Ever feel like you’re constantly running out of space for your photos, videos, games, and important documents? In today’s digital world, massive storage is no longer a luxury but a necessity for many. Whether you’re a content creator, a serious gamer, or just someone with a huge digital life, having reliable, fast external storage is key. That’s where an 8TB external drive comes in handy, offering a significant jump in capacity.
While our main focus is on helping you find the best 8tb external ssd for lightning-fast performance, we’ve also included a few high-capacity external hard drives (HDDs) that offer incredible value for their storage size, especially for those who prioritize sheer volume and budget over the blazing speeds of an SSD. We’ve dug deep to bring you a list of top contenders, ensuring you get the perfect blend of performance, durability, and value.
Let’s dive into our top picks!
1. SanDisk 8TB Extreme Portable SSD
If you’re always on the move and need a drive that can keep up, the SanDisk 8TB Extreme Portable SSD is a fantastic choice. This drive offers impressive NVMe solid-state performance, meaning your file transfers will be incredibly fast, making it ideal for large video files, high-res photos, or extensive game libraries. What truly sets it apart is its rugged design, built to withstand drops and even splashes, giving you serious peace of mind no matter where your adventures take you.
- Key Features:
- Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water/dust resistance.
- Durable silicone shell with a handy carabiner loop.
- 5-year limited warranty for extra assurance.
- 256-bit AES hardware encryption for data security.
- SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management.
- Pros:
- Excellent speed for large file transfers.
- Extremely durable and portable.
- Robust data security features.
- Long warranty period.
- Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Actual speeds can vary based on host device.
- User Impressions: Customers frequently praise this drive for its incredible durability and consistent fast performance, noting it’s a reliable companion for professional photographers and videographers. The compact size and added security features are also big hits.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Seagate Expansion 8TB External Hard Drive HDD
Sometimes, sheer capacity for a great price is exactly what you need, and the Seagate Expansion 8TB External Hard Drive delivers just that. While it’s an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and not an SSD, it offers a massive amount of storage for your backups, media archives, or less frequently accessed files. It’s incredibly easy to set up – just plug it in and start dragging and dropping. It’s a no-fuss solution for expanding your digital footprint.
- Key Features:
- Simple plug-and-play setup.
- Fast file transfers with USB 3.0.
- Drag-and-drop file saving.
- Automatic recognition by Windows and Mac (reformatting needed for Time Machine).
- Included limited warranty and Rescue Data Recovery Services.
- Pros:
- Very cost-effective per terabyte.
- Extremely simple to use.
- Data recovery service is a great bonus.
- Quiet operation.
- Cons:
- Slower than an SSD, not ideal for active video editing or gaming libraries.
- Requires an external power adapter.
- User Impressions: Users love this drive for its reliability and excellent value. It’s often recommended for straightforward backups and expanding media libraries without breaking the bank. The simplicity of use is a recurring positive comment.
- See it on Amazon here
3. SAMSUNG T5 EVO Portable SSD 8TB
The SAMSUNG T5 EVO Portable SSD 8TB is designed for those who need massive storage in a surprisingly compact package. This solid-state drive is a game-changer for content creators and gamers who frequently move large files and demand quick access. Its robust build, including shock resistance, means you can take it almost anywhere without worrying about your precious data. It truly lets you “pick up the pace” with your projects!
- Key Features:
- Massive 8TB capacity in a compact, portable design.
- Optimized for large file transfers with Intelligent TurboWrite.
- USB 3.2 Gen 1 support for superb performance.
- Shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet.
- Extensive compatibility with desktops, cameras, and gaming consoles.
- Pros:
- Excellent blend of capacity and portability.
- Fast performance for its class.
- Durable and reliable for on-the-go use.
- Wide device compatibility.
- Cons:
- Not as rugged as some IP-rated competitors.
- May not reach the absolute fastest SSD speeds compared to NVMe drives.
- User Impressions: Many users are impressed by how much storage Samsung packed into such a small form factor. It’s a favorite among videographers and photographers for quickly offloading footage and among gamers for expanding their game libraries without noticeable lag.
- See it on Amazon here
4. SanDisk 8TB Desk Drive SSD – Desktop External Solid State
If you’re looking for the best 8tb external ssd specifically for your desk setup, the SanDisk 8TB Desk Drive SSD is a brilliant choice. It offers the lightning-fast performance of a solid-state drive in a sleek, compact design that won’t clutter your workspace. This drive is perfect for backing up massive photo and video collections, entire music libraries, and all your important documents much faster than traditional hard drives.
- Key Features:
- Up to 8TB SSD capacity.
- 4x faster than a desktop HDD with read speeds up to 1000 MB/s.
- Quick backups with Apple Time Machine or Acronis True Image for Western Digital.
- Compact design to maximize desk space.
- Easy plug-and-play setup on Windows or Mac with USB Type-C.
- Pros:
- Blazing fast SSD speeds for desktop use.
- Excellent for large-scale backups and media libraries.
- Sleek and space-saving design.
- Cross-platform compatibility.
- Cons:
- Requires a power outlet, not bus-powered.
- Not designed for portability like its ‘Extreme Portable’ sibling.
- User Impressions: Users love the speed and convenience of this desktop SSD, especially for professional workflows that demand quick access to large files. Its quiet operation and small footprint are also highly appreciated, making it a natural fit for any home or office setup.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Western Digital 8TB Elements Desktop External Hard Drive
Another strong contender in the HDD category, the Western Digital 8TB Elements Desktop External Hard Drive, offers straightforward, high-capacity storage that’s perfect for home and office use. It’s an ideal solution for expanding your storage quickly and affordably, whether you’re archiving old files, backing up your system, or simply need extra room for your growing digital life. It embodies the reliable WD quality you’ve come to expect.
- Key Features:
- High-capacity add-on storage.
- Fast data transfers with USB 3.0.
- Plug-and-play ready for Windows PCs.
- Trusted WD quality inside and out.
- Pros:
- Excellent storage capacity for the price.
- Simple and reliable operation.
- Widely compatible with Windows systems.
- Cons:
- Slower than SSDs, typical for HDDs.
- Requires an external power source.
- No advanced features like encryption or ruggedness.
- User Impressions: Customers often purchase this drive for reliable, cost-effective backup solutions and for storing large media collections. They value its simplicity and the consistent performance associated with the Western Digital brand.
- See it on Amazon here
6. SSK 8TB SSD External Hard Drive, Portable SSD Drive
The SSK 8TB SSD External Hard Drive stands out with its incredible 20Gbps blazing speeds, making it one of the fastest portable SSDs on our list. If you’re into professional video recording (like iPhone ProRes) or need to edit massive files directly from an external drive, this portable SSD drive is a powerhouse. Its thoughtful design, including a durable zinc alloy case for better heat dissipation and dual USB-C/A cables, makes it exceptionally versatile.
- Key Features:
- Blazing 20Gbps speeds (up to 2000MB/s) via USB 3.2 Gen2x2.
- Universal compatibility with USB-C/A dual cables included.
- S.M.A.R.T. health diagnostics and TRIM for data security and longevity.
- Blue LED indicator for real-time activity.
- Supports OTG for direct mobile device connectivity and iPhone ProRes video recording.
- Thick Zinc Alloy case for 30% faster heat dissipation.
- Pros:
- Extremely fast transfer speeds.
- Excellent heat management.
- Highly versatile with dual cables and mobile support.
- Durable metal casing.
- Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port to achieve full speed.
- Premium price due to high performance.
- User Impressions: Professional users and tech enthusiasts are particularly impressed by the SSK’s raw speed and its ability to handle demanding tasks like 4K video editing directly from the drive. The solid build quality and thermal performance also receive high marks.
- See it on Amazon here
7. WD_BLACK 8TB D10 Game Drive – Portable External Hard Drive
For the dedicated gamer, the WD_BLACK 8TB D10 Game Drive is purpose-built to give your console or PC a serious storage boost. This isn’t just an external hard drive; it’s a gaming companion. It offers massive space for your ever-growing game library, plus active cooling technology to keep things running smoothly during intense sessions. The added USB charging ports are a thoughtful touch, letting you power up your gaming gear while you play.
- Key Features:
- Extra storage to capture game captures and expand game library.
- Speed up to 250 MB/s rated at 7200RPM.
- Active cooling technology to prevent overheating.
- Two 7.5W USB Type-A charging ports.
- Built with WD_Black quality and reliability for gamers.
- Pros:
- Specifically designed and optimized for gaming.
- Massive storage for game libraries.
- Active cooling helps maintain performance.
- Convenient charging ports for accessories.
- Cons:
- It’s an HDD, so load times will be slower than an SSD.
- Requires external power.
- Larger and less portable than an SSD.
- User Impressions: Gamers absolutely love the huge capacity for their digital game collections and the peace of mind that comes with active cooling. The extra USB ports are a standout feature, simplifying their desk setup. While it’s an HDD, for archiving games, its performance is more than adequate.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the main difference between an 8TB external SSD and an 8TB external HDD?
A: The main difference lies in speed and durability. SSDs (Solid State Drives) are much faster, more durable (no moving parts), quieter, and more compact. HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) are slower and more prone to damage from drops (due to spinning platters), but they are significantly more affordable per terabyte, making them a budget-friendly option for mass storage.
Q: Why would I need an 8TB external drive?
A: An 8TB external drive is ideal for users with massive data storage needs. This includes professional content creators (4K/8K video editors, photographers), serious gamers with large game libraries, individuals looking for a comprehensive backup solution for multiple devices, or anyone who wants to consolidate vast amounts of digital content.
Q: Are 8TB external SSDs worth the higher price compared to HDDs?
A: It depends on your primary use case. If you need blazing fast transfer speeds for tasks like video editing, running games directly from the drive, or frequently moving very large files, then an 8TB external SSD is definitely worth the investment for its performance and durability. For simple backups or archiving data where speed isn’t critical, an HDD offers better value.
Q: Can I use these external drives with both Windows and Mac computers?
A: Most external drives come pre-formatted for Windows (usually exFAT or NTFS). For Mac users, some might require reformatting (e.g., to HFS+ or APFS) to work optimally, especially for Time Machine backups. Drives formatted in exFAT can generally be read and written by both Windows and Mac without reformatting, but check the product specifications for details.
Q: Do these 8TB external drives require external power?
A: Many smaller, portable external SSDs (like the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD or Samsung T5 EVO) are bus-powered, meaning they draw power directly from the USB port. However, larger capacity desktop external HDDs (like the Seagate Expansion or WD Elements) and some high-performance SSDs (like the SanDisk Desk Drive SSD or WD_BLACK Game Drive) typically require an external power adapter due to their power demands.
Q: How important is a drive’s read/write speed?
A: Read/write speed is crucial for how quickly you can transfer files to and from the drive. Higher speeds mean less waiting. For tasks like editing large video files directly on the drive, running applications, or playing games, faster speeds (like those offered by SSDs) significantly improve performance and workflow efficiency. For simple storage or infrequent backups, extreme speeds are less critical.
Q: What does “IP65 water and dust resistance” mean for an external SSD?
A: IP65 rating means the device is protected from dust ingress (6 – fully dust-tight) and against low-pressure water jets from any direction (5 – can withstand water spray, but not submersion). This makes the drive suitable for use in environments where it might get dusty or splashed with water, offering a good level of protection against environmental elements.