10 Best External SSDs 2025 in the United States

The Western Digital 1TB P40 Game Drive SSD is a strong contender for gamers seeking a portable external SSD. With impressive read speeds of up to 2,000MB/s thanks to its USB 3.2 Gen2x2 interface, it ensures quick loading times for your games, which can enhance your gaming experience significantly. This drive’s compatibility with popular gaming consoles like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S makes it a versatile choice, allowing users to store and manage their games seamlessly.

The design is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around, and it’s built to withstand drops from up to two meters, adding a layer of durability. The customizable RGB lighting through the WD_BLACK Dashboard adds a personal touch, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of flair in their gaming setup.

It does have some limitations. While it provides 1TB of storage, those with larger libraries may want to consider the 2TB option. Additionally, the RGB customization feature is only available on Windows, which could be a drawback for Mac users who wish to personalize their drive. Moreover, while the build quality is robust, the size may not be as rugged as some might want for heavy-duty usage. In terms of security features, it lacks built-in encryption, which might be a concern for users prioritizing data protection. For most gamers, the performance and compatibility with gaming consoles will outweigh these drawbacks, making the WD P40 an excellent choice for anyone looking to expand their gaming storage.

The ADATA Elite UE800 is a 2TB portable SSD that offers a substantial storage capacity, making it suitable for storing large files, games, and applications. With read and write speeds of up to 1,000MB/s, it delivers fast data transfer rates, which is beneficial for quick backups and efficient file management.

The USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface ensures compatibility with a variety of devices, including PCs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, and PlayStation 5, providing versatile usage options. The USB Type-C connector simplifies connectivity across modern devices, especially those without traditional USB ports.

Its compact and lightweight design (2.87 x 0.84 x 0.35 inches, 0.459 ounces) makes it highly portable and easy to carry around, fitting conveniently into pockets or bags. The 5-year limited warranty offers peace of mind regarding long-term reliability. Despite its strengths, the product may have some limitations. The ADATA Elite UE800 does not mention specific security features such as hardware encryption, which could be a concern for users needing enhanced data protection.

The SAMSUNG MU-PG4T0B T9 4TB Portable SSD is a high-capacity external storage solution offered in a convenient 2-pack. Each SSD boasts 4TB of storage, making it suitable for users who need ample space for data-intensive tasks. With USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connectivity, it offers impressive read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s, enabling swift data transfer and efficient handling of large files, particularly beneficial for creators and professionals working with high-resolution media and large project files.

The T9 also incorporates a Dynamic Thermal Guard to manage heat effectively, ensuring consistent performance during extended use. This feature is especially useful for those working on prolonged tasks. Additionally, the SSD is equipped with AES 256-bit hardware encryption, providing robust security for sensitive data. The rugged build quality, which can endure drops from up to 9.8 feet, enhances its durability, making it a reliable option for on-the-go use.

Compatibility is versatile, supporting laptops, gaming consoles, cameras, smart TVs, and smartphones, ensuring broad usability across various devices. The 2.5-inch form factor and compact dimensions (3.5 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches) make it easy to carry and store. The package includes both USB-C and USB-A cables, adding to its convenience. However, while the product offers top-tier performance and features, the advanced USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface might not be fully utilized by devices that lack support for this standard, potentially limiting its maximum speed on older hardware. Furthermore, the high performance and extensive features come with a premium price tag, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious users. This SSD is ideal for professionals and creators who prioritize speed, security, and durability in their storage solutions.