entranceChoosing an external hard drive for windows 7. External hard drive: what kind of device it is, what it is for and how to choose the right one
With this article, our site continues a whole cycle of useful materials, the purpose of which will be to facilitate the selection of any product from the thousands of options offered on the market. Agree, the choice of a specific model of a device always takes a lot of time that can be spent usefully. In today's article we will talk about the choice external hard drive.
A great option for those who just want to expand the storage space for their personal computer or laptop. Very attractive price for a 4TB model and the most ascetic design.
Another inexpensive model. Comes with special software that can password protect your data. In addition, it is powered only through the USB port and does not require an additional adapter.
Another not too expensive model, which stands out only for its cost and inexpressive appearance.
Not only is the drive available in a range of colors, but it can also encrypt user data in hardware and perform automatic backups using the included WD SmartWare Pro software. In addition, this model is quite shock-resistant - it will be more relaxed to carry it with you.
A terabyte drive that is very drop-resistant (the manufacturer claims that it meets the requirements of the US Army in this regard) - for this it is placed in an additional silicone case. Also allows for one-button backups.
An excellent external hard drive for those who don't plan to move it frequently from place to place. It will cope well, for example, with expanding the permanent memory of a game console.
Quite expensive, but at the same time very unusual model - this drive can connect to a local wireless network. Thus, files on it can be accessed from multiple devices, including a smartphone or tablet (using a special application).
A very expensive and not too capacious model that stands out from the rest due to its industrial design and compactness. If you don't want to see the gloomy black box on your desk, which almost all other external HDDs are, then Seven will save the day.
Lightweight, thin, fast and not too expensive external HDD, which is suitable for any task, but especially well in the hands of those who often move from place to place. It should be noted that the 4TB model in this line uses two 2TB drives in the Raid 0 array - it is less reliable than full 4TB drives.
Conclusion
We hope this article helped you through the daunting task of choosing an external hard drive. The next article will focus on
Every PC owner thought about the question: how to increase the storage space. This is especially true for laptop owners. They have no way to install another HDD. What should I do? Use external HDDs. Let's take a look at how to choose an external hard drive.
What it is
External HDD is a storage device that can be connected to a PC via a USB interface. You can carry it with you. The principle of operation does not differ from the HDD located in the PC.
Is it necessary
And if you use a simple USB flash drive? The external drive has a larger capacity. Documents on it will be stored longer, because the hard drive has a greater number of rewriting cycles.
Consider what you need to know when buying, how to choose an external HDD 2018.
Choosing an external hard drive
Consider what you need to know when choosing:
- Memory type;
- Interface;
- Price;
- Capacity;
- Form Factor;
- Information exchange speed;
- Protection of the case from dust, moisture.
Let's consider these parameters in more detail.
What memory to use
A classic hard drive (HDD) consists of several disks. They are covered with a special magnetic coating. Reading information takes place with the help of a reading head. It will shuffle over the surface of the disc.
This type of memory is a good option for long-term storage of large amounts of information. Convenient to use for photos, videos, films, programs. Disadvantages - fails from shocks, falls, vibrations.
(solid state HDD) does not have rotating magnetic disks. The speed of its operation depends on the used controller and Nand memory chips (it consists of cells where 1-2 bits of information are recorded). The controller divides memory into cells where data is written.
Its main advantage is high read / write speed (four times faster than HDD), high durability. Take such devices with you without fear of damaging them. Disadvantages - high cost, small capacity.
Usually they are installed on OS and applications that consume a lot of RAM (for example, Photoshop).
Capacity and cost
Capacity is the second important parameter to consider when choosing. Use the rule of thumb - the larger the disk space, the lower the cost per gigabyte.
If there is not enough RAM, external HDDs of large volumes are purchased. For storage, running OS and 3D editors, take a look at the solid state drive.
Its peculiarity is the speed of work depending on the size. For example, a 64GB HDD is slower than a 128GB HDD.
Form Factor
The physical dimensions of the device directly depend on the capacity. Form Factor - Size measured in inches.
2.5 inch
Advantages:
- No additional food;
- High capacity.
3.5 inch
The price of a memory unit is the smallest. 
Their differences:
- Price. At 3.5, the cost of one gigabyte is less. Therefore, a disk of the same capacity, but of different sizes, does not cost the same.
- Performance. It differs depending on which device you choose from which manufacturer.
- Noise, power consumption is higher for 3.5. Accordingly, it heats up more.
Disks for 2.5 mobiles are therefore convenient to carry with you. HDD Format 3.5 is more suitable as a desktop version.
Interface
This is a way to connect HDD to PC. There are two options: 
Please use USB 3.0. It has a read speed of five gigabytes per second. The old version has two - the speed is 480 megabytes per second.
Type-C. This standard is 3.1 with a Type-C connector type. Provides a data transfer rate of ten gigabytes per second. Found on PCs purchased after 2015.
We've covered the main points to consider when buying. But there are additional ones that also affect the cost and usability.
Protection against shock, moisture ingress
External HDD is afraid of external influences. Therefore, when transporting frequently, buy a fall-resistant device. 
Speed
Depends on it: speed of data transfer, noise level, heating. Slow devices with a rotation speed of 5400rpm (revolutions per minute) are used to store information that does not have to be used often. Devices with a rotation speed of 7200 rpm are a more balanced option. Suitable for frequent use. 10,000 are the fastest and noisiest devices. For solid state drives, this information is not relevant, as they do not have rotating elements.
Appearance
NCQ technology
Capable of increasing productivity. NCQ technology - optimization of the order of command execution. Therefore, the device spends less time processing data.
Manufacturer
Take a closer look at Western Digital models. The devices of this company are not only powerful, but also a little noisy. Developers are introducing additional useful functions into products. For example, PMR technology increases recording density.
Taiwanese manufacturer Transcend. Products are appreciated for their low cost and reliability. This manufacturer's product is available in any specialized store.
I recommend that you pay attention to no less well-known brands Hitachi, Toshiba. Models from the first manufacturer are reliable.
How to choose an external HDD for storing photos
I recommend purchasing the My Passport model from WD. This small 2.5-inch device ranges from five hundred gigabytes to two terabytes. 
If you prefer to view photos at home, buy the My Book model. It, as described above, comes with a free SmartWare automatic data backup application. 
How to choose an external SSD drive
For high speed communication, use USB 3 devices.
By the number of bits of information in one memory cell, it is divided:
- SLC (one bit). Relevant for work on the server;
- Memory MLC, TLC (respectively, two and three bits of information in one cell). Choose from them. The first is faster. The second withstands fewer rewriting cycles.
If you need a device for solving office tasks, use TLC memory. When editing video or working with "heavy" programs - MLC.
External hard drive for laptop
Check carefully if the drive is compatible with your laptop. If in doubt, consult the seller.
HDD is slower compared to. The second is designed for more rewrites. The power supply is not required for the device to work, as modern models use the USB interface.
Choose the weight and size depending on how often you need to take it with you.
How to choose an external hard drive for your computer
The device must be compatible with OS - NTFS or FAT 32. The difference is that the latter does not allow writing files larger than four gigabytes. It is not compatible with older versions of Windows and Apple Mac products. NTFS has no such limitation.
A stationary PC does not need mobility, so I recommend using the 3.5 form factor. From more roomy, less expensive.
Output
We've covered how to choose a reliable external hard drive. To get a high speed of reading information - buy an SSD. Use a WD HDD to store information. Take a closer look at the "" line patterns. Purchase a device equipped with an HDMI connector to watch videos and listen to music.
The demand for external storage media has become especially evident in recent years. The reason for this was not only the constantly increasing weight of multimedia content, but also the daily growing activity of virus attacks and the risk of data loss.
In the huge variety of HDDs and SSDs, it is difficult to determine which one to choose - the most productive or the cheapest. The purpose of this article is to give an objective idea of all aspects of choosing this device.
Why do I need a hard drive?
A portable hard drive is a portable storage device.
Its main functional features:
- high capacity. The device allows you to store and transfer huge amounts of information - from hundreds of gigabytes to several terabytes. It can be used as a second hard drive, as an operating system loader;
- mobility. Can be connected to multiple computers via a standard USB interface, carried from place to place;
- security. You can duplicate and store information outside of a PC or laptop and restrict third-party access to it.
Greater reliability of data storage and the files you need are always at your fingertips.
Selection options
Among the criteria for choosing an external USB hard drive are capacity, bandwidth, warranty period, low power consumption.
- making it easier to work with the disc;
- convenient copy saving mode;
- improving energy saving;
- encryption of information;
- synchronization with the system;
- the ability to recover files, etc .;
- appearance. Pocket options are available in a wide range. Devices in a bright, spectacular case will be appreciated by creative people. Models in a stylish aluminum case will complement the image of a respectable businessman. Stationary hard drives are less diverse, but they can also be matched to any interior;
- guarantee. Depending on the manufacturer, from 1 to 5 years.
Format Factor: Pocket and Desktop
The format factor is one of the key indicators of a hard drive.
Photo: Seagate Slim Portable Drive 2.5 ''
2.5-inch SSD and HDD hard drives are the most popular. Their dimensions do not exceed the size of a smartphone - they easily fit into a pocket or handbag. These devices are characterized by low power consumption and can be operated from a standard USB connector on a computer or laptop. Their volume does not exceed 2 TB.
Photo: Samsung STORY ™ Station 3.5 inch
3.5-inch drives - stationary options. In comparison with pocket models, they weigh more significantly (up to 1.5 kg) and have a maximum capacity of up to 4 TB. They may require a separate power supply to operate. Some manufacturers produce sets of several hard drives. The volume of such a kit can be up to 20 TB.
Photo: Toshiba-STOR E-STEEL 1.8 inches
Ultra mobile options - 1.8 '' SSD drives.
Type: SSD or HDD?
By the type of media, hard drives are divided into SSD and HDD.
Photo: magnetic (HDD) hard disk A-Data
HDD is an electronic-mechanical device made of aluminum or glass plates coated with a ferrimagnetic layer. During operation, the plates rotate, and the magnetic heads hover above the surface at a height of 10-12 nm and do not touch the surface of the plates.
Solid state drives are microchip-based storage devices.
The write / read speed of an SSD is about 5 times higher than that of an HDD, but its capabilities are limited by low-speed interfaces.
SSDs are absolutely silent, resistant to mechanical damage. Their disadvantages are high price with minimal volumes and limited number of rewriting cycles. Some enthusiasts have long predicted the victory of solid-state SSDs over HDD, but the price of such an alternative is too high.
Connection interface
The speed of the portable storage device depends on the connection interface.
The most common is USB 2.0 with a transfer rate of 480 Mbps. This is not a high indicator.
Today, almost all modern laptops are equipped with a USB 3.0 interface with speeds up to 4.8 Gb / s.
Additionally, you can use:
- FireWire - 400-800 Mbps high-speed interface;
- eSATA is a standard with a bandwidth of up to 3Gb / s;
- Ethernet is an interface that turns an external drive into a network drive.
Ethernet and FireWire only support 3.5-inch hard drives.
Video: choosing an external drive
Which company is the best to choose an external drive?
Which company is the best external media? Fierce competition in this market segment has long crowded out the weak. Seagate, Western Digital and Toshiba remained from the "old" manufacturers.
Seagate Technology is the largest American company founded in 1979. Manufactures SSD, HDD and hybrid models. She owns the trademarks Barracuda, Cheetah, Savvio, Constellation, Pulsar, DiamondMax, Momentus. Purchased a segment of the production of Samsung hard drives.
Seagate hard drives are the fastest.
Western Digital is an American manufacturer of computer electronics... The only company that provides a service warranty return of a defective product. Acquired the Hitachi Global Storage Technologies division in 2012. Hitachi storage media are among the most reliable.
Toshiba is a large international concern specializing in various areas of electronic technology.
Although Samsung and Hitachi exist only as brands, their products are widely represented in the market.
Among the younger companies are Transcend Information, ADATA Technology, Silicon Power.
500 GB
500GB Pocket Media is the smallest, most reliable and quietest. They can be conditionally divided into 2 classes: high-speed devices with a rotational speed of 7200 rpm and economical ones with 5400 rpm. Economy models are almost comparable in price to solid state drives of the same size.
Media from Transcend and Western Digital are reliable and well-tolerated in transit. The devices are housed in thin cases and come with software that implements a wide range of security functions.
The Seagate Slim and Samsung G2 Portable are some of the most compact devices available today.
The G2 Portable has an average performance, but has several original innovations:
- designed using a special USB on-board technology (the USB controller is located directly on the hard disk board);
- comes with software that allows you to encrypt data in real time and set a password to access important information.
The Transcend StoreJet 25M3 has the best shock protection as it is mounted on special shock-absorbing suspensions. It also has a fairly good bandwidth - 89 MB / s.
1 TB
1 TB is the most popular capacity.
For those looking for a compact device, the WD My Passport Ultra is an excellent choice. You will not find a more compact "terabyte".
If the safety of information is in the first place for you, then you should opt for the Transcend StoreJet 25M3, which works best with large files and has a super shock-resistant case.
The 3.5-inch Transcend StoreJet 35 Ultra combines high volume, fast transfer rates and energy efficiency. A portable drive from the same StoreJet 35T series has a lower transfer rate, but a very attractive price.
2 TB
2TB devices are chosen by those who store large amounts of data.
Photo: WD My Passport Wireless WDBDAF0020BBK-EESN
WD My Passport Wireless WDBDAF0020BBK-EESN supports Wi-Fi networks and reads external SD cards. The device is made in a 2.5-inch form factor. It combines all popular technologies, does not depend on the power source and is very reliable.
Hitachi hard disks, unlike media using Advanced Format technology, allow you to install OS without partition alignment.
The STBV2000200 model leads the Seagate drive line in terms of performance.
Review of prices by manufacturer
Although the price of storage media is falling, portable 1TB hard drives are still top sellers.
| 500 GB | 1 TB | 2 TB | |
| Seagate Expansion Portable | From 2935 rub. | from RUB 3,550 | from 4 800 rub. |
| Western Digital Elements Portable | From 2 999 rub. | From 3 799 rub. | From 6 999 rub. |
| Toshiba Stor.E Plus USB 3.0 | from 2 860 rub. | from 3 820 rub. | from 5 890 rub. |
| Samsung HX | From 3 440 rub. | From 4 169 rub. | From 6500 rub. |
| Hitachi Touro USB 3.0 | From 3 880 rub. | From 4 070 rub. | From 4 420 rub. |
With the advent of the third version of the USB interface, external media can provide a tangible increase in the speed of data exchange.
Choosing a portable hard drive, you need to decide on its tasks. If you need it at home, for storing media files, it is better to choose roomy, but not the fastest models. If you plan to use it for work, compact shockproof devices will do. In any case, it is desirable that the device be compatible with modern interfaces.
Don't save money by buying dubious brands of hard drives. There is a great risk of losing not only money, but also important information. Well-known brands also have bloopers in the form of mass marriage. Therefore, before buying, it is better to go to the manufacturer's website and read reviews about a particular model.
Good day.
For storing and transferring large amounts of information, it is quite convenient to use external HDs... Many, of course, will object - there are "clouds". But not all information can be stored there (there is confidentiality and all cases ...), and the Internet is not always and everywhere fast.
Agree, it is convenient when you have music, photos, films, games on an external medium, and when you come to visit, you can quickly connect your disk to your PC and turn on the playback of a pleasant composition ...
In this article, I want to give a few important points (in my opinion) that you should pay attention to when choosing and buying an external drive. Of course, I have never been to a factory producing such devices, and nevertheless, I have some experience (): at work I have to deal with three dozen such carriers, and at home - another dozen.
7 points to consider when choosing an external HDD
⑴ Storage capacity
The bigger, the better!
This rule is also true for external hard drives (there is never a lot of space). Today, one of the most popular volumes is 1-4 TB (and the cheapest in terms of price / number of GB). Therefore, I recommend that you look closely at discs of this particular size.
About disks 5-8 TB and more ...
These are also on sale today. But there are a couple of "buts" that I would recommend paying attention to:
- not "tested" technologies - the reliability of such drives often leaves much to be desired. And in general, I would not recommend immediately grabbing at any new and large-volume disks (while the manufacturers will bring their manufacturing technology to perfection ...);
- these drives often require additional power. If you buy a disk for a laptop or other portable gadget (which you want to connect only to a USB port), then such disks will create unnecessary "problems" for you ...
⑵ About the connection interface
The most popular interfaces on sale now are USB 2.0 and USB 3.0. I recommend immediately "aiming" and choosing USB 3.0 (up to 5 Gb / s; you will notice the difference in speed even by eye).
In practice, usually, the speed of copying / reading from an external drive via USB 2.0 reaches 30-40 Mb / s, via USB 3.0 - up to 80-120 Mb / s. Those. there is a difference, especially since a USB 3.0 drive is universal, and it can be connected even to those devices that only support USB 2.0.
By the way, to distinguish USB 2.0 from USB 3.0, pay attention to the color. Most manufacturers now mark their USB 3.0 ports in blue.
How to distinguish a USB 3.0 port from a USB 2.0 port (USB 3.0 port marked in blue)
By the way, if you have a new USB Type-C port (up to 10 Gb / s) on your laptop (computer), then now discs with a similar interface are starting to appear on sale, and it makes sense to take a closer look at such models. I also note that there are all kinds of adapters for connecting drives with USB 3.0 (for example) to the new USB Type-C port.
Addition: there are also other SATA, eSATA, FireWire, Thunderbolt standards. They are much less common than USB and I don't see any point in dwelling on them, tk. the vast majority of users will be satisfied with the USB interface.
⑶ About a separate power supply
There are drives with or without an additional power supply (powered by the USB port). As a rule, disks that work only from the USB port do not exceed 4-5 TB in volume (this is the maximum that I have seen on sale).
Note that drives with an additional adapter are faster and more stable. But, nevertheless, extra wires create inconvenience, and it is not always possible to connect the drive to a power outlet - for example, when using the drive while working with a laptop.
There is one more problem to look out for.: not always and not all models of disks have enough power from the USB port (for example, in cases where the device is powered by a small netbook or not only a disk is connected to USB - there may not be enough power for the HDD!). In cases of power shortage, the disk may simply become "invisible". I mentioned this in this article:
From practice ...
Disks that had enough power from the USB port: Seagate Expansion 1-2 TB (not to be confused with the Portable Slim line), WD Passport Ultra 1-2 TB, Toshiba Canvio 1-2 TB.
Disks with which there were problems (and from time to time they became invisible in Windows): Samsung 1-2 TB, Seagate Portable Slim 1-2 TB, A-DATA 1-2 TB, Transcend StoreJet 1-2 TB.
Basically, if you run into a power shortage, you can try using a USB hub with a power supply. Such a device will allow you to connect several disks to one USB port at once, and all of them will have enough power (even when connected to a "weak" netbook).
USB hub with power supply
⑷ About form factor // size
Form Factor - Specifies the size of the disk. 10-15 years ago - a special class like "External hard drives" was absent, and many used ordinary HDDs, installed in a special box (box) - ie. assembled such a portable disk on their own. From there came the two most popular form factors of external HDDs - 2.5 and 3.5 inches.
Large, heavy and oversized discs. The most capacious ones today (the capacity of one HDD reaches 8 TB or more!). Most suitable for a stationary PC (or a laptop, which is rarely carried). They generally provide a higher data transfer rate (compared to 2.5 ").
Such discs are rarely produced in shock-resistant cases, so they are extremely afraid of shock or vibration. Another feature: they cannot work without a power supply (not at all!). Extra wires don't add to their convenience ...
Stationary external hard drive 3.5 "(pay attention to the dimensions) - connects to the 220V network through the power supply
The most popular and demanded type of discs. Their dimensions are comparable to a regular smartphone (slightly larger). Most drives have enough power from the USB port to work properly. Convenient both on the road and at home, for connecting to both a PC and a laptop (and indeed, to any equipment with a USB port).
Often, when such discs are placed in special. shock-resistant housing, allowing them to extend their "survivability" (important for disks that are often on the road and are subject to vibrations).
Of the minuses: their capacity is slightly lower than in 3.5 "drives (today it reaches 5 TB). Also, some models of drives do not always have enough power from the USB port, and they" fall off "during operation (ie, they become invisible to Windows OS).
⑸ Disk speed
Your disk speed depends on several factors:
- from the interface: today the best option in terms of price / speed ratio is the USB 3.1 standard (USB Type-C is also gaining popularity);
- on the spindle speed: external drives have 5400 rpm, 7200 rpm and 4200 rpm. The higher the revolutions, the higher the speed of information reading (and the louder the disk makes noise and the hotter it gets). Typically 2.5 "drives run at 4200 and 5400 rpm, while 3.5" drives run at 7200 rpm;
- from cache size (temporary memory that allows you to quickly access the most frequently used information) : currently the most popular drives with 8-64 MB cache. Naturally, the higher the cache, the more expensive the disk ...
Personal opinion: in most cases, external drives are bought for storing various multimedia data - music, movies, photos, etc. And with such tasks, the difference in the speed of the disk from 7200 rpm and 5400 rpm is not significant, and does not play a big role. The only moment (in terms of speed) when choosing, I would focus on the presence of the USB 3.1 interface (otherwise there are still quite a few disks with the USB 2.0 interface on sale).
⑹ Protection against moisture and fur. damage. Passwords and hacking protection
Some models of discs have additional protection against shock, dust, moisture, etc. Naturally, such discs are more expensive than ordinary discs, sometimes, the cost is several times higher!
In my opinion, all these bells and whistles - if they help, then only from very minor incidents. If the disk is waiting for a strong blow, then the case will soften it, but it will not help much. Based on my practice of "sad" cases, I will say that the shock-resistant case of the models, the cost of which does not exceed $ 350, did not prevent damage to the disc. I have not used more expensive disks, and I cannot criticize them in absentia.
In my opinion, if you buy such discs, then for a price not higher than 10-20% of the cost of other discs (and certainly such protection does not cost like 2-3 ordinary discs).
I will add that often the disks fail without any shock or shock. I would recommend paying more attention to the reliability of the line (HDD lineup) and reviews about it.
As for all kinds of password protection of the drive, the drive can be protected using free utilities (and it is not known which will be more reliable).
⑺ About manufacturers, which is more reliable
It is clear that everything that is written below is conditional and not very representative data. Because to make real statistics of the most reliable disks, it is necessary to test thousands of disks (and not several dozen, like me). And nevertheless, I will express my point of view ...
- WD My Passport is one of the most reliable, not a single drive from this line has failed. And there are no special complaints about the work: they do not make noise, they do not get warm, they are always "visible". The price tag is 10-15% higher on them than on other similar discs, but they are worth it. I will add that their dimensions are also somewhat larger than those of the same Seagate Portable Slim (but in my opinion this is not essential) ...
- WD My Cloud - in principle, everything that is said above is also relevant for this line;
- Toshiba Canvio - despite the fact that the discs appeared on the market not so long ago, there are no particular complaints about them. So far, there have been no problems with any of the 4 disks;
- Seagate Expansion - average in quality (5 out of 7 disks are working, 2 were delivered under warranty, did not work for a year ...). There are no problems with "visibility", but I would note that many disks from this line are "noisy" during operation;
- Seagate Portable Slim is the worst line in my opinion (wherever you see "Seagate Slim" - better watch out!). It is possible that I was simply not so lucky, but 5 out of 5 discs fell into disrepair within 1.5 years after purchase;
- A-DATA - in general they work (4 out of 5 drives have worked for more than a year), but drives from this manufacturer do not always have enough power from USB when used on laptops;
- The Transcend StoreJet is an interesting option as their drives are protected by specials. body from light concussions. There were no questions about reliability (though I have only 2 of them), there is a problem with "noise" during operation and "visibility" without additional. food;
- Silicon Power (Armor) - negative review, because 3 out of 3 drives did not live up to even the initial expectations: the data transfer speed is low (even when connected to USB 3.0), they often "fall off" and become invisible. Not work - but a nightmare ...
What do you use?
Additions on the topic are welcome ...
Good luck and good choice to everyone!
An external hard drive is designed to store and transfer large amounts of information that a flash drive cannot handle. This is the same hard drive (HDD) packed in a box with a power supply and controller. It is convenient to take it on the road to transfer information, it can be connected to a TV.
For larger volumes and at a lower price, you can purchase an HDD. Writing / reading is carried out by rotating the disk and the magnetic head. The vulnerability of such a drive is noise during operation, susceptibility to mechanical damage, and low speed. If you need to transfer movies, music, text files, a compact but more expensive SSD will do. This disk, like a flash drive, belongs to solid state drives.
The size and type of drive is called the form factor. The following types are distinguished: 1.8 "(up to 2 TB), 2.5" (up to 4 TB). The 3.5 ”drive (up to 8 TB) is a desktop option, since the large capacity implies both large dimensions and weight.
What is the fundamental difference between flash drives and external hard drives?
Flash drives and external hard drives belong to completely different classes of devices. Their only similarity is their purpose as information storage. But there are also differences, and significant ones.
| Comparison criterion | Flash drive | External hard drive | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volume | The most capacious model at the moment holds 2 terabytes | Portable models up to 4 terabytes, fixed network attached storage (NAS) holds up to 12 units. The most capacious disks are 10 terabytes, that is, in total, about 120 gigabytes are obtained. | |
| Price | A drive with a capacity of 2 terabytes costs 58 thousand rubles, and for 4000 rubles you can purchase a model for 128 gigabytes | A disk with a volume of 1 terabyte costs about 4 thousand rubles, 2 terabytes - 6 thousand rubles | |
| Work speed | High-quality models for writing provide a speed of at least 80 megabytes per second, reading - from 140 megabytes | The best representatives write - 90-95 megabytes per second, read - 100-110 megabytes per second | |
| Dimensions (edit) | Compact | Larger | |
| Protection from external influences | Flash drives withstand mechanical stress better, but there are rugged models in both classes | ||
| Resource | Flash drives have significantly less resource, but the vast majority of users will have enough of this. |
What to look for when buying an external hard drive?
The choice of external drive depends on purpose, size, and personal preference. What parameters should be considered when choosing a drive:
- Capacity. The smallest storage capacity for 128GB and 256GB SSDs is also the most popular. This capacity is sufficient for movies, music, file copies;
- Performance. The overwhelming majority of disks are equipped with a connection device, a USB port. Modern models have USB0, with a bandwidth of up to 5 Gb / s, but the computer must also be compatible with this speed. The USB 2.0 ports have slower read / write speeds, but are fine for watching movies and music. The maximum speed of SSD drives can reach 550 MB / s;
- The read / write speed depends on the amount of RAM: the larger it is, the higher the speed;
- Protection against external influences is also important for the operation of the disc. SSDs are the most reliable since they have no moving parts inside. It is resistant to external influences. The plastic case had to contain metal and rubberized parts to keep the case strong;
- The weight of the product matters if the disc needs to be carried. Modern external disks weigh between 140 and 300 g;
- If the storage medium is intended to be used in conditions far from cleanliness, then protection from dust and dirt is required. Choose a drive with certified protection (IPXX or military grade);
- You also need to take care of data protection. The larger the drive, the more information you can store on it and the more you can lose it. There are hardware protection methods that are supported by conventional drives and solid state drives. This will help protect data from loss;
- Before buying an external hard drive, you need to study the market, read reviews in order to choose a high-quality device for storing information. You need to decide how much disk space is needed and based on this, make a choice
Seagate STDR4000200.
Seagate has been a global leader in storage solutions for nearly 40 years.
The model is attractive, above all, for its compact shape and large capacity. 4 TB is enough for data storage and backup. It's hard to find a drive with this 2.5 ”form factor on sale. The previous version of the Seagate 4TB Backup Plus Slim with the same capacity contains two 2TB drives. The speed of such a disk will certainly be higher due to RAID, but in the case of RAID 0, reliability decreases (if both disks fail).
USB 3.0 Connection Included with the disc is the Seagate Dashboard Copying Software CD. The presence of the NTFS driver allows you to work with two operating systems: Microsoft and MacOS (for Macintosh computers).
Advantages:
- Large volume;
- Easy-to-use software;
- Compact form;
- USB 3.0 connection.
Disadvantages:
- High price.
Average price: 9,000 rubles.
Seagate Expansion 1 TB
The line of drives of this series is represented by the STEA1000400 model, which has five modifications in volumes from 500 GB to 4 TB. Connection via USB 2.0 and 3.0 is possible. The same port is used for receiving power. The speed during the passage of write / read - 129/121 Mb / s. Formatted to work with Microsoft.
Advantages:
- High speed;
- Connection via USB0 and USB 3.0;
- Small price.
Disadvantages:
- To work with Mac, you need to reformat (the factory setting assumes the presence of NTFS, formatted for Microsoft);
- Only black.
The price is from 3700 to 7600 rubles, the cost must be checked in the sales centers.
Video review and unpacking of the product:
SEAGATE STCD500202.
Seagate STC500202 - 500 GB disk, compact, lightweight. The metal body has roughness to prevent slipping on the surface. The USB 3.0 connection interface provides a good speed - 600 Mb / s.
The software provides automatic downloading of photos from social networks and saving to media. Data backup is easily configured.
Advantages:
- Compactness, noiselessness;
- Convenient software.
Disadvantages:
- Short cable.
The cost is about 4000 rubles.
Western Digital My Passport 4 TB.
This disk is suitable for large amounts of information. It also has USB 3.0 connectivity, support and USB 2.0. With the help of the supplied software, you can set up a backup according to your schedule, set a password for protection. It is possible to add a "return if found" message when prompted for a password in case of disk loss.
Advantages:
- Large volume;
- Automatic copying;
- Password protection;
- USB 2.0 support;
- Stylish body in several colors;
- Three-year warranty.
Disadvantages:
- Slight vibration during operation is possible.
Disc complete set - in the video:
Average price: 9,500 rubles.
Transcend TS2TSJ25M3.
If you need to use the disc for frequent transportation, then this model is designed just for these purposes. The body is rubber, anti-slip, shock protection is made according to army standards. The connectors are not covered and therefore not protected against water ingress.
Has a high-tech hard drive suspension mechanism. On the case there is a button for remote shutdown of the disk (without disconnecting from the port). Also, using a button on the body, automatic data copying is provided.
Supports USB 3.0 and 2.0 interface Average read speed 32 Mb / s.
Advantages:
- High protection of the case;
- Two interfaces;
- Automatic copying through a button on the body.
Disadvantages:
- The connectors loosen quickly.
Average price: 7,000 rubles.
ADATA DashDrive Durable HD710 2TB.
It is also a military grade IPX7 disc with a high degree of shock resistance. With a hermetically sealed connector, it can be submerged in water to a depth of one meter for 60 minutes. This is achieved thanks to the silicone body covered with a thick rubber layer. The hard drive demonstrates a speed of 76.5 MB / s. USB 3.0 has a bandwidth of 5 Gb / s. The volume of the disk is 2 TB.
Advantages:
- Reinforced hull protection;
- The interface cable is attached to the case.
Disadvantages:
- The software must be downloaded from the Internet.
Average price: 7,000 rubles.
Western Digital My Passport 2 TB.
Western Digital is a well-known American company that has been producing hard drives since 1988. The Western Digital My Passport 2 TB external drive has a speed of up to 85 MB / s. The USB 3.0 interface is supported and work through the 2.0 port.
The drive comes with software for creating an automatic copy.
Advantages:
- Reliable manufacturer;
- Sufficient volume at good speed.
Disadvantages:
- Scratch marks are visible on the case;
- Short cable.
About 5000 rubles.
Professional video review of the device:
Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB.
The Canvio Basics 1TB is a budget option with a modest design that doesn't have any unnecessary elements - just a port and a status LED. There are rubber pads on the bottom of the case, allowing you to conveniently position the disc on the surface. Disk space 1TB, USB 3.0 compatible with USB 2.0 Transfer rate 5Gb / s, there is little vibration or noise during operation.
Advantages:
- Compactness;
- Affordable price.
Disadvantages:
- Short cable;
- Slight vibration and noise.
Average price: 4000 rubles.
Silicon Power Armor A30 1TB.
Silicon Power Armor A30 1TB refers to a portable type of external storage medium. Stylish design in orange-black color, the body is made of plastic and rubber. The cable can be fastened around the device. The disk is characterized by a good read / write speed, absence of extraneous sounds and vibration. The disc does not heat up during prolonged use.
The disc has a 3-year warranty period; to obtain it, you need to register on the official website.
Advantages:
- Unusual stylish design;
- No noise and vibration at good speed;
- 3 year warranty.
Disadvantages:
- Short cable;
- Not all devices recognize the disc.
Average price: 5000 rubles.
Video review of the device:
ADATA DashDrive Durable HD650 1TB.
This is a stylish small size external drive. The reliable case is made of composite plastic with rubber inserts and has a low weight of 201 g and dimensions of 121x81x21 mm. Even if dropped, the disc is not damaged. Due to its small size, the disc will easily fit in your pocket
This model is available in volumes: 500 MB, 1 and 2 TB. The test speed is 116 Mb / s when reading and 112 Mb / s - when writing. The disk works silently and is quickly recognized.
Advantages:
- Compact, stylish in several colors;
- Robust body;
- Quiet work;
- It is quickly recognized.
Disadvantages:
- Weak connector, loosening over time;
- Small cable.
Average price: 5000 rubles.
Toshiba Canvio Connect II 1 TB
Reliable compact external storage. Differs in the presence in the set of two high-quality software utilities. The disc is available in volumes: 500 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB, 3 TB and colors: black, blue, red, white and white-pink. The disk provides work via USB 3.0 and USB 2.0, the speed corresponding to the ports.
The set includes two powerful programs: copying NTI Backup Now EZ and Pogoplug PC, which allows remote access to files via a mobile device using the utility. You can buy Pogoplug PC on the manufacturer's website for $ 30. Owners of this disk model get an additional 10GB of cloud storage using this utility (for more information on expanding the volume, see the website). When passing through the USB 3.0 port, the write speed is 100MB / s, reading is 98MB / s.
Advantages:
- An easy way to access information on a disk from anywhere via the Internet;
- Automatic reliable copying program;
- Low cost.
Disadvantages:
- Not identified.
The price is from 3000 to 8000 rubles, depending on the volume.
Professional hard drive review - in the video:
TOSHIBA Canvio Basics 500GB.
This is a budget option from a popular manufacturer. On the case there is an LED indicator of the status of operation, as well as rubber "feet" that hold the disk on the surface. USB 3.0 port interface adapted for USB 2.0
The Canvio Basics model is available in five sizes: 500 GB, 750 GB, 1 TB, 1.5 TB, 2 TB. Warranty from 1 to 3 years. There is no software included, which is a disadvantage. Nevertheless, TOSHIBA discs are attractive primarily for their reliability.
When buying a disc, you need to know that when replacing the cable, only the original one will do. The set does not include a cover that you may need for transportation.
Advantages:
- Good value for money;
- The presence of small rubber pads on the body.
Disadvantages:
- Light vibration when working;
- Short cable.
Average price: 3500 rubles.
Product video review:
So what should you choose?
When choosing an external drive, you must focus primarily on the volume. Currently, the smallest is the 500 GB drive. What can be recorded on such a medium:
- 300 films;
- 2000 CDs of good quality;
- Copies of information from a PC.
The most popular and affordable prices are 1 TB disks. This volume is quite enough to record two hundred FullHD movies.
Two terabytes - such a disk can be used for a complete copy of the system, movies of 4K UltraHD quality, about 50 pieces.
4TB drives for very large volumes, in most cases, they are stationary, designed for professionals.
When choosing an external drive, the manufacturer is of no small importance, since reliability is the main indicator of a storage device. Appearance and durability are also relevant for some user group.