In today’s fast-paced digital world, having quick, reliable access to your files isn’t just a luxury – it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a content creator handling massive video files, a gamer needing extra space for your ever-growing library, or just someone who wants to back up precious memories quickly, an external Solid State Drive (SSD) is a game-changer. Gone are the days of slow, bulky spinning hard drives; enter the era of compact, lightning-fast portable storage.
A 500GB external SSD hits a sweet spot for many users, offering a significant amount of space for documents, photos, and even a good collection of games or video projects, all without breaking the bank. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best 500GB external SSD for your needs? Don’t worry, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you!
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive review of the top 10 external SSDs around the 500GB mark. We’ll break down what makes each one special, looking at their features, performance, durability, and overall value. Let’s dive in!
How We Chose the Best
When evaluating these portable powerhouses, we focused on several key factors:
- Speed: Read and write speeds are crucial for fast data transfer. We prioritized drives leveraging NVMe technology for blazing-fast performance.
- Durability: An external drive needs to withstand the bumps and knocks of daily life. Look for shock resistance, water, and dust protection.
- Portability: Compact and lightweight designs are a big plus for on-the-go professionals and casual users alike.
- Compatibility: Broad compatibility with various devices (PCs, Macs, consoles, smartphones) is essential.
- Security: Features like hardware encryption add an extra layer of peace of mind for your sensitive data.
Our Top Picks for the Best 500GB External SSD
SSK Portable SSD 500GB External Solid State Drives
The SSK Portable SSD stands out for its impressive speed and thoughtful design. With blazing read and write speeds up to 1050MB/s and 1000MB/s respectively, this drive ensures you’re not waiting around for file transfers. What truly sets it apart is its excellent thermal management, thanks to a 2mm thick aluminum alloy case that keeps temperatures low even during heavy use. Plus, if you’re an iPhone user, you’ll love its dedicated support for 4K60Hz ProRes HDR video capture, making it a dream for mobile content creators.
Key Features:
– Blazing-fast 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds with 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen2.
– Efficient SLC caching maintains speed during large file transfers (up to 150GB).
– Superior heat dissipation with 2mm aluminum alloy case.
– Supports 4K60Hz ProRes HDR video capture for iPhone.
– Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for broad compatibility.
– S.M.A.R.T. monitoring and TRIM technology for drive health and longevity.
– Extremely lightweight (36.6g) and compact design.
Pros:
– Exceptional speed for its class.
– Excellent thermal performance prevents slowdowns.
– Ideal for iPhone 4K video recording.
– Highly portable and durable build.
– Comes with universal connectivity cables.
Cons:
– Capacity display might vary slightly on Windows (a common technical nuance, not a flaw).
User Impressions: Users praise its compact size and the peace of mind knowing their drive won’t overheat. The speed is consistently highlighted as a major benefit, especially for transferring large multimedia files.
See it on Amazon here
SanDisk 500GB Extreme Portable SSD
When it comes to durability, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is in a league of its own. Built to withstand up to 3-meter drops and boasting IP65 water and dust resistance, this drive is perfect for adventurers, outdoor photographers, or anyone who needs a truly rugged storage solution. Beyond its tough exterior, it delivers incredible NVMe performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds, ensuring your data is not only safe but also accessible at lightning speed.
Key Features:
– NVMe solid state performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
– Up to 3-meter drop protection.
– IP65 water and dust resistance for extreme durability.
– Handy carabiner loop for secure attachment.
– 256-bit AES hardware encryption for private content protection.
– SanDisk Memory Zone app for easy file management.
Pros:
– Unmatched ruggedness for outdoor or demanding use.
– Top-tier read/write speeds.
– Hardware encryption provides excellent data security.
– Convenient design with carabiner loop.
Cons:
– The extreme durability might come with a slightly higher price tag.
User Impressions: Customers love its peace of mind provided by its robust build and fast performance. It’s often recommended for professionals who work on the go in challenging environments.
See it on Amazon here
BUFFALO External SSD 500GB
The BUFFALO External SSD offers fantastic value, especially for console gamers. It’s fully compatible with PS4 and PS5, making it an excellent choice to expand your game library and significantly reduce loading times. Beyond gaming, it’s a versatile solution for general data backup, boasting speeds far superior to traditional HDDs. Its compact, shock-resistant design means you can easily carry your critical data in your pocket, ensuring it’s safe on the go.
Key Features:
– Optimized for PS4 / PS5 compatibility, reducing game loading times.
– Faster than traditional HDDs for quick data copy and multi-tasking.
– Compact, durable, and shock-resistant design for portability.
– USB 3.2 connectivity supporting both USB-C and USB-A.
– Three-year warranty (upon registration) for peace of mind.
Pros:
– Excellent for gaming console storage expansion.
– Durable and compact for everyday portability.
– Good warranty period.
– Great value for its performance.
Cons:
– Specific read/write speeds aren’t explicitly listed, only “faster than HDD.”
User Impressions: Gamers particularly appreciate this drive for its seamless integration with consoles and noticeable improvement in load times. Its durability for daily travel also receives positive feedback.
See it on Amazon here
Vansuny 500GB Portable External SSD
For those prioritizing ultimate portability without sacrificing decent speed, the Vansuny Portable External SSD is a superb choice. Smaller than your palm and incredibly lightweight, it’s designed to go wherever you do. Its metal casing not only adds to its durability and aesthetic appeal but also aids in fast heat dissipation. While its speeds of 450MB/s read and 400MB/s write aren’t NVMe-level, they’re more than sufficient for general backups, photo/video storage, and daily tasks, offering excellent performance for its mini form factor.
Key Features:
– Ultra-fast transfer speeds: 450MB/s read, 400MB/s write.
– Mini design, smaller than your palm, and incredibly lightweight.
– Metal-made body for durability and fast heat dissipation.
– Waterproof, shockproof, and wear-resistant.
– Strong compatibility with Windows, Mac OS, Android, and USB-C/A devices.
– Includes Type-A to Type-C adapter, cable, and storage bag.
Pros:
– Extremely compact and lightweight.
– Decent speeds for its size and price point.
– Durable metal construction with good heat management.
– Comes with useful accessories.
Cons:
– Speeds are not as high as NVMe-based SSDs.
User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by its tiny size and how easy it is to carry. It’s a popular choice for quick, convenient backups and for users who are always on the move.
See it on Amazon here
Western Digital 500GB My Passport SSD Portable External
Western Digital’s My Passport SSD is a powerhouse of speed, security, and durability. Leveraging blazing-fast NVMe technology, it delivers impressive read speeds of up to 1050MB/s and write speeds of up to 1000MB/s. Your data is also kept safe with password-enabled 256-bit AES hardware encryption. Built to endure, it’s shock and vibration resistant, with drop resistance up to 6.5 feet (1.98m), making it a robust and reliable choice for professionals and everyday users alike who demand performance and peace of mind.
Key Features:
– Blazing fast NVMe technology with 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
– Password-enabled 256-bit AES hardware encryption.
– Shock and vibration resistant.
– Drop resistant up to 6.5ft (1.98m).
– Cross-compatible USB 3.2 Gen-2 and USB-C (with USB-A for older systems).
Pros:
– Top-tier NVMe speeds.
– Robust hardware encryption for data security.
– Highly durable with excellent drop resistance.
– Broad compatibility with modern and older systems.
Cons:
– None noted, as it excels in all key areas for an external SSD.
User Impressions: This drive is frequently praised for its combination of speed and ruggedness. Users feel confident carrying their important files knowing they are both fast to access and well-protected from physical damage and unauthorized access.
See it on Amazon here
SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD (500GB Model)
The SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD is a popular choice for a reason: it perfectly balances speed, compact design, and reliability. Powered by PCIe NVMe technology, it offers read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, making it nearly twice as fast as its predecessor, the T5. Ideal for content creators, photographers, and anyone dealing with large files, the T7 also boasts shock resistance up to 6 feet thanks to its solid aluminum unibody construction. Its extensive compatibility, including seamless 4K 60fps video recording for iPhone 15 Pro, makes it incredibly versatile.
Key Features:
– PCIe NVMe technology with up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s read/write speeds.
– Compact design with a sturdy aluminum unibody construction.
– Shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet.
– Extensive compatibility with PCs, mobile phones, and cameras.
– Supports Ultra High Resolution (4K 60fs) video recording, including iPhone 15 Pro ProRes.
– From the world’s #1 flash memory brand, ensuring reliability.
Pros:
– Exceptional speed for demanding tasks.
– Sleek, compact, and highly durable.
– Excellent compatibility, especially for mobile video recording.
– Backed by Samsung’s reputation for quality.
Cons:
– May be on the higher end of the price spectrum compared to some competitors.
User Impressions: Users consistently laud the T7 for its super-fast performance and pocket-friendly design. It’s a go-to for professionals and enthusiasts who need reliable, high-speed external storage.
See it on Amazon here
SSK External Solid State Drives 512GB
This SSK External SSD (note: 512GB, not 500GB, but within the target range) offers a fantastic blend of convenience and decent speed. Its standout feature is the 2-in-1 USB-C and USB-A cable, allowing for effortless data transfer between smartphones, tablets, and computers. Weighing a mere 27g and incredibly compact, it’s one of the lightest drives on our list, making it exceptionally portable. While its 550MB/s read and 500MB/s write speeds aren’t the absolute fastest, they’re a significant leap over traditional drives and perfect for everyday backups and media transfers.
Key Features:
– Includes a 2-in-1 USB-C and USB-A cable for universal connectivity.
– High-speed transfer up to 550MB/s read and 500MB/s write.
– Plug and Play operation with no software installation needed.
– Extremely portable and lightweight (27g).
– LED indicator to monitor data transmission status.
– Universal compatibility with iPhone 15, iPad, Xbox, Laptops, Macbooks, and more.
– S.M.A.R.T. monitoring and TRIM technology for drive longevity.
Pros:
– Outstanding portability due to its minimal weight and size.
– Versatile 2-in-1 cable for easy mobile device connectivity.
– Good speeds for general use and media transfer.
– Simple plug-and-play functionality.
Cons:
– Speeds are good but not in the NVMe class (1000MB/s+).
User Impressions: Customers love the incredible lightness and the convenience of the integrated cable, making it perfect for quick transfers between different devices, especially phones and laptops.
See it on Amazon here
ADATA SC750 500GB
The ADATA SC750 is built for speed and modern convenience, boasting impressive read/write speeds of up to 1050/1000 MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2. What makes it particularly unique is its innovative slide-out Type-C connector, which integrates the cable directly into the drive for ultimate portability and no lost cables. It’s highly optimized for mobile devices, enabling cable-free transfers and direct recording of Apple ProRes image files – a boon for mobile videographers. Gamers will also appreciate its compatibility with gaming handhelds and latest-gen consoles for fast game transfers and storage.
Key Features:
– High-speed USB 3.2 Gen 2 transmission with 1050/1000 MB/s read/write.
– Innovative slide-out Type-C connector for integrated portability.
– Optimized for mobile devices, enabling cable-free transfers and ProRes recording.
– Compatible with gaming handhelds and latest-generation game consoles.
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds for large file editing and transfers.
– Unique integrated, slide-out USB-C connector.
– Excellent for mobile video recording and gaming.
– Extremely compact and easy to carry.
Cons:
– Integrated cable might be too short for some setups.
User Impressions: Users are impressed by the clever design of the slide-out connector and the drive’s snappy performance, particularly when used with smartphones for direct video recording or with game consoles.
See it on Amazon here
ADATA SC740 External Solid State Drive 500GB
Another strong contender from ADATA, the SC740 focuses on delivering high-speed performance and ultimate convenience. With read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000MB/s thanks to USB 3.2 Gen2, it ensures your data moves quickly. This model features a built-in USB-C transfer cable and a clever cable clip, making it incredibly easy to store and carry without worrying about losing your cable. It’s also fully compatible with the latest generation game consoles and supports multiple operating systems, making it a versatile high-speed external storage solution for almost any setup.
Key Features:
– Supports USB 3.2 Gen2 high-speed transmission (1,050/1,000MB/s read/write).
– Convenient built-in USB-C transfer cable with an integrated cable clip.
– Supports the latest generation game consoles.
– Compatible with multiple operating systems.
Pros:
– Excellent transfer speeds for demanding applications.
– Highly portable with its integrated cable and clip.
– Great for gaming and cross-platform use.
Cons:
– The integrated cable might limit flexibility in certain situations.
User Impressions: Customers appreciate the convenience of the built-in cable, eliminating the need to carry an extra one. Its reliable speed and compatibility across devices also receive high marks.
See it on Amazon here
Maxone 500GB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive HDD
Important Note: While listed here, this Maxone product is an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), not an SSD (Solid State Drive). It is significantly slower than all other products reviewed in this list, which are SSDs. If your primary need is speed, especially for gaming, video editing, or quick file transfers, an SSD is a far superior choice. However, if you are looking for an extremely slim and affordable portable storage solution for basic file backups where speed isn’t the absolute top priority, this Maxone drive offers a compact and durable option.
The Maxone Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive offers incredible portability with its mere 0.4-inch thick, all-aluminum anti-scratch design. It’s built for quiet, cool operation and is compatible with Windows PCs. While it uses USB 3.0 technology, providing theoretical speeds up to 5 Gbit/s, actual read/write performance will be typical for an HDD (significantly slower than any SSD on this list). It’s a simple plug-and-play device, making it ideal for straightforward, non-performance-critical backups.
Key Features:
– Ultra-slim (0.4 inch thick) and sturdy all-aluminum design.
– Compatible with Microsoft Windows 7/8/10.
– USB 3.0 technology for faster (compared to USB 2.0) data transfer.
– Plug and Play – no external power or software needed.
– Includes 19-inch USB 3.0 cable and user manual.
– 3-year manufacturer warranty with free technical support.
Pros:
– Extremely slim and lightweight.
– Durable metal casing.
– Simple plug-and-play operation.
– Good 3-year warranty.
Cons:
– This is an HDD, not an SSD, meaning much slower speeds.
– Not suitable for high-performance tasks like gaming or 4K video editing.
– Only compatible with Windows (Mac/Linux/console compatibility not mentioned).
User Impressions: Users appreciate its thin profile and ease of use for general document and photo storage. However, those expecting SSD-like speeds are often disappointed.
See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the main difference between an SSD and an HDD?
A1: An SSD (Solid State Drive) stores data on flash memory chips, similar to a large USB drive, with no moving parts. This makes them significantly faster, more durable, quieter, and more power-efficient than HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), which use spinning platters and read/write heads. For external storage, SSDs offer superior performance and portability.
Q2: Why choose a 500GB external SSD over other capacities?
A2: A 500GB external SSD strikes a great balance between capacity and cost. It’s enough space for a large number of photos, videos, documents, or a significant portion of a game library, without being as expensive as 1TB or 2TB options. It’s perfect for everyday backups, expanding console storage, or carrying project files.
Q3: What do MB/s read/write speeds mean for an external SSD?
A3: MB/s (megabytes per second) indicates how fast the drive can read (access) or write (save) data. Higher numbers mean faster transfers. For example, a 1000MB/s SSD can transfer a 10GB file in about 10 seconds, while a 500MB/s drive would take roughly 20 seconds. This is crucial for large files like 4K videos or game installations.
Q4: Is an external SSD compatible with both Windows and Mac?
A4: Most modern external SSDs are designed for broad compatibility with both Windows and macOS. They usually come formatted in a universally readable file system (like exFAT) or can be easily reformatted for specific systems. Always check the product specifications for exact compatibility.
Q5: Can I use a 500GB external SSD for gaming?
A5: Absolutely! Many gamers use external SSDs to expand their console (PS4, PS5, Xbox) or PC game storage. The fast read speeds of an SSD can significantly reduce game loading times and improve overall performance compared to internal HDDs or slower external drives. Look for drives with high read speeds (e.g., 1000MB/s+ for optimal performance).
Q6: What is USB 3.2 Gen 2, and why does it matter?
A6: USB 3.2 Gen 2 is a USB standard that allows for data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gigabits per second (Gbps), or 1000 MB/s. This is crucial for external SSDs to achieve their maximum potential speeds. If your computer or device has a USB 3.2 Gen 2 or USB-C port, you’ll be able to take full advantage of a high-speed external SSD. Older USB ports (e.g., USB 2.0 or 3.0 Gen 1) will bottleneck the SSD’s speed.
Q7: How important is durability for an external SSD?
A7: Very important! Unlike internal drives, external SSDs are meant to be carried around. Features like shock resistance, drop protection, and water/dust resistance (like IP ratings) significantly reduce the risk of data loss from accidental drops or environmental exposure. If you travel frequently or use your drive in varied environments, prioritize these features.