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The Top 8 Best External Hard Drives For Photography in 2024
Selecting the best external hard drives for photography can be a daunting task, especially with the vast array of options available on the market. As a photographer, you need a reliable and high-performance storage solution that can accommodate your growing collection of images and videos. Whether you’re a professional, an amateur, or a hobbyist, the decision to invest in the best external hard drive for photography can have a significant impact on your workflow, storage capabilities, and overall productivity.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the crucial factors to consider when choosing an external hard drive for your photography needs. We’ll explore the different features and specifications that should guide your decision-making process, review some of the top-performing external hard drives on the market, and provide valuable tips and guidelines to help you make an informed purchase. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of the best external hard drives for photography and how to select the one that perfectly fits your requirements.
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Best External Hard Drives for Photography
Summarized Comparison Table
SanDisk 1TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD
The SanDisk 1TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD is highly regarded by users, especially for its speed and reliability.
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SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD
Customers highly rate the SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD for its reliability and speed, particularly appreciating its compact form and the security features it offers.
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SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD, 1TB
It is often praised for its ability to handle large files and intensive read/write operations without lag, making it a top choice for users who need efficiency and reliability.
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SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD
Users have praised the SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD for its reliability and speed, making it highly regarded in the portable SSD market.
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SAMSUNG T7 Shield 1TB Portable External Solid State Drive
Users have rated the SAMSUNG T7 Shield very highly, often noting its robust build and reliable performance even under tough conditions.
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Crucial X9 Pro 1TB Portable SSD
It’s also perfect for users who frequently work in challenging environments and require a reliable device that can keep their data secure.
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Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB Portable External Hard Drive
Users highly rate the Toshiba Canvio Basics for its reliability and simplicity. It’s often praised for its value, offering 2TB of storage at a price point that is competitive in the market.
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SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB
Customers appreciate its seamless performance during high-load activities and the peace of mind provided by the included health monitoring software.
More infoFeatures to Consider When Choosing an External Hard Drive for Photography
When selecting an external hard drive for your photography needs, it’s essential to consider a range of features that will impact its performance, reliability, and overall suitability. Here are the primary factors to take into account:
- Storage Size: Select a drive based on how many photos and videos you have, their size, and how long you plan to keep them..
| Storage Capacity | Recommended Use |
|---|---|
| 1TB – 2TB | Suitable for hobbyists and part-time photographers with a moderate number of files |
| 3TB – 4TB | Ideal for professional photographers or those with a large and growing collection of high-resolution images and videos |
| 5TB and above | Recommended for photographers with extensive archives, high-resolution video files, or those who require redundant backup solutions |
- Connection Interface: Pick the right connection for speed and compatibility (USB 3.0/3.1 for balance, USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 for speed, FireWire 800 for older but fast drives).
- Storage Technology: Decide between HDDs (affordable, large capacity) or SSDs (faster, more resistant to shock, but expensive and lower capacity).
| HDD | SSD |
|---|---|
| Generally more affordable per gigabyte of storage | Offer faster read/write speeds and lower access times |
| Offer larger storage capacities (up to 10TB or more) | Limited to smaller capacities (typically up to 4TB) |
| Have higher risk of mechanical failure and data loss | More resistant to physical shock and vibration |
| Slower data transfer speeds compared to SSDs | Significantly more expensive per gigabyte of storage |
- Rotational Speed (for HDDs): Faster speed (7,200 RPM) means quicker access for large files, while 5,400 RPM offers a balance for general use.
- Cache Size: Larger cache (64MB+) improves performance for working with high-resolution files.
- Durability: Consider a rugged drive with water resistance (IP rating) and a protective case for travel.
- Power Requirements: Portable drives use USB for power, while desktop drives might need a separate power supply.
- Backup and Data Protection: Choose a drive with features like automatic backup, encryption, and versioning to safeguard your photos.
By carefully evaluating these key features, you can effectively narrow down your options and select the external hard drive that best meets your photography-specific needs and workflow requirements.
10 Things To Consider When Buying The Best External Drives For Photography!
Top 5 FAQ: External Hard Drives for Photography
As a photographer, you know how important it is to have a reliable place to store your photos. External hard drives are a great option for backing up your photos and keeping them safe. But with so many different drives on the market, it can be tough to choose the right one. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about external hard drives for photography:
1. What type of external hard drive should I get?
There are two main types of external hard drives: HDDs (hard disk drives) and SSDs (solid state drives). HDDs are typically less expensive, but they are also slower and more fragile. SSDs are faster and more durable, but they are also more expensive. For most photographers, an HDD is a good option for storing large amounts of data, such as raw photos. However, if you need a drive for editing photos or videos, an SSD is a better choice.
2. How much storage do I need?
The amount of storage you need will depend on how many photos you take and how large your files are. If you shoot RAW photos, you will need more storage than if you shoot JPEGs. A good rule of thumb is to get an external hard drive that is at least twice as large as your current photo library.
3. What is a good brand of external hard drive?
There are many good brands of external hard drives on the market, such as Western Digital, Seagate, Samsung, and LaCie. When choosing a drive, it is important to consider factors such as storage capacity, speed, durability, and price.
4. How do I back up my photos to an external hard drive?
The process for backing up your photos to an external hard drive will vary depending on your operating system. However, the general steps are the same. First, connect the external hard drive to your computer. Then, copy your photos from your computer to the hard drive. You can use a file manager or backup software to do this. Once your photos are backed up, you can disconnect the external hard drive from your computer.
5. How can I keep my external hard drive safe?
There are a few things you can do to keep your external hard drive safe:
- Store it in a safe place. When you are not using the hard drive, store it in a safe place, such as a drawer or cabinet.
- Handle it with care. Do not drop or bump the hard drive, as this can damage the data.
- Back up your data regularly. Even if you take precautions to keep your hard drive safe, it is still a good idea to back up your data regularly. This will ensure that you do not lose your photos if the hard drive fails.
Best External Hard Drives for Photography – Detailed Reviews
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled reviews of some of the best external hard drives for photography, considering factors such as storage capacity, performance, durability, and overall value.
#1. SanDisk 1TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD
This drive is fantastic. I needed a drive for a Premiere Pro project that I could use on both Mac and Windows 11. After formatting it to exFAT, it consistently hits 1,800MB/s read and write speeds, perfect for large media files. It even supports 8K footage playback. I originally planned to use it just for travel, but it’s so fast I can edit directly from it. I still back up to other drives, but it only takes a few minutes. Super impressive. Highly recommended.
Features and Specifications
- Capacity: 1TB
- Connectivity: USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
- Speed: Up to 2000MB/s read and write speeds
- Compatibility: Compatible with laptops, desktops, smartphones, and tablets
- Durability: IP65 water and dust resistance, up to 3-meter drop protection
- Design: Compact with a forged aluminum chassis that doubles as a heatsink
- Security: 256-bit AES hardware encryption for password protection
- Warranty: Includes limited manufacturer warranty (specific term not listed)
- Special Features: Portable, hardware encryption
- Software: Compatible with SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management (download required)
Pros
- High Speed: Exceptional read/write speeds suitable for high-demand applications and file transfers.
- Enhanced Durability: Robust construction with improved drop protection and water/dust resistance makes it suitable for outdoor and challenging environments.
- Compact and Portable: Small size and a practical carabiner loop make it easy to transport and secure.
Cons
- Price: Higher cost per terabyte compared to some other SSDs, reflecting its premium features.
- Compatibility: High-speed performance is contingent on having host devices that support USB 3.2 Gen 2×2.
Ideal For
This SSD is ideal for creative professionals like photographers, videographers, and graphic designers who need fast access to large files and a durable drive that can withstand rough conditions. It’s also great for general users who want a reliable and secure storage solution for travel or daily use.
Rating
This product has received a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,850 ratings on Amazon, signifying strong user satisfaction.
#2. SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD
I was pleasantly surprised by how small this hard drive is—I love it! It’s lightweight, has tons of storage, fast transfer rates, and feels very durable. I’m definitely planning to buy more for my home Mac Mini and another for Time Machine backups. The only minor downside is that the USB cable could be a bit longer or come in two lengths, but that’s hardly a deal-breaker considering what you get. Do yourself a favor and get one, or two, or even four! 😅
Features and Specifications
- Capacity: 2TB
- Connectivity: USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Speed: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds
- Compatibility: Compatible with laptops, desktops, and tablets
- Durability: IP65 water and dust resistance, up to 3-meter drop protection
- Design: Compact and portable with a Monterey color option
- Security: 256-bit AES hardware encryption for password protection
- Special Features: Portable, rugged design, and carabiner loop for easy attachment
- Software: Compatible with SanDisk Memory Zone app for efficient file management
Pros
- High Capacity and Speed: Offers substantial storage capacity with excellent read and write speeds for managing large files quickly.
- Enhanced Durability: Built to withstand harsh conditions, making it suitable for outdoor use or in challenging environments.
- Security Features: Includes strong encryption to protect sensitive data.
Cons
- Cost: While it offers premium features, the price point might be high for those on a tighter budget.
- Dependency on Device Compatibility: Optimal performance requires a host device that supports USB 3.2 Gen 2.
Ideal For
This SSD is particularly well-suited for content creators, photographers, and videographers who frequently handle large media files and require a durable, high-speed external storage solution. It’s also great for everyday users who need robust data protection and fast access to their files on various devices.
Rating
The product holds a strong rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 61,127 reviews, indicating high satisfaction among users.
#3. SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD, 1TB
I bought four of these because they’re compact and portable, making them easy to take anywhere without taking up much space. They are compatible with all my devices, including my Mac, Windows computers, Android tablets, and my phone. They load data extremely quickly, and I absolutely love them. If I could, I’d buy even more. Forget about old hard drives and give these a try—you’ll love them too.
Features and Specifications
- Capacity: 1TB
- Connectivity: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Speed: Read and write speeds up to 1,050MB/s and 1,000MB/s respectively
- Compatibility: Works with devices such as iPhone 15, laptops, gaming consoles, televisions, and smartphones
- Durability: Shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet; solid aluminum unibody construction
- Special Features: PCIe NVMe technology for fast data transfer, portable
- Design: Compact and durable, available in Titan Gray
- Warranty: Includes manufacturer warranty (specific term not listed)
Pros
- High Performance: Nearly twice as fast as its predecessor, the T5, thanks to PCIe NVMe technology.
- Durability: Designed to withstand physical shocks and falls, making it ideal for travel and outdoor use.
- Large Capacity Options: Available up to 4TB, allowing for substantial storage space for various types of data.
Cons
- Price Point: While currently on a significant discount, the original price might still be considered high for some budgets, especially given the competitive market of portable SSDs.
Ideal For
This SSD is particularly suited for professionals such as video editors, photographers, and gamers who require fast and reliable storage that can keep up with intensive applications and data requirements. It’s also great for students and everyday users who need a dependable storage solution for their academic or personal projects.
Rating
With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 31,560 ratings, the SAMSUNG T7 SSD stands out in the market.
#4. SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD
It works great as a portable drive. I also use it to store high-speed videos from my iPhone, which requires an external drive for the fastest video speeds.
Features and Specifications
- Capacity: 1TB
- Connectivity: USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Speed: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds
- Compatibility: Compatible with laptops, desktops, and tablets
- Durability: IP65 water and dust resistance, up to 3-meter drop protection
- Design: Compact and portable with a carabiner loop for secure attachment
- Security: Password protection featuring 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Special Features: NVMe solid state performance, portable
- Software: Compatible with SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management
Pros
- High Performance: Offers excellent read/write speeds ideal for transferring large files quickly.
- Robust Protection: Equipped with high-level water, dust, and shock resistance, ensuring data safety in rugged environments.
- Portability: Features a handy carabiner loop, making it easy to attach to a backpack or belt loop for secure transport.
Cons
- Price Variability: Available at a lower price from other sellers, which might cause confusion or decision fatigue among buyers.
- Dependency on USB 3.2: For maximum performance, a compatible USB 3.2 Gen 2 port is necessary, which may not be available on all devices.
Ideal For
This SSD is particularly suitable for outdoor photographers, adventurers, and professionals who frequently work in the field and need a durable, fast, and secure storage solution. It’s also great for everyday users who prioritize data protection and fast access to their files.
Rating
With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 61,127 ratings, this SSD demonstrates high customer satisfaction.
#5. SAMSUNG T7 Shield 1TB Portable External Solid State Drive
Features and Specifications
- Capacity: 1TB
- Connectivity: USB 3.2 Gen2
- Speed: Read and write speeds up to 1050/1000 MB/s
- Compatibility: Compatible with PC, Mac, Android devices, gaming consoles, including support for iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video
- Durability: IP65 rated for water and dust resistance, drop protection up to 9.8 feet
- Design: Compact and rugged, available in Black, Beige, and Blue
- Special Features: PCIe NVMe technology, Samsung Magician software for drive optimization
- Price: Variable (see price in cart)
- Warranty: Includes manufacturer warranty (specific term not listed)
Pros
- High Performance: Delivers fast data transfer speeds, suitable for quickly moving large files and efficient work flows.
- Extreme Durability: Offers excellent protection against environmental elements and physical mishaps.
- Versatility: Broad compatibility with various devices and systems makes it a flexible choice for different technological ecosystems.
Cons
- Price Visibility: Price must be checked in the cart, which might inconvenience some buyers wanting quick price information.
- Color Specific Availability: Certain colors might be preferred by users but could be limited in availability.
Ideal For
This SSD is ideal for professionals and enthusiasts who are often in challenging environments or need a dependable drive that can keep up with the pace of their adventures or professional tasks. It’s also well-suited for users requiring high-speed data access and storage that integrates smoothly with a variety of devices.
Rating
With a strong customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,770 reviews, the SAMSUNG T7 Shield is highly regarded in the SSD market.
#6. Crucial X9 Pro 1TB Portable SSD
This product is perfect for the vast majority of users. It’s compact and lightweight, yet feels substantial and comfortable in the hand. The combination of metal and plastic gives it a well-made, durable quality. It’s user-friendly, and you can easily register it on their website. I would highly recommend it.
Features and Specifications
- Capacity: 1TB
- Connectivity: USB 3.2 with USB-C interface
- Speed: Read and write speeds up to 1050MB/s, with sustained write performance of 975MB/s
- Compatibility: Plug-and-play with Windows, Mac, Android, iPad, PC, Linux, PlayStation, and Xbox
- Durability: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-proof up to 7.5 feet
- Design: Anodized aluminum with a rubberized soft-touch base, compact size (65 x 50 mm)
- Security: Password protection and 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Special Features: Includes a drive activity light integrated in the lanyard hole
Pros
- High Performance: Excellent read and write speeds make it suitable for editing directly from the drive.
- Durable Build: Offers significant resistance to water, dust, and impacts, ensuring reliability in various environments.
- Versatile Compatibility: Can be used with a wide range of devices, enhancing its utility across different platforms.
Cons
- Adapter Separately Sold: The USB-C to USB-A adapter is not included, which might be a minor inconvenience for users without USB-C ports.
- Price Point: While competitively priced, the cost may still be a consideration for budget-conscious users.
Ideal For
This SSD is ideal for content creators, photographers, and gamers who need a durable and fast external storage solution. It’s also perfect for users who frequently work in challenging environments and require a reliable device that can keep their data secure.
Rating
With a customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,813 reviews, the Crucial X9 Pro SSD is well-received in the market.
#7. Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB Portable External Hard Drive
Gone are the days of bulky hard drives, thankfully. This one is incredibly fast and user-friendly, making it a breeze to transfer documents, photos, or videos. It’s also impressively durable; I’ve dropped it more times than I can remember, and it still works perfectly.
The storage capacity is massive, so I never have to worry about running out of space. It’s an excellent portable storage solution.
Features and Specifications
- Capacity: 2TB
- Connectivity: USB 3.0 (backwards compatible with USB 2.0)
- Compatibility: Pre-formatted NTFS for Windows PC; requires reformatting for Mac
- Design: Sleek profile with a matte, smudge-resistant finish
- Durability: Portable and durable design suitable for everyday use
- Special Features: Plug & Play—easy to use with no software installation required
Pros
- Ease of Use: Simple Plug & Play functionality makes it straightforward to start using immediately without the need for additional software.
- Compatibility: Works seamlessly with PCs and is compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports, ensuring fast data transfer speeds.
- Cost-Effective: Offers a large amount of storage space at a very reasonable price, making it accessible for users on a budget.
Cons
- Reformatting for Mac: Mac users will need to reformat the drive, which could be an inconvenience.
- No External Power: While it operates without an external AC power cord, this could limit its use with devices that do not supply sufficient power through their USB ports.
Ideal For
This hard drive is ideal for students, professionals, and anyone who needs to quickly expand their storage capacity without a hefty investment. It’s particularly useful for backing up large volumes of data such as documents, photos, and videos.
Rating
With a strong customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 77,877 reviews, the Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB Portable External Hard Drive stands out as a popular choice on Amazon.
#8. SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB
Features and Specifications
- Capacity: 4TB
- Connectivity: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
- Speed: Sequential read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s
- Compatibility: Compatible with iPhone 15, laptops, desktop PCs, and gaming consoles
- Durability: Features Dynamic Thermal Guard to manage heat effectively during intensive use
- Design: Compact and portable with a robust build
- Special Features: Includes Magician Software for firmware updates and SSD health monitoring
- Warranty: Includes manufacturer warranty (specific term not listed)
Pros
- High Performance: Exceptional read and write speeds ideal for demanding applications, including 4K video editing and high-resolution gaming.
- Large Capacity: 4TB provides ample space for large files, extensive media libraries, and system backups.
- Advanced Cooling: Ensures stable performance even under heavy use with its Dynamic Thermal Guard.
Cons
- Price Point: Even with the discount, the cost may be prohibitive for some users, though justified by its high performance and capacity.
- USB Compatibility: Maximum speed requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support, which may not be available on all devices.
Ideal For
This SSD is especially suited for content creators, gamers, and professionals who need rapid access to large amounts of data and a reliable drive capable of sustained high performance. It’s also a great choice for tech enthusiasts who require extensive storage for tasks that demand speed, such as video editing or large-scale data processing.
Rating
With a customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 601 reviews, the SAMSUNG T9 SSD has established itself as a top choice in the market.
Tips for Selecting the Best External Hard Drive for Your Photography Needs
To help you navigate the process of selecting the right external hard drive for your photography, here are some valuable tips and guidelines to consider:
Choose the best drives for your photography: Consider storage space (2TB minimum, more for large collections), speed (USB 3.0 or faster, SSD preferred), durability (shockproof, water-resistant for travel), and backup options (built-in software, cloud storage, RAID). Research brands with good reputations and support. Back up regularly using multiple drives or cloud storage. Think about future needs with scalable storage and compatible connections. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your photos are safe and secure.
Guidelines and Tips for First-Time Use of Your Best External Hard Drives for Photography
Congratulations on your new external hard drive! To ensure a seamless and successful integration into your photography workflow, here are some guidelines and tips for first-time use:
- Set up your drive: Initialize and format it (instructions vary by OS), install any included software.
- Back up your photos: Use the drive’s software, cloud storage, or another solution.
- Organize your files: Create a clear folder structure and naming system.
- Maintain your drive: Check health, handle it carefully, update drivers, eject safely.
- Protect your data: Encrypt or password protect sensitive files.
- Clean and maintain: Keep the exterior clean, organize files, and run disk utilities. These steps will ensure your drive functions well and your photos are safe.
Summary
Choosing the best external hard drives for photography involves storage size, speed, toughness, backup options, brand trust, and future needs. This guide helps you pick the right drive and use it safely for worry-free photo storage and management. Remember, a good hard drive is key to protecting your valuable photos.
Which of these drives is the best for storing RAW photos?
Can I use these drives to back up my photos to the cloud?
What is the best way to organize my photos on an external hard drive?
These drives seem like a good option for photographers, but I’m not sure which one is right for me.
These drives are a bit pricey, but they’re worth it for the quality and performance.
I’m so glad I switched to using an external hard drive for my photography. It’s made my workflow so much easier and more efficient.
These drives are a great investment for any photographer. They’re worth the price for the peace of mind they provide.
I love that these drives are so portable and easy to use. I can take them with me anywhere I go and never worry about running out of storage space.
I’ve been using one of these drives for years and it’s never let me down. It’s the perfect companion for my photography adventures.
These external hard drives are a lifesaver for photographers! They’re fast, reliable, and have plenty of storage space to keep all my photos and videos safe.