10 Best Backup Drives 2025 in the United States

The G-Technology 12TB G-DRIVE is a robust desktop external hard drive ideally suited for users with significant storage needs. Its expansive 12TB storage capacity makes it well-suited for backing up large volumes of data, which is essential for professionals handling extensive multimedia files or businesses safeguarding critical data. The drive type, being external, offers a convenient plug-and-play solution for desktops without requiring internal installation.

Connectivity is a standout feature, with dual Thunderbolt 3 ports and a USB-C port supporting USB 3.1 Gen 1, enabling high-speed data transfers and daisy chaining with up to five additional devices. This ensures compatibility with the latest devices and maximizes transfer speeds, benefiting users who need quick access to their data. Portability is modest due to its desktop design, which is less suited for frequent travel compared to more compact portable drives. However, its solid all-aluminum casing provides excellent durability, protecting the device from potential physical damage. The stylish look is an added bonus for users who appreciate aesthetic design alongside functionality.

The included backup software allows for automated backups, enhancing data security and convenience. Speed is bolstered by a 7200 RPM rotational speed, which supports fast data retrieval and writing. The manufacturer's 5-year limited warranty offers peace of mind concerning reliability and longevity. While highly rated, the drive may not be ideal for users who need portability over capacity or for those operating on a tighter budget, given its premium features. For those in need of a reliable, high-capacity backup solution with robust connectivity and durability, the G-Technology 12TB G-DRIVE is a commendable choice.

The LaCie d2 Professional 16TB is a robust external backup drive designed for hefty storage needs, making it suitable for professionals who deal with large amounts of data. Boasting a massive 16TB capacity, it offers ample space to store extensive files, projects, or media libraries. Its mechanical hard disk with a 7200 RPM speed ensures decent performance for backup and storage, though it may not match the speed of SSDs for tasks requiring high-speed data transfer.

This drive connects via USB, making it widely compatible with both PC and Mac platforms. The Serial ATA-600 interface offers reliable connectivity, but some users might find the lack of more modern connectivity options, like USB-C or Thunderbolt, a limitation depending on their setup. With a form factor of 3.5 inches and weighing around 3.92 pounds, it's more suited for desktop use rather than on-the-go portability. Its sturdy build suggests a certain degree of durability, though as a mechanical drive, it might be more prone to damage from physical shocks compared to solid-state drives. Users should be cautious when moving it around.

Durability is a key feature, but it's always wise to ensure backups are done in controlled environments to avoid potential data loss from accidental drops. The sleek black design complements most setups, and its size is reasonable for a desktop device. Despite its rank in the market, customer reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5 stars indicate a generally positive reception, highlighting its reliability and performance for large-scale data storage.

The Crucial X8 4TB Portable SSD is a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable backup drive with significant storage capacity. It offers a generous 4TB of storage, which is suitable for storing large amounts of data, making it ideal for users who need to back up extensive media libraries or professional files. One of its standout strengths is its impressive speed, boasting read speeds up to 1050 MB/s, which ensures quick data transfers. This is especially advantageous for those who need to frequently move large files or access data rapidly.

Its compatibility across a wide range of devices, including PCs, Macs, tablets, smartphones, and popular gaming consoles, adds versatility. The inclusion of both USB-C and USB-A connectors means it can easily connect to both modern and older devices, enhancing its usability for a diverse user base.

Portability is another plus, with the drive being compact and lightweight, weighing only 3.36 ounces. This makes it easy to carry around, fitting conveniently in a bag or pocket. Its durable design, featuring an anodized aluminum core, offers protection against drops from up to 7.5 feet, as well as resistance to extreme temperatures, shock, and vibrations, which is ideal for those on the go. One potential downside is that, like many SSDs, it might be more expensive compared to traditional HDDs, but the trade-off is in its speed and reliability. Additionally, while it offers great durability, users in need of specialized backup software may need to look elsewhere, as this drive does not come with dedicated backup software.

The Crucial X8 4TB Portable SSD is well-suited for users seeking a high-capacity, fast, and durable backup solution, particularly those who value portability and need a drive that can work seamlessly across various devices.