Rankings
The Transcend StoreJet 25M3 is a 1 TB rugged HDD with MIL-STD-810G drop protection, built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption and a one-touch backup button. It offers solid USB 3.1 Gen 1 performance but is limited by its 5400 RPM drive and uses an older Micro-USB connector.
The WD My Passport 5 TB combines ample portable storage with built-in hardware encryption and backup software, but its Micro-USB interface and lack of rugged features keep it from being a premium choice.
The WD My Passport 1TB is a compact, bus-powered HDD offering basic storage, hardware encryption and solid USB 3.0 performance. It is ideal for budget-friendly, portable backups on Windows, though it lacks ruggedness and uses an older Micro-B connector.
The Toshiba Canvio Advance 2TB is a slim, lightweight portable HDD that offers decent capacity and Windows-focused security features. It is bus-powered and includes both a short micro-USB cable and backup software, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious Windows users and console gamers.
A rugged 1 TB portable HDD with hardware encryption and a one-touch backup button, offering solid durability but limited by an older micro-USB interface and HDD-class speeds.
The Transcend StoreJet 25M3 is a rugged 2 TB portable HDD with military-grade shock protection and built-in AES encryption, ideal for on-the-go backups but limited by its HDD speed and legacy micro-USB connector.
The Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB is a budget-friendly, bus-powered portable HDD that delivers solid sequential speeds in a compact package. It is ideal for users who need simple, affordable storage for backups and media, though it lacks advanced features and a longer warranty.
The ADATA 1 TB HV620S offers an ultra-slim, lightweight package with solid USB 3.1 performance and broad OS/console compatibility, ideal for portable backups where ruggedness and hardware encryption aren't required.
The Toshiba Canvio Basics 4TB is a budget-friendly, high-capacity portable HDD offering basic USB-3.0 connectivity, suitable for backups and console storage but limited by SMR-related write performance.
The Toshiba Canvio Advance 1TB is a budget-friendly portable HDD with a sleek design, solid real-world speeds and useful Windows-only backup utilities. It is bus-powered and very lightweight, but its Micro-B port and lack of cross-platform encryption limit its appeal to non-Windows users.
The WD 6TB Elements Portable HDD delivers massive storage in an ultra-light, eco-friendly package, ideal for budget-conscious users needing bulk backup, though it lacks speed and security features of SSDs.
The ADATA HD710 Pro 1 TB is a rugged 2.5-inch external HDD offering IP68 protection and MIL-STD-810G shock resistance, aimed at users needing durable storage in harsh environments. Its performance is limited to typical HDD speeds, and it lacks bundled backup software.
The ADATA HD710 Pro 1 TB is a rugged 2.5" external HDD built for harsh environments, offering IP68+ protection and MIL-STD-810G drop resistance. While its durability is excellent, transfer speeds are only average, making it less ideal for demanding data-intensive workflows.
The ADATA HD710 Pro 2 TB is a rugged 2.5" external HDD designed for extreme environments, offering IP68 protection and MIL-STD-810G shock resistance. Its durability is excellent, but transfer speeds are modest and the unit is heavier than typical portable drives.
| Attribute | | | | | | | | | | Transcend StoreJet 25M3G 1TB | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2 TB | 6 TBbest | 5 TB | 1 TB | 2 TB | 4 TB | 1 TB | 2 TB | 1 TB | 1 TB | 1 TB | 2 TB | 1 TB | 1 TB | |
— | 120 MB/s | — | 90 MB/s | 117 MB/s | 105.6 MB/s | — | — | 115 MB/s | — | 127.54 MB/sbest | — | — | 113 MB/s | |
141 MB/sbest | 120 MB/s | — | — | 114 MB/s | 99.4 MB/s | — | — | 115 MB/s | — | 72.55 MB/s | — | — | 114 MB/s | |
2 years | 2 years | 3 yearsbest | 3 yearsbest | 1 years | 1 years | 3 yearsbest | 3 yearsbest | 2 years | 3 yearsbest | 3 yearsbest | 3 yearsbest | 2 years | 3 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.15 kg | 0.045 kgbest | 0.21 kg | 0.152 kg | 0.149 kg | 0.218 kg | 0.272 kg | 0.186 kg | 0.149 kg | 0.181 kg | 0.122 kg | 0.39 kg | 0.27 kg | 0.227 kg |
— | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 8 MBbest | 8 MBbest | — | — | — | — | |
5,400 RPMbest | 5,400 RPMbest | 5,400 RPMbest | 5,400 RPMbest | — | — | — | — | 5,400 RPMbest | 5,400 RPMbest | 5,400 RPMbest | — | 5,400 RPMbest | 5,400 RPMbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | | | | | | | | | Transcend StoreJet 25M3G 1TB | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Warranty(1) | ||||||||||||||
Warranty Period (years) | 2 years | 2 years | 3 years | 3 years | 1 years | 1 years | 3 years | 3 years | 2 years | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years | 2 years | 3 years |
Connectivity(2) | ||||||||||||||
Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.1 Gen 1 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.1 Gen 1 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.1 Gen 1 |
USB Version | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.1 Gen 1 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.1 Gen 1 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.0 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.1 Gen 1 |
Power & Battery(1) | ||||||||||||||
Power Source | Bus-powered | Bus-powered | Bus-powered | Bus-powered | — | bus | — | Bus-powered | Bus-powered | Bus-powered | Bus-powered | — | bus-powered | Bus-powered |
Security(1) | ||||||||||||||
Hardware Encryption | — | false | true | false | — | false | — | true | false | true | true | — | — | true |
Physical(1) | ||||||||||||||
Weight (kg) | 0.15 kg | 0.045 kg | 0.2098 kg | 0.152 kg | 0.149 kg | 0.218 kg | 0.272 kg | 0.186 kg | 0.149 kg | 0.181 kg | 0.122 kg | 0.39 kg | 0.27 kg | 0.2268 kg |
Compatibility(1) | ||||||||||||||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS (reformat required), Xbox One, PlayStation 4 | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS (reformat), ChromeOS | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS (reformat required) | Windows; macOS; PS4; PS5; Xbox One; Xbox Series X/S | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS, Chromebook | Windows, macOS, Linux | — | Windows, macOS, Linux |
Storage(2) | ||||||||||||||
Storage Capacity (TB) | 2 TB | 6 TB | 5 TB | 1 TB | 2 TB | 4 TB | 1 TB | 2 TB | 1 TB | 1 TB | 1 TB | 2 TB | 1 TB | 1 TB |
Form Factor | 2.5-inch | 2.5 inch | 2.5-inch | 2.5 inch | 2.5-inch | 2.5 inches | 2.5-inch SATA HDD | 2.5" | 2.5-inch | 2.5-inch | 2.5-inch | 2.5 inches | 2.5 inch | 2.5-inch |
Durability(2) | ||||||||||||||
Drop Resistance | — | — | false | — | — | — | true | true | — | true | — | true | true | true |
IP Rating | — | — | — | — | — | — | IP68 | — | — | — | — | IP68 | IP68+ | — |
Performance(2) | ||||||||||||||
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | — | 120 MB/s | — | 90 MB/s | 117 MB/s | 105.6 MB/s | — | — | 115 MB/s | — | 127.54 MB/s | — | — | 113 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 141 MB/s | 120 MB/s | — | — | 114 MB/s | 99.4 MB/s | — | — | 115 MB/s | — | 72.55 MB/s | — | — | 114 MB/s |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers describe the Canvio Advance as a sturdy, slim portable HDD that offers a strong price-to-capacity ratio and quiet operation. They note that while it isn't built for high-speed workloads, it delivers reliable backup performance and includes useful Windows-only security tools.
Everyday users overwhelmingly appreciate the drive's large capacity, ease of use, and reliable plug-and-play experience, especially for Windows backups and console storage. Common complaints focus on the short cable, lack of rubber feet, and the need to reformat for macOS.
“excellent product, excellent price”
“a sturdy portable drive slimmer, if not more advanced, than older models”
“overpriced”
Choose WD My Passport for a sturdier metal build; choose ADATA for superior portability and style.
Canvio Advance suits those willing to pay a bit more for sturdier construction and longer warranty; Basics remains the ultra-budget option.
Choose WD My Passport if you prefer its brand ecosystem or bundled software; choose Toshiba for a more affordable, colorful option with Toshiba's security suite.
Professional reviewers label the 6TB Elements as a top-value pick, highlighting its low price per terabyte, reliable mechanical design, two-year warranty, and eco-friendly enclosure, while noting it is unsuitable for speed-critical workloads and lacks hardware encryption.
Everyday users praise the straightforward Windows setup, dependable long-term backup, and portable form factor, but complain about the attached Micro-USB cable wearing out, occasional early failures, and the need to reformat for macOS.
Professional reviewers commend the My Passport 5TB for its generous capacity, strong hardware encryption, and useful bundled software, rating it highly for value and security. However, they criticize its outdated Micro-USB interface, average real-world speeds, and the lack of an anti-slip base.
Everyday users praise the drive's reliability, ease of use, and the peace of mind provided by encryption and automatic backup software. Common complaints focus on the Micro-USB connector, slower transfer rates for small files, and the absence of rubber feet.
Professional reviewers commend the HV620S for its sleek, ultra-slim design and solid build quality, noting reliable USB 3.1 speeds despite the 5400 RPM drive, while warning that the glossy finish is less suited for rugged use.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the drive's portability, ease of use and reliable performance, though they note fingerprint-prone surface, occasional connection glitches and slower speeds with many small files.
Professional reviewers praise the Canvio Basics for its unbeatable price-to-performance ratio, compact dimensions, and solid sequential speeds, noting it as an ideal low-cost solution for everyday storage. They also point out its sluggish random write performance, limited warranty, and lack of bundled software as trade-offs.
Everyday users overwhelmingly appreciate the drive's affordability, ease of use, and reliable performance for backups, gaming, and media storage. Common praise centers on fast transfers and plug-and-play simplicity, while complaints involve occasional connectivity issues and the need to reformat for macOS.
Professional reviewers note solid basic storage at a low price but flag SMR and lack of UASP as causes of erratic write performance, recommending it only for cold storage or occasional backups.
Users appreciate the large capacity and ease of use, especially for console gaming, but report slowdowns during large file transfers, a short cable, and the need to reformat for macOS.
Professional reviewers highlight the HD710 Pro as a near-bulletproof storage solution with excellent durability, but note that performance is limited to HDD speeds, making it unsuitable for high-speed workflows.
Everyday users praise the drive's durability and rugged features, while recurring complaints focus on slower transfer rates, the need to reformat for macOS, and the USB port cover becoming stiff.
Professional reviewers commend its military-grade durability, encryption, and one-touch backup features, while noting the outdated micro-USB and slower HDD performance versus SSDs.
Everyday users rate it highly (4.5/5) for durability and value, but cite the legacy micro-USB port, weight, and occasional macOS formatting hiccups as drawbacks.
Professional reviewers praise the Canvio Advance for its compact, thin form factor, solid real-world speeds, cool operation, attractive color options, and the inclusion of useful Windows-only security and backup utilities, all at a very affordable price.
Everyday users consistently highlight the drive's ease of use, reliable plug-and-play performance, and suitability for storing photos, videos, and game data on PlayStation consoles.
TechRadar and PCMag highlighted the drive's military-grade durability and backup button, while noting the legacy micro-USB port and slower performance versus SSDs.
Users praise its durability and water-resistance, but many wish for a modern USB-C connector and faster speeds.
Professional reviewers praise the My Passport for its solid security, ease of use and excellent portability at a low price point, but note its lack of ruggedness, older Micro-B connector and modest performance versus SSDs.
Everyday users love the drive's compact size, ample 1 TB capacity and reliable Windows plug-and-play experience, while common complaints focus on the plastic case scratching, need to reformat for macOS and durability concerns of the Micro-B port.
Professional reviewers gave the HD710 Pro a 4.0/5.0 rating, emphasizing its exceptional durability and shock-vibration sensor, while noting that speed is not class-leading and the focus is on ruggedness rather than performance.
Everyday users consistently praise the HD710 Pro for its ruggedness and reliability in harsh conditions, but complain about its weight, the need to reformat for macOS, and occasional difficulty sealing the USB cover.
Professional reviewers praise the HD710 Pro for its ruggedness, military-grade shockproofing, and IP68+ protection, but caution that its average transfer speeds make it unsuitable for tasks requiring sustained high throughput.
Everyday users overwhelmingly commend the drive's toughness and practical features like the built-in cable groove, while noting slower transfer rates, occasional wear of the port cover, and lint-attracting rubber coating.
Professional reviewers commend the StoreJet for its military-grade durability, effective three-stage shock system, and built-in hardware encryption, while noting the mechanical drive limits performance and the outdated Micro-USB interface.
Everyday users love the drive's toughness and backup button, but report slower transfer rates, the clunky software and occasional connection hiccups.
