Features of using an external hard drive: 6 pros and 3 cons

Rating of the TOP 15 best external hard drives

Transcend StoreJet 25H3

Transcend StoreJet 25H3 external hard drives have a rubberized casing that can withstand shock loads. There are 500GB, 1TB and 2TB models available in blue or purple-black.

The length of the USB cable is 45 centimeters.

A distinctive feature of the drive is the presence of a quick reconnection button, which allows you to use a securely remote USB drive without disconnecting from the port and reconnecting it.

The overall dimensions of the 500 GB and 1 TB models are 131.8 x 80.8 x 19 millimeters and weigh 216 grams. The 2 TB version has a thickness of 24.5 millimeters and a weight of 284 grams.

What to look for when choosing an external hard drive?

To choose the right external hard drive, it is very important to study the basic technical characteristics.

These include:

• Memory . The most optimal is from 1 to 4 TB. The more memory, the more expensive the device.
• Connection interface . There are quite a lot of standards, but experts recommend paying attention to a device with a USB 3.0 interface, since it can be connected to almost all modern devices.
• Power unit . Disks that come with this device work much faster and are much more stable.
• Form factor . The most popular type of disk currently is 2.5 inches. It can be connected to both a laptop and a computer. There is enough power for full PC operation.
• Protection . Its presence significantly increases the service life of the disk and reliably protects it from mechanical damage.

Additionally, it is important to check user reviews before purchasing an external hard drive.

Western Digital Elements

The Western Digital Elements external hard drive case is made of glossy plastic and is designed for vertical installation. On sale you can find drives with capacities of 2 TB, 3 TB, 4 TB and 5 TB.

To connect the drive, a USB cable 126 centimeters long is used.

To power the drive, a DC power adapter with a voltage of 12 V and a maximum current consumption of 1.5 A is used.

The overall dimensions of the disk are 135x48x165.8, and the weight is 910 grams.

Review of the best models in terms of reliability and quality

This category contains the best models of external drives, which are distinguished by high quality, reliability, durability and at the same time have an affordable price.

Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 1 TB

A reliable portable drive in a durable shockproof case with 1 TB of memory will allow you to store a large number of different files of any size on your computer.

Compact dimensions allow it to be used even for very small devices.

The 2.5-inch form factor makes the drive universal. The USB 3.0 Type A interface makes it possible to download a large amount of information in a fairly short time.

The absence of the need for external power greatly simplifies the operation of the device.

Specifications:

• memory – 1 TB;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• complete set - USB cable.

pros

• large amount of memory;
• high speed;
• does not heat up;
• does not make noise;
• compact.

Minuses

• not detected.

Toshiba Canvio Basics (new) 2 TB

The compact model in a black case allows you to store a large amount of information, including quite resource-intensive games.

USB 3.0 Type A interface for fast transfer and interaction. Light weight and light weight makes it easy to transport.

Innovative technology reliably protects the device from overheating even during prolonged use.

The absence of the need for additional power makes using the device very comfortable.

Specifications:

• memory – 2 TB;
• rotation – 5400 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• complete set - USB cable.

pros

• silent;
• compact;
• excellent interface bandwidth;
• does not heat up;
• stable work.

Minuses

• not detected.

Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 2 TB

This practical model in a durable shockproof case is reliable and durable.

High rotation speed allows you to do without additional power sources. A large memory capacity of 2 TB will allow you to store even very resource-intensive files.

Synchronization with the Windows operating system makes it possible to use the disk without the need for additional programs.

The presence of an economy mode will allow you to significantly save on energy consumption.

Specifications:

• memory – 2 TB;
• rotation – 5400 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• complete set - USB cable.

pros

• there is a sleep mode;
• high write and read speed;
• large amount of memory;
• low cost;
• no noise.

Minuses

• not detected.

Well-proven external hard drives.

Seagate STDR4000200.

Seagate has been a global leader in storage solutions for nearly 40 years.

The model is attractive, first of all, for its compact shape and large capacity. 4 TB is enough for data storage and backup. It is difficult to find a drive with such a 2.5” form factor on sale. The previous version of Seagate 4TB Backup Plus Slim with the same capacity contains two 2 TB drives. The speed of such a disk due to RAID will of course be higher, but in the case of RAID 0 the reliability will be reduced (if both disks fail).

Connection via USB 3.0 port Included with the drive is a CD with the Seagate Dashboard copying program. The presence of an NTFS driver allows you to work with two operating systems: Microsoft and MacOS (for Macintosh computers).

Advantages:

• Large volume;
• Easy to use software;
• Compact shape;
• Connection via USB 3.0 port.

Flaws:

• High price.

Average price: 9000 rubles.

Seagate Expansion 1 TB

The line of disks in this series is represented by the STEA1000400 model, which has five modifications in capacities from 500 GB to 4 TB. Connection via USB 2.0 and 3.0 is possible. The same port is also used to receive power. Write/read speed – 129/121 MB/sec. Formatted to work with Microsoft.

Advantages:

• High speed;
• Connection via USB0 and USB 3.0;
• Small price.

Flaws:

• To work with a Mac, you need to reformat it (the factory setting assumes NTFS formatted for Microsoft);
• Only black color.

Price from 3700 to 7600 rubles, the cost must be clarified at the sales centers.

Video review and unpacking of the product:

Seagate STC500202 – 500 GB disk, compact, lightweight. The metal body has rough edges that prevent it from slipping on the surface. The USB 3.0 connection interface provides good speed - 600 Mb/s.

The software automatically downloads photos from social networks and saves them on storage media. Data backup is easy to set up.

Advantages:

• Compact, silent;
• Convenient software.

Flaws:

• Short cable.

Cost about 4000 rubles.

Western Digital My Passport 4 TB.

This disk is suitable for large amounts of information. There is also a USB 3.0 connection and support for USB 2.0. Using the included software, you can set up backups according to your schedule and set a password for protection. In case the disk is lost, it is possible to add a message “return if found” when requesting a password.

Advantages:

• Large volume;
• Automatic copying;
• Password protection;
• USB 2.0 support;
• Stylish body in several colors;
• Three year warranty.

Flaws:

• There may be slight vibration during operation.

Disc contents - in the video:

If you need to use a disk for frequent transportation, then this model is designed just for this purpose. The case is rubber, anti-slip, impact protection is made according to military standards. The connectors are not closed, so they are not protected from water.

Has a high-tech hard drive suspension mechanism. On the case there is a button to remotely turn off the disk (without disconnecting from the port). Also, using a button on the case, automatic data copying is provided.

USB 3.0 and 2.0 interface support Average read speed 32 MB/sec.

Advantages:

• High security of the case;
• Two interfaces;
• Automatic copying via a button on the body.

Flaws:

• The connectors quickly become loose.

Average price: 7000 rubles.

ADATA DashDrive Durable HD710 2TB.

This is also a drive made to the military standard IPX7, which has a high degree of shock protection. When the connector is hermetically sealed, it can be immersed in water to a meter depth for 60 minutes. This is achieved thanks to a silicone body covered with a thick rubber layer. The hard drive shows a speed of 76.5 MB/sec. USB 3.0 has a bandwidth of 5 Gb/s. Disk capacity 2 TB.

Advantages:

• Enhanced case protection;
• The interface cable is attached to the housing.

Flaws:

• The software must be downloaded via the Internet.

Average price: 7000 rubles.

Western Digital My Passport 2 TB.

Western Digital is a well-known American company that has been producing hard drives since 1988. The Western Digital My Passport 2 TB external drive has speeds of up to 85 MB/sec. The USB 3.0 interface is supported and works through a 2.0 port.

Software for creating an automatic copy is included with the drive.

Advantages:

• Reliable manufacturer;
• Sufficient volume at good speed.

Flaws:

• There are visible scratch marks on the body;
• Short cable.

About 5000 rub.

Professional video review of the device:

Canvio Basics 1TB is a budget option with a modest design that does not have any unnecessary elements - just a port and an LED status indicator. On the bottom of the case there are rubber pads that allow you to conveniently place the disc on the surface. Disk space 1 TB, USB 3.0 compatible with USB 2.0 Transfer speed 5 Gb/sec, slight vibration or noise is felt during operation.

Advantages:

• Compactness;
• Affordable price.

Flaws:

• Short cable;
• Slight vibration and noise.

Average price: 4000 rubles.

Silicon Power Armor A30 1TB.

Silicon Power Armor A30 1TB is a portable type of external storage media. The stylish orange-black body is made of plastic and rubber. The cable can be secured around the device. The disc is characterized by good writing/reading speed, absence of extraneous sounds and vibration. The disk does not heat up during prolonged operation.

The disc has a warranty period of 3 years; to receive it you need to register on the official website.

Advantages:

• Unusual stylish design;
• No noise or vibration at good speed;
• 3 year warranty.

Flaws:

• Short cable;
• Not all devices recognize the disc.

Average price: 5000 rubles.

Video review of the device:

This is a stylish small external drive. The reliable case is made of composite plastic with rubber inserts and has a light weight of 201 g and dimensions of 121x81x21 mm. Even if dropped, the disc is not damaged. Thanks to its small size, the disc can easily fit in your pocket

This model is available in volumes: 500 MB, 1 and 2 TB. Test speed is 116 MB/sec when reading and 112 MB/sec when writing. The disk operates silently and is quickly recognized.

Advantages:

• Compact, stylish in several colors;
• Durable housing;
• Quiet operation;
• Quickly recognized.

Flaws:

• Weak connector, loosens over time;
• Small cable.

Average price: 5000 rubles.

Toshiba Canvio Connect II 1TB

Reliable, compact external storage device. It is distinguished by the presence of two high-quality software utilities in the kit. The disk is available in volumes: 500 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB, 3 TB and colors: black, blue, red, white and white-pink. The drive provides operation via USB 3.0 and USB 2.0, the speed corresponds to the ports.

The set includes two powerful copying programs: NTI Backup Now EZ and Pogoplug PC, which allows you to remotely access files through a mobile device using a utility. You can buy Pogoplug PC on the manufacturer's website for $30. Owners of this disk model receive an additional 10GB of cloud storage using this utility (more information about increasing the volume can be found on the website). When passing through a USB 3.0 port, the write speed is 100MB/sec, reading speed is 98MB/sec.

Advantages:

• An easy way to access information on a disk from anywhere via the Internet;
• Automatic, reliable copy program;
• Low cost.

Flaws:

• Not identified.

Price from 3,000 to 8,000 rubles depending on volume.

Professional review of the hard drive - in the video:

This is a budget option from a popular manufacturer. The case has an LED indicator of the operating status, as well as rubber “feet” that hold the disk on the surface. The USB 3.0 port interface is also adapted for USB 2.0

The Canvio Basics model is available in five volume options: 500 GB, 750 GB, 1 TB, 1.5 TB, 2 TB. Warranty from 1 to 3 years. There is no software included, which is a minus. Nevertheless, TOSHIBA disks are attractive primarily for their reliability.

When purchasing a drive, you need to know that when replacing the cable, only the original one will do. The kit does not include a case, which may be needed during transportation.

Advantages:

• Good value for money;
• The presence of small rubber pads on the body.

Flaws:

• Light vibration during operation;
• Short cable.

Average price: 3500 rubles.

Product video review:

Review of 1 TB models

External drives with a memory capacity of 1 TB allow you to store a fairly large amount of information. However, its quantity does not affect the speed of reading and writing.

This category contains the best models with high technical characteristics.

Western Digital WD Elements Portable 1TB

An elegant model that can become both a main and an additional source of memory.

Impressive capacity, a wide range of connection methods and high read and write speeds provide maximum operating comfort.

The innovative USB 3.0 interface makes the drive compatible with almost all devices, including USB 2.0.

The shock-resistant case reliably protects the mechanism from damage when dropped or hit.

Specifications:

• memory – 1 TB;
• rotation – 5400 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• complete set - USB cable.

pros

• easy;
• ease of connection;
• reliability;
• compact;
• voluminous memory.

Minuses

• not detected.

Toshiba Canvio Ready 1TB

The small-sized model is reliable and durable. Bandwidth reaches 5 Gbps thanks to the USB version 3.0 interface.

Compact dimensions and light weight make transporting the drive as comfortable as possible.

The durable plastic case reliably protects the device from mechanical damage.

The impressive amount of memory allows you to store a fairly large number of files, even very large ones.

Specifications:

• memory – 1 TB;
• rotation – 5400 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• complete set - USB cable.

pros

• does not heat up;
• there are rubberized legs;
• high write and read speed;
• does not make noise during operation;
• nice design.

Minuses

• easily soiled body.

Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 1TB

One of the brand's best models from the Expansion series is lightweight and compact in size. This allows you to use the drive not only at home, but also take it with you when traveling.

The 2.5-inch form factor and large memory capacity ensure uninterrupted, stable operation of the device.

The USB 3.0 interface and high rotation speed make the device economical and makes it possible to use the drive without additional power sources.

Synchronization with the Windows operating system allows you to install the drive without using additional programs.

Specifications:

• memory – 1 TB;
• rotation – 5400 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• Contents: USB cable, CD with software.

pros

• excellent quality;
• good assembly;
• high read and write speed;
• large amount of memory;
• compactness.

Minuses

• short USB cable.

What to consider when choosing

To choose the right external hard drive, you need to consider a number of criteria.

1. Capacity is how much data it can store. Today you can find models from 80 GB to 14 TB. The optimal option for storing home media files is 1-3 TB.
2. Type. There are two types of external hard drives: HDD and SSD. The first is drives that use mechanical parts in their design. Most of all, their design resembles the operation of a vinyl player. These are inexpensive models, but their performance and reliability are not the best. SSD – solid state models. They have no mechanical parts, which means they are practically not afraid of falls, impacts and shaking. In addition, they are characterized by higher operating speed, but are also significantly more expensive.
3. Size. There are 2.5 and 3.5 inch HDD drives. The first option is more compact - it is a mobile option that does not require external power. However, such drives have capacity limitations. 3.5 inches are quite large models, can reach a maximum capacity of 16 TB and often require power from the network. SSD models are even smaller, usually 1.8 inches in size.
4. Interface. Affects work speed. Of course, it is better to buy models with Type-C and USB1 connection speed in 2020, but they are expensive and not very common. Therefore, you can choose USB 3.0 and standard USB-A. The least successful solution would be to buy USB 2.0. There are also options with Wi-Fi connection, but their price tag is close to prohibitive.
5. Data read/write speed is a parameter that depends on the connection interface, disk type, and for HDD models, spindle rotation speed. If you plan to use the external drive as a stationary one (that is, it will be constantly connected to the PC), then you should choose a model with higher performance. It is worth noting that most drives with a relatively equal price tag do not differ in speed.

The last important selection criterion is the manufacturer. There are many brands in the market, but the best external hard drive brands in 2020 are:

• Seagate;
• Toshiba;
• Western Digital.

Important! These three are the leaders, but also worthy models are produced by Samsung, Transcend, Kingston, and SanDisk.

Review of 2 TB models

This category contains external hard drives with a memory capacity of 2 TB, which allows them to be used both in the office and at home. At the same time, they are distinguished by reliability, durability and high data transfer speed.

Transcend StoreJet 25M3 2TB

A stylish model with a three-stage degree of protection against mechanical damage is characterized by the longest service life and reliability.

A fairly large memory allows you to store any amount of information on disk.

Proprietary software will make installing the drive very simple and convenient. The built-in radiator protects the device from overheating even during long-term operation.

The thin body and light weight allows you to take it with you when traveling.

Specifications:

• memory – 2 TB;
• rotation – 5400 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• Includes: USB cable, shock protection.

pros

• high write and read speed;
• does not make noise;
• does not heat up;
• very durable body;
• fast synchronization with PC.

Minuses

• not detected.

Seagate Backup Plus Slim Portable Drive 2 TB

A stylish model in a durable metal case is ideal for use both as a main and additional memory source.

Seagate Dashboard proprietary software allows you to backup information automatically.

The device comes with a free OneDrive subscription, which makes it possible to store the necessary information in cloud storage.

The innovative USB 3.0 interface provides high speeds of up to 5 Gbps.

Specifications:

• memory – 2 TB;
• rotation – 5400 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• complete set - USB cable.

pros

• excellent build quality;
• high speed;
• thin body;
• protection from damage;
• no noise during operation.

Minuses

• The USB cable is too short.

Western Digital My Passport 2 TB

The original model with a fairly large memory allows you to store information of any size.

Proprietary software makes it possible to install the drive quickly and without any problems.

Automatic backup and password protection allows you to save the files you need even if your computer breaks down.

Support for USB 3.0 connection makes the device operate smoothly and stable.

Specifications:

• memory – 2 TB;
• rotation – 5400 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• complete set - USB cable.

pros

• proprietary software;
• support for three utilities;
• high speed;
• large memory;
• excellent build quality.

Minuses

• easily soiled body.

Independent Top 6 external hard drives from 1 TB to 8 TB

Best 1TB external hard drive

2.5″ WD Elements Portable (WDBUZG0010BBK-WESN)

2.5″ WD Elements Portable 1TB (WDBUZG0010BBK-WESN) — 4,000 rubles. A simple, small, lightweight model with a small capacity and a USB 3.0 interface. It works very quietly and without heating up. The case is made without unnecessary tricks, but from durable and high-quality materials: the HDD can even survive a fall on a hard floor. The manufacturer guarantees 2 years of trouble-free operation, but after the warranty period expires, problems may begin. The data transfer speed, however, is not impressive: only 5 Gbit/sec, on the verge of decency at the beginning of 2020. Good basic storage for little money.

Price: RUB 3,990

Best 2TB external hard drive

2.5″ Seagate Backup Plus Slim (STDR2000201)

2.5″ Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB (STDR2000201) — 6,500 rubles. The device is in a beautiful thin case with a brushed metal lid. USB 3.0, data transfer speed - up to 5 Gbps. A completely standard model that does not stand out at first glance, but software plays a very important role here. The proprietary Seagate Dashboard utility allows you to backup important data with one click or set up regular automatic copying of important data on a schedule. The same program can save photos published on social networks, and even publish photos to the user’s page, creating albums independently. The gift includes free space in cloud storage. In general, a good option for those who need to protect important data by saving it wherever possible.

Price: ₽ 6,490

Best 3TB external hard drive

3.5″ WD Elements Desktop 3TB (WDBWLG0030HBK-EESN)

3.5″ WD Elements Desktop 3TB (WDBWLG0030HBK-EESN) — 8,000 rubles. Another simple drive from WD: in a plastic case with USB version 3.0 and a data transfer speed of 5 Gbit/sec. 3.5-inch disk: large, heavy (weighing almost a kilogram) and requires additional power from the mains. Not the most convenient device to use as a flash drive. Its destiny is permanent parking on the desktop or behind the TV; fortunately, it is installed vertically and does not take up much space. Great for storing data on a home media network: the drive is quiet, cool and reliable.

Price: RUB 7,990

Best 4TB external hard drive

2.5″ WD My Passport 4Tb Red (WDBUAX0040BRD-EEUE)

2.5″ WD My Passport 4Tb Red (WDBUAX0040BRD-EEUE) — 9,500 rubles. A roomy youth model in a bright, very stylish case made of impact-resistant plastic. The manufacturer managed to cram an impressive amount of memory into a 2.5-inch drive. This means that it does not require additional power to operate: it will receive all the necessary energy from the USB port of the third revision. The disk is small for its capacity, but quite heavy: its weight is more than 350 grams. Using proprietary software, you can make automatic backups of important data, and protect confidential information from strangers with a password. If this hard drive had a newer USB version and a data transfer speed higher than 5 Gbps, it would not have a price. Otherwise, it’s just a beautiful, compact and quite expensive device.

Price: RUB 9,490

Best 6TB external hard drive

Seagate 6TB Black (STEL6000200)

3.5″ Seagate 6 TB Black (STEL6000200) — 11,500 rubles. Large and heavy external hard drive with built-in USB hub. 3.5-inch format - HDD requires additional power from the network. With two additional USB ports, this unit allows you to connect other devices to your computer. Backup utility included. A good solution for storing large amounts of data, but with no portability.

Price: RUB 11,490

Best 8TB external hard drive

Seagate Backup Plus Hub 8Tb Black (STEL8000200)

3.5″ Seagate Backup Plus Hub 8Tb Black (STEL8000200) — 15,500 rubles. The king of external hard drives: very capacious, heavy and expensive. Of course, it is powered by electricity. On the front panel there are two additional USB ports for connecting other external devices to the computer. Seagate Dashboard for automatic backup included. It works quietly, but can get hot, and USB 3.0 and 5 Gbps speed have long ceased to be the ultimate dream. For that kind of money I would like something more modern.

Price: RUB 15,390

Review of 4 TB models

External hard drives can be used at home, in offices and for servers. The best wheels have high technical characteristics, strength and durability.

Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 4 TB

The stationary model with a high disc speed of 7200 rpm remains cool even during long-term operation.

The presence of 32 MB of cache memory and the innovative USB 3.0 interface allows you to comfortably work even with large amounts of information.

Saving files takes little time even without using additional programs.

The USB 3.0 connection interface makes reading and writing almost instantaneous.

Specifications:

• memory – 4 TB;
• rotation – 7200 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• Equipment: USB cable, power supply.

pros

• high write and read speed;
• large volume;
• quiet operation;
• stylish design;
• high-quality assembly.

Minuses

• not detected.

Seagate Expansion desktop drive 4 TB

The black model has high write and read speeds. Large memory capacity allows you to store even resource-intensive files. During operation, the disk does not make noise or vibrate.

The 3.5 form factor and innovative USB 3.0 interface ensure stable and uninterrupted operation of the computer.

The shockproof housing will reliably protect the mechanism from damage in the event of an accidental fall or impact.

Compatibility with the Windows operating system allows you to install the disc without using additional programs.

Specifications:

• memory – 4 TB;
• rotation – 500 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• Equipment: USB cable, power supply.

pros

• high write and read speed;
• large amount of memory;
• low cost;
• high-quality assembly;
• reliability.

Minuses

• A little noisy during operation.

Seagate Backup Plus Hub 4 TB

The non-separable model in a durable, non-marking case is ideal for both office and home use.

The automatic backup function will reliably protect your data if your computer breaks down.

High rotation speed and innovative USB 3.0 interface ensure smooth and stable operation.

The device is suitable for different operating systems, including Mac. For this purpose, it comes with a disk with an NTFS driver.

Thanks to multiple USB outputs, the drive can be used not only as storage, but also as a charger for other devices.

Specifications:

• memory – 4 TB;
• rotation – 5400 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• Contents: USB cable, power supply, CD with software.

pros

• low cost;
• good speed;
• does not make noise;
• reliable;
• doesn't heat up.

Minuses

• unstable.

2Western Digital My Passport 2 TB (WDBUAX0020B)

Not a single rating of external drives can do without this model. WD specialists approached the development of My Passport 2 TB with the utmost responsibility, worked hard on the proprietary design of the hard drive, provided a variety of body colors (white, yellow, red, orange, blue, black), and ensured excellent operating speed due to the USB 3.0 port. Under average conditions of use, the hard drive demonstrates a read speed of 120 MB/sec.

The components are made from high-strength materials, and in addition, there are no fingerprints left on the body. An automatic backup option is provided. 256-bit AES encryption ensures the security of personal data storage.

And even if you lose your “Passport”, it will ask for your password from its new “owner”!

Average cost: 5,247 rubles.

pros

• Wide variety of colors
• Custom design
• Quality software
• High write and read speed

Minuses

• Scratch-prone housing
• Dimensions

Review of game models for PS4

The best hard drives for game consoles have large storage capacity, faster data transfer, are reliable, and are protected from hacking and data theft.

Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 4 TB

The stylish model in a snow-white case has a fairly impressive memory capacity of 4 TB, which allows you to store quite a lot of different games on it, even very large ones.

The disc was developed specifically for Xbox One1, which makes it possible to start playing immediately after connecting the device to the computer.

The USB 3.0 Type A physical interface and support for the 2.5-inch form factor will make the download speed as fast as possible. The manufacturer has provided for almost all the desires of the consumer and has prepared for him free access to all games on the Xbox Game Pass portal.

Quite compact dimensions allow you to take the drive with you when traveling.

Specifications:

• memory – 4 TB;
• rotation – 5400 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• Contents: USB cable, subscription to Xbox Game Pass for 2 months.

pros

• stylish design;
• impressive amount of memory;
• high-quality assembly;
• extreme speed;
• doesn't heat up.

Minuses

• not detected.

Seagate Game Drive for Xbox 2 TB

A functional model designed specifically to increase the memory of a gaming console.

The impressive amount of memory makes it possible to download even very large games. At the same time, loading speed does not suffer, which is very important when completing game missions.

The durable plastic case will reliably protect the device from mechanical damage.

The drive comes with a free 1-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass, which gives you the opportunity to choose games for every taste at no cost.

Compact dimensions and the absence of a power cable greatly facilitate the transportation of the device.

Specifications:

• memory – 2 TB;
• rotation – 5400 rpm;
• connection – USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A;
• Contents: USB cable, subscription to Xbox Game Pass for 1 month.

pros

• large amount of memory;
• good speed;
• a light weight;
• compact size;
• fast connection.

Minuses

• not detected.

Seagate Game Drive for PS4 2 TB

The ultra-thin model has high performance, making it an ideal drive for the PlayStation 4 game console.

Large memory makes it possible to store up to 50 games of varying sizes on the drive. A durable case made of plastic and metal will reliably protect the device from mechanical damage.

Compact dimensions and light weight allow you to take the drive with you when traveling. A simple connection via a USB port greatly simplifies the operation of the device.

Automatic setup makes it possible to play almost immediately after installing the drive.

Specifications:

• memory – 2 TB;
• rotation – 5400 rpm;
• connection – USB0 Type A;
• complete set - USB cable.

pros

• high-quality assembly;
• sufficient memory;
• long warranty period;
• high speed;
• a light weight.

Minuses

• not detected.

What is the difference between SSD and HDD? Which is better?

To determine which removable SSD or HDD is best to buy for your computer, you need to understand the principle of their operation and carefully study all the pros and cons of the devices.

SSD is a solid-state drive that operates using microcircuits. HDD is a magnetic hard drive that requires a large number of additional devices to service: a drive, a board, a motor.

An SSD has many more advantages than an HDD.

These include:

• high speed;
• resistance to mechanical damage;
• low power consumption;
• no noise during operation;
• a light weight;
• reliability.

The only advantage of a magnetic disk is its low cost.

SSD is a more modern device that has a lot of advantages compared to HDD, so it is recommended to purchase it.

External hard drive or flash drive – which is better?

A flash drive and a hard external hard drive essentially perform the same functions. To understand which is better, you need to know about all the pros and cons of these devices.

Pros of an external hard drive:

• large amount of memory;
• durability;
• high read and write speed;
• synchronization with PC;
• There are no restrictions on the number of recording cycles.

Pros of a flash drive:

• no noise;
• reluctance to overheat;
• acceptable cost.

When choosing a drive, you need to decide for what purpose it is being purchased. An external hard drive is ideal for long, continuous operation; a flash drive is ideal for storing small amounts of information.

How to choose an external hard drive for your console (PS4)?

External hard drives for game consoles allow you to store a large amount of games, which will undoubtedly appeal to avid gamers. There are 3 types of drives used for consoles - SSD, SSHD, HDD.

To find out which type of portable drive is most suitable for PS4, you need to study the speed characteristics of each type. The fastest are SSDs, the slowest are HDDs. At the same time, the cost of HDD is much lower.

Therefore, it is not necessary to purchase a solid-state drive; you can also buy a magnetic one. It is important to pay attention to models with rotation speeds from 7200 rpm. and high recording density.

Popular manufacturing companies

When purchasing, it is first recommended to pay attention to models from well-known manufacturers of digital equipment. Their products are high quality, reliable and have excellent technical characteristics.

The most popular brands currently include:

• Western Digital . The disks of this manufacturer are characterized by stable operation, lack of noise, do not heat up and do not fail.
• Seagate . The brand's drives are known for their high speed and operation in several levels of caching mode.
• TOSHIBA . The models presented by this manufacturer are distinguished by durability, excellent speed and large memory.
• HITACHI . The brand offers a large selection of different storage devices to suit every need and budget.
• Samsung . The discs of this manufacturer have excellent technical characteristics.

Which model of the above companies to pay attention to depends only on personal preferences, since the products of each of them deserve only praise.

Rating updated September 12, 2020.