If you’re wondering, can I buy an SSD for my all-in-one, the answer is a resounding yes—especially if you’re looking to boost performance, speed up boot times, or expand storage without replacing your entire system. Many all-in-one PCs, like those from Dell, HP, or Apple, have limited internal storage and aren’t always easy to upgrade. That’s where portable SSDs come in: they plug in via USB-C or USB-A, deliver lightning-fast data transfer speeds, and give you the flexibility to store large files, run applications, or back up your system with ease. Whether you’re a creative professional, student, or everyday user, adding an SSD to your all-in-one setup is one of the smartest and most cost-effective upgrades you can make.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Can I Buy An Ssd For My All In One Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, IP65 Water and Dust Resi…
This rugged and high-speed portable SSD from SanDisk is perfect for all-in-one users who need reliable, fast storage on the go. With read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write speeds up to 1000MB/s, it dramatically outperforms traditional hard drives and even some internal SSDs. Its compact design and carabiner loop make it ideal for travel, while IP65-rated water and dust resistance ensure it can handle real-world conditions.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Blazing-fast NVMe performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds
- ✓ Rugged design with IP65 water and dust resistance and 3-meter drop protection
- ✓ USB-C connectivity with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support for broad compatibility
- ✓ Built-in carabiner loop for easy attachment to bags or belts
Why We Recommend It
We picked this as our Best Choice because it strikes the perfect balance between speed, durability, and portability. Whether you’re editing 4K video on your all-in-one or backing up large photo libraries, this SSD handles it all with ease. It’s also incredibly reliable, making it a long-term investment for power users.
Best For
Creative professionals, travelers, and anyone who needs fast, durable external storage that works seamlessly with all-in-one desktops and laptops.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional read/write speeds for a portable SSD
- Highly durable with military-grade drop and water resistance
- Compact and lightweight with practical carabiner loop
- Works plug-and-play with Windows, Mac, and most USB-C devices
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than non-rugged SSDs
- No included USB-C to USB-A adapter
Customer Reviews
“I picked up the SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD as an upgrade from my older external hard drives, and it’s easily one of the best storage devices I’ve used. The speed difference alone makes it worth it—transfers that used to take minutes on my traditional hard drives now finish in seconds. Large fi”
“Well made and easy to use portable SSD. Nice bright blue color helps quick identification in a dark pack. Reasonable fast read and right speeds for a USB 3.2 product. Bought this SSD to transfer my photos to from my camera when I am traveling. Light weight and small SSD make a great traveling st”
2. Samsung T7 1TB Portable SSD for Fast Data Transfer and Reliable Storage
The Samsung T7 is a favorite among creators and professionals for its consistent performance and sleek design. Powered by PCIe NVMe technology, it delivers read speeds up to 1050MB/s, making it ideal for transferring large files or running apps directly from the drive. Its compact, credit-card-sized form factor fits easily in a pocket or bag, and it’s compatible with a wide range of devices—including your all-in-one PC.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe NVMe technology for ultra-fast data access and transfer
- ✓ Password protection with AES 256-bit hardware encryption
- ✓ Shock-resistant and durable metal body that stays cool under load
- ✓ Works with Windows, Mac, Android, gaming consoles, and more
Why We Recommend It
We named this our Editor’s Choice because it combines top-tier speed, security, and reliability in a stylish, portable package. Samsung’s reputation for quality storage shines through, and the T7 consistently delivers performance that rivals internal SSDs. It’s a smart pick if you want enterprise-grade features without the enterprise price.
Best For
Content creators, students, and professionals who need secure, high-speed storage for large files and multitasking across devices.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Consistently fast read/write speeds even during large file transfers
- Built-in hardware encryption for data security
- Compact and stylish aluminum design
- Broad compatibility across operating systems and devices
Cons:
- Doesn’t include a USB-C to USB-A cable (sold separately)
- Can get warm during extended use (though it has thermal protection)
Customer Reviews
“Top quality, no issues, uploading is fast, as well as downloading. The memory is huge. 200 hours of video, and it didn’t even use 1% of storage space.”
“The T7 was received in Fat32 Format with MBR Partition. I’m using this as a backup drive for a Win 11 Pro Desktop PC, so the first thing I did was reformat the Drive as NTFS with GPT partitions which is better suited for the Win 10/11 OS. With that out of the way, I turned to the provided USB C to C”
3. Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2 USB-C, External Solid State Drive, Compati…
The Crucial X10 offers incredible value with speeds up to 2,100MB/s—nearly double that of many competitors—at a surprisingly affordable price. Built for creators and gamers, it features IP65 dust and water resistance and drop protection up to 3 meters. Despite its budget-friendly cost, it doesn’t skimp on performance or durability, making it a standout choice for all-in-one users who want high-speed storage without overspending.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Blazing 2,100MB/s read speeds for rapid file access and transfers
- ✓ IP65-rated for dust and water resistance, plus 3-meter drop protection
- ✓ USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support for maximum bandwidth
- ✓ Works with Windows, Mac, Chromebooks, gaming consoles, and mobile devices
Why We Recommend It
We named this the Best Budget pick because it delivers premium performance at a mid-range price. Whether you’re editing videos, backing up your all-in-one, or expanding storage for games and apps, the X10 handles it all with ease. It’s rare to find this level of speed and ruggedness under $100.
Best For
Students, budget-conscious creators, and gamers who want high-speed, durable storage without breaking the bank.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- One of the fastest portable SSDs in its price range
- Rugged build with excellent environmental protection
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for versatility
- Compact and lightweight for easy portability
Cons:
- Only one color option (matte blue)
- No hardware encryption or password protection
Customer Reviews
“As a graphic designer working on both a Mac Mini M4 and MacBook Air M1, I’m constantly juggling large project files, from brand assets and RAW images to video renders. After a week of using the Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD, I can confidently say it’s an excellent performer.The speed is the first th”
“Great design. Small, easy to work with, good capacity, fast enough. Price was good (when it was on sale ….) . One small thing: has only USB-C connector. Would not work with USB-C to USB adapter.”
4. SSK 1TB Portable SSD with USB-C for iPhone, Windows, Mac, and Android
This versatile SSK SSD is designed for cross-platform use, making it ideal if you connect your all-in-one to iPhones, Android devices, or tablets. With read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write speeds up to 1000MB/s, it’s fast enough for 4K video and large photo backups. The included USB-C cable ensures easy connectivity, and its compact size makes it perfect for on-the-go use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-speed performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- ✓ Broad compatibility with iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
- ✓ LED activity indicator for real-time transfer monitoring
- ✓ S.M.A.R.T. monitoring and TRIM support for long-term health
Why We Recommend It
This SSD stands out for its universal compatibility and reliable speed. Whether you’re transferring files from your iPhone to your all-in-one or backing up projects across devices, it just works. It’s a great all-rounder for mixed-device households or professionals who use multiple platforms.
Best For
Users with multiple devices (especially iPhone and Android) who need seamless file sharing across platforms.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent cross-platform compatibility
- Fast transfer speeds for a portable SSD
- Compact and lightweight design
- Affordable price for the performance
Cons:
- No ruggedized casing or drop protection
- Only one cable included (USB-C)
Customer Reviews
“I recently purchased this external portable SSD from Amazon and have been very impressed with its performance. It offers fast transfer speeds, making it ideal for backing up large files, moving media, and working with high-resolution photos or videos. The compact, lightweight design makes it easy to”
“Overall, this is a great SSD with ample space for the price. I would definitely recommend this for someone looking for an external portable HD that has a large amount of space which is great for holding any type of file. My main use for this HD was to hold music files I am transferring from an olde”
5. SSK 1TB SSD External Hard Drive, Portable SSD Drive up to 2000 MB/s, USB 3.2 Gen2X2 External Soli…
The SSK 1TB SSD with USB 3.2 Gen2x2 support delivers impressive speeds up to 2000MB/s, making it one of the fastest portable drives in its class. It comes with both USB-C and USB-A cables, ensuring compatibility with older and newer devices alike. Whether you’re editing videos on your all-in-one or transferring large datasets, this drive keeps up without breaking a sweat.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-fast 20Gbps speeds up to 2000MB/s
- ✓ Dual cables included: USB-C (20Gbps) and USB-A (10Gbps)
- ✓ Plug-and-play setup with no drivers required
- ✓ Compact, lightweight design with LED activity light
Why We Recommend It
This SSD is a powerhouse for users who need maximum speed and flexibility. The inclusion of both cable types makes it future-proof and backward-compatible, while the sleek design ensures it won’t clutter your workspace. It’s a great choice if your all-in-one supports USB 3.2 Gen2x2.
Best For
Power users, video editors, and tech enthusiasts who want top-tier speed and dual-cable convenience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- One of the fastest portable SSDs available
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables
- No software or drivers needed
- Affordable for the performance level
Cons:
- Gets warm during heavy use
- No ruggedized protection
Customer Reviews
“What a great little drive. It even came with two different cables to make it more versatile. It’s compact, easy to use and very, very fast. I highly recommend it.”
“Really happy with this little SSD. It’s small and compact, so it’s easy to carry around and doesn’t take up any space in my bag. The speed is excellent — transfers are quick and smooth whether I’m using it with my laptop or phone. It does get a little warm if you’re using it extensively, but that’s “
6. SSK 1TB Portable SSD with USB 3.2 Gen2 for iPhone, Mac, and Android Devices
This SSK SSD is optimized for mobile and desktop hybrid use, offering solid 550MB/s speeds and broad compatibility with iPhone, Android, Mac, and Windows all-in-one systems. It’s lightweight, energy-efficient, and draws minimal power—making it safe to use with smartphones without draining the battery. The LED indicator helps monitor activity, and its slim profile fits easily in any setup.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Reliable 550MB/s read speeds for smooth file access
- ✓ Ultra-low 5W power draw—safe for iPhones and tablets
- ✓ Works with iPhone, Android, Mac, Windows, and Linux
- ✓ LED activity light and S.M.A.R.T. health monitoring
Why We Recommend It
This SSD is ideal for users who frequently move files between mobile devices and all-in-one desktops. Its low power consumption and broad compatibility make it a practical choice for photographers, students, and remote workers who need portable, efficient storage.
Best For
Mobile professionals, students, and iPhone/Android users who need reliable, low-power storage for cross-device workflows.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Safe for use with iPhones and Android devices
- Lightweight and compact
- Good speed for everyday tasks
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Not compatible with all iPhones (some report power issues)
- Slower than NVMe-based SSDs
Customer Reviews
“I bought this specifically because the listing said it was supported for iPhones and had an ultra-low 5W power draw so it wouldn’t need any external power. That was the whole selling point for me. But the moment I plugged it into my iPhone, I got the dreaded popup: “This accessory requires too much “
“The SSK 1TB Portable SSD is an incredible little powerhouse! Transfer speeds are lightning-fast—up to 550MB/s—and it works flawlessly with my iPhone 15 Pro, laptop, and Android devices. The sleek design with an LED indicator is both stylish and practical, and it stays cool even during large file tra”
7. SanDisk 1TB Extreme PRO Portable External SSD – Up to 1050MB/s – USB-C, USB 3.1 – SDSSDE80
The SanDisk Extreme PRO is built for professionals who demand speed and durability. With a forged aluminum body, IP55 water and dust resistance, and speeds up to 1050MB/s, it’s designed to handle tough environments without sacrificing performance. It’s perfect for backing up your all-in-one or running demanding applications directly from the drive.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-speed NVMe performance up to 1050MB/s
- ✓ Rugged aluminum casing with IP55 rating
- ✓ Compact and lightweight for professional use
- ✓ Compatible with USB-C and USB 3.1 devices
Why We Recommend It
This SSD is a premium option for users who need enterprise-level reliability and speed. The aluminum body not only looks sleek but also helps dissipate heat, ensuring consistent performance during long sessions. It’s a top-tier choice for video editors, photographers, and IT professionals.
Best For
Creative professionals and power users who need durable, high-performance storage for large projects.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality and durability
- Fast and consistent performance
- Great for outdoor and travel use
- SanDisk’s reputation for reliability
Cons:
- Higher price point than non-PRO models
- No included USB-A cable
Customer Reviews
“I picked up a SanDisk 1TB Extreme PRO Portable External SSD to replace a slow Western Digital My Passport Ultra drive (120 MB/s read and write times). I wanted a fast and portable drive that I could use to store my backup files as well as store and run Parallels Virtual machines from. This would s”
“So I got this could be about a year ago or so to replace my then Time Capsule which was being used for backup but then began giving trouble backing up getting stuck in the process. I went with this because I know SanDisk to be a good brand and of course can’t beat SSD drive-wise.The Time Capsule wou”
Complete Buying Guide for Can I Buy An Ssd For My All In One
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing an SSD for your all-in-one, we focus on speed, compatibility, durability, and value. Look for USB-C or USB 3.2 support to ensure fast data transfer, and check that the drive works with your operating system (Windows, macOS, etc.). Rugged features like water resistance and drop protection are a bonus if you travel often. Also consider capacity—1TB is ideal for most users, but 2TB or 4TB options are better for media professionals.
Budget Planning
Prices range from around $60 for budget models to over $150 for high-end, rugged SSDs. Set a budget based on your needs: students and casual users can opt for affordable options like the Crucial X10, while professionals should invest in durable, high-speed drives like the SanDisk Extreme or Samsung T7. Watch for sales—many SSDs drop in price during holiday seasons.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your all-in-one with an SSD is one of the best performance boosts you can make. Whether you need extra storage, faster backups, or a portable workspace, there’s an SSD on this list that fits your lifestyle and budget. Don’t settle for slow transfers—make the switch today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a portable SSD with my all-in-one PC?
A: Yes! Most all-in-one PCs have USB-C or USB-A ports that support external SSDs. Just ensure the drive is compatible with your operating system and has the right cable.
Q: Will an SSD improve my all-in-one’s performance?
A: While it won’t speed up internal operations, using an SSD for storage, backups, or running apps can significantly reduce load times and improve workflow efficiency.
Q: Do I need special software to use an external SSD?
A: No. Most SSDs are plug-and-play. Some come with backup software, but it’s optional.
Q: Can I boot my all-in-one from an external SSD?
A: Yes, if your all-in-one supports booting from external drives (check BIOS/UEFI settings). This is great for testing operating systems or running a clean OS.
Q: Are portable SSDs safe for travel?
A: Rugged models like the SanDisk Extreme or Crucial X10 are designed for travel with shock, water, and dust resistance. Always store them in a protective case.
So, can I buy an SSD for my all-in-one? Absolutely—and you should. Whether you’re a creative pro, student, or everyday user, adding a portable SSD gives you speed, space, and peace of mind. From the rugged SanDisk Extreme to the budget-friendly Crucial X10, there’s a perfect match for your needs. Click any “Check Price” button above to find the best deal and upgrade your setup today!