An external hard disk can be SSD (Solid State Drive) or HDD (Hard Drive). You can connect it to a computer externally with the help of a USB cable. An external drive works as a supporting drive for your computer. In addition, it helps in the storage of important data and creates a permanent backup for the data.
4 Best External Hard Disks in India
By creating a backup, you can let go of the fear of data loss that can happen due to any system crash. They are convenient and portable, which makes them more useful if you have a laptop. In the same manner, it allows you to save internal storage. Keeping these benefits in mind, we have made a list of the best external hard disks in India.
1. WD Elements 1TB Portable External Hard Drive
WD Elements 1TB Portable External Hard Drive is suitable for high-speed data transfers. Besides, it has a lot of storage capacity. Moreover, this external hard drive from WD Elements has great quality and high durability.
WD elements also have a high rate of transfer. When you will connect it to a USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 port, it can transfer your data quickly with much precision. It is further compatible with MAC, Xbox, PS4, and PC.
You can carry this external hard drive quite easily as it has lightweight. In addition, it provides value for money. Also, it is easy to use.
Pros
- High-speed data transfer.
- It has a good storage capacity.
- It is compatible with PC, PS4, Xbox, and MAC.
- Lightweight and portable.
- It offers value for money as it is easy to use.
Cons
- Detection problems of the external hard disk.
2. Seagate One Touch 1TB External HDD
As the best external hard disk in India, Seagate One Touch 1TB External HDD can safely manage 1TB of videos, photos, and movies. It comes with encrypted hardware password protection. If you want, you can opt for an additional layer of protection for the data with the three-year data rescue recovery service. Altogether it is a good external hard disk for MAC or Windows to back up files simply with a schedule automatic delay. On the other hand, you can back up with a single click or a monthly, weekly, and daily backup.
Apart from its great features, it will complement your overall aesthetics. This is due to its metal brushed minimalist enclosure. You can share, edit, and manage photos with a membership of four months to the Creative Adobe Cloud Photography. Additionally, you will receive a complimentary subscription of one year for Mylio Create.
Pros
- Can manage 1TB of movies, photos, and videos.
- It has encrypted hardware password protection.
- Data rescue recovery service for three years.
- Back up with a single click or automatic schedule delay.
- Creative Adobe Cloud Photography for four months.
Cons
- Heat and noise problems.
3. Transcend 1TB Portable External Hard Drive
The features of Transcend 1TB Portable External Hard Drive consist of a USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface. Its storage capacity goes up to 2TB. In addition, its shock protection system comes with three stages. There is an auto-backup one-touch button.
It has two software- RecoveRx data recovery and Elite data management. The interface offers lightning-speed transfer rates, which go up to 5Gbps. Its three-stage system of protection has a rubber silicone case, a shock-absorbing internal damper suspension, and a hard reinforced casing. You further have the option of choosing between two favorite colors- military green and iron-gray.
Moreover, this external hard disk goes through rigorous testing to meet the highest standards. It provides outstanding reliability and performance. The auto-backup one-touch button allows you to reconnect with the hard drive to your computer without reinserting and unplugging. There is a high recovery rate for your documents, videos, music, and digital photos.
Pros
- Three-stage shock protection system.
- Maximum storage capacity of 2TB.
- Shock-absorbing internal suspension.
- Comes in two colors- military green and iron-gray.
- Provides high durability as well as reliable performance.
Cons
- It is a bit expensive.
4. Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB Portable External HDD
Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB Portable External HDD is the best external hard disk in India. It has a storage capacity of up to 4TB. You can readily use this device with Microsoft Windows. Besides, it does not require any installation of software. It lets you connect with old hardware, and it is compatible with USB 2.0.
It contains an easy plug-and-play operation. You will be able to drop and drag files from the laptop and computer. It has USB 3.2 Gen 1 Technology which comes with fast transfers when it comes to the organization of files. Besides, it is a portable hard disk.
Pros
- Secure place to store all your files.
- Maximum storage capacity up to 4TB.
- No requirement for any software installation.
- Easy plug-and-play operation.
- Fast transfers for the organization of files.
Cons
- Not very sturdy.
Buying Guide for Best External Hard Disk in India
Storage capacity
You need to consider looking at the storage capacity of an external hard disk before buying. The storage capacity ranges from 2TB to 4TB. However, some external hard disks also come with 1TB or 2TB. It is useful for storing photos, movies, and videos.
In case you need to store spreadsheet files and word documents, you can for lower storage. Low storage external hard disks come with a minimum storage capacity of 320GB or 250GB. If you keep downloading videos, movies, and music, you can try a 4TB external hard disk.
Speed and connectivity
The best external hard disks use USB 3.1, 3.0, 2.0 for connection purposes. They have a maximum transfer speed of 1250 Mbps, 60 Mbps, and 625 Mbps. USB 3.1 has the fastest USB connection, a plug and play, and data exchange for days in between a PC and hard disk. USB 2.0 is a common type of connection, but such a hard disk will be slow when copying large videos and music.
USB 3.0 works fasters in comparison to the older model while transferring some digital data. Fast speed enables you to have regular backups for the security of your valuable data.
Network scope
If you require an external hard disk for personal use, then try going for simple hard disks with a high rate of transfer. Moreover, it must come with good storage. If you work with different computers, you can opt for an external NAS.
The latter has a large storage capacity to back up data automatically from other computers. In addition, it allows all the computers within the network to get access to the same files at the same point in time. They are quite expensive but have irreplaceable storage tools for the transfer and backup of data. Besides, their cost depends on the number of computers and storage capacity in a network.
Durability
As mechanical devices, external hard disks often encounter normal wear and tear. Some of them are more durable that helps them provide value for money. On average, external hard drives last for up to four years.
Hence, you must check the durability of an external hard drive before you buy it. Most of these external hard disks have a warranty period of two to three years. However, you have to look into its reliability, protection, as well as security.
If it is not durable enough, you can corrupt its data and break it easily. Guard your data against any damage or shock from mishandling. The outer cover must have an aluminum or durable plastic cover to safeguard it.
Despite the durability of an external hard disk, you have to take care while you are handling them. You need to use it for long-term storage. And, you must avoid doing frequent updates to make it more durable.
Portability
If you need to carry your external hard disk frequently from your home to your workplace, then buy something compact. Lightweight hard disks that have a simple plug-and-play operation can easily transfer data. However, the portable ones are more prone to accidents; hence, invest in a shockproof case.
Portability ensures that your external hard disk is always ready for use. There is no need to involve in installing any software. They can transfer data within seconds from your computer or laptop. Besides, if you do not carry your laptop everywhere, then you can go and invest in a heavier external hard disk.
Cost
The cost of a hard drive is a factor worth considering when it comes to backups and data storage. As the market for these hard disks has become extremely competitive, the prices are now lower. A number of brands now provide high-quality storage facilities for external data and proper security at an affordable cost.
You can find out the cost of an external hard disk using a simple method. All you have to do is to check the gigabyte storage capacity. Later, find its cost by dividing it by its capacity of storage.
Security
Security is important when buying an external hard disk. A hard disk must be able to provide different layers of security to protect data against any accidental loss and hacking. Some external hard disks are suitable only for storage purposes. The latter do not offer enough protection for your data.
There are some external hard disks that are expensive but they provide file retrieval and automatic backup. So, if your computer contains some valuable data, you have to invest more money into a good product. This will make sure that there exists optimum level encryption for the better protection of your data.
Further, there are hard disks that have in-built encryption hardware rather than software encryption. Please ensure that your hard disk has an in-built fan that keeps the case cool. Moreover, it protects your external hard disk from overheating due to long hours of use due to file transfers.
Compatibility
Some external hard disks are highly compatible with MAC OS. However, they are more suitable with Windows OS. With the coming up of new technology in the digital world, you can find various models online and offline. They integrate well with Linux, MAC, Android, and Windows.
In addition, you must ensure that the computer connection port must match with the port of the drive. Some models do not support USB 3.0. Modern storage devices offer USB 3.0 connections for fast data transfer. If you need a hard drive for MAC PC, select a hard disk that provides a Firewire connection for speedy data transfer.
Warranty
Seagate is a brand that offers up to five years warranty on their hard drives. It also offers a warranty of three years on some external hard disks. The least warranty lasts for one year.
However, you must ensure that you do not judge a brand’s reliability with its period of warranty. You must also keep in mind that no manufacturer provides a warranty on the aspect of data recovery. Therefore, you have to look into the best external hard disk in India and weigh your options carefully.
FAQs to Buy External Hard Disk in India
Are external hard drives compatible with Windows and MAC?
Most portable hard disks are compatible with operating systems like Windows and MAC. But, only a few external hard drives work in a seamless way between these two platforms. The rest need re-formatting on MAC.
You can further use an OTG adapter to connect the external hard disk to any smartphone. This will also enable easy transfer of data between both.
Which is more reliable – SSD or HDD?
Unlike external hard disks, SSDs do not require any moving elements. In addition, it can withstand harsh environments such as extreme temperatures and accidental drops. But the latter does not last for a long time and comes at a high price. So, opting for an external hard disk is better.
How can I lengthen the life of my external hard disk?
Normally an external hard disk lasts for a period of three to five years. There are ways by which you can extend the life of your external hard disk.
Being gentle: An external hard drive has internal parts that need to be handled with care. Using it carefully can increase its overall efficiency as well as prolong its lifespan.
Dusting it off: Dust is bad for any kind of electrical appliance. Hence, please ensure that your external hard disk remains free of dust. Do not use any liquid while cleaning them. Use a brush or a simple piece of fabric to clean off the dust.
Keeping it cool: After long hours of extended use, your external hard disk can heat up. Thus, after every use, you need to keep it in a place that has proper ventilation. It is essential as overheating of the external hard disk can damage its internal system.
Disconnecting it: Another thing you must remember is that never remove your external hard disk suddenly. Take absolute care while ejecting it.
Use when you require it: Do not connect or use your external hard disk for unnecessary reasons. When you are not using it, disconnect it from your computer or laptop. In addition, try storing it away from your kids and pets.
Regular maintenance: Besides proper handling, you need to pay attention to the regular maintenance of your external hard disk. This will enhance the longevity and durability of the product.
How much storage capacity does one require?
For choosing an external hard drive, you must consider its storage capacity in terms of your purpose. If you just need it to transfer files, then opt for an external hard drive with storage of 32 GB or 64GB. In case you need it to back up your files, then, go for external hard disks that are portable.
1TB is ideal for regular backups of important files and photos. Students and employees can choose 1.5TB external hard disks for storing work files. 2TB is perfect for travelers who carry their essential files wherever they go. An external hard drive of 4TB is suitable for photographers and video creators.
Do external hard disks have encryption technology?
If you want to store anything significant like your banking details and office work, then the encryption technology is important. Most brands offer portable external hard disks with encryption technology. You can also use a security lock and pin code to eliminate any form of unauthorized access by a third party.
Conclusion
In our review, we have listed all of the top external hard disks in India. Additionally, in our Buying Guide, we have highlighted certain factors for selecting an external hard disk. This includes storage, cost, portability, as well as speed, and connectivity. Our Frequently Asked Questions will further provide answers to different questions.
Apart from the above things, you need to handle it carefully to prolong its lifestyle. Make sure that the external hard disk protects your data. And opt for a recovery feature to safeguard your data in your external hard disk.