Despite the rise of speedy SSDs and cloud storage, external hard disk drives (HDDs) remain recommended external hard drive options for massive, affordable storage. Whether you need the best external hard drives for backing up precious memories or expanding your game library, our hand-picked list of top drives has you covered.
1. Western Digital My Passport (5TB): Ultra-portable backup champ
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WD’s My Passport is the best external HDD for everyday backups and on-the-go storage. This palm-sized, bus-powered drive offers up to 5TB capacity, fitting easily in a pocket – great for students, professionals, and travellers. While it uses a Micro-B USB 3.2 Gen1 port (USB-C adapter included) instead of native USB-C, it still delivers ~120 MB/s transfer speeds for bulk file transfers. With its blend of portability, security, and WD’s trusted drive quality, the My Passport remains a highly recommended external hard drive for most users.
| Specification | Details |
| Capacity options | 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 5TB (up to 6TB in latest model) |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps), Micro-B port (USB-C adapter included) |
| Dimensions | ~107mm x 75mm x 19mm (for 5TB version) |
| Weight | ~210g (5TB version) |
| Additional features | WD Backup software, hardware encryption (password protection) |
| Warranty | 3-year limited warranty |
2. Seagate One Touch (5TB): High-capacity drive with handy backup features
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The Seagate One Touch packs ample storage into a slim, portable design and is plug-and-play for Windows (quick reformat for Mac). Using USB 3.0, it handles everyday transfers with ease. Beyond storage, it offers Seagate’s Toolkit software for one-click or scheduled backups, optional password protection with hardware encryption, and bonus perks like a 1-year Mylio Create plan and 4-month Adobe Creative Cloud Photography membership. With its blend of capacity, security, and extras, the One Touch is a great choice for those seeking more than basic storage.
| Specification | Details |
| Capacity options | 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 5TB |
| Interface | USB 3.0 (USB 3.2 Gen 1), Type-A connector (Micro-B on drive) |
| Dimensions | ~115.3mm x 80mm x 20.9mm (for 5TB model) |
| Weight | ~268g (5TB model) |
| Additional features | Seagate Toolkit backup software; 1-year Mylio Create & 4-month Adobe CC plan included; Optional hardware encryption |
| Warranty | 3-year manufacturer warranty |
3. Toshiba Canvio Basics (2TB): Best budget-friendly external hard disk
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If you’re on a budget but still need dependable storage, the Toshiba Canvio Basics series is a top contender. This simple, no-frills portable drive offers a solid blend of reliability and value. The Canvio Basics comes pre-formatted in NTFS for Windows and requires minimal setup. It’s powered via USB and delivers roughly 100 – 140 MB/s transfer rates, on par with other 5400 RPM drives.
Affordability is the big selling point here. Per terabyte, it’s one of the cheapest genuine external HDDs you can buy, making it ideal for students or anyone doing occasional backups.
| Specification | Details |
| Capacity options | 1TB, 2TB, 4TB |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0), Micro-B port to Type-A cable |
| Dimensions | ~109mm x 78mm x 14mm (2TB model) |
| Weight | ~149g (2TB model) |
| Additional features | Plug-and-play (no software bloat); LED indicator |
| Warranty | 3 years |
4. Transcend StoreJet 25M3 (2TB): Shock-resistant portable drive
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Need a drive that can survive bumps and drops? The Transcend StoreJet 25M3 pairs solid storage with rugged durability. Its three-stage anti-shock system – a silicone rubber case, internal suspension damper, and reinforced casing – meets U.S. MIL-STD-810G drop test standards, protecting data from desk-height falls.
The StoreJet 25M3 also has a one-touch backup button, with Transcend’s software, that lets you quickly save files, while the USB 3.1 interface ensures speedy transfers. Though bulkier and heavier due to its protective build, that trade-off is worth it if you need a drive that can handle rough handling without compromising your data.
| Specification | Details |
| Capacity options | 500GB, 1TB, 2TB |
| Interface | USB 3.1 Gen 1 (compatible with USB 3.0/2.0) – Micro-B port |
| Dimensions | 129.5mm x 80.8mm x 16.1mm |
| Weight | ~185g (2TB) |
| Additional features | MIL-STD-810G military-grade shock protection; One-touch auto-backup button (requires Transcend Elite software) |
| Warranty | 3-year limited (manufacturer) |
5. ADATA HD710 Pro (2TB): Waterproof & dustproof tough drive
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For those who need an extra level of ruggedness, the ADATA HD710 Pro is a hard drive that laughs in the face of mud, rain, and sand. Built with a durable triple-layer construction, the HD710 Pro carries an IP68 rating – meaning it’s fully dust-tight and can survive being submerged in 1.5 meters of water for up to 60 minutes. This drive is also tested to MIL-STD-810G 516.6 shock resistance, so it can handle drops and shocks on par with other rugged drives.
While bulkier than standard drives and requiring its port cover to be sealed for full protection, it delivers peace of mind that your data is safe from the elements.
| Specification | Details |
| Capacity options | 1TB, 2TB, 4TB (Black only), 5TB (Black only) |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0) – Standard-A plug (cable integrated) |
| Dimensions | 133mm x 98.5mm x 21.5mm (2TB version) |
| Weight | ~270g (2TB version) |
| Additional features | IP68 waterproof & dustproof; Shock sensor (auto stops drive on impact); Cable wrap storage design |
| Warranty | 3-year limited manufacturer warranty |
6. LaCie Rugged Mini (4TB): Durable drive for travellers and creatives
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Recognisable by its bright orange sleeve, the LaCie Rugged Mini is almost iconic among photographers and creatives. This external HDD is built to endure life on the road: it’s rated to survive a drop of up to 4 feet, resist the crushing force of up to a 1-ton car, and is splash-resistant (IP54 rated) when the port cover is closed.
The 4TB Rugged Mini provides ample space for media files, and while it’s a 5400 RPM hard disk inside, it’s plenty for backup, transfers, and editing smaller projects directly. This drive also comes with automatic backup software and is Time Machine compatible for Mac users (HFS+ pre-formatted versions or simple reformatting). It’s not the cheapest option, but if you need a combination of style, durability, and brand reputation, the Rugged Mini makes a strong case.
| Specification | Details |
| Capacity options | 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A to Micro-B cable; USB-C adapter often included) |
| Dimensions | 135.1mm x 86mm x 26mm |
| Weight | ~330g (4TB model) |
| Additional features | Drop resistant ~1.2m; IP54 rated (dust and water splash resistant); LaCie Backup Assistant software; Works with Windows & Mac |
| Warranty | 3 years |
7. WD Black P10 Game Drive (5TB): Top HDD for console & PC gaming
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When your console’s storage is running on fumes or your PC gaming library is overflowing, the WD Black P10 comes to the rescue. This 5TB portable drive is part of Western Digital’s gaming-oriented WD_BLACK line, and it’s designed to store dozens, if not hundreds, of games. It’s USB 3.2 Gen1 compatible and works with PlayStation, Xbox, and PC out of the box – just plug it in, and your device will recognise it as extended storage (you may need to format for consoles).
Performance is similar to other 2.5″ externals (~130 MB/s), so loading games isn’t as fast as internal SSDs, but for cold storage of games or playing less load-time-sensitive titles, it’s perfectly fine.
| Specification | Details |
| Capacity options | 2GB, 4GB, 5GB, 6GB |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0) – Micro-B to Type-A cable |
| Dimensions | 118mm x 88mm x 20.8mm (5TB model) |
| Weight | ~230g (5TB model) |
| Additional features | Designed for gaming (works with Xbox One/Series and PS4/PS5 for PS4 games); Durable enclosure with metal top; WD_BLACK Dashboard support (for drive info) |
| Warranty | 3-year limited manufacturer warranty |
8. Seagate One Touch Hub: High-capacity desktop drive with built-in USB hub
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The Seagate One Touch Hub is a modern upgrade to the classic Backup Plus Hub, bringing both USB-C and USB-A ports on the front for charging devices and connecting accessories – even when your PC is off. With capacities up to 10TB, a 7200 RPM drive for faster speeds, and Seagate’s Toolkit backup software, it’s great for those who want large, secure storage that also doubles as a mini docking station.
| Specification | Details |
| Capacity options | 4TB, 6TB, 8TB, 10TB, 12TB, 14TB, 16TB, 18TB, 20TB |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps), Micro-B port to PC; Front: 1× USB-C, 1× USB-A |
| Dimensions | ~130mm x 45mm x 200mm |
| Weight | ~1.24kg (6TB version) |
| Additional features | Hardware encryption; Toolkit software; USB hub for charging; Bonus Adobe CC & Mylio subscriptions |
| Warranty | 3-year manufacturer warranty |
9. Seagate Expansion Portable Hard Drive (1TB–5TB): Reliable, no-frills portable backup
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A minimalist staple for straightforward storage needs, the Seagate Expansion Portable Hard Drive offers essential, drag-and-drop USB 3.0 connectivity in a compact, bus-powered enclosure. Available in capacities from 1TB to 5TB, it’s ideal for users looking for the best external hard disk drive that just works – no extra software, no fuss. Its slim, lightweight build makes it a great companion for students, professionals, and travellers who want dependable storage on the go.
| Specification | Details |
| Capacity options | 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 5TB |
| Interface | USB 3.0 (USB 2.0 compatible) |
| Dimensions | ~115 mm × 80 mm × 21 mm (5TB version) |
| Weight | ~260g (5TB version) |
| Additional features | Plug-and-play, no software needed; Rescue Data Recovery available in select regions |
| Warranty | 3-year supplier warranty |
What’s the average lifespan of an external hard drive?
On average, an external hard disk drive lasts around 3 to 5 years under normal use, but its lifespan can vary. You might have a drive that runs strong for over a decade, or encounter a rare failure within months.
HDD longevity depends on many factors:
- The drive’s build quality
- How often it’s used
- Environmental conditions
Even the best external hard drives will succumb to wear and tear over time. Manufacturers often rate HDDs for a certain number of hours of use, but do note that real-world results can differ.
How to extend HDD lifespan?
In practice, most users can expect at least a few solid years if the drive is treated well. But here are some tips that can help extend your external hard drive’s lifespan.
- Keep it cool – heat is a killer for electronics
- Avoid drops or physical shocks, especially while it’s running
- Use it regularly but not excessively
- Listen for strange noises – clicking or grinding can be a sign of impending failure. It’s wise to back up important data in multiple places regardless.
Remember that even the best external hard drives can fail unexpectedly, so having two storage options (one external HDD and one in the cloud or on another device) is the safest bet.
Store like a pro with the best external hard drives in 2025
Choosing the best external hard drives in 2025 really depends on finding your storage soulmate. Whether you need a rugged companion for rough travels or a colossal desktop vault for your digital life, there’s a drive above with your name on it.
And while you’re upgrading your storage, don’t forget to level up the rest of your rig. Check out our picks for the best RAM for gaming to give your PC a memory boost, or keep things cool with the best CPU coolers for those marathon gaming sessions. With the right HDD by your side and a fully optimised setup, you’ll be disk-in’ out storage space and performance like a pro – no ifs, ands, or bytes about it!
