Are you tired of staring at loading screens longer than you’re playing the actual game? Does your internal storage feel like a digital sardine can, bursting at the seams with your ever-growing game library? If you’re a PC gamer, you know the struggle is real. That’s where an external SSD comes into play. It’s not just extra storage; it’s a performance upgrade that can dramatically reduce game load times, improve texture streaming, and give your gaming rig the breathing room it deserves.
But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best external SSD for PC gaming? Don’t sweat it! We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive guide to the top contenders, helping you make an informed decision to elevate your gaming experience.
Why an External SSD for PC Gaming is a Game Changer
While internal NVMe SSDs are king for pure speed, external SSDs offer incredible flexibility and a massive upgrade over traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). Here’s why they’re essential for modern PC gaming:
- Blazing-Fast Load Times: Forget waiting around. An external SSD can cut game loading screens by a significant margin, getting you into the action quicker. This is especially true for games with large assets and open worlds.
- Portability: Take your entire game library with you! Whether you’re heading to a friend’s place for a LAN party or just want to easily transfer games between your desktop and gaming laptop, these compact drives make it a breeze.
- Free Up Internal Space: Modern games are huge. Offloading some of your titles to an external drive frees up valuable space on your primary drive, which can improve overall system performance.
- Cost-Effective Storage: While internal NVMe SSDs are often preferred for the OS and a few critical games, external SSDs provide a more affordable way to expand your game storage without opening up your PC.
How We Chose the Best
We focused on several key factors when selecting these top external SSDs:
- Speed: Measured by read/write speeds, crucial for quick game loading and transfers.
- Capacity: Enough space for multiple AAA titles.
- Durability: How well it can withstand bumps, drops, and everyday wear.
- Compatibility: Works seamlessly with PCs, and often consoles too.
- Value: A good balance of features, performance, and price.
Now, let’s dive into our top picks for the best external SSD for PC gaming!
Product Reviews
1. Samsung T7 Portable SSD
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a perennial favorite for good reason. It’s a sleek, compact, and incredibly fast drive that delivers reliable performance for both productivity and gaming. Built with PCIe NVMe technology, it offers impressive read and write speeds, making it nearly twice as fast as its predecessor, the T5. Its solid aluminum unibody construction also provides a decent level of shock resistance, so you don’t have to baby it. If you’re looking for a versatile and trustworthy external storage solution that just works, the T7 is a fantastic choice that many gamers and creators swear by.
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Key Features:
- PCIe NVMe technology for speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s
- Compact and lightweight design
- Shock resistance up to 6 feet
- Wide compatibility with PCs, Macs, Android devices, and gaming consoles
- Available in capacities up to 4TB
- Supports iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video recording
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed, portability, and durability
- Very compact and easy to carry
- Reliable performance from a trusted brand
- Good for general use, including gaming and large file transfers
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Cons:
- Not as ruggedized as the “Shield” version
- Speeds are Gen 2, not the faster Gen 2×2
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the T7 for its consistent fast performance, small footprint, and ease of use. Many highlight its reliability for backing up large game files or using it for creative projects on the go. It’s often recommended as a solid all-around external SSD.
2. WD_BLACK 5TB P10 Game Drive
While technically an external hard drive (HDD) rather than an SSD, the WD_BLACK P10 deserves a spot for its sheer capacity, especially if you have a massive back catalogue of games or simply need to archive titles. This drive is purpose-built for gamers, offering a staggering amount of storage that can hold dozens, if not hundreds, of games. Its portable form factor with a sleek metal top makes it easy to take your game library anywhere, and while its speeds won’t match an SSD, it’s a reliable workhorse for expanding your console or PC game storage without breaking the bank. It’s an excellent solution for older generation console games or simply storing your PC game install files.
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Key Features:
- Up to 6TB capacity, storing up to 150 games
- Portable form factor with sleek metal top covering
- Speeds up to 130MB/s
- Compatible with Xbox Series X|S (for Xbox One games) and PlayStation 5 (for PS4 games)
- Premium HDD with a 3-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Massive storage capacity for the price
- Specifically designed with gamers in mind
- Good for archiving large game libraries
- Portable and durable for an HDD
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Cons:
- Hard Drive speeds are much slower than SSDs, impacting load times for modern games
- Not suitable for directly playing demanding current-gen games from it
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User Impressions: Gamers appreciate the P10’s ability to hold an enormous amount of games, making it ideal for those with extensive collections. While users acknowledge its HDD limitations for speed, they find it perfect for storing and archiving games they don’t play daily, or for older titles where load times are less critical.
3. SAMSUNG T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD
If your gaming adventures take you beyond the desk, the Samsung T7 Shield is your ultimate rugged sidekick. Taking the popular T7 and wrapping it in an IP65-rated, water, dust, and drop-resistant shell, this SSD is built to withstand the elements. It maintains the same lightning-fast PCIe NVMe speeds as the standard T7, ensuring quick transfers and smooth gaming, even when you’re on the go in less-than-ideal conditions. For gamers who travel, attend LAN parties, or simply want extra peace of mind, the T7 Shield offers robust protection without compromising on performance.
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Key Features:
- IP65 water and dust resistance
- Drop protection up to 9.8 feet
- PCIe NVMe technology for speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s
- Wide compatibility (PC, Mac, Android, gaming consoles)
- Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB
- Samsung Magician Software for optimization
- Supports iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video recording
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Pros:
- Extreme durability and ruggedness
- Still very fast and compact despite the added protection
- Ideal for outdoor use or users needing extra security
- Excellent reliability from a top brand
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Cons:
- Slightly larger and heavier than the non-Shield T7 due to rugged casing
- A bit pricier than the standard T7
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User Impressions: Customers rave about the T7 Shield’s durability, noting that it can take a beating and keep performing. They love having a fast SSD that they don’t have to worry about when traveling or using it in demanding environments. It’s a clear winner for those prioritizing ruggedness alongside speed.
4. Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive HDD
For those on a budget who just need simple, reliable storage without the bells and whistles of an SSD, the Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive is a classic choice. It’s a straightforward, plug-and-play solution that offers a good amount of space for general file storage or archiving games that don’t require lightning-fast load times. While it’s an HDD and won’t give you SSD speeds, its simplicity and affordability make it a practical option for expanding your digital footprint, especially if you have a vast collection of older PC games or media files.
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Key Features:
- 2TB capacity for content on the go
- USB 3.0 connectivity
- Works with Windows and Mac computers
- Plug-and-play simplicity, no software required
- Included 18-inch USB 3.0 cable
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Pros:
- Very easy to use, true plug-and-play
- Cost-effective way to get a lot of storage
- Compact for an HDD
- Reliable for basic storage needs
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Cons:
- Significantly slower than any SSD on this list
- Not ideal for actively playing modern, demanding PC games
- Less durable than SSDs due to moving parts
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the Seagate Portable for its ease of use and value. It’s often chosen for basic backups, expanding storage for photos/videos, or archiving older PC games. Reviewers note its reliability for general purposes, emphasizing that it’s a solid HDD, not an SSD.
5. SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB
If you’re a professional gamer, content creator, or simply demand the absolute fastest speeds available in an external SSD, the Samsung T9 Portable SSD is built for you. Utilizing USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, this drive delivers astonishing sustained read and write speeds up to 2,000MB/s, making short work of even the largest game files and high-resolution video projects. It also features Samsung’s Dynamic Thermal Guard, ensuring the drive stays cool and maintains peak performance even during extended, heavy use. For the ultimate in external storage performance for PC gaming and beyond, the T9 is hard to beat.
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Key Features:
- Sustained read/write speeds up to 2,000MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
- Dynamic Thermal Guard for optimal temperatures during heavy use
- Wide compatibility with desktops, cameras, and gaming consoles
- Robust and stable design for durability
- Samsung Magician Software for drive optimization
- Supports iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video recording
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Pros:
- Outstanding speed, one of the fastest external SSDs available
- Excellent thermal management prevents throttling
- High capacity options (up to 4TB)
- Premium build quality and reliability
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port on your PC to achieve full speeds (not all PCs have this)
- Higher price point compared to Gen 2 drives
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User Impressions: Users are blown away by the T9’s speed, especially those who work with large video files or game developers. They consistently report that it lives up to its performance claims, making transfers incredibly quick and improving workflow. Gamers find it perfect for storing and running their most demanding titles.
6. Western Digital 1TB P40 Game Drive SSD
The WD_BLACK P40 Game Drive SSD is designed with PC gamers firmly in mind, blending top-tier performance with a customizable aesthetic. This drive boasts blazing-fast speeds up to 2,000MB/s thanks to its USB 3.2 Gen2x2 interface, ensuring your games load at lightning speed. What truly sets it apart, though, is the integrated RGB lighting, which can be customized via the WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) to match your gaming setup’s vibe. It’s also built with WD_BLACK’s signature toughness, making it shock-resistant and durable enough to handle life on the go.
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Key Features:
- Customizable RGB lighting (Windows only)
- USB 3.2 Gen2x2 interface with speeds up to 2,000MB/s
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 (archive PS5 games, play PS4 games) and Xbox Series X|S (archive Series X|S games, play Xbox One games)
- Capacities up to 2TB
- Shock-resistant structure, surviving drops up to two meters
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for game loading and transfers
- Unique RGB lighting adds a gaming aesthetic
- Highly durable and robust build
- Solid console compatibility for expanding game libraries
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Cons:
- RGB customization is Windows-specific
- Full speed requires a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port, which isn’t standard on all PCs
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User Impressions: Gamers love the P40 for its rapid load times and the cool factor of the RGB lighting, which many integrate into their existing setup. Users find it perfect for running games directly and appreciate its sturdy build for portable use. It’s often cited as a strong contender for a dedicated external gaming SSD.
7. Toshiba Canvio Gaming 2TB Portable External Hard Drive USB
Another entry in the HDD category, the Toshiba Canvio Gaming drive is specifically tailored for console and PC gamers seeking vast storage on a budget. While it doesn’t offer SSD speeds, it distinguishes itself with a firmware-customized “Always-On” mode for a more responsive gaming experience compared to generic HDDs. It’s designed to expand your game library, providing ample space for numerous titles. If you’re looking to store a massive collection of games, especially older ones, and value capacity over blistering speed, the Canvio Gaming offers a purpose-built solution.
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Key Features:
- Designed for Gaming Console and PC compatibility
- Firmware-customized “Always-On” mode for responsiveness
- Store up to 50 games (2TB estimate)
- Compatible with PS5 (play/store PS4 games, store PS5 games) and Xbox Series X|S (play/store Xbox One games, store Series X|S games)
- Sleek, compact form factor
- 2-year manufacturer’s limited warranty
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Pros:
- Large capacity specifically for game storage
- “Always-On” mode is a nice gaming-focused feature for an HDD
- Affordable per gigabyte
- Compact and portable
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Cons:
- HDD speeds mean longer load times compared to SSDs
- Not suitable for running current-gen games directly with optimal performance
- Limited warranty compared to some competitors
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User Impressions: Users find the Toshiba Canvio Gaming to be a reliable and cost-effective way to expand their game storage. It’s frequently recommended for archiving large digital game libraries, especially for console gamers needing more space for backward-compatible titles. Reviewers note it’s a solid HDD option for its price.
8. UnionSine 1TB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive
The UnionSine Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive is all about portability and simplicity at an incredibly attractive price point. This HDD is exceptionally thin and compact, easily slipping into any pocket or bag. It offers standard USB 3.0 speeds for data transfers and features an upgraded, anti-interference cable for stable transmission. While its speeds are typical for an HDD (meaning it’s not ideal for direct gaming performance of demanding titles), its plug-and-play nature and quiet operation make it a convenient solution for general storage, backups, or carrying a vast collection of less demanding PC games.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-thin and quiet design
- Upgraded anti-interference USB 3.0/2.0 cable
- Ultra-Fast Data Transfers (up to 125MB/s read, 103MB/s write – for an HDD)
- Plug and Play, no software installation needed
- Double anti-interference chip for stable transmission
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Pros:
- Extremely compact and lightweight
- Very affordable
- Quiet operation
- Easy to use with no setup required
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Cons:
- HDD speeds are the slowest on this list, not suitable for performance gaming
- Less durable than SSDs
- More of a general storage device than a gaming-specific one
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User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight the UnionSine drive’s incredibly slim profile and budget-friendly price. They use it for general document storage, backups, and carrying media files. While recognizing it’s an HDD, users find it perfectly adequate for their basic storage expansion needs and appreciate its silent operation.
9. fanxiang External SSD 1TB, Up to 3800MB/s USB 4.0
Stepping into the future of external storage, the fanxiang External SSD with USB 4.0 technology offers jaw-dropping speeds that rival internal drives. With reported read/write speeds of up to 3800MB/s and 3700MB/s respectively, this drive is a speed demon, perfect for extreme PC gaming, professional content creation, and direct 4K 60FPS ProRes video recording with compatible devices like the iPhone 15 Pro. Beyond its speed, it boasts a durable, heat-dissipating alloy build with professional-grade protection against drops and pressure, ensuring your data stays safe while flying through transfers.
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Key Features:
- USB 4.0 technology with read/write speeds up to 3800MB/s and 3700MB/s
- Compatible with Thunderbolt 3/4, USB 3.2, and USB 3.0
- ProRes Video Direct Storage for iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max
- Durable heat-dissipating alloy build, resistant to pressure and drops
- Includes custom silicone protective case
- Wide compatibility with PCs, Macs, PS5, PS4, Xbox series, TVs, and Android devices
- 5-year quality service or 700TBW warranty
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds, among the fastest external SSDs available
- Excellent for demanding tasks like 4K video editing and high-end gaming
- Very durable and robust construction with good heat dissipation
- Broad compatibility with modern and older interfaces
- Excellent long warranty for peace of mind
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 4.0 or Thunderbolt port for maximum speed, which is still not common on all PCs
- Premium price point due to cutting-edge technology
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User Impressions: Early adopters are incredibly impressed by the fanxiang SSD’s phenomenal speed, noting significant improvements in transfer times for large files and game libraries. They also appreciate its sturdy, heat-dissipating design and broad compatibility, making it a powerful choice for both gamers and professional users.
10. Lexar 4TB Armor 700 Portable SSD
The Lexar Armor 700 Portable SSD strikes an impressive balance between extreme durability and high performance. Rated IP66 for superior water and dust protection, and built to withstand drops up to 3 meters, this drive is practically indestructible. It also doesn’t skimp on speed, offering blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of up to 2000MB/s. Its unique Thermal Control Design ensures that these top speeds are maintained even during long, intensive sessions, preventing performance throttling. For the gamer who needs rugged reliability without compromising on speed, or professionals recording high-res video, the Armor 700 is an exceptional choice.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance (2000MB/s max read/write)
- IP66 water and dust protection
- Rugged design withstands up to 3-meter drops
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording (iPhone 15 Pro/Max)
- Unique Thermal Control Design for sustained performance
- Wide compatibility (PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16 series, cameras, gaming consoles)
- Includes Lexar DataShield (256-bit AES encryption)
- Includes Type-C and USB-A all-in-one cable
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Exceptional durability and environmental protection (IP66, 3m drop)
- Top-tier speed for gaming and large file transfers
- Excellent thermal management prevents performance dips
- Includes hardware encryption for data security
- Long 5-year warranty
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Cons:
- High price point, reflecting its premium features and ruggedness
- USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports are not universally available
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the Lexar Armor 700 for its robust build quality and the peace of mind it offers with its water/dust/drop resistance. They are equally impressed by its consistent high speeds, even under heavy load, making it a favorite for gamers and outdoor content creators alike.
Important Considerations When Buying the Best External SSD for PC Gaming
Choosing the perfect external SSD isn’t just about picking the fastest one. Here are a few key factors to think about:
- Capacity: How many games do you plan to store? Modern AAA games can easily chew up 100GB+. A 1TB SSD is a good starting point, but 2TB or even 4TB offers more flexibility for a growing game library.
- Speed (NVMe vs. SATA): All the SSDs on this list are faster than HDDs. Most modern external SSDs use NVMe technology internally, which is significantly faster than older SATA SSDs. Look for speeds over 1000MB/s for optimal gaming performance.
- Connectivity (USB Versions):
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 (USB 3.1): Common, offers speeds up to 10 Gbps (around 1000 MB/s). Most external SSDs will connect at this speed.
- USB 3.2 Gen 2×2: This is the fastest current USB standard (20 Gbps or 2000 MB/s). Only specific drives (like the Samsung T9, WD_BLACK P40, Lexar Armor 700) and specific PC ports support this, but it offers a noticeable speed boost.
- USB 4.0/Thunderbolt: The bleeding edge (up to 40 Gbps, e.g., fanxiang). Ensures the fastest possible connection but requires a compatible port.
- Ensure your PC’s USB ports match the drive’s capabilities to get the advertised speeds.
- Durability: If you plan to travel with your drive, look for features like shock resistance, water/dust proofing (IP ratings), and robust casings.
- Price: External SSDs vary widely in price based on capacity, speed, and features. Set a budget and prioritize what’s most important to you.
FAQ Section
Q1: Why should I choose an external SSD over an external HDD for PC gaming?
A: External SSDs offer significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to HDDs. This translates directly to much quicker game loading times, reduced texture pop-in, and generally smoother in-game performance, especially for graphically intensive or open-world games. HDDs are fine for archiving, but an SSD is key for active gameplay.
Q2: Will an external SSD improve my game’s frame rate (FPS)?
A: An external SSD primarily improves game load times and the speed at which game assets (like textures and levels) are streamed. It generally won’t directly increase your frame rate (FPS), as that’s more dependent on your CPU, GPU, and RAM. However, by reducing stuttering caused by slow asset loading, it can contribute to a more consistently smooth gaming experience.
Q3: What USB port do I need on my PC for the best external SSD performance?
A: For the best performance, look for a PC with a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port (offers speeds up to 2000 MB/s) or a USB 4.0/Thunderbolt port (up to 4000 MB/s). While USB 3.2 Gen 2 (around 1000 MB/s) is also very good and more common, the faster standards will unlock the full potential of high-end external SSDs.
Q4: Can I play PC games directly from an external SSD?
A: Absolutely! That’s one of the main benefits. As long as the external SSD is fast enough (which most modern external SSDs are, unlike HDDs), you can install games directly onto it and launch them without transferring them to your internal drive. This is especially useful for systems with smaller internal storage.
Q5: How much storage capacity do I really need for PC gaming?
A: This depends on your game library size. Given that many modern AAA games are 50-150 GB (or more!), a 1TB external SSD can hold about 5-10 large titles comfortably. If you have a vast collection or plan to play many new releases, 2TB or 4TB will offer much more breathing room.
Q6: Are external SSDs compatible with gaming consoles like PS5 or Xbox Series X|S?
A: Yes, many external SSDs are compatible. For PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, you can typically use an external SSD to store next-gen games, but you can only play them directly from the internal SSD. However, for older generation games (PS4 games on PS5, Xbox One games on Xbox Series X|S), you can often play them directly from an external SSD, sometimes with improved load times. Always check the drive’s compatibility with your specific console model.
Q7: How do I properly maintain my external SSD for longevity?
A: To maximize your external SSD’s lifespan:
1. Always safely eject the drive before unplugging it from your PC.
2. Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
3. Keep it in a clean, dry environment.
4. Consider using the manufacturer’s software (e.g., Samsung Magician, WD_BLACK Dashboard) for firmware updates and drive health monitoring.
5. Don’t fill it to 100% capacity; leave some space for optimal performance.
Conclusion
Investing in the best external SSD for PC gaming is one of the smartest upgrades you can make for your setup. It’s a simple, effective way to reclaim storage space, drastically cut down on load times, and even make your game library truly portable. Whether you prioritize raw speed, rugged durability, massive capacity, or a balance of all three, there’s a perfect external SSD on this list waiting to transform your gaming experience. Say goodbye to frustrating load screens and hello to more gaming!