10 Best Automatic Backup External Hard Drive 2025 in the United States

The Western Digital 24TB My Book Duo Desktop RAID External Hard Drive is a robust choice for users needing substantial storage capacity and reliable backup options. With 24TB of storage, it caters well to heavy users such as content creators or small businesses requiring ample space for large files. The RAID-0 configuration offers enhanced performance and speed out of the box, while the USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface ensures fast data transfer rates, also being backward compatible with USB 3.0. This makes it versatile for various desktop setups.

Durability is supported by the solid build and hardware encryption, adding a layer of security with 256-bit AES encryption and password protection which is crucial for safeguarding sensitive data. The inclusion of auto backup software simplifies data management, ensuring regular backups without manual intervention. However, the unit's size and weight (6.7 pounds) may not be ideal for users seeking portability. While it excels in desktop environments, it's less convenient for mobile use.

Additionally, the price point for such high capacity and features might be on the higher side, making it more suitable for users who specifically need large storage and professional-grade security. This hard drive is best suited for users looking for a high-capacity, secure, and efficient backup solution primarily in a desktop setup.

The LaCie d2 Professional 16TB External Hard Drive is a solid choice for users needing substantial storage capacity. With 16TB, it offers ample space to store extensive amounts of data, which is ideal for professionals dealing with large files or extensive backups. The USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface ensures that transfer speeds are relatively fast at 260MB/s, making file transfers quick and efficient. This is particularly beneficial for users who frequently move large amounts of data.

The drive’s PC and Mac compatibility adds to its versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of users regardless of their operating system preference. The external power supply ensures reliable operation, although it does mean the device is less portable than bus-powered alternatives. In terms of durability, the mechanical hard disk and solid build quality lend a sense of robustness, although mechanical drives do tend to be more susceptible to physical damage compared to solid-state drives.

The drive’s compatibility mainly targets desktop users, which is perfect for a stationary setup but less suitable for those who need a more mobile solution. While encryption and security features aren’t explicitly detailed, users might need to consider additional software solutions to ensure data security. Backup software support isn't mentioned, so it's recommended to check compatibility with preferred backup software before purchase.

The Western Digital 12 TB My Book USB 3.0 Desktop Hard Drive is a suitable option for those seeking a high-capacity automatic backup solution. With a substantial 12 TB storage capacity, it can easily handle large volumes of data, making it ideal for users with extensive backup needs. The USB 3.0 interface ensures fast transfer speeds, though the drive is also compatible with USB 2.0, albeit with slower transfer rates.

This drive is built to be durable, evident from Western Digital's reputation for reliability, and it comes in a sturdy 3.5-inch form factor. It also includes password protection and hardware encryption, providing robust security for sensitive data. Compatibility is broad, supporting both Windows and Mac operating systems, though reformatting may be required for other systems and Time Machine.

The inclusion of WD Backup software enhances the automatic backup functionality, while WD Discovery software offers additional tools for security, social media, and cloud storage management. However, it’s worth noting that the drive may require reformatting to ensure compatibility with specific configurations. This product is a good fit for users needing extensive storage and reliable automatic backup capabilities, especially those interested in added security features.