Getting ready to buy an external hard drive? Here's a guide to choosing the best one
Capacity
The capacity of external hard drives is one of the most important considerations when choosing a new device. The larger the capacity, the more data you can store. If you only need to store important documents and photos, then a 1TB or 2TB drive might be enough. However, if you're a photographer, videographer, or creative professional, look for 5TB drives or even more. Memory type
External hard drives come in two forms: a traditional mechanical hard drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD). HDDs are cheaper, but SSDs are faster to use and more durable. If you need fast data transfer speeds and it's important for you to keep your data safe, then choose an SSD drive. Form factor
External hard drives come in two main form factors: 2.5" and 3.5". 2.5" discs are more compact and lighter, while 3.5" discs offer more capacity. If you need to store a lot of data and you don't have a problem with a larger size, then choose a 3.5" drive. Connectivity
External hard drives are usually connected via USB or Thunderbolt. USB is the most common type of connection, but Thunderbolt is faster and intended for professional use. If you need fast data transfer speeds, then choose a Thunderbolt drive. Various factors
In addition to the above factors, pay attention to the following aspects: Durability: If you move your external hard drive often, choose a hard drive that is resistant to shocks and stains. Built-in software storage tool: Some external hard drives come with built-in software to help manage data. Warranty: Make sure your external hard drive is covered by a sufficient warranty period. Recommendation
The recommended external hard drive for home or office use is a 2.5" SSD with a capacity of 1TB or 2TB. This drive is large enough to store your important data and fast enough for you to use it for everyday tasks. If you need to store even more data or if it is important for you to keep your data safe, then choose a 3.5" HDD drive with a larger capacity.