If you are planning to buy an external storage drive, it is better to go with an SSD instead of a traditional HDD. Although SSDs are more expensive, they offer much faster transfer speeds, better durability, and a compact form factor. SSDs also provide improved shock resistance and faster read/write performance, making them a more reliable option for everyday use. The only real downside is the price—you can get a 4TB external HDD for the cost of a 500GB SSD. But the advantages of SSDs often outweigh the price difference.
Here you can check the difference between HDD and SSD: SSD Vs HDD: Which Is Better and why?
While creating this list, I considered several important factors including speed, durability, build quality, storage capacity, and overall value. Features like encryption and bundled software were also looked at, but they were not the top priority.
If you want my recommendation, I suggest going with the Samsung T7 500GB. It offers excellent performance and solid value for money. If you are looking for something more affordable, the SanDisk Extreme is also a great pick.
Also see: Best 1TB external Hard Disks
Best External SSDs
Here is the list of external SSDs that you can buy to store your data:
1. Samsung T9
If you are looking for a fast, reliable, and compact external SSD, the Samsung T9 Portable SSD is a great option. This drive is made for creators, gamers, and professionals who need speed and performance in a small package. With read and write speeds of up to 2000MB/s, this SSD can handle large files easily. Whether you are editing videos, transferring raw photos, or loading big game files, the T9 keeps up without slowing down. It is compatible with desktops, laptops, cameras, and even gaming consoles.
Samsung has also focused on durability. The T9 is built to last through heavy use. To keep the performance smooth, Samsung includes its Magician Software. This handy tool helps you keep the SSD updated, secure, and healthy. It also offers firmware updates and drive encryption, so your data stays safe.
The T9 manages heat very well. Thanks to its Dynamic Thermal Guard, the SSD stays cool. That means no thermal throttling, even when you are pushing it to the limit.
2. Samsung T7
Samsung T5 is one of the best external SSD drive you can buy. It doesn’t come cheap but is worth spending on it. You will be amazed by the speed performance of this SSD which is up to 1,050 MB/s USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps, Type-C). This means it is up to 9.5x faster than the external HDD Interface. This Samsung SSD has a shock-resistant internal frame that lets it withstand falls from up to 2 meters.
If we talk about security, it has optional password protection and AES 256-bit hardware encryption that works with Windows 7 and higher, Mac OS X 10.10 and higher, or Android 5.1 (Lollipop) and higher. This SSD also includes USB Type-C to Type-C and USB Type-C to Type-A cables.
3. WD My Passport
The Western Digital 1TB My Passport Portable SSD is a reliable and fast storage option that combines performance with portability. If you are someone who moves a lot of data between devices and wants peace of mind while doing it, this drive has a lot to offer.
In terms of speed, it delivers solid performance with read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write speeds up to 1000MB/s. It is not the fastest SSD in the market, but for everyday use like transferring videos, editing photos, or backing up your system, it works very well. WD has kept compatibility in mind. You get a USB-C cable in the box along with a USB-C to USB-A adapter, so whether you use a modern laptop, a desktop, or even a tablet or smartphone, you are covered. It works with both Windows and macOS.
One of the best features here is the durability. This SSD can survive drops from up to 2 meters, so accidental falls are not a problem. It is compact, light, and can easily slip into your pocket or bag—perfect for travel or work on the go.
The drive includes 256-bit AES hardware encryption and password protection, keeping your files safe if you lose the drive or plug it into someone else’s system. You also get WD’s backup software, which makes it easy to back up your files to the SSD or even to a cloud account.
- WD My Passport 1TB: Rs. 10399 – Amazon
4. SanDisk Extreme SSD
SanDisk Extreme is another notable external SSD available in the market. It also comes with a Rugged body that makes it water and dust-resistant. It is also Shock-resistant for offering durability and it can withstand 2-meter drops. This SSD comes in a compact pocket-sized body.
SanDisk Extreme SSD offers up to 1050 MB/s read speed. It comes pre-formatted as an exFAT device, which means it works with Windows and Mac out of the box. You can reformat it in the desired format. It also comes with SanDisk’s SecureAccess 3.02 software that lets you create password-protected folders and keep your important files safe using 128-bit AES encryption.
It is designed to work with both Windows and Mac. It comes with a USB 3.1 Type-C connector,a Type-C to Type-C cable, and a Type-C to Type-A adapter.
You get several storage options, starting from 250GB to 2 TB. Here is the pricing detail and links to buy online.
- SanDisk Extreme 250 GB: Rs. 7099 – Amazon
- SanDisk Extreme 500 GB: Rs, 10999 – Amazon
- SanDisk Extreme 1 TB : Rs. 14990 – Amazon
- SanDisk Extreme 2 TB : Rs. 29790 – Amazon
5. Crucial X9
The Crucial X9 is one of those portable SSDs that quietly does everything right. It is built for speed, built for safety, and built to fit in your pocket without feeling bulky. It has a read speeds of up to 1050MB/sdelivers quick performance for most daily tasks. It offers excellent performance when using the included USB Type-C to C cable on a USB 3.2 Gen2 device.
Storage-wise, the 2TB version offers plenty of room. Crucial says it can hold up to 10,000 photos, 30 hours of video, several AAA game titles, and still have space left for documents.
The Crucial X9 also stands out with its durability. It is drop-proof up to 7.5 feet and resistant to shock, vibration, and even extreme temperatures. The drive is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iPad, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Crucial also bundles in some handy extras. You get a 3-month subscription to Mylio Photos+, one month of Adobe Acrobat Pro, and Acronis True Image backup software, all free when you register the drive.
- Crucial X9 1TB: Rs. 8629: Amazon
6. Lenovo PS8
Lenovo’s PS8 Portable SSD is a well-balanced external storage drive designed for creators, students, and gamers who need speed, durability, and style on the go. The drive offers impressive speeds—up to 1050MB/s for reading and 1000MB/s for writing—thanks to the USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface. Lenovo also includes a 30cm USB-C to USB-C cable in the box, so you can plug in and get started without needing any extra accessories.
One of the highlights of this SSD is its portability. Weighing just 40 grams, it is super compact and fits comfortably in your pocket. Despite the lightweight design, the aluminum body gives it a solid feel and offers better protection than regular plastic drives.
It is also compatible with a wide range of devices—Windows PCs, Macs, and Android phones.
- Lenovo PS8 1TB: Rs. 6999 – Amazon
Also see: Best SSD for gaming
7. Transcend ESD310C
The Transcend ESD310C is one of the smallest external SSDs you will find. This compact drive packs serious speed and clever features. It comes with read speeds of up to 1050MB/s and write speeds up to 950MB/s, thanks to its USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface and SLC cache technology. Whether you are moving large 4K videos, transferring your photo library, or just backing up files from your phone or laptop, the ESD310C handles it with ease.
It includes both a USB Type-C and a traditional USB Type-A in one sleek drive. So whether you are using an iPhone 15 Pro Max, a MacBook, an iPad, or a regular Windows PC, you can plug it in and start transferring immediately.
This SSD is available in sizes up to 2TB and is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and even game consoles. The build feels solid, and Transcend backs it with a 5-year warranty, which is reassuring for anyone who wants a long-lasting and reliable drive.
- Transcend ESD310C 1 TB: Rs. 5999 – Amazon
Final Words
Here is the list of the best external SSD drives you can purchase. You can go with any of these depending on your requirement and budget. I recommend Samsung T5 for the best experience. In case you want a budget-friendly drive, go with ADATA SD700. That is cheaper but considerably slower.
