BEST EXTERNAL STORAGE

While storage can be easily upgraded on a desktop PC, this is not generally the case for laptops. However, if you are running low on storage space on you laptops, you can still buy some external storage, as long as it’s in the form of an SSD that can take advantage of a fast connection (e.g. USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB4, or Thunderbolt ports for data transfer).

Moreover, we would recommend buying at least 1 TB of external storage, especially considering the latest trend of games requiring 100 GB or more.

Durability also matters, you don’t want to entrust your precious data to a device that can break easily. Below are some of the best SSDs on the market, ordered by increasing price (prices are in US$ and may vary depending on current promotions and availability). Please make sure that you also check our regularly updated News & Deals section for limited-time offers.

SAMSUNG T7 2TB

($119.99 on Amazon.com)

Storage: 2 TB
Connectivity: USB 3.2 Gen 2
Read/write speed: up to 1050MB/s
Misc: drop proof up to 6 ft (1.8 m), shock resistant

Kingston XS2000 2TB

($139.99 on Amazon.com)

Storage: 2 TB
Connectivity: USB 3.2 Gen 2
Read/write speed: up to 2000MB/s
Misc: water resistant, dust resistant and shockproof

Crucial X8 2TB

($219.99 on Amazon.com)

Storage: 2 TB
Connectivity: USB 3.2 Gen 2
Read/write speed: up to 1050MB/s
Misc: drop proof up to 7.5 ft (2.2 m), extreme-temperature, shock and vibration proof

SAMSUNG T7 Shield 4TB

($251.22 on Amazon.com)

Storage: 4 TB
Connectivity: USB 3.2 Gen 2
Read/write speed: up to 1050MB/s
Misc: drop proof up to 9.8 ft (3 m), IP65 water & dust resistant