Best External Data Storage of 2026

Last updated on 01/04/2026
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Most Relevant
Most Relevant
Best Choice
1
WD 16TB Elements External Hard Drive, Desktop HDD storage, USB 3.0 compatible, Fast Transfer rates, Easy add on storage for all your pictures, videos, music and documents, Black

WD 16TB Elements External Hard Drive, Desktop HDD storage, USB 3.0 compatible, Fast Transfer rates, Easy add on storage for all your pictures, videos, music and documents, Black

WD
Why we love it
  • Sleek and stylish design.
  • Boosts computer performance.
  • Impact-resistant and durable.
Main Highlights
  • Extend with the WD Elements desktop storage simply your computer's storage space. Thanks to the slim and stylish design, the external hard drive is also visually eye-catching
  • Die WD Elements 16 TB external hard drive allows you to store all your photos, videos, music files and documents in one place in proven WD to ensure quality
  • With the WD Elements HDD hard drive allows you to transfer the data from your full computer to desktop storage to improve your computer's performance
  • Thanks to its impact resistance and durability, the WD external hard drive in proven WD -Quality to keep your data safe. Compatible with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0
  • Box contents WD Elements desktop storage 16 TB (desktop storage, USB 3.0 compatible, additional storage for photos, music, videos and all other files, shockproof) black; 2-year warranty
  • Note This device should only be used with the compatible UL listed power supply
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9.7
Exceptional
9.7
Exceptional
WD

WD 16TB Elements External Hard Drive, Desktop HDD storage, USB 3.0 compatible, Fast Transfer rates, Easy add on storage for all your pictures, videos, music and documents, Black

Why we love it
  • Sleek and stylish design.
  • Boosts computer performance.
  • Impact-resistant and durable.
Main Highlights
  • Extend with the WD Elements desktop storage simply your computer's storage space. Thanks to the slim and stylish design, the external hard drive is also visually eye-catching
  • Die WD Elements 16 TB external hard drive allows you to store all your photos, videos, music files and documents in one place in proven WD to ensure quality
  • With the WD Elements HDD hard drive allows you to transfer the data from your full computer to desktop storage to improve your computer's performance
  • Thanks to its impact resistance and durability, the WD external hard drive in proven WD -Quality to keep your data safe. Compatible with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0
  • Box contents WD Elements desktop storage 16 TB (desktop storage, USB 3.0 compatible, additional storage for photos, music, videos and all other files, shockproof) black; 2-year warranty
  • Note This device should only be used with the compatible UL listed power supply
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Value for Money
2
SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 2TB (up to 1050 MB/s read, 1,000MB/s write, NVMe SSD, USB-C, External Solid State Drive, IP65 rated for dust and water resistance, Updated Firmware) Black

SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 2TB (up to 1050 MB/s read, 1,000MB/s write, NVMe SSD, USB-C, External Solid State Drive, IP65 rated for dust and water resistance, Updated Firmware) Black

SanDisk
Why we love it
  • High-performance with lightning-fast speeds.
  • Robust with drop and water protection.
  • Secure data with password encryption.
Main Highlights
  • Get NVMe solid state performance featuring up to 1050MB/s read and up to 1000MB/s write speeds in a portable, high-capacity drive that’s perfect for creating amazing content or capturing incredible footage
  • Up to three-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance mean this tough drive can take a beating
  • Travel worry-free with a 5-year limited warranty and a durable silicone shell that offers a premium feel and added protection to the drive’s exterior
  • 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. Password protection uses 256-bit AES encryption and is supported by Windows 8, Windows 10 and macOS v10.9+
  • Easily manage files and automatically free up space with the SanDisk Memory Zone app
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9.5
Superb
9.5
Superb
SanDisk

SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 2TB (up to 1050 MB/s read, 1,000MB/s write, NVMe SSD, USB-C, External Solid State Drive, IP65 rated for dust and water resistance, Updated Firmware) Black

Why we love it
  • High-performance with lightning-fast speeds.
  • Robust with drop and water protection.
  • Secure data with password encryption.
Main Highlights
  • Get NVMe solid state performance featuring up to 1050MB/s read and up to 1000MB/s write speeds in a portable, high-capacity drive that’s perfect for creating amazing content or capturing incredible footage
  • Up to three-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance mean this tough drive can take a beating
  • Travel worry-free with a 5-year limited warranty and a durable silicone shell that offers a premium feel and added protection to the drive’s exterior
  • 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. Password protection uses 256-bit AES encryption and is supported by Windows 8, Windows 10 and macOS v10.9+
  • Easily manage files and automatically free up space with the SanDisk Memory Zone app
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3
WD 18TB My Book external hard drive, Desktop HDD with Password Protection, USB 3.0, SuperSpeed USB, software for device management, backup, hardware encryption, works with PC and Mac, Black

WD 18TB My Book external hard drive, Desktop HDD with Password Protection, USB 3.0, SuperSpeed USB, software for device management, backup, hardware encryption, works with PC and Mac, Black

WD
31% Off
Why we love it
  • Massive storage for everything.
  • Simple plug and play.
  • Strong encryption protects data.
Main Highlights
  • The My Book drive is trusted desktop storage designed to complement your personal style with a massive amount of space to store your photos, videos, music, and documents. Equipped with password protection and perfectly paired with backup software, My Book desktop storage helps keep your files safe.
  • Easy to Use. Ready to use with Mac and Windows computers right out of the box, so you can start transferring files, saving your memories, and backing up right away. It also comes with all the software you need to help protect your data.
  • Complete Backup. My Book desktop storage comes equipped with backup software to help make sure your photos, videos, music, and documents don’t get lost. You can set it to run automatically to your schedule. Just pick the time and frequency to back up important files from your system. With the power of the included backup software, you’ve got complete backup routine options to help recover data in the event of a computer virus or computer failure, or if you accidentally press “delete”.
  • Password Protection with Hardware Encryption. The My Book drive’s built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption with password protection helps keep your content private and safe. Just activate password protection and set your own personalized password using the included software. For quick, convenient access you can set to automatically unlock the drive on your computer, saving you the hassle of keying in your password every time.
  • Massive capacity, Available in capacities up to 18TB, there's plenty of room to save the massive amounts of photos, videos, and music you love, plus your important documents.
  • SuperSpeed USB 3.0, (5 Gbps); USB 2.0 compatible
Show More
9.3
Superb
9.3
Superb
WD

WD 18TB My Book external hard drive, Desktop HDD with Password Protection, USB 3.0, SuperSpeed USB, software for device management, backup, hardware encryption, works with PC and Mac, Black

31% Off
Why we love it
  • Massive storage for everything.
  • Simple plug and play.
  • Strong encryption protects data.
Main Highlights
  • The My Book drive is trusted desktop storage designed to complement your personal style with a massive amount of space to store your photos, videos, music, and documents. Equipped with password protection and perfectly paired with backup software, My Book desktop storage helps keep your files safe.
  • Easy to Use. Ready to use with Mac and Windows computers right out of the box, so you can start transferring files, saving your memories, and backing up right away. It also comes with all the software you need to help protect your data.
  • Complete Backup. My Book desktop storage comes equipped with backup software to help make sure your photos, videos, music, and documents don’t get lost. You can set it to run automatically to your schedule. Just pick the time and frequency to back up important files from your system. With the power of the included backup software, you’ve got complete backup routine options to help recover data in the event of a computer virus or computer failure, or if you accidentally press “delete”.
  • Password Protection with Hardware Encryption. The My Book drive’s built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption with password protection helps keep your content private and safe. Just activate password protection and set your own personalized password using the included software. For quick, convenient access you can set to automatically unlock the drive on your computer, saving you the hassle of keying in your password every time.
  • Massive capacity, Available in capacities up to 18TB, there's plenty of room to save the massive amounts of photos, videos, and music you love, plus your important documents.
  • SuperSpeed USB 3.0, (5 Gbps); USB 2.0 compatible
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4
WD 6TB Elements AE Portable External Hard Drive, SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1/USB 3.0, Plug-and-Play, Formatted for Windows, Black

WD 6TB Elements AE Portable External Hard Drive, SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1/USB 3.0, Plug-and-Play, Formatted for Windows, Black

WD
8% Off
Why we love it
  • Effortless storage expansion.
  • Huge capacity options available.
  • Eco-friendly design and materials.
Main Highlights
  • Effortless Expandability This plug-and-play hard drive lets you expand your capacity in seconds, so you can keep your important files without any stress or complications.
  • High Capacity Discover expansive storage with up to 6TB capacity, offering ample room for your cherished photos, memorable videos, and essential documents on-the-go.
  • Easy-to-Use Backup Software Equipped with backup software - Simply download, plug in your drive and set your hourly, daily, or monthly schedule.
  • Transfer faster Experience fast data transfer speeds with USB 3.2 Gen 1, enabling you to quickly access and share your files with ease.
  • Designed with the Planet in Mind The enclosure of this drive is composed of more than 50% post-consumer recycled plastic. Packaging is made of over 50% post-consumer recycled pulp and is fully recyclable.
Show More
9.2
Superb
9.2
Superb
WD

WD 6TB Elements AE Portable External Hard Drive, SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1/USB 3.0, Plug-and-Play, Formatted for Windows, Black

8% Off
Why we love it
  • Effortless storage expansion.
  • Huge capacity options available.
  • Eco-friendly design and materials.
Main Highlights
  • Effortless Expandability This plug-and-play hard drive lets you expand your capacity in seconds, so you can keep your important files without any stress or complications.
  • High Capacity Discover expansive storage with up to 6TB capacity, offering ample room for your cherished photos, memorable videos, and essential documents on-the-go.
  • Easy-to-Use Backup Software Equipped with backup software - Simply download, plug in your drive and set your hourly, daily, or monthly schedule.
  • Transfer faster Experience fast data transfer speeds with USB 3.2 Gen 1, enabling you to quickly access and share your files with ease.
  • Designed with the Planet in Mind The enclosure of this drive is composed of more than 50% post-consumer recycled plastic. Packaging is made of over 50% post-consumer recycled pulp and is fully recyclable.
Show More
5
Crucial X9 2TB Portable External SSD - Up to 1050MB/s, External Solid State Drive, Works with PlayStation, Xbox, PC and Mac, USB-C 3.2 - CT2000X9SSD902

Crucial X9 2TB Portable External SSD - Up to 1050MB/s, External Solid State Drive, Works with PlayStation, Xbox, PC and Mac, USB-C 3.2 - CT2000X9SSD902

Crucial
Why we love it
  • Fast, expansive portable storage solution.
  • Universal plug-and-play compatibility.
  • Durability for on-the-go lifestyle.
Main Highlights
  • FAST TRANSFER SPEEDS: Read speeds up to 1,050MB/s
  • SPACIOUS: 2TB holds up to 10,000 photos, 25 hours of family video, 5 AAA game titles, and 50GB of documents, with 200GB to spare
  • PLUG-AND-PLAY COMPATIBILITY: Windows, Mac, Android, iPad, Xbox, PlayStation and more; use included USB Type-C to C cable on USB 3.2 Gen2 supported devices for best speeds
  • DURABLE: Drop proof up to 7.5 feet, extreme temperature, shock and vibration proof
  • Get 3 months of Mylio Photos+ on us and one month of Adobe Acrobat Pro when you purchase and register your Crucial X9. Mylio Photos+ is a complete solution for connecting your devices into a single photo library, while Adobe Acrobat is the all-in-one solution for creating, editing and e-signing PDF's quickly.
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9.1
Superb
9.1
Superb
Crucial

Crucial X9 2TB Portable External SSD - Up to 1050MB/s, External Solid State Drive, Works with PlayStation, Xbox, PC and Mac, USB-C 3.2 - CT2000X9SSD902

Why we love it
  • Fast, expansive portable storage solution.
  • Universal plug-and-play compatibility.
  • Durability for on-the-go lifestyle.
Main Highlights
  • FAST TRANSFER SPEEDS: Read speeds up to 1,050MB/s
  • SPACIOUS: 2TB holds up to 10,000 photos, 25 hours of family video, 5 AAA game titles, and 50GB of documents, with 200GB to spare
  • PLUG-AND-PLAY COMPATIBILITY: Windows, Mac, Android, iPad, Xbox, PlayStation and more; use included USB Type-C to C cable on USB 3.2 Gen2 supported devices for best speeds
  • DURABLE: Drop proof up to 7.5 feet, extreme temperature, shock and vibration proof
  • Get 3 months of Mylio Photos+ on us and one month of Adobe Acrobat Pro when you purchase and register your Crucial X9. Mylio Photos+ is a complete solution for connecting your devices into a single photo library, while Adobe Acrobat is the all-in-one solution for creating, editing and e-signing PDF's quickly.
Show More
6
G-DRIVE ArmorATD 6TB, portable rugged external hard drive, HDD up to 130 MB/s, USB-C (5Gbps), USB 3.2 Gen 1, Thunderbolt 3

G-DRIVE ArmorATD 6TB, portable rugged external hard drive, HDD up to 130 MB/s, USB-C (5Gbps), USB 3.2 Gen 1, Thunderbolt 3

WD
9% Off
Why we love it
  • Quick file backups, extra storage.
  • Durable aluminum enclosure.
  • High capacity, up to 6TB.
Main Highlights
  • Premium Strength You Can Feel The G-DRIVE ArmorATD rugged drive helps shield your photos, footage and files from accidental drops with a premium aluminum enclosure, internal shock mounts, and an easy-grip rubber bumper for durability you can trust.
  • Built for the Wild With an IP54 rain/dust rating, and crush resistance up to 1000lbs, your critical content can brave the elements on the way to your next adventure.
  • Room and Flexibility for Any Project Available in up to 6TB, the G-DRIVE ArmorATD portable hard drive can store everything from RAW photo sets to 4K/8K video libraries - without having to juggle multiple drives while on-the-go.
  • USB-C for Quick File Backups This versatile USB-C (5Gbps) drive provides reliable plug-and-play storage and backup that's also compatible with Thunderbolt 3. Transfer rates up to 130MB/s read let you quickly back up your content wherever you are.
  • Ready to Go With Mac Works with macOS right out of the box, and Windows via reformat
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8.9
Excellent
8.9
Excellent
WD

G-DRIVE ArmorATD 6TB, portable rugged external hard drive, HDD up to 130 MB/s, USB-C (5Gbps), USB 3.2 Gen 1, Thunderbolt 3

9% Off
Why we love it
  • Quick file backups, extra storage.
  • Durable aluminum enclosure.
  • High capacity, up to 6TB.
Main Highlights
  • Premium Strength You Can Feel The G-DRIVE ArmorATD rugged drive helps shield your photos, footage and files from accidental drops with a premium aluminum enclosure, internal shock mounts, and an easy-grip rubber bumper for durability you can trust.
  • Built for the Wild With an IP54 rain/dust rating, and crush resistance up to 1000lbs, your critical content can brave the elements on the way to your next adventure.
  • Room and Flexibility for Any Project Available in up to 6TB, the G-DRIVE ArmorATD portable hard drive can store everything from RAW photo sets to 4K/8K video libraries - without having to juggle multiple drives while on-the-go.
  • USB-C for Quick File Backups This versatile USB-C (5Gbps) drive provides reliable plug-and-play storage and backup that's also compatible with Thunderbolt 3. Transfer rates up to 130MB/s read let you quickly back up your content wherever you are.
  • Ready to Go With Mac Works with macOS right out of the box, and Windows via reformat
Show More
7
Seagate Desktop 8TB, External Hard Drive HDD, USB 3.0 for PC Laptop and Mac, Black, Data Rescue Services (STGY8000400)

Seagate Desktop 8TB, External Hard Drive HDD, USB 3.0 for PC Laptop and Mac, Black, Data Rescue Services (STGY8000400)

Seagate
Why we love it
  • Enormous 8TB storage capacity.
  • No software required for use.
  • Ideal for numerous devices.
Main Highlights
  • Amazon Exclusive
  • Ideal for the home, office, or dorm, the Seagate Desktop Drive offers 8TB of enormous desktop storage for photos, movies, music, and more
  • An external hard drive for Windows or Mac computers, simply back up with a quick drag and drop
  • The perfect laptop hard drive or PC drive, just plug into to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
  • Includes an 18 inches USB 30 cable and 18 watt power adapter
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8.8
Excellent
8.8
Excellent
Seagate

Seagate Desktop 8TB, External Hard Drive HDD, USB 3.0 for PC Laptop and Mac, Black, Data Rescue Services (STGY8000400)

Why we love it
  • Enormous 8TB storage capacity.
  • No software required for use.
  • Ideal for numerous devices.
Main Highlights
  • Amazon Exclusive
  • Ideal for the home, office, or dorm, the Seagate Desktop Drive offers 8TB of enormous desktop storage for photos, movies, music, and more
  • An external hard drive for Windows or Mac computers, simply back up with a quick drag and drop
  • The perfect laptop hard drive or PC drive, just plug into to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
  • Includes an 18 inches USB 30 cable and 18 watt power adapter
Show More
8
WD 6TB My Passport Ultra, Portable external storage, External hard drive, Software with defense against ransomware, backup and password protection - 20th Emerald Anniversay Edition

WD 6TB My Passport Ultra, Portable external storage, External hard drive, Software with defense against ransomware, backup and password protection - 20th Emerald Anniversay Edition

WD
18% Off
Why we love it
  • Sleek design ensures maximum durability.
  • Compatible with all USB-C devices.
  • High capacity for all your storage.
Main Highlights
  • Sleek metal design for added durability to take anywhere.
  • Seamless compatibility with USB-C devices including Windows PC, Mac, mobile phones and tablets.
  • Vast capacities up to 6TB to store your photos, videos, music, important documents and more.
  • Back up smarter with included device management software with defense against ransomware.
  • Help secure your important files with password protection and hardware encryption.
Show More
8.7
Excellent
8.7
Excellent
WD

WD 6TB My Passport Ultra, Portable external storage, External hard drive, Software with defense against ransomware, backup and password protection - 20th Emerald Anniversay Edition

18% Off
Why we love it
  • Sleek design ensures maximum durability.
  • Compatible with all USB-C devices.
  • High capacity for all your storage.
Main Highlights
  • Sleek metal design for added durability to take anywhere.
  • Seamless compatibility with USB-C devices including Windows PC, Mac, mobile phones and tablets.
  • Vast capacities up to 6TB to store your photos, videos, music, important documents and more.
  • Back up smarter with included device management software with defense against ransomware.
  • Help secure your important files with password protection and hardware encryption.
Show More
9
Toshiba Canvio Partner 4TB Portable 2.5’’ External Hard Drive, USB 3.2, Mac & Windows compatible. (HDTB540EK3CB)

Toshiba Canvio Partner 4TB Portable 2.5’’ External Hard Drive, USB 3.2, Mac & Windows compatible. (HDTB540EK3CB)

Toshiba
Why we love it
  • Substantial 4TB storage space.
  • Fast data transfer speed.
  • User-friendly and portable design.
Main Highlights
  • High Capacity: The Toshiba Canvio Partner provides 4TB of storage space, allowing you to store a vast amount of data, including documents, photos, music, and videos.
  • Fast Transfer Speed: With its USB 3.0 interface, this external hard drive provides a fast data transfer rate of up to 5Gbps, making it easy to transfer large files quickly.
  • Easy to Use: Simply plug this external hard drive into your computer's USB port and start using it right away. No software or drivers needed, it's ready to use out of the box.
  • Portable Design: The Canvio Partner is small, lightweight, and compact, making it easy to carry with you on the go. It's perfect for people who need to work or travel with their data.
  • Reliable Performance: This external hard drive is built with Toshiba's quality and reliability standards, ensuring that your data is safe and secure. It also features shock sensors to protect your data against accidental drops or bumps.
Show More
8.7
Excellent
8.7
Excellent
Toshiba

Toshiba Canvio Partner 4TB Portable 2.5’’ External Hard Drive, USB 3.2, Mac & Windows compatible. (HDTB540EK3CB)

Why we love it
  • Substantial 4TB storage space.
  • Fast data transfer speed.
  • User-friendly and portable design.
Main Highlights
  • High Capacity: The Toshiba Canvio Partner provides 4TB of storage space, allowing you to store a vast amount of data, including documents, photos, music, and videos.
  • Fast Transfer Speed: With its USB 3.0 interface, this external hard drive provides a fast data transfer rate of up to 5Gbps, making it easy to transfer large files quickly.
  • Easy to Use: Simply plug this external hard drive into your computer's USB port and start using it right away. No software or drivers needed, it's ready to use out of the box.
  • Portable Design: The Canvio Partner is small, lightweight, and compact, making it easy to carry with you on the go. It's perfect for people who need to work or travel with their data.
  • Reliable Performance: This external hard drive is built with Toshiba's quality and reliability standards, ensuring that your data is safe and secure. It also features shock sensors to protect your data against accidental drops or bumps.
Show More
10
WD 4TB Elements AE Portable External Hard Drive, SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1/USB 3.0, Plug-and-Play, Formatted for Windows, Black

WD 4TB Elements AE Portable External Hard Drive, SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1/USB 3.0, Plug-and-Play, Formatted for Windows, Black

WD
11% Off
Why we love it
  • Effortless expandability in seconds.
  • Ample storage for important files.
  • Eco-friendly design and packaging.
Main Highlights
  • Effortless Expandability This plug-and-play hard drive lets you expand your capacity in seconds, so you can keep your important files without any stress or complications.
  • High Capacity Discover expansive storage with up to 6TB capacity, offering ample room for your cherished photos, memorable videos, and essential documents on-the-go.
  • Easy-to-Use Backup Software Equipped with backup software - Simply download, plug in your drive and set your hourly, daily, or monthly schedule.
  • Transfer faster Experience fast data transfer speeds with USB 3.2 Gen 1, enabling you to quickly access and share your files with ease.
  • Designed with the Planet in Mind The enclosure of this drive is composed of more than 50% post-consumer recycled plastic. Packaging is made of over 50% post-consumer recycled pulp and is fully recyclable.
Show More
8.7
Excellent
8.7
Excellent
WD

WD 4TB Elements AE Portable External Hard Drive, SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1/USB 3.0, Plug-and-Play, Formatted for Windows, Black

11% Off
Why we love it
  • Effortless expandability in seconds.
  • Ample storage for important files.
  • Eco-friendly design and packaging.
Main Highlights
  • Effortless Expandability This plug-and-play hard drive lets you expand your capacity in seconds, so you can keep your important files without any stress or complications.
  • High Capacity Discover expansive storage with up to 6TB capacity, offering ample room for your cherished photos, memorable videos, and essential documents on-the-go.
  • Easy-to-Use Backup Software Equipped with backup software - Simply download, plug in your drive and set your hourly, daily, or monthly schedule.
  • Transfer faster Experience fast data transfer speeds with USB 3.2 Gen 1, enabling you to quickly access and share your files with ease.
  • Designed with the Planet in Mind The enclosure of this drive is composed of more than 50% post-consumer recycled plastic. Packaging is made of over 50% post-consumer recycled pulp and is fully recyclable.
Show More