Best External Drives 2026: Top Picks Reviewed

Here’s something I didn't expect after combing through expert reviews of external drives: speed isn’t everything. Sure, we all like our gadgets to zoom like a caffeinated squirrel, but it turns out that reliability and value can pack just as much punch, if not more. After analyzing insights from Tom's Guide, RTINGS, and CNET, I found that the best external drives bring more to the table than just blinding transfer rates.

In total, I sifted through six contenders, each vying for a spot in your tech arsenal. From the SanDisk Pro-G40 Portable SSD that waltzes away with the “Best Overall” title, to the Seagate One Touch that’s more of a budget-friendly sidekick, there’s something here for everyone. So, whether you're a digital hoarder or just looking to stash away those vacation photos, let’s unpack these external drives that promise to preserve your digital memories without turning your wallet into a ghost town.