Best Portable Hard Drives

Portable hard drives have become essential tools for many, offering a convenient and reliable way to store, transfer, and back up data. They come in various sizes, capacities, and speeds, catering to different needs, whether for personal use, professional tasks, or gaming. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the best portable hard drives available on the market, discuss their features, and provide an extensive FAQ section to address all your questions and concerns.

Table of Contents

Top Picks

SaleBestseller No. 1
Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0, Black - HDTB520XK3AA
  • Sleek profile design with a matte, smudge-resistance finish
  • Plug & Play - Easy to use with no software to install
  • Quickly add more storage capacity to your PC and other compatible devices
  • USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 compatible with no external AC power cord needed
  • Pre-formatted NTFS for Windows PC (reformatting required for Mac computers)
Bestseller No. 2
WD 5TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive for Windows, USB 3.2 Gen 1/USB 3.0 for PC & Mac, Plug and Play Ready - WDBU6Y0050BBK-WESN
  • High capacity in a small enclosure – The small, lightweight design offers up to 6TB* capacity, making WD Elements portable hard drives the ideal companion for consumers on the go.
  • Plug-and-play expandability
  • Vast capacities up to 6TB[1] to store your photos, videos, music, important documents and more
  • SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps)
Bestseller No. 3
Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive HDD — USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, PlayStation, & Xbox -1-Year Rescue Service (STGX2000400)
  • Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
  • Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
  • To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
  • This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Portable Hard Drive

When selecting a portable hard drive, several factors should be taken into account to ensure you get the best performance and value for your needs.

Storage Capacity

The most crucial factor to consider is storage capacity. Portable hard drives range from a few hundred gigabytes to several terabytes. Determine your storage needs based on the types of files you plan to store. For basic document storage and transfer, a smaller capacity drive may suffice. However, for larger files like videos, high-resolution photos, and games, a higher capacity drive is recommended.

Data Transfer Speed

Data transfer speed is an essential factor, especially if you frequently transfer large files. Portable hard drives come with different interfaces, primarily USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB 3.2, and Thunderbolt. USB 3.0 and newer standards offer significantly faster transfer speeds compared to USB 2.0, making them ideal for large file transfers and frequent use. Thunderbolt offers even higher speeds but is typically more expensive and less widely supported.

Durability and Build Quality

The build quality of a portable hard drive can affect its durability and lifespan. Drives with rugged designs are more likely to withstand physical damage, making them suitable for outdoor use or travel. Additionally, some portable hard drives come with features like water resistance, shock resistance, and dust protection, which can be crucial for those who need a reliable storage solution in challenging environments.

Portability

Portability is a key consideration, especially for those who need to carry their hard drives frequently. Compact and lightweight drives are easier to transport and use on the go. Some drives also come with built-in cables or cable management features to enhance portability.

Security Features

For those concerned about data security, some portable hard drives come with built-in encryption and password protection. These features help safeguard your sensitive information from unauthorized access. Advanced security drives may also include biometric authentication or hardware encryption.

Compatibility

Ensure the portable hard drive you choose is compatible with your devices. Most drives are universally compatible with computers, laptops, and other USB-enabled devices. However, for use with smartphones and tablets, you may need a drive with a micro-USB, USB-C, or Lightning connector.

Price

Price is always a consideration when purchasing any device. Portable hard drives vary widely in price based on their capacity, speed, and additional features. It’s essential to find a balance between the features you need and your budget.

Best Portable Hard Drives

Let’s explore some of the best portable hard drives available today, considering various factors like performance, build quality, and value for money.

Western Digital My Passport

The Western Digital My Passport is one of the most popular portable hard drives on the market. It offers a balance of performance, capacity, and affordability. Available in capacities ranging from 1TB to 5TB, it provides ample storage for all your needs. The drive features USB 3.0 connectivity, ensuring fast data transfer speeds, and is compatible with both Windows and Mac. The My Passport also includes WD Backup software for automatic backups and WD Security software for password protection and hardware encryption.

Seagate Backup Plus Slim

The Seagate Backup Plus Slim is another highly regarded portable hard drive. With capacities from 1TB to 5TB, it offers plenty of storage space for various uses. The drive features USB 3.0 connectivity for fast data transfer and is compatible with Windows and Mac. The Backup Plus Slim comes with Seagate’s Toolkit software for easy backups and file synchronization. Its slim and lightweight design makes it highly portable, perfect for users on the go.

LaCie Rugged Mini

The LaCie Rugged Mini is designed for users who need a durable and robust portable hard drive. It features a rugged design with shock, drop, and water resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use and travel. The drive is available in capacities from 1TB to 5TB and offers USB 3.0 connectivity for fast data transfer. The Rugged Mini is compatible with both Windows and Mac and includes LaCie’s Backup Assistant software for easy backups.

Samsung T5 Portable SSD

The Samsung T5 Portable SSD is an excellent choice for those who need high-speed performance and portability. As an SSD, it offers significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to traditional hard drives, with read and write speeds up to 540MB/s. The T5 is available in capacities from 250GB to 2TB and features USB 3.1 connectivity. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry, and the drive includes AES 256-bit hardware encryption for added security.

Toshiba Canvio Advance

The Toshiba Canvio Advance offers a balance of performance and affordability. Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB, it provides ample storage for various uses. The drive features USB 3.0 connectivity for fast data transfer and is compatible with both Windows and Mac. The Canvio Advance includes Toshiba’s Storage Backup Software for easy backups and Storage Security Software for password protection and encryption. Its sleek design and color options make it a stylish choice for users.

G-Technology G-Drive Mobile SSD

The G-Technology G-Drive Mobile SSD is designed for professionals who need a high-performance and durable portable drive. With read speeds up to 560MB/s, it offers fast data transfer for large files and intensive tasks. The drive is available in capacities from 500GB to 2TB and features USB 3.1 connectivity. Its rugged design includes shock and vibration resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use and travel. The G-Drive Mobile SSD is compatible with both Windows and Mac and includes G-Technology’s Backup software for easy backups.

ADATA SD700 External SSD

The ADATA SD700 External SSD is another excellent choice for those who need a durable and high-performance portable drive. As an SSD, it offers fast data transfer speeds with read and write speeds up to 440MB/s. The drive is available in capacities from 256GB to 1TB and features USB 3.1 connectivity. Its rugged design includes IP68 water and dust resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use and travel. The SD700 is compatible with both Windows and Mac and includes ADATA’s Backup software for easy backups.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Best Portable Hard Drives

What is the difference between a portable hard drive and an external hard drive?

A portable hard drive is a type of external hard drive designed for easy transport and use on the go. Portable hard drives are typically smaller, lighter, and more rugged than traditional external hard drives, making them ideal for users who need to carry their data with them. External hard drives, on the other hand, can refer to any hard drive that connects to a computer externally, including larger desktop models that require external power sources.

Can I use a portable hard drive as a bootable drive?

Yes, you can use a portable hard drive as a bootable drive. To create a bootable portable hard drive, you will need to use software like Rufus, UNetbootin, or the built-in Windows Media Creation Tool. This process involves formatting the drive and copying the necessary boot files to it, allowing you to install or run an operating system directly from the portable hard drive.

What is the difference between USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB 3.2, and Thunderbolt?

The main difference between these interfaces is the data transfer speed and the technology used. USB 2.0 has a maximum transfer speed of 480 Mbps, while USB 3.0 can reach speeds up to 5 Gbps. USB 3.1 offers speeds up to 10 Gbps, and USB 3.2 can reach speeds up to 20 Gbps. Thunderbolt interfaces, including Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4, offer even higher speeds, up to 40 Gbps. Additionally, Thunderbolt interfaces support daisy-chaining multiple devices and provide power delivery capabilities.

How do I safely eject a portable hard drive?

To safely eject a portable hard drive, follow these steps:

For Windows: Click on the “Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media” icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner of the screen). Select the portable hard drive you want to eject and wait for the system to confirm it’s safe to remove the drive.

For Mac: Click on the “Eject” icon next to the portable hard drive’s name in the Finder sidebar, or drag the drive’s icon to the Trash. Wait for the system to confirm it’s safe to remove the drive.

How do I format a portable hard drive?

To format a portable hard drive, follow these steps:

For Windows: Plug the portable hard drive into your computer. Open File Explorer, right-click on the portable hard drive, and select “Format.” Choose the desired file system (FAT32, exFAT, or NTFS), allocation unit size, and click “Start.” Be aware that formatting will erase all data on the drive.

For Mac: Plug the portable hard drive into your computer. Open Disk Utility, select the portable hard drive from the list of devices, and click “Erase.” Choose the desired file system (FAT32, exFAT, or Mac OS Extended), and click “Erase.” Be aware that formatting will erase all data on the drive.

What is the lifespan of a portable hard drive?

The lifespan of a portable hard drive depends on the quality of the drive and how it is used. Traditional hard drives (HDDs) typically have a lifespan of 3 to 5 years, while solid-state drives (SSDs) can last up to 10 years or more. To extend the life of your portable hard drive, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, moisture, and physical damage. Regularly backing up important data and using the drive within its intended capacity can also help prolong its lifespan.

Can I recover data from a corrupted portable hard drive?

Yes, it is often possible to recover data from a corrupted portable hard drive using data recovery software like Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, or Disk Drill. These programs can scan the drive for lost or damaged files and attempt to recover them. However, there is no guarantee of success, and it’s essential to back up important data regularly to avoid data loss.

How can I protect my portable hard drive from viruses?

To protect your portable hard drive from viruses, follow these tips:

Use a reputable antivirus program and keep it up to date.

Avoid using your portable hard drive on public or untrusted computers.

Enable write protection on the drive if it has a physical switch.

Disable autorun on your computer to prevent malicious software from automatically running when the drive is connected.

Regularly scan your portable hard drive for malware.

Can I use a portable hard drive with my smartphone or tablet?

Yes, you can use a portable hard drive with your smartphone or tablet if it supports USB On-The-Go (OTG) functionality. You’ll need a USB OTG adapter or a portable hard drive with a micro-USB, USB-C, or Lightning connector, depending on your device. Once connected, you can transfer files between your device and the portable hard drive using a file manager app.

How do I encrypt my portable hard drive?

To encrypt your portable hard drive, you can use built-in tools or third-party software:

For Windows: Use BitLocker, a built-in encryption tool available in Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise editions. Right-click on the portable hard drive, select “Turn on BitLocker,” and follow the on-screen instructions to set up encryption.

For Mac: Use the built-in Disk Utility to create an encrypted partition. Open Disk Utility, select the portable hard drive, and click “Erase.” Choose “Mac OS Extended (Journaled, Encrypted)” as the format and follow the on-screen instructions.

Third-party software: Use tools like VeraCrypt or AxCrypt to encrypt your portable hard drive. These programs offer cross-platform compatibility and robust encryption options.

Can I use a portable hard drive to expand the storage of my gaming console?

Yes, you can use a portable hard drive to expand the storage of gaming consoles like the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. Ensure the drive meets the console’s requirements for storage capacity and file system format. Once formatted, you can use the portable hard drive to store games, save files, and other data.

What is the difference between FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS file systems?

FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS are different file systems with unique characteristics:

FAT32: An older file system with broad compatibility across various devices and operating systems. However, it has a maximum file size limit of 4GB and a maximum partition size of 2TB.

exFAT: A more modern file system that supports larger file sizes and partitions than FAT32. It is compatible with most modern operating systems and is ideal for portable hard drives used with multiple devices.

NTFS: A file system used primarily by Windows. It supports large file sizes and partitions and includes features like file compression and encryption. However, it has limited compatibility with non-Windows devices.

Can I run applications from a portable hard drive?

Yes, you can run portable applications directly from a portable hard drive. Portable apps are designed to be lightweight and self-contained, requiring no installation on the host computer. Websites like PortableApps.com offer a wide range of portable applications, including web browsers, office suites, and media players, which you can download and run from your portable hard drive.

How do I transfer large files to a portable hard drive?

To transfer large files to a portable hard drive, ensure the drive is formatted with a file system that supports large files, such as exFAT or NTFS. FAT32 has a maximum file size limit of 4GB, so it may not be suitable for transferring large files. Once the drive is formatted correctly, simply drag and drop the files from your computer to the portable hard drive using File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac).

Can I use a portable hard drive to back up my data?

Yes, a portable hard drive can be used to back up your data. To create a backup, copy the files and folders you want to save onto the portable hard drive. For automatic backups, you can use built-in tools like Windows Backup or macOS Time Machine, or third-party software like Acronis True Image or EaseUS Todo Backup. Regularly updating your backups ensures your data is protected in case of hardware failure or data loss.

What should I do if my portable hard drive is not recognized by my computer?

If your portable hard drive is not recognized by your computer, try the following troubleshooting steps:

Plug the drive into a different USB port on your computer.

Restart your computer and try again.

Check if the drive appears in Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (Mac). If it does, you may need to assign a drive letter (Windows) or mount the drive (Mac).

Update your computer’s USB drivers.

Try the drive on a different computer to see if the issue persists.

If none of these steps work, the drive may be damaged, and you may need to consider data recovery options.

How can I increase the write speed of my portable hard drive?

To increase the write speed of your portable hard drive, consider the following tips:

Ensure the drive is connected to a USB 3.0 or higher port on your computer.

Format the drive using a file system optimized for performance, such as NTFS or exFAT.

Avoid using the drive for tasks that generate excessive read/write operations, such as running virtual machines or frequently accessing large databases.

Keep the drive’s firmware and your computer’s USB drivers up to date.

Defragment the drive regularly to maintain optimal performance.

How do I repair a corrupted portable hard drive?

To repair a corrupted portable hard drive, you can try the following methods:

For Windows: Use the built-in Error Checking tool. Right-click on the portable hard drive in File Explorer, select “Properties,” go to the “Tools” tab, and click “Check” under “Error checking.”

For Mac: Use the built-in Disk Utility. Open Disk Utility, select the portable hard drive, and click “First Aid” to repair any errors.

Use third-party software like CHKDSK (Windows) or Disk Drill (Mac) to scan and repair the drive.

If these methods don’t work, you may need to reformat the drive, which will erase all data. Ensure you have a backup of any important files before proceeding.

Can I use a portable hard drive to transfer files between a Mac and a Windows PC?

Yes, you can use a portable hard drive to transfer files between a Mac and a Windows PC. To ensure compatibility, format the drive with the exFAT file system, which is supported by both macOS and Windows. Once formatted, you can easily transfer files between the two operating systems without encountering file system limitations.

How do I update the firmware of my portable hard drive?

To update the firmware of your portable hard drive, visit the manufacturer’s website and check for any available firmware updates for your specific drive model. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to download and install the firmware update. Updating the firmware can improve the drive’s performance, compatibility, and security.

What is a USB OTG portable hard drive?

A USB On-The-Go (OTG) portable hard drive is a type of hard drive that can connect directly to smartphones and tablets, allowing for easy file transfer between the mobile device and the drive. USB OTG portable hard drives typically feature a standard USB connector on one end and a micro-USB, USB-C, or Lightning connector on the other, making them compatible with a wide range of devices.

Can I use a portable hard drive to play media files on my TV?

Yes, you can use a portable hard drive to play media files on your TV if your TV has a USB port and supports media playback from USB devices. Simply copy the media files (e.g., videos, music, photos) to the portable hard drive and plug it into the TV’s USB port. Use the TV’s remote control to navigate to the USB input and select the files you want to play.

How do I create a portable operating system on a portable hard drive?

To create a portable operating system on a portable hard drive, you can use tools like Rufus, UNetbootin, or Linux Live USB Creator. These tools allow you to create a bootable USB drive with a lightweight operating system, such as Linux. Follow these general steps:

Download the ISO file of the operating system you want to use.

Download and install a USB creation tool (e.g., Rufus, UNetbootin).

Insert the portable hard drive into your computer.

Open the USB creation tool, select the ISO file, and choose the portable hard drive as the destination.

Follow the on-screen instructions to create the bootable drive.

Once created, you can boot your computer from the portable hard drive and run the portable operating system.

What is the maximum storage capacity of a portable hard drive?

As of now, the maximum storage capacity of commercially available portable hard drives is around 5TB for traditional HDDs and up to 8TB for portable SSDs. However, new advancements in storage technology are continuously being made, so higher-capacity drives may become available in the future.

Can I partition a portable hard drive?

Yes, you can partition a portable hard drive using tools like Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (Mac). Partitioning allows you to divide the drive into separate sections, each with its own file system and storage allocation. This can be useful for organizing files, creating separate bootable partitions, or using the drive with different operating systems.

How do I clean and maintain my portable hard drive?

To clean and maintain your portable hard drive, follow these tips:

Avoid exposing the drive to extreme temperatures, moisture, or physical damage.

Keep the USB connector clean and free of dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth to clean it if necessary.

Safely eject the drive from your computer before removing it to prevent data corruption.

Back up important data regularly to avoid data loss.

If your drive has a retractable connector or cap, use it to protect the connector when not in use.

What are the benefits of using a portable hard drive over cloud storage?

While both portable hard drives and cloud storage have their advantages, here are some benefits of using a portable hard drive:

Physical control: Portable hard drives provide physical control over your data, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or hacking.

Offline access: Portable hard drives allow you to access your data without an internet connection, making them ideal for remote locations or situations with limited connectivity.

Fast transfer speeds: High-quality portable hard drives offer faster data transfer speeds compared to uploading and downloading files from the cloud.

Portability: Portable hard drives are compact and easy to carry, allowing you to transport large amounts of data conveniently.

No subscription fees: Unlike cloud storage services, which often require a subscription, portable hard drives involve a one-time purchase with no ongoing costs.

How do I fix a write-protected portable hard drive?

If your portable hard drive is write-protected, try the following solutions:

Check for a physical write-protection switch on the drive and ensure it is turned off.

Use Diskpart (Windows): Open Command Prompt as an administrator, type “diskpart” and press Enter. Type “list disk” and press Enter to display the connected drives. Identify your portable hard drive, type “select disk X” (replace X with the correct disk number), and press Enter. Type “attributes disk clear readonly” and press Enter to remove the write protection.

Use Disk Utility (Mac): Open Disk Utility, select the portable hard drive, and click “First Aid” to repair any issues. If the drive is still write-protected, try reformatting it (note that this will erase all data).

Check for malware: Scan the drive with an antivirus program to ensure it is not infected with malware causing the write protection.

If none of these methods work, the drive may be damaged, and you may need to consider replacing it.

Can I use a portable hard drive to install software on my computer?

Yes, you can use a portable hard drive to install software on your computer. To do this, copy the software installation files to the portable hard drive, insert the drive into your computer, and run the installation file from the drive. This method is especially useful for installing software on computers without an internet connection or optical drive.

How do I test the speed of my portable hard drive?

To test the speed of your portable hard drive, you can use benchmarking tools like CrystalDiskMark (Windows) or Blackmagic Disk Speed Test (Mac). These tools measure the read and write speeds of your drive, providing an accurate assessment of its performance. Follow these general steps:

Download and install a benchmarking tool (e.g., CrystalDiskMark, Blackmagic Disk Speed Test).

Insert the portable hard drive into your computer.

Open the benchmarking tool and select the portable hard drive as the target.

Run the test to measure the drive’s read and write speeds.

Compare the results with the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure your drive is performing as expected.

Can I use a portable hard drive to extend the storage of my Chromebook?

Yes, you can use a portable hard drive to extend the storage of your Chromebook. Simply insert the drive into a USB port on your Chromebook, and it will be recognized as external storage. You can then use the Files app to manage files on the portable hard drive, transfer data between the drive and your Chromebook, and even run some apps directly from the drive.

How do I securely delete data from a portable hard drive?

To securely delete data from a portable hard drive, use tools that overwrite the data multiple times to prevent recovery. For Windows, tools like Eraser or CCleaner can securely delete files. For Mac, use the built-in Secure Empty Trash feature or third-party tools like Permanent Eraser. Follow these general steps:

Download and install a secure deletion tool (e.g., Eraser, CCleaner, Permanent Eraser).

Open the tool and select the files or the entire drive for secure deletion.

Choose the desired number of overwrite passes (more passes provide higher security).

Run the secure deletion process to permanently erase the data.

Can I use a portable hard drive to transfer files between different file systems?

Yes, you can use a portable hard drive to transfer files between different file systems (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux) by formatting the drive with a compatible file system like exFAT. exFAT is supported by most modern operating systems, making it ideal for transferring files between different file systems. Alternatively, you can use third-party tools like Paragon NTFS for Mac or HFSExplorer for Windows to enable compatibility with different file systems.

How do I create a backup of my portable hard drive?

To create a backup of your portable hard drive, you can use built-in tools or third-party software. For Windows, use the built-in Backup and Restore feature or third-party tools like EaseUS Todo Backup. For Mac, use Time Machine or third-party tools like Carbon Copy Cloner. Follow these general steps:

Insert the portable hard drive into your computer.

Open the backup tool and select the portable hard drive as the source.

Choose the destination for the backup (e.g., external hard drive, cloud storage).

Configure the backup settings (e.g., schedule, file types, encryption).

Run the backup process to create a copy of your portable hard drive.

What is the difference between USB-A, USB-C, and micro-USB connectors?

USB-A, USB-C, and micro-USB are different types of USB connectors:

USB-A: The standard rectangular USB connector found on most computers and peripherals. It is the most common type of USB connector and is used for various devices like keyboards, mice, and portable hard drives.

USB-C: A newer, reversible USB connector that is smaller and more versatile than USB-A. It supports higher data transfer speeds, power delivery, and is used on modern devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets.

Micro-USB: A smaller USB connector commonly used on older smartphones, tablets, and other portable devices. It has been largely replaced by USB-C on newer devices.

How do I transfer data from an old portable hard drive to a new one?

To transfer data from an old portable hard drive to a new one, follow these steps:

Insert the old portable hard drive into your computer.

Open File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac) and navigate to the files you want to transfer.

Copy the files to a temporary location on your computer (e.g., desktop, external hard drive).

Eject the old portable hard drive and insert the new one.

Copy the files from the temporary location to the new portable hard drive.

Eject the new portable hard drive safely.

How do I troubleshoot a slow portable hard drive?

If your portable hard drive is running slow, try the following troubleshooting steps:

Ensure the drive is connected to a USB 3.0 or higher port on your computer.

Check for any software updates or driver updates for your computer and the portable hard drive.

Run a disk cleanup utility to remove unnecessary files and free up space on the drive.

Defragment the drive (if it is an HDD) to improve performance.

Scan the drive for errors using built-in tools like Error Checking (Windows) or Disk Utility (Mac).

Check for malware or viruses that may be affecting the drive’s performance.

Can I use a portable hard drive to store and run virtual machines?

Yes, you can use a portable hard drive to store and run virtual machines (VMs). However, for optimal performance, it is recommended to use a high-speed SSD portable hard drive. Storing VMs on an SSD can significantly improve their performance and reduce load times. Ensure the drive has sufficient capacity to store the VM files and enough read/write speed to handle the VM’s operations.

How do I format a portable hard drive for use with both Windows and Mac?

To format a portable hard drive for use with both Windows and Mac, use the exFAT file system. Follow these steps:

For Windows: Plug the portable hard drive into your computer. Open File Explorer, right-click on the portable hard drive, and select “Format.” Choose “exFAT” as the file system, set the allocation unit size, and click “Start.” Be aware that formatting will erase all data on the drive.

For Mac: Plug the portable hard drive into your computer. Open Disk Utility, select the portable hard drive from the list of devices, and click “Erase.” Choose “exFAT” as the format, and click “Erase.” Be aware that formatting will erase all data on the drive.

Can I use a portable hard drive to back up my smartphone or tablet?

Yes, you can use a portable hard drive to back up your smartphone or tablet if the device supports USB OTG functionality. You’ll need a USB OTG adapter or a portable hard drive with a compatible connector (e.g., micro-USB, USB-C, Lightning). Use a file manager app to transfer and back up your files to the portable hard drive.

Conclusion

Choosing the right portable hard drive involves considering factors such as storage capacity, data transfer speed, durability, and compatibility. Whether you opt for a high-speed SSD like the Samsung T5 or a rugged option like the LaCie Rugged Mini, there’s a portable hard drive to meet your specific needs.

With this comprehensive guide and FAQ, you are well-equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect portable hard drive for your requirements.