazingly slim, compact design (11.5 X 8 X 1 cm). It is a lightweight external hard drive protected by a robust and compact case, which fits comfortably in your palm.
The unit has a 19-inch USB 3.0 hard drive cable, a user manual, and a 3-Year friendly manufacturer warranty.
External Hard Drives for Laptops Buying Guide
What are External Hard Drives for Laptops?
External hard drives for laptops offer a convenient and reliable way to back up important data. They are compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport and store. External hard drives use USB ports to connect to your laptop and can be used to store documents, photos, music, and videos quickly and securely.
They also enable users to access their files from any device in any location with an internet connection. With large-capacity drives available, users can store a huge amount of data without worrying about running out of space. External hard drives for laptops offer a simple and efficient way to keep your important data safe, so you can rest assured that your digital life is backed up.
How do External Hard Drives for Laptops Work?
External hard drives are storage devices that contain hard disks and support data transfer between a computer and other digital devices. They offer a convenient way to securely store large amounts of data, protecting it from being corrupted or lost due to power outages. The hard disks are usually connected to the computer via USB or Thunderbolt ports and use a variety of algorithms to encrypt and store the data they contain.
To access the data stored on an external hard drive, users must first connect it to the computer, install the appropriate drivers, and mount the hard drive. Once done, the user can browse, edit, and transfer the data stored on the external hard drive. External hard drives also offer users an easy way to back up important files, allowing them to save a local copy of their work and data in case of accidental deletion or system failure.
What is the Best External Hard Drive for Laptops?
Our choice among these top 10 great external hard drives for laptops is the Western Digital (WD) Elements portable hard drive. We like that it has a huge 2TB capacity, and it comes ready to go – all you need do is plug it in and start using it.
We recommend you use this external hard drive with a USB 3.0 cable to take advantage of its unbelievable super-fast data transmission speed.
Let me tell you that having this kind of speed is a game changer when it comes to moving files around from hard drive to laptop.
What we like is how it improves the performance of your computer when you start moving your files over to your new Western Digital (WD) Elements portable hard drive. This fact alone is worth the price of the portable hard drive.
And you can’t ignore how well it has performed with its customers. Listen to what some of them are publicly saying:
“It can be ready to go straight from the box for probably 95% of users. For the other 5% of users, you may need to configure it to be able to be used by both Mac and PC. There are plenty of tutorials out there on setting that up, but for a complete beginner I believe you can get it done within 10 minutes easy!”
“Completely plug and play. There are no instructions that come with it, but after you attach it to your computer, some helpful information comes up. On the drive are two programs to install it on either Windows or Mac. I have Windows 11 installed on my laptop. I simply clicked on the Windows installation file, and everything was done.”
“I rarely buy anything except WD drives now for external storage — they are just reliable, fast, & overall rugged drives.”
“My laptop is failing so I bought this to transfer all my documents, pictures, videos and music. I have just over 4 TB of stuff on my laptop and I transferred the whole out in one fell swoop. The entire lot took 6 hours which I thought was very good.”
“Great value for the awesome amount of storage space! Easy to setup, connect, and install downloads. Will take a bit to fill, but will definitely get another one when the time comes.”
Types of External Hard Drives for Laptops
External hard drives are small, portable devices that allow users to store and access large amounts of data quickly and easily. They come in various types, such as solid-state drives (SSDs) and traditional spinning hard drives (HDs).
SSDs are faster than traditional HDs, but often more expensive. HDs are less expensive but slower and more prone to failure.
There are also USB flash drives and optical discs for those needing additional storage solutions. Flash drives are convenient and popular, while optical discs are great for archiving data long-term.
External hard drives can back up essential data or store extensive media collections such as music, photos, and videos. External hard drives provide the ideal solution, whether you need additional space or reliable data storage means.
Features to Look for in External Hard Drives for Laptops
There are several features to consider when looking for an external hard drive. First and foremost, the storage capacity. Larger capacity drives are often more expensive but provide more room to store your files. Durability is also a must.
Look for a shock-resistant and waterproof drive, protecting it in the event of accidental drops or spills. Speed is essential, too – look for drives with fast transfer speeds so you can quickly move or access your data. Consider how you will connect the drive – USB 2.0, USB 3.0, or Thunderbolt connections all provide different speeds and require different ports on your computer.
Additionally, look for a drive with encryption capabilities to ensure your data is secure from unwanted access. Finally, looking for drives with intuitive software is also helpful to help manage, back up, or transfer your files. With these features in mind, you should be able to find the perfect external hard drive for your needs.
Enjoy Your New External Hard Drive for Laptop
We hope that you have benefited from reading over these top ten best external hard drives for laptops reviews.
Regardless of which hard drive you decide to get, I am sure you will immensely enjoy your new external hard drive for your laptop. Any of these devices would be a wonderful choice.
You’ll see a massive difference in how quickly your laptop runs after attaching one of these devices.
If you haven’t decided yet, feel free to look over these best external hard drives for laptops reviews as much as you desire.
