
Seagate Portable 2TB
Score: 60/100
Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB Black
Score: 61/100Rankings

The Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB offers affordable high-capacity storage with solid sequential speeds and easy USB-3.0 plug-and-play operation. Its drawbacks include poor random-file performance and lack of security features. Ideal for casual users needing budget-friendly backup or media storage.

The Seagate Portable 2TB External HDD provides a high-capacity, bus-powered storage solution with USB 3.0 transfer rates. As a mechanical drive, it is slower than SSDs and lacks ruggedness or encryption features. It fits well for users needing affordable large storage for backups and media libraries.
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
2 GB | 2,000 GBbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.159 kg | 0.151 kgbest |
— | 119.5 MB/sbest | |
— | 118.3 MB/sbest | |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
Storage(1) | ||
Capacity (GB) | 2 GB | 2000 GB |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.159 kg | 0.151 kg |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 117x80x15 mm | 14x79x109 mm |
Power(1) | ||
Power Source | USB bus-powered | USB |

Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).

Professional reviewers rate the Seagate Expansion Portable 2TB highly for its fast USB 3.0 performance, compact and lightweight chassis, and budget-friendly price. TechReprise gave it 9/10, citing reliable 5400 RPM operation and ease of repair, while TechGearLab named it Best Overall External HDD, emphasizing cross-platform compatibility and included data-recovery service. The main criticisms focus on the lack of ruggedness and security features.
Everyday users appreciate the drive's plug-and-play simplicity, quick transfer speeds for large files, and portable form factor. The included Rescue Data Recovery Services are frequently mentioned as a valuable safety net. Complaints are limited but often revolve around the need to format before first use and the absence of any impact or water resistance.

“Lots of storage space for minimal amount”

“Very easy setup”

“Works great in Samsung Smart TV.”


Professional reviewers commend the Canvio Basics for its unbeatable price-per-gigabyte, solid sequential throughput and error-free operation, labeling it a reliable workhorse for everyday storage. However, they consistently point out its poor random-file write performance, noticeable heat during long transfers, and the lack of any backup or encryption utilities, which limits its appeal for power users.
Consumers overwhelmingly value the drive's plug-and-play simplicity, large 2TB capacity, and portability, often highlighting how easy it is to set up and use with PCs, consoles and TVs. Complaints are relatively few but focus on occasional disconnections, heat buildup, and the missing security features.