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10 Best Backup Drives 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#2

SanDisk 1TB Portable SSD - Up to 800MB/s, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, Updated Firmware - External Solid State Drive - SDSSDE30-1T00-G26

Rating
9.8
Speed
Durability
Connectivity

Most important from
6437 reviews

Speed
Offers fast transfer speeds up to 800MB/s, significantly reducing backup time for large files.
Durability
Combines compact, lightweight design with durable construction, surviving drops up to two meters.
Connectivity
Plug-and-play USB-C connection makes it incredibly easy to use across multiple devices.
Portability
Small size enhances portability, fitting effortlessly into a mobile lifestyle.
Storage Capacity
Ideal for expanding storage on devices like DVRs, working flawlessly in real-world setups.

The SanDisk 1TB Portable SSD is a solid choice if you need a fast and reliable backup drive. With 1TB of storage, it offers plenty of space for your important files, photos, and videos. The drive type is an SSD, which means it's faster and more durable than traditional hard drives. It connects via USB-C with USB 3.2 Gen 2, allowing for quick data transfers—up to 800MB/s reading speed—which helps save time when backing up large files.

Portability is a strong point; the drive is compact, lightweight (about 1.44 ounces), and easy to carry, fitting well into a mobile lifestyle. Durability is also impressive, as it can survive drops from up to two meters and has a tough rubber hook to secure it on your belt or backpack, making it great for users who travel or work outdoors.

If you're looking for a dependable, fast, and portable backup solution that can handle everyday bumps and travel, this drive fits the bill nicely. However, if you need specialized backup software or transfer speeds beyond 800MB/s, other options might be worth exploring.

Rating
9.8
Speed
Durability
Connectivity

Most important from
6437 reviews

Speed
Offers fast transfer speeds up to 800MB/s, significantly reducing backup time for large files.
Durability
Combines compact, lightweight design with durable construction, surviving drops up to two meters.
Connectivity
Plug-and-play USB-C connection makes it incredibly easy to use across multiple devices.
Portability
Small size enhances portability, fitting effortlessly into a mobile lifestyle.
Storage Capacity
Ideal for expanding storage on devices like DVRs, working flawlessly in real-world setups.
#3

G-Technology 12TB G-DRIVE with Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C Desktop External Hard Drive, Silver - 0G05383-1

Rating
9.5
Connectivity
Speed
Durability

Most important from
338 reviews

Connectivity
Thunderbolt connectivity is a standout feature, freeing up USB ports and offering reliable performance with zero connectivity issues.
Speed
The drive processes HD audio and graphics virtually as fast as an SSD once it wakes up, providing excellent performance for multimedia work.
Durability
Despite skepticism, the drive has performed flawlessly over months, proving its reliability.

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.

Rating
9.5
Connectivity
Speed
Durability

Most important from
338 reviews

Connectivity
Thunderbolt connectivity is a standout feature, freeing up USB ports and offering reliable performance with zero connectivity issues.
Speed
The drive processes HD audio and graphics virtually as fast as an SSD once it wakes up, providing excellent performance for multimedia work.
Durability
Despite skepticism, the drive has performed flawlessly over months, proving its reliability.

Buying Guide for the Best Backup Drives

Choosing the right backup drive is essential to ensure your data is safe and easily accessible. Backup drives come in various types and sizes, and selecting the right one depends on your specific needs, such as the amount of data you need to store, how often you need to access it, and where you plan to use the drive. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity refers to the amount of data a backup drive can hold. This is important because it determines how much information you can store on the drive. Storage capacities typically range from a few hundred gigabytes (GB) to several terabytes (TB). If you have a lot of large files, such as videos or high-resolution photos, you might need a drive with several terabytes of storage. For basic document storage, a few hundred gigabytes might be sufficient. Consider your current data needs and potential future growth when choosing the capacity.
Drive TypeBackup drives come in different types, primarily Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) and Solid State Drives (SSDs). HDDs are generally cheaper and offer larger storage capacities, but they are slower and more prone to physical damage. SSDs are faster, more durable, and have no moving parts, making them ideal for frequent access and portability, but they are more expensive and typically offer less storage capacity. If you need a lot of storage and cost is a concern, an HDD might be the best choice. If speed and durability are more important, consider an SSD.
ConnectivityConnectivity refers to how the backup drive connects to your computer or other devices. Common options include USB 3.0, USB-C, Thunderbolt, and wireless connections. USB 3.0 is widely compatible and offers decent speeds, while USB-C and Thunderbolt provide faster data transfer rates but may require compatible ports. Wireless drives offer convenience but can be slower and less reliable. Choose a connectivity option that matches your device's ports and your need for speed and convenience.
PortabilityPortability is about how easy it is to carry the backup drive around. Portable drives are smaller, lighter, and often more durable, making them ideal for travel or frequent movement. Desktop drives are larger and typically offer more storage but are designed to stay in one place. If you need to carry your data with you, look for a portable drive. If the drive will stay on your desk, a desktop drive might be more suitable.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the backup drive can withstand physical damage, such as drops or spills. This is particularly important for portable drives that are frequently moved. SSDs are generally more durable than HDDs because they have no moving parts. Some drives are specifically designed to be rugged and resistant to shocks, water, and dust. If you plan to use the drive in harsh conditions or travel with it often, look for a durable, rugged model.
Backup SoftwareBackup software is the program that helps you manage and automate the backup process. Some drives come with their own software, which can offer features like automatic backups, encryption, and cloud integration. Good backup software can make the process easier and more reliable. If you want a hassle-free backup experience, look for drives that include robust software options.
SpeedSpeed refers to how quickly data can be read from or written to the backup drive. This is important if you need to transfer large files or perform backups frequently. SSDs are generally faster than HDDs, and connectivity options like USB-C and Thunderbolt can also affect speed. If you need quick access to your data or plan to perform regular backups, prioritize speed in your selection.

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