These days, you’d be hard-pressed to find any aspect of life that isn’t digital, from the way we receive information to how we capture memories. This means the data we have is increasingly precious and data storage devices are essential in storing and protecting it. Organise, archive and secure your data, from work documents to holiday snaps, with the right data storage devices for you.
Let’s start by breaking down some key features you should know about before you buy…
Key Features to Consider
What’s the Difference Between an HDD and an SSD?
The most common digital data storage devices you’ll find are HDDs (Hard Disc Drives) and SSDs (Solid State Drives). They might look the same but it’s the inside that sets them apart. Just like a USB, an SSD stores data in flash memory cells and uses circuitry systems. An HDD contains small spinning discs that store and read your data. You may also come across a solid state hybrid drive (SSHD), which combines the two technologies.
At a Glance: HDD or SSD?
What’s the Difference Between HDD and SSD Storage Capacity?
One of the most important features to look for in a storage device is (of course) how much it can store. A byte (B) is the smallest unit of measurement for digital data, followed by a megabyte (MB), a gigabyte (GB) and the almighty terabyte (TB). The bigger the byte size, the more storage space you’ll have. HDDs typically have a larger storage capacity, making them great for storing high-resolution photos, videos and large files.
Which Hard Drive Type is Better for Durability or Portability?
If you’re looking for something to take with you on the go, a portable storage drive will be your best bet. HDDs and SSDs both come in portable form, but it’s important to consider durability. HDDs should be handled with care to protect their internal discs, whereas the circuitry in SSDs is a little tougher against accidental tumbles. To take extra care of your device, look for a more durable casing with shockproof bumpers or invest in a rugged device, which is made to withstand harsh conditions.
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Is One Hard Drive Type Faster Than the Other?
A fast storage device will help you find your files in a flash. Its speed is measured in megabytes per second (Mbps) or gigabytes per second (Gbps), which indicates how many megabytes it can retrieve, read or transfer in one second. Faster speeds mean quicker access, especially for large files. SSDs typically offer faster file retrieval than HDDs, making them ideal for quick access to everything from family photos and videos to computer games.
What Connectivity Features Should I Consider Before Buying a Data Storage Device?
Connection is key when it comes to storing your data, and it also can dictate how fast you can transfer and access your data. If a device says it can reach thrilling speeds, it can only do so with a cable that can support it. Always check what cables are optimal for your storage device as well as ensuring operational compatibility, like Windows, MacOS or Android. Double checking common ports and cables will save you another trip to the shops.
How Do I Keep My Hard Drive Safe and Secure?
Installing antivirus software on your computer helps to keep your devices safe from malware (short for malicious software) and also stop viruses from transferring onto your storage device. You can encrypt your hard drives, making your data unreadable without a passcode, for another layer of protection. No matter which device you choose, or what operating system you work on, encrypting your drive should be a built-in feature, or you can use software like VeraCrypt.
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Best Data Storage Device for Security: Seagate 1TB One Touch Portable Hard Drive Sky Blue
This Seagate HDD securely stores 1TB of your data and looks great while doing it. Its clean-cut design and cool blue colourway make it a stylish accessory whether you’re at your desk or on the go. It offers protective software you can set up to automatically backup your data; simply connect and work away with peace of mind. Guard your drive from prying eyes and enable a password code and AES-256 encryption, an extremely secure form of data protection.
Best Data Storage Device for Portability: SanDisk 2TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD V2
This 2TB SSD is well equipped to take on life’s little tumbles. Its aluminium case helps with temperature regulation and avoiding overheating, while its silicone shell protects it from tumbles up to two metres. Portability is literally built into it, with a carabiner loop featured in its design, you can clip it to your bag or belt and hit the road. And it’s not just strong, it’s speedy, too, reading and writing data at 2000Mbps.
Best Data Storage Device for Durability: LaCie 1TB Rugged USB-C Portable Hard Drive
Don't let lack of storage cramp your creative style on holidays. Be free to capture every moment on your phone or camera with an extra 1TB stashed away. The LaCie HDD also stands up to the elements to keep your memories safe. Its rugged design means it can withstand rain, survive tumbles from up to 1.2 metres and even withstand a tonne of pressure (literally). Its bright orange bumpers give it a distinct look, so you can spot it easily, and protect what’s inside.
Best Data Storage Device for Compact Design: WD 1TB My Passport Portable SSD Red
This SSD may look small, but it stores a mighty 1TB of data. It uses non-volatile memory express (NVMe), a type of storage and access technology, and USB 3.2 connectivity to deliver optimised performance, with speeds of 1050Mbps for reading and 1000Mbps for writing data. If by chance you misplace your device, keep your sensitive information extra safe with its built-in AES-256 encryption.
Best Data Storage Device for Speed: Samsung 4TB T9 Portable SSD Black
Made for media lovers, from creative professionals to dedicated gamers, this Samsung SSD offers the space and the speed you need for all your favourite media files. Its NVMe technology, paired with a USB 3.2 cable, unlocks a lightning read/write speed of 2000Mbps, meaning it can transfer a 2GB file in one second. The T9 is armed with Samsung’s Dynamic Thermal Guard to maintain optimal performance and protect against overheating. And, if you can believe it, all of these features are packed into a device the size of a credit card.
Best Data Storage Device for Capacity: WD 12TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive
Whether you’re digitising your family photo albums or saving critical work documents, having extra space to store important data is something everyone needs. The WD desktop HDD offers a whopping 12TB of data storage to help you free up space on your computer or laptop. It can read and transfer data at 5Gbps with USB 3.0, so you can find what you’re looking for without delay. With so much storage to offer, this device needs to be connected to a power source to get it up and running.
Best Data Storage Device All-Rounder: Toshiba 2TB Canvio Advance Portable Hard Drive Green
Compact design, generous storage capacity, speedy performance: what’s not to love about this Toshiba portable HDD. With a USB 3.0 cable, you can quickly store or retrieve your data, from photos to files, at 5Gbps. Its downloadable auto-backup and security software offer extra protection if you ever lose or break your device.
Best Data Storage Device for Hybrid Working: Seagate 4TB Expansion Portable Hard Drive
The Seagate 4TB HDD is a hybrid worker’s best friend. Take a load off from your laptop and save large working files, software and documents to this drive. Its large storage capacity and easy-to-use drag and drop interface means you can save your essentials without a second thought. Plus, its portable design makes it easy to take with you wherever your workday takes you.
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Tech Accessories to Consider
Crypto Hardware Wallets
For those who dabble in the world of cryptocurrencies, a crypto hardware wallet is about to become your best friend. These devices keep your assets offline and secure, allowing you to track, send and receive multiple cryptocurrencies with confidence.
What to Try
Tech Cases
There’s no such thing as ‘too careful’ when it comes to looking after your data. Pop your portable drive into a tech case so you can travel with peace of mind. Plus, there’s plenty of room for your cables (much better than throwing everything in your bag).
What to Try
- J.Burrows Portable Hard Drive Case Pink
- Nahe Hardshell Case Small Blue
- J.Burrows Tech Bag Small
- Bellroy Tech Kit Compact Black
Connection Port Hub
Whether you’re working across different drives or trying to charge while you work, never run out of room with a port hub. Always check for the ports you need!
