Best External Hard Drives at a Reasonable Price: Recommendations and Considerations
When it comes to choosing the best external hard drive, you need to consider not just the brand, but also the type of drive (HDD or SSD), form factor, and your specific needs. This article provides a guide to selecting a reliable and reasonably priced external hard drive, with a focus on brands like Western Digital (WD) and Samsung.
WD Elements and My Passport
WD Elements are a popular choice for those who prioritize ease of portability. Whether you choose the full-sized or the slim model, WD Elements are known for their USB 3.0 connectivity and durability. I have used several of these devices and have had no issues in terms of data loss or malfunction, making them a reliable choice.
WD My Passport are designed for those who need a more rugged device. If you plan to use the drive in any situation that might expose it to shocks and drops, the WD My Passport is an excellent choice. It offers a robust and durable housing that can withstand a fair amount of impact.
Samsung EVO SSD
Samsung EVO SSDs are a great option for those who require a highly shock-resistant drive. While these SSDs are typically positioned as a bit more expensive, their durability makes them a worthwhile investment. I have personally used several models and can attest to their reliability, especially when it comes to protecting your data from physical damage.
Seagate Backup Plus Drives
Seagate Backup Plus Drives, particularly their USB 3.0 versions, are praised for their convenience and accessibility. Unlike some other powered external drives, these Seagate models do not require a separate power source, making them easy to transport and use. I have two of these drives, and they have never given me any trouble. While they are not the cheapest option, they offer a solid balance between price and performance.
Other Brand Considerations
Over the years, I have used external drives from various brands, including IBM, Hitachi, Toshiba, Seagate, and Samsung. From my experiences, I have noticed that Western Digital (WD) tends to produce more reliable drives. While some people may choose other brands based on comparison reviews, I have found that WD drives tend to perform better and have lower rates of failure.
The size of the drive depends on your specific needs. For most users, 500GB is a minimum, but 1TB is generally the sweet spot. If you are looking for an SSD, at least 250GB or 500GB is recommended, depending on your budget.
Conclusion
The choice of the best external hard drive at a reasonable price ultimately depends on your requirements and budget. If you need something cheap, fast, and mostly reliable, an external Western Digital with a USB 3.0 or eSATA connector is an excellent choice. For really fast and reliable performance, with no regard for price, a brand-name external Thunderbolt 3 SSD is worth the investment. If you are looking for a Network Attached Storage (NAS) or multiple HDDs, Synology is highly recommended. Always avoid the cheapest adapters for internal PC drives, as they often don’t last long.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best external hard drive to meet your needs without breaking the bank.