Are you an iPhone user constantly battling “storage full” notifications, especially if you’re a content creator or love shooting high-quality videos? You’re not alone! iPhones, particularly the Pro models with their incredible ProRes video capabilities, can chew through storage faster than you can say “memory expansion.” That’s where an external SSD for iPhone comes into play. These compact powerhouses offer a fantastic way to offload files, capture direct-to-drive footage, and free up precious internal space.
But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best SSD for iPhone that fits your needs? We’ve done the digging for you! In this guide, we’re breaking down 10 top-notch portable SSDs that are perfect companions for your Apple device, especially if you’re rocking an iPhone 15 Pro or newer with its speedy USB-C port. Get ready to supercharge your mobile storage!
Our Top Picks: The Best SSD for iPhone
Here’s a detailed look at some of the market’s leading contenders, each offering unique features and benefits.
1. SSK Portable SSD 1TB External Solid State Drives
This SSK Portable SSD is a fantastic choice for those who need a reliable and fast external storage solution for their iPhone, particularly for demanding tasks like 4K ProRes video capture. Its robust build, efficient heat dissipation, and steady performance, even during large file transfers, make it a true workhorse for mobile creatives. You won’t have to worry about dropped frames or slow backups with this compact yet mighty device.
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Key Features:
- Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds (USB 3.2 Gen2)
- LED indicator for activity
- S.M.A.R.T. monitoring and TRIM technology for drive health
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for broad compatibility
- Stable 10Gbps performance for transfers under 250GB (SLC caching)
- Optimized for iPhone 4K60Hz ProRes HDR video capture
- Low power consumption (less than 2.4 Watts)
- 2mm thick aluminum alloy case for superior heat dissipation
- Ultra-lightweight (36.6g) and compact (2.61.50.5 inch)
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds for rapid data transfer
- Excellent for direct 4K ProRes video recording on iPhone
- Robust aluminum build with good heat management
- Universal compatibility with included dual cables
- Extremely portable and lightweight
- Maintains consistent speed for smaller transfers
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Cons:
- Capacity display might vary slightly on Windows (a common drive characteristic, not a defect)
- SLC caching benefit is for files smaller than 250GB
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise its reliable performance and compact design, making it a go-to for iPhone video recording. The included cables are a thoughtful touch, ensuring it’s ready to go with various devices right out of the box.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
2. SSK 1TB USB Drive, External SSD Fast 550MB/s 2-in-1
The SSK 2-in-1 USB Drive stands out with its clever dual-port design, offering both USB-C and USB-A connectivity in one sleek stick. This makes it incredibly versatile, allowing for seamless data transfer between your iPhone (with USB-C), Android devices, MacBooks, and traditional computers. It’s a fantastic plug-and-play solution for quick file sharing and memory expansion without the need for extra cables or software.
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Key Features:
- Dual USB-C and USB-A 3.2 ports
- Up to 550MB/s read and 500MB/s write speeds
- 10x faster than traditional USB 3.0 flash drives
- Plug-and-play functionality
- High-grade zinc alloy shell for shock resistance and heat dissipation
- Double-head protective cover for ports
- Universal compatibility (Windows, Linux, Mac OS, Android, iPhone 15, iPad)
- Default EXFAT format
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Pros:
- Exceptional versatility with dual USB-C and USB-A ports
- Much faster than standard USB flash drives
- Durable zinc alloy construction
- Protective design for ports
- No software installation required
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Cons:
- Speeds are good for a flash drive but slower than high-end portable SSDs (550MB/s vs. 1000MB/s+)
- Incompatible with Lightning port iPhones
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User Impressions: Customers love the convenience of having both USB-C and USB-A on a single device, calling it a true “Swiss Army knife” for data transfer. Its robustness and ease of use are also commonly highlighted.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Lexar takes portability and connectivity to the next level with its Professional Go Portable SSD, which ingeniously integrates a multi-port hub. This ultra-compact device isn’t just a powerful SSD for iPhone ProRes recording; it’s also a mini-dock, offering four USB Type-C ports to customize your setup on the go. Its rugged, travel-ready design ensures your data stays safe, no matter where your creative journey takes you.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design with integrated hub
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Supports seamless 4K recording (Apple ProRes) with no dropped frames
- Hub with four USB Type-C ports, plus adapters/cables
- Dust-proof, water-resistant (IP65), and drop-resistant (up to 1 meter)
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Innovative built-in hub expands connectivity options
- Exceptional speeds for professional video workflows
- Highly durable and resilient against elements
- Direct plug-and-play Type-C connectivity
- Excellent warranty for peace of mind
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Cons:
- The “wireless plug-and-play” refers to direct connection without a cable, but you still plug it into the device.
- Requires firm insertion for proper connection.
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User Impressions: Users are particularly impressed by the integrated hub, which adds immense utility for mobile setups. Its reliability for demanding tasks like 4K video recording on iPhone 15 Pro is a standout feature.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
4. ORICO FlashPod 512GB Portable SSD Up to 2000MB/s
The ORICO FlashPod is designed for creators who prioritize speed and a minimalist setup. Its direct-plug USB-C design means no more fumbling with cables when you need to quickly offload files or record 4K 60fps ProRes video directly from your iPhone 16 (or any USB-C iPhone). While Apple devices might cap speeds at 10Gbps, its 2000MB/s potential makes it incredibly future-proof and ensures snappy performance for large files.
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Key Features:
- Direct-plug USB-C design (no cables needed)
- Ultra-Fast Speed: Up to 2000MB/s using USB 3.2 Gen2x2 technology (capped at 10Gbps on Apple devices)
- Ultra-portable and lightweight (0.07lb, 2.2 x 1.4 x 0.4 inches)
- Supports 4K 60fps ProRes video recording on iPhone
- Broad compatibility with Android, Windows, iOS (USB-C devices like iPhone 16 series, MacBooks, PCs, iPads)
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Pros:
- Incredibly convenient direct-plug design
- Extremely fast for quick transfers and editing
- Perfect for expanding iPhone storage for ProRes video
- Highly portable and compact
- Wide device compatibility
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Cons:
- Apple devices currently cap speeds at 10Gbps, not utilizing the full 20Gbps potential.
- Only 512GB capacity reviewed (though ORICO often offers more).
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User Impressions: This product receives high marks for its “plug-and-record” simplicity and its feather-light design. iPhone users appreciate the direct connection for hassle-free video capture.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
5. ORICO 1TB Magnetic External SSD, Aluminum Alloy, Up to 2000MB/s
This ORICO Magnetic External SSD brings a new level of convenience with its strong magnetic attachment feature, making it perfect for phones with MagSafe or other devices using the included magnetic ring. Imagine recording 4K 120fps ProRes video on your iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max with the SSD securely attached – no dangling cables or awkward handling! Its blazing 2000MB/s speed ensures real-time recording and editing, making it an ideal choice for mobile content creators.
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Key Features:
- Strong magnetic attachment (includes magnetic ring)
- Ultra-speed transfer of 2000MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen2x2)
- Supports 4K 120fps ProRes HDR video recording on iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max
- Instant storage expansion; plug and play
- Compact and portable (2.362.680.29 inches, 0.09 lbs)
- Aluminum-alloy body for rapid heat dissipation
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Pros:
- Revolutionary magnetic attachment for secure use
- Exceptional speeds for demanding video formats
- Direct recording and editing capability for iPhone Pro models
- Extremely portable and durable
- Excellent heat management
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Cons:
- Not compatible with Apple phones with Lightning connector.
- Full 2000MB/s speed is limited by device compatibility (Apple devices typically cap at 10Gbps).
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User Impressions: The magnetic feature is a game-changer for many users, particularly those recording videos, as it keeps the setup tidy and secure. Its fast transfer speeds and compact size are also highly appreciated.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
6. 1TB Magnetic Portable SSD, 2050MB/s Type-C USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
The fanxiang PS2200 is a magnetic marvel, featuring a built-in magnetic base that effortlessly attaches to your iPhone 15/16 or other compatible devices, along with an extra magnetic ring for broader compatibility. Its incredible 2050MB/s read and 1800MB/s write speeds are perfect for editing 4K ProRes videos on the fly, offering a plug-and-go experience without any app or setup. Plus, the touch-sensitive RGB lighting adds a cool, futuristic touch!
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Key Features:
- Magnetic design for easy attachment (built-in + extra ring)
- Blazing-fast speeds: up to 2050MB/s read, 1800MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
- Premium 3D NAND TLC Flash for superior data stability and durability
- Touch-sensitive RGB lighting
- Robust metal casing for shockproof protection and rapid heat dissipation
- 5-Year service
- Plug-and-go with iPhone 15 series and newer (USB-C)
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Pros:
- Highly convenient and secure magnetic attachment
- Among the fastest SSDs available, ideal for 4K video editing
- High-quality NAND flash ensures reliability
- Durable metal housing with excellent heat management
- Unique RGB lighting feature
- Long 5-year service for peace of mind
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Cons:
- Full 2050MB/s speed requires a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 device, which many Apple devices (including iPhones) may cap at 1000MB/s.
- Exclusively compatible with iPhone 15 series and newer (USB-C).
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User Impressions: Reviewers are thrilled with the magnetic attachment, calling it “game-changing” for mobile videography. The impressive speeds and solid build quality, combined with the stylish RGB, make it a favorite.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
7. ORICO 1TB Magnetic External SSD, 4K ProRes HDR Record and Store
Another fantastic magnetic option from ORICO, this 1TB external SSD focuses on seamless integration for iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max users who want to record 4K ProRes HDR video directly. Its strong magnetic attachment ensures a stable connection, eliminating worries about accidental disconnections during critical shoots. With 2000MB/s transfer speeds, you can save and edit your high-quality footage in real-time, making it an indispensable tool for mobile filmmakers and photographers.
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Key Features:
- Strong magnetic attachment (includes magnetic attraction ring)
- Instant expansion and plug-and-play for devices
- Ultra-speed transfer of 2000MB/s
- Supports 4K ProRes HDR video recording on iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max
- Firm and reliable; offers dust and drop resistance
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Pros:
- Secure magnetic attachment for stable recording
- Exceptional speed for direct 4K ProRes HDR recording
- Durable construction with dust and drop resistance
- Eliminates the need for secondary transfers
- Ideal for photography enthusiasts
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Cons:
- Full 2000MB/s speed is device-dependent (Apple devices cap at 10Gbps).
- Specific compatibility for iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max mentioned.
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User Impressions: This ORICO model is highly praised for its robust magnetic connection and its ability to handle large ProRes files without a hitch. Users find it incredibly reliable for on-the-go content creation.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
8. P10 Magnetic PSSD, For iPhone MagSafe Portable SSD, Upto 2000MB/s
The Aiffro P10 Magnetic PSSD offers ultra-fast speeds and a sleek, ultra-thin profile, making it a stylish yet highly functional companion for your iPhone. Designed with MagSafe compatibility in mind (for iPhone 15 and later), it supports the iPhone’s 4K 60fps ProRes function, allowing you to record and save concurrently. Its single-chip SM2320 solution ensures enhanced performance with lower power consumption, keeping your iPhone running longer.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-Fast Speeds of Up to 2000MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 20Gbps standard)
- Compatible with iPhone MagSafe (Type-C interface for iPhone 15+)
- Supports iPhone’s ProRes 4K 60fps function (record and save simultaneously)
- Single-chip SM2320 solution for enhanced performance and efficiency
- Versatile storage expansion (Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS)
- Advanced dynamic thermal management
- Ultra-thin (6.5mm) and lightweight (41g) aluminum alloy design
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Pros:
- Extremely fast for demanding applications
- Seamless MagSafe compatibility for iPhone 15 and later
- Efficient single-chip design for better battery life
- Excellent heat management for stability
- Highly portable and aesthetically pleasing
- Frees up iPhone memory in real-time
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Cons:
- Full 2000MB/s speed is limited by Apple device capabilities (typically 10Gbps).
- MagSafe compatibility specific to iPhone 15 and later.
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User Impressions: This SSD is frequently lauded for its incredibly slim profile and stylish design, alongside its impressive speed. iPhone users appreciate the direct ProRes recording feature and the MagSafe compatibility.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
9. ORICO 512GB Magnetic Portable SSD, Metal Body, 4K 120 fps
This 512GB ORICO Magnetic Portable SSD, while offering a different speed profile (460MB/s), still excels in convenience and direct functionality for iPhone users. Its strong magnetic attachment and included ring make it easy to secure to your device, perfect for capturing those precious moments. It specifically supports 4K 120fps ProRes HDR video recording for iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max, allowing for on-disk saving and editing, all within a firm, heat-dissipating aluminum alloy body.
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Key Features:
- Strong magnetic attachment (includes magnetic attraction ring)
- Instant capacity expansion and plug-and-play
- Transfer speed of 460MB/s
- Supports 4K 120fps ProRes HDR video recording for iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max
- Firm and reliable aluminum alloy body for heat dissipation
- Compact size (2.363.150.47 inches)
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Pros:
- Convenient magnetic attachment
- Dedicated support for high-resolution iPhone ProRes recording
- Durable metal body aids heat dissipation
- Ideal for quick memory expansion
- Compact and easy to carry
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Cons:
- Slower transfer speeds (460MB/s) compared to other 1000MB/s+ options, might be a bottleneck for very large files.
- Not available for Apple phones with Lightning connector.
- Only 512GB capacity reviewed.
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User Impressions: Users value the magnetic function and its specific compatibility with iPhone’s advanced video recording. While not the fastest, its reliability and convenient magnetic attachment make it a solid choice for dedicated iPhone video capture.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
10. Yottamaster 1TB Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s USB
The Yottamaster 1TB Magnetic External SSD combines blistering speed with the ultimate convenience of magnetic attachment. Designed for iPhone 15/16 Pro/Max users, it supports 4K ProRes video recording directly, meaning you can capture and store high-resolution footage without needing to transfer files later. With multi-capacity options and broad compatibility across Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, this is a versatile external storage solution that truly empowers mobile photographers and videographers.
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Key Features:
- High-Speed 2000MB/s Transfer (USB 3.2 Gen2x2; note Apple devices cap at 10Gbps)
- Supports 4K ProRes video recording on iPhone 15/16 Pro/Max
- Magnetic design (MagSafe compatible; includes magnetic ring)
- Real-time recording and storage
- Multiple capacity options (512GB/1TB/2TB)
- Broad device compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, MacBooks, Xbox, PS5, Steam Deck)
- Comes with Type-C data cable
- Plug-and-play functionality
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds for demanding tasks like 4K ProRes
- Secure and convenient magnetic attachment
- Real-time recording and on-disk editing capability
- Versatile compatibility with many devices
- Available in various capacities
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Cons:
- Full 20Gbps speed requires a specific interface; Apple devices are limited to 10Gbps.
- Not compatible with iPhone 14 and earlier models (Lightning port).
- Magnetic force might be insufficient with some phone cases without the included ring.
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User Impressions: This Yottamaster SSD gets high marks for its speedy performance and the convenience of the magnetic feature. Users find it especially valuable for professional video work on their iPhones, praising its plug-and-play nature.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Why Get an External SSD for Your iPhone?
If you’re wondering why you’d need a dedicated external SSD for your iPhone, especially when Apple offers large internal storage options, here are a few compelling reasons:
- ProRes Video Recording: Newer iPhone Pro models can record professional-grade ProRes video, which creates massive files. Direct-to-SSD recording allows you to capture hours of this high-quality footage without filling up your phone’s internal memory.
- Instant Storage Expansion: Quickly add terabytes of storage without buying a new phone. It’s perfect for photographers and videographers who need space for raw files and large projects.
- Faster File Transfers: SSDs are significantly faster than traditional flash drives or cloud transfers. Moving large batches of photos or videos to your computer becomes a breeze.
- Portable Workspace: Edit videos or access large documents directly from the SSD, turning your iPhone or iPad into a more powerful mobile workstation.
- Backup & Archiving: A great way to back up important files or archive old photos and videos, keeping your iPhone lean and fast.
Choosing the best SSD for iPhone ultimately depends on your specific needs, whether it’s raw speed for video editing, ultra-portability, or innovative features like magnetic attachment. We hope this breakdown helps you make an informed decision!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why do I need an external SSD for my iPhone?
A1: An external SSD is incredibly useful for iPhones, especially Pro models, because it allows you to record high-quality ProRes video directly to external storage, freeing up your phone’s internal memory. It also provides instant, expandable storage for photos, videos, and large files, and offers much faster data transfer speeds than cloud services or traditional flash drives.
Q2: Which iPhones support external SSDs?
A2: Primarily, iPhones with a USB-C port (iPhone 15 series and newer) fully support external SSDs for direct data transfer and ProRes video recording. Older iPhones with Lightning ports may support some external storage devices via adapters, but typically only for basic file transfer, not direct recording or high-speed data access.
Q3: What is ProRes video recording and why does it need an SSD?
A3: ProRes is a professional video codec developed by Apple that offers high-quality video with excellent color fidelity and reduced compression, making it ideal for post-production. However, ProRes files are very large, sometimes gigabytes per minute. Recording directly to an external SSD prevents your iPhone’s internal storage from filling up rapidly and allows for longer, continuous shoots.
Q4: How do I connect an SSD to my iPhone?
A4: For iPhone 15 series and newer, you simply connect the SSD to your iPhone’s USB-C port using a compatible USB-C cable (or directly if the SSD has a direct-plug USB-C connector). Your iPhone’s “Files” app will then recognize the SSD, allowing you to manage files and (for ProRes) record directly to it.
Q5: Will an external SSD slow down my iPhone?
A5: No, an external SSD will not slow down your iPhone’s core performance. In fact, by offloading large files and enabling direct-to-disk recording, it can help keep your iPhone’s internal storage from getting full, which can sometimes indirectly affect performance.
Q6: What transfer speed should I look for in an SSD for my iPhone?
A6: For general use, speeds around 500-1000MB/s are excellent. If you plan on recording 4K ProRes video, especially at 60fps or higher, look for SSDs with 1000MB/s or higher (e.g., 2000MB/s) as advertised. Keep in mind that while some SSDs offer 20Gbps (2000MB/s) speeds, Apple devices currently typically cap USB-C speeds at 10Gbps (around 1000MB/s).
Q7: Are magnetic SSDs worth it for iPhones?
A7: Magnetic SSDs are a fantastic innovation, especially for iPhone 15 Pro/Max users who record a lot of video. They securely attach to your phone (often with MagSafe compatibility), preventing accidental disconnections and making your mobile recording setup much cleaner and more convenient by eliminating dangling cables.