External SSDs

Choose External SSDs from 500GB to 4TB

Choose capacity around the files you keep and how quickly your storage needs grow. A 500GB external SSD suits lighter documents and media, while a 1TB external SSD gives more room for regular backups, photos and games. A 2TB external SSD fits larger project folders and media libraries, while a 4TB external SSD makes sense for high-resolution content, extensive backups or users who want more room for future files and projects.

Compare Samsung T7, T7 Shield & T9 Portable SSDs

Samsung portable SSDs differ mainly in transfer speed, durability and connection requirements.

The T7 uses USB 3.2 Gen 2 and offers read speeds up to 1,050MB/s. T7 Shield keeps similar performance but adds an IP65 dust and water-resistance rating and tested drop resistance up to three metres.

T9 uses USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 and can reach up to 2,000MB/s on a compatible 20Gbps connection. If your laptop only supports 10Gbps USB, you will not receive the T9’s full headline speed.

Explore Portable Storage from SanDisk, WD, ADATA & Synology

SanDisk portable SSD models combine USB-C connectivity with a compact design, while WD Elements SE offers simple portable storage through USB 3.0. ADATA SC610 uses a cable-free USB Type-A connector with a sliding design, making it useful when you want fewer accessories to carry.

Synology BeeDrive pairs USB-C storage with Synology software for backup and file management. For smaller file transfers where SSD capacity is unnecessary, compare USB memory sticks.

Choose an SSD Compatible with Your Device

A USB-C external SSD does not automatically run at its maximum advertised speed. USB-C describes the connector shape, while standards such as USB 3.2 Gen 1, Gen 2 and Gen 2x2 determine available bandwidth. The drive, host port and cable must all support the required standard. This is especially important with 20Gbps models such as the T9.

For a modular alternative, compare Internal SSDs for compatible enclosures and check the SSD form factor, SATA or NVMe protocol, and enclosure interface support before buying.

Buying for Travel? Compare Rugged External SSD Features

Do not assume every external SSD drive is rugged or waterproof. Look for verified protection ratings. Samsung T7 Shield, for example, carries an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance and is tested for drops up to three metres.

Standard external SSDs have no moving parts, but that does not give them the same certified protection. Check individual specifications if your drive will regularly travel between offices, shoots or study locations.

External Storage for Backups, Editing & Gaming

For backups, prioritise capacity and supported software. For photo and video editing, sustained transfer performance and a fast host connection matter more.

PS5 can store PS5 games on compatible USB storage, but they must be copied back to compatible PS5 console storage to play; PS4 games can run directly from USB. Xbox Series X|S can store optimised games on USB storage, but Series X|S games generally need internal storage or a compatible expansion card to run. Compare other data storage options for mixed-device needs.

Shop Portable SSDs at Laptop Outlet

Compare external SSDs from Samsung, WD, SanDisk, ADATA, Synology and other storage brands by capacity, connectivity, durability and current price.

Laptop Outlet offers flexible ways to pay, including PayPal Credit, PayPal Pay in 3 and Klarna, subject to eligibility and checkout terms. Check individual product pages for manufacturer warranty and delivery details; standard free delivery is usually 3–5 working days, with express delivery up to two days.

If capacity per pound matters more than SSD speed, compare external hard drives before deciding.

Read More

Which Is the Best External Hard Drive?

Storage Speed on the 512GB SSD: What to Expect & How to Optimise

External Hard Drives vs USB Flash Drives: Which is Best?