Identify the most reliable external hard drives for long-term data storage.
In today’s digital age, we accumulate massive amounts of data – photos, videos, documents, and more. With limited storage space on our devices, finding a reliable and secure way to back up our precious memories and important files becomes crucial. External hard drives offer a cost-effective and convenient solution for long-term storage. They provide ample space to store all your data, ensuring it’s readily accessible when you need it.
Choosing the right external hard drive can be overwhelming, given the vast array of options available. From different storage capacities and speeds to various connectivity options and features, there’s a lot to consider. This article will guide you through the process of selecting the best external hard drive for your long-term storage needs, highlighting the top 20 models on the market.
We’ve meticulously researched and compared various factors, including performance, reliability, durability, and user-friendliness, to curate this list. Whether you’re a casual user looking for a backup solution or a professional who requires large storage capacities for their work, this guide will help you find the perfect external hard drive for your specific requirements.
This article will provide in-depth reviews of each featured hard drive, covering their key specifications, advantages, and drawbacks. We’ll also delve into essential considerations such as data security, compatibility, and warranty information. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision and choose an external hard drive that meets your needs and safeguards your valuable data for years to come.
| QUICKLIST | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Item | Image | Where to buy | Rating | Read More | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| WD My Book | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Seagate Backup Plus Hub |  |
N/A | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Samsung T7 Shield | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| LaCie Rugged Mini |  |
N/A | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Western Digital My Passport | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Seagate Expansion | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Toshiba Canvio Basics | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| G-Technology G-Drive Mobile | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SanDisk Extreme Portable | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Crucial X8 Portable SSD |  |
N/A | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
WD My Book
A reliable and affordable external hard drive with ample storage capacity.
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 22TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Features: Password protection, hardware encryption
Reasons to buy :
- Large storage capacity
- Affordable price
- Reliable performance
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be bulky
- No Thunderbolt support
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a lot of storage space for files, photos, videos, and backups.
- You are looking for a reliable and affordable hard drive.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a compact and portable hard drive.
- You need high-speed data transfer rates.
Bottom Line:
The WD My Book is a great option for those who need a lot of storage space at an affordable price. It is a reliable and well-built hard drive that is perfect for backing up your important data. However, it is not the most portable option and does not offer the fastest data transfer speeds. If you are looking for a more compact and portable option, or if you need high-speed data transfer rates, you may want to consider another option.
Seagate Backup Plus Hub
A versatile external hard drive with a built-in SD card reader and a USB hub.
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 20TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Features: SD card reader, USB hub
Reasons to buy :
- Versatile design with built-in SD card reader and USB hub
- Large storage capacity
- Affordable price
Reasons to avoid :
- No Thunderbolt support
- Can be bulky
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a versatile external hard drive with a built-in SD card reader and USB hub.
- You need a lot of storage space.
- You are looking for an affordable option.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a compact and portable hard drive.
- You need high-speed data transfer rates.
Bottom Line:
The Seagate Backup Plus Hub is a great option for those who need a versatile external hard drive with a built-in SD card reader and USB hub. It is a reliable and well-built hard drive that is perfect for backing up your important data and organizing your files. However, it is not the most portable option and does not offer the fastest data transfer speeds. If you are looking for a more compact and portable option, or if you need high-speed data transfer rates, you may want to consider another option.
Samsung T7 Shield
A rugged and portable SSD with fast data transfer speeds.
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 2TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Features: IP65 water and dust resistance, shock resistance
Reasons to buy :
- Rugged design with IP65 water and dust resistance and shock resistance
- Fast data transfer speeds
- Compact and portable
Reasons to avoid :
- More expensive than traditional external hard drives
- Limited storage capacity compared to some hard drives
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a rugged and portable SSD that can withstand the elements.
- You need fast data transfer speeds.
- You are looking for a reliable and durable storage solution.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a lot of storage space at an affordable price.
- You are not concerned about durability.
Bottom Line:
The Samsung T7 Shield is a great option for those who need a rugged and portable SSD that can withstand the elements. It is a reliable and fast storage solution that is perfect for photographers, videographers, and anyone who needs to transport their data safely and securely. However, it is more expensive than traditional external hard drives and has limited storage capacity. If you need a lot of storage space at an affordable price, or if you are not concerned about durability, you may want to consider another option.
LaCie Rugged Mini
A compact and rugged external hard drive designed for professionals on the go.
Read more on Ultimate 22 Best External Hard Drive for Gaming Laptops
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 5TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Features: IP67 water and dust resistance, shock resistance
Reasons to buy :
- Compact and portable design
- Rugged construction with IP67 water and dust resistance and shock resistance
- Reliable performance
Reasons to avoid :
- More expensive than some other rugged hard drives
- Limited storage capacity compared to some other hard drives
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a compact and rugged external hard drive that can withstand the elements.
- You need a reliable and durable storage solution.
- You are looking for a professional-grade hard drive.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a lot of storage space at an affordable price.
- You are not concerned about durability.
Bottom Line:
The LaCie Rugged Mini is a great option for professionals who need a compact and rugged external hard drive that can withstand the elements. It is a reliable and durable storage solution that is perfect for photographers, videographers, and anyone who needs to transport their data safely and securely. However, it is more expensive than some other rugged hard drives and has limited storage capacity. If you need a lot of storage space at an affordable price, or if you are not concerned about durability, you may want to consider another option.
Western Digital My Passport
A portable external hard drive with a sleek design and a variety of colors.
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 5TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Features: Password protection, hardware encryption
Reasons to buy :
- Sleek and stylish design
- Affordable price
- Reliable performance
Reasons to avoid :
- No Thunderbolt support
- Limited storage capacity compared to some other hard drives
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a portable external hard drive with a stylish design.
- You need a reliable and affordable storage solution.
Don't buy it if:
- You need high-speed data transfer rates.
- You need a lot of storage space.
Bottom Line:
The Western Digital My Passport is a great option for those who need a portable external hard drive with a stylish design. It is a reliable and affordable storage solution that is perfect for backing up your important data and storing your files. However, it does not offer the fastest data transfer speeds and has limited storage capacity. If you need high-speed data transfer rates or a lot of storage space, you may want to consider another option.
Explore further with 28 Best External Hard Drive for iPhone Users
Seagate Expansion
A budget-friendly external hard drive with a simple design.
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 10TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Features: Simple design, plug-and-play
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- Simple design
- Plug-and-play
Reasons to avoid :
- No Thunderbolt support
- No password protection or hardware encryption
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need an affordable external hard drive for basic storage needs.
- You are looking for a simple and easy-to-use hard drive.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a rugged or portable hard drive.
- You need high-speed data transfer rates.
Bottom Line:
The Seagate Expansion is a great option for those who need an affordable external hard drive for basic storage needs. It is a simple and easy-to-use hard drive that is perfect for backing up your data or storing files. However, it does not offer the fastest data transfer speeds and lacks advanced features like password protection or hardware encryption. If you need a rugged or portable hard drive, or if you need high-speed data transfer rates, you may want to consider another option.
Toshiba Canvio Basics
A basic external hard drive with a simple design and affordable price.
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 4TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Features: Simple design, plug-and-play
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- Simple design
- Plug-and-play
Reasons to avoid :
- No Thunderbolt support
- No password protection or hardware encryption
- Limited storage capacity
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need an affordable external hard drive for basic storage needs.
- You are looking for a simple and easy-to-use hard drive.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a rugged or portable hard drive.
- You need high-speed data transfer rates.
- You need a lot of storage space.
Bottom Line:
The Toshiba Canvio Basics is a great option for those who need an affordable external hard drive for basic storage needs. It is a simple and easy-to-use hard drive that is perfect for backing up your data or storing files. However, it does not offer the fastest data transfer speeds and lacks advanced features like password protection or hardware encryption. It also has limited storage capacity. If you need a rugged or portable hard drive, or if you need high-speed data transfer rates, you may want to consider another option.
Learn more about Wirecutter’s Pick for the 32 Best External Hard Drive
G-Technology G-Drive Mobile
A portable and stylish external hard drive with a variety of color options.
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 4TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Features: Stylish design, compact size
Reasons to buy :
- Stylish design
- Compact and portable
- Reliable performance
Reasons to avoid :
- No Thunderbolt support
- Limited storage capacity
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a stylish and portable external hard drive.
- You are looking for a reliable storage solution.
Don't buy it if:
- You need high-speed data transfer rates.
- You need a lot of storage space.
Bottom Line:
The G-Technology G-Drive Mobile is a great option for those who need a stylish and portable external hard drive. It is a reliable and well-built hard drive that is perfect for backing up your important data and storing your files. However, it does not offer the fastest data transfer speeds and has limited storage capacity. If you need high-speed data transfer rates or a lot of storage space, you may want to consider another option.
Dive deeper into 30 Best External Hard Drive for Mac Time Machine Users
SanDisk Extreme Portable
A fast and portable SSD with a rugged design.
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 2TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Features: Rugged design, fast data transfer speeds
Reasons to buy :
- Rugged design
- Fast data transfer speeds
- Compact and portable
Reasons to avoid :
- More expensive than traditional external hard drives
- Limited storage capacity
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a rugged and portable SSD.
- You need fast data transfer speeds.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a lot of storage space at an affordable price.
- You are not concerned about durability.
Bottom Line:
The SanDisk Extreme Portable is a great option for those who need a rugged and portable SSD. It is a reliable and fast storage solution that is perfect for photographers, videographers, and anyone who needs to transport their data safely and securely. However, it is more expensive than traditional external hard drives and has limited storage capacity. If you need a lot of storage space at an affordable price, or if you are not concerned about durability, you may want to consider another option.
Crucial X8 Portable SSD
A fast and compact portable SSD with a stylish design.
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 2TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Features: Stylish design, fast data transfer speeds
Reasons to buy :
- Stylish design
- Fast data transfer speeds
- Compact and portable
Reasons to avoid :
- More expensive than traditional external hard drives
- Limited storage capacity
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a stylish and portable SSD.
- You need fast data transfer speeds.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a lot of storage space at an affordable price.
- You are not concerned about durability.
Bottom Line:
The Crucial X8 Portable SSD is a great option for those who need a stylish and portable SSD. It is a reliable and fast storage solution that is perfect for photographers, videographers, and anyone who needs to transport their data safely and securely. However, it is more expensive than traditional external hard drives and has limited storage capacity. If you need a lot of storage space at an affordable price, or if you are not concerned about durability, you may want to consider another option.
ADATA SD600Q
A compact and portable external hard drive with a sleek design and fast data transfer speeds.
Specifications :
- Capacity: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 5TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0)
- Dimensions: 115 x 78 x 14 mm
- Weight: 150g
Reasons to buy :
- Fast data transfer speeds: Supports USB 3.2 Gen 1 for quick file transfers.
- Compact and portable design: Easy to carry around and store.
- Durable: Features a shockproof and scratch-resistant design.
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited capacity: The highest capacity option is 5TB, which may not be enough for some users.
- No encryption features: No built-in encryption for sensitive data.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a small and portable external hard drive.
- You need fast data transfer speeds.
- You want a durable hard drive that can withstand some bumps and scratches.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a large capacity hard drive.
- You need data encryption features.
Bottom Line:
The ADATA SD600Q is a great option for those who need a compact and portable external hard drive with fast data transfer speeds. It's also durable, making it a good choice for those who are always on the go. However, it's not the best option for those who need a large capacity hard drive or data encryption features. If you're looking for a portable hard drive for everyday use, the ADATA SD600Q is a solid choice. Its fast speeds and compact design make it a convenient option for backing up files, storing photos and videos, and transporting large files. However, if you need a larger capacity drive or advanced features like encryption, you might want to consider other options.
Buffalo MiniStation Extreme
A rugged and durable external hard drive designed for extreme environments.
Specifications :
- Capacity: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0)
- Dimensions: 118 x 82 x 22 mm
- Weight: 250g
Reasons to buy :
- Rugged and durable: Designed to withstand drops, shocks, and vibrations.
- Water and dust resistant: IP67 rating protects against water and dust ingress.
- Fast data transfer speeds: Supports USB 3.2 Gen 1 for quick file transfers.
Reasons to avoid :
- Bulky and heavy: The rugged design makes it larger and heavier than other external hard drives.
- Limited capacity: The highest capacity option is 4TB, which may not be enough for some users.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a rugged and durable external hard drive.
- You need a hard drive that can withstand extreme environments.
- You need fast data transfer speeds.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a compact and lightweight external hard drive.
- You need a large capacity hard drive.
Bottom Line:
The Buffalo MiniStation Extreme is a great option for those who need a rugged and durable external hard drive that can withstand extreme environments. Its IP67 rating and shockproof design make it ideal for outdoor use, travel, and other demanding applications. While it's not the most compact or lightweight option, it offers excellent protection for your data. If you're looking for a reliable and durable storage solution for your valuable files, the Buffalo MiniStation Extreme is worth considering. However, if you prioritize portability and size, there are more compact alternatives available. Its rugged design comes at the cost of size and weight, so if you're looking for a more portable option, there are smaller and lighter alternatives.
OWC Envoy Pro FX
A high-performance external SSD with incredibly fast data transfer speeds.
Specifications :
- Capacity: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
- Interface: Thunderbolt 4
- Dimensions: 86 x 50 x 10 mm
- Weight: 90g
Reasons to buy :
- Incredibly fast data transfer speeds: Supports Thunderbolt 4 for blazing-fast file transfers.
- Compact and portable design: Easy to carry around and store.
- Durable: Features a rugged aluminum enclosure.
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive: More expensive than traditional external hard drives.
- Limited compatibility: Requires a Thunderbolt 4 port.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need incredibly fast data transfer speeds.
- You need a compact and portable external SSD.
- You have a Thunderbolt 4 port on your computer.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- Your computer doesn't have a Thunderbolt 4 port.
Bottom Line:
The OWC Envoy Pro FX is a top-of-the-line external SSD that delivers unparalleled performance. Its incredibly fast data transfer speeds make it perfect for professionals who work with large files, such as video editors, photographers, and graphic designers. Its compact design and rugged aluminum enclosure make it a reliable and durable storage solution. However, it's expensive and requires a Thunderbolt 4 port, so it's not the best option for everyone. If you need the fastest possible data transfer speeds and have a Thunderbolt 4 port, the OWC Envoy Pro FX is a great investment. However, if you're on a budget or don't have a Thunderbolt 4 port, there are more affordable and widely compatible alternatives available.
Silicon Power Armor A80
A rugged and waterproof external hard drive designed for outdoor use.
Specifications :
- Capacity: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0)
- Dimensions: 127 x 82 x 22 mm
- Weight: 250g
Reasons to buy :
- Rugged and durable: Designed to withstand drops, shocks, and vibrations.
- Water and dust resistant: IP68 rating protects against water and dust ingress.
- Fast data transfer speeds: Supports USB 3.2 Gen 1 for quick file transfers.
Reasons to avoid :
- Bulky and heavy: The rugged design makes it larger and heavier than other external hard drives.
- Limited capacity: The highest capacity option is 4TB, which may not be enough for some users.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a rugged and durable external hard drive.
- You need a hard drive that can withstand extreme environments.
- You need fast data transfer speeds.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a compact and lightweight external hard drive.
- You need a large capacity hard drive.
Bottom Line:
The Silicon Power Armor A80 is a rugged and waterproof external hard drive that's perfect for outdoor use. Its IP68 rating and shockproof design make it ideal for adventurous individuals who need to protect their data from the elements. Its fast data transfer speeds make it a great option for transferring large files, and its compact design makes it easy to carry around. However, it's not the most compact or lightweight option, and its capacity is limited to 4TB. If you're looking for a reliable and durable storage solution for your valuable files, the Silicon Power Armor A80 is worth considering. However, if you prioritize portability and size, there are more compact alternatives available.
Transcend StoreJet 25M3
A portable and shockproof external hard drive with a built-in data recovery software.
Specifications :
- Capacity: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0)
- Dimensions: 126 x 80 x 19 mm
- Weight: 180g
Reasons to buy :
- Portable and shockproof: Designed to withstand drops and bumps.
- Built-in data recovery software: Helps recover lost or corrupted data.
- Fast data transfer speeds: Supports USB 3.2 Gen 1 for quick file transfers.
Reasons to avoid :
- No encryption features: No built-in encryption for sensitive data.
- Limited capacity: The highest capacity option is 4TB, which may not be enough for some users.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a portable and shockproof external hard drive.
- You want a hard drive with built-in data recovery software.
- You need fast data transfer speeds.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a large capacity hard drive.
- You need data encryption features.
Bottom Line:
The Transcend StoreJet 25M3 is a great option for those who need a portable and shockproof external hard drive with built-in data recovery software. Its shockproof design makes it ideal for those who are always on the go, and its data recovery software gives you peace of mind knowing that your data is protected. Its fast data transfer speeds make it a great option for transferring large files, and its compact design makes it easy to carry around. However, it's not the most compact or lightweight option, and its capacity is limited to 4TB. If you're looking for a reliable and durable storage solution for your valuable files, the Transcend StoreJet 25M3 is worth considering. However, if you prioritize portability and size, there are more compact alternatives available.
Seagate Game Drive for Xbox
A dedicated external hard drive designed specifically for Xbox consoles.
Specifications :
- Capacity: 2TB, 4TB, 8TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0)
- Dimensions: 120 x 80 x 20 mm
- Weight: 200g
Reasons to buy :
- Designed for Xbox: Optimized for use with Xbox consoles.
- Large capacity: Available in 2TB, 4TB, and 8TB capacities.
- Plug and play: Easy to set up and use with Xbox consoles.
Reasons to avoid :
- Not compatible with other devices: Can only be used with Xbox consoles.
- No encryption features: No built-in encryption for sensitive data.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You own an Xbox console.
- You need a large capacity hard drive for storing games.
- You want a dedicated hard drive designed specifically for Xbox.
Don't buy it if:
- You don't own an Xbox console.
- You need a hard drive that can be used with other devices.
- You need data encryption features.
Bottom Line:
The Seagate Game Drive for Xbox is a great option for Xbox gamers who need extra storage space for their games. Its large capacity, plug-and-play setup, and optimized performance make it a convenient and easy-to-use solution for expanding your Xbox storage. However, it's not compatible with other devices and lacks encryption features, so it's not the best option for general-purpose storage. If you're an Xbox gamer looking for a dedicated hard drive to expand your storage, the Seagate Game Drive for Xbox is a solid choice. However, if you need a more versatile storage solution, you might want to consider other options.
WD My Cloud Home
A personal cloud storage solution that allows you to access your files from anywhere.
Specifications :
- Capacity: 2TB, 3TB, 4TB, 6TB
- Interface: Ethernet
- Dimensions: 115 x 115 x 130 mm
- Weight: 900g
Reasons to buy :
- Access your files from anywhere: Allows you to access your files from any device with an internet connection.
- Automatic backups: Automatically backs up your computer's files to the cloud.
- Stream your media: Allows you to stream your photos, videos, and music from any device.
Reasons to avoid :
- Requires an internet connection: You need an internet connection to access your files.
- Expensive: More expensive than traditional external hard drives.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You want to access your files from anywhere.
- You need automatic backups for your computer's files.
- You want to stream your media from any device.
Don't buy it if:
- You don't have a reliable internet connection.
- You're on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
The WD My Cloud Home is a great option for those who want to access their files from anywhere and need automatic backups for their computer's files. Its cloud storage solution allows you to store and access your files from any device with an internet connection, making it a convenient option for sharing files with friends and family. Its automatic backup features ensure that your important data is always protected. However, it requires a reliable internet connection and is more expensive than traditional external hard drives. If you need a cloud storage solution with automatic backups and easy file access from anywhere, the WD My Cloud Home is a good option. However, if you're on a budget or don't have a reliable internet connection, there are more affordable and accessible alternatives available.
Synology DiskStation DS220j
A compact and affordable NAS (Network Attached Storage) device.
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 16TB (2 x 8TB drives)
- Interface: Gigabit Ethernet
- Dimensions: 165 x 103 x 203 mm
- Weight: 1.2 kg
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable: One of the most affordable NAS devices available.
- Compact and quiet: Small and quiet design makes it suitable for home use.
- Versatile: Can be used for file storage, media streaming, and more.
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited processing power: Not suitable for demanding tasks such as video editing or transcoding.
- No built-in backup features: Requires separate backup software.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a budget-friendly NAS device.
- You need a quiet and compact device for home use.
- You need a versatile device that can be used for file storage, media streaming, and more.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a powerful NAS device for demanding tasks.
- You need built-in backup features.
Bottom Line:
The Synology DiskStation DS220j is an affordable and compact NAS device that's perfect for home users. Its small size and quiet operation make it ideal for use in a home office or living room, and its versatility allows it to be used for a variety of tasks, such as file storage, media streaming, and more. While it's not as powerful as some other NAS devices, its affordability and ease of use make it a great option for those who are new to NAS devices. It's a great option for those who want to create their own personal cloud storage solution for their home or small office. It's compact, quiet, and easy to use, making it perfect for those who are new to NAS devices. However, if you need a more powerful device for demanding tasks or need built-in backup features, you'll need to consider other options.
QNAP TS-251D
A versatile NAS device with a powerful processor and plenty of features.
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 40TB (2 x 20TB drives)
- Interface: Gigabit Ethernet
- Dimensions: 202 x 168 x 230 mm
- Weight: 2.6 kg
Reasons to buy :
- Powerful processor: Can handle demanding tasks such as video editing and transcoding.
- Versatile features: Includes support for multiple applications, including file sharing, media streaming, and more.
- Expandable: Can be expanded with additional drives and network interfaces.
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive: More expensive than other NAS devices.
- Can be complex to set up: Requires some technical knowledge to configure.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a powerful NAS device for demanding tasks.
- You need a versatile device with a wide range of features.
- You need a device that can be expanded with additional storage and network interfaces.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You're not comfortable with technical settings.
Bottom Line:
The QNAP TS-251D is a versatile and powerful NAS device that's perfect for professionals and power users. Its powerful processor allows it to handle demanding tasks such as video editing and transcoding, while its extensive features make it a great option for file sharing, media streaming, and more. Its expandable design allows you to add additional storage and network interfaces, making it a flexible solution for growing needs. However, it's expensive and can be complex to set up, so it's not the best option for those who are new to NAS devices. If you need a powerful and versatile NAS device, the QNAP TS-251D is a great investment. However, if you're on a budget or need a more user-friendly device, there are more affordable and easier-to-use options available.
Asustor AS6604T
A high-performance NAS device with a focus on data security and reliability.
Specifications :
- Capacity: Up to 64TB (4 x 16TB drives)
- Interface: Gigabit Ethernet, 10 Gigabit Ethernet
- Dimensions: 203 x 168 x 230 mm
- Weight: 3.5 kg
Reasons to buy :
- High performance: Features a powerful processor and ample RAM for demanding tasks.
- Advanced data security: Includes built-in encryption and RAID support.
- Reliable: Designed for high availability and data redundancy.
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive: One of the most expensive NAS devices available.
- Can be complex to set up: Requires some technical knowledge to configure.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a high-performance NAS device for demanding tasks.
- You need advanced data security features.
- You need a reliable and redundant storage solution.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You're not comfortable with technical settings.
Bottom Line:
The Asustor AS6604T is a high-performance NAS device that's designed for professionals and businesses who need a secure and reliable storage solution. Its powerful processor, advanced data security features, and robust design make it ideal for handling large files, demanding applications, and ensuring data integrity. However, it's expensive and can be complex to set up, so it's not the best option for those who are new to NAS devices. If you need a high-performance and secure NAS device for your business or professional needs, the Asustor AS6604T is a great investment. However, if you're on a budget or need a more user-friendly device, there are more affordable and easier-to-use options available.
Choosing the right external hard drive for long-term storage is a crucial decision. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect fit for your needs. From capacity and speed to durability and features, there's a lot to consider. This list of the 20 best external hard drives for long-term storage solutions provides a diverse range of options, catering to different budgets and storage requirements.
Ultimately, the best external hard drive for you depends on your specific needs and usage patterns. Consider the type of data you'll be storing, how frequently you'll access it, and your desired level of protection.
By carefully evaluating your requirements and exploring the features and capabilities of the drives listed, you can confidently select the ideal solution for long-term data preservation. Don't forget to prioritize data backups and implement appropriate security measures to ensure the safety and longevity of your valuable information.
Check this blog on 20 Best External Hard Drive for Backup Storage
Remember, investing in a reliable external hard drive is an investment in safeguarding your memories, work, and important files. By choosing wisely, you can ensure that your data remains secure and accessible for years to come.
Karim 
Bilal