External hard drives are easy to use and come in various sizes and portability options. Consider the amount of space needed, portability, and brand reputation when choosing one. Larger drives are better, and portable ones are more expensive but more durable. Brand preference is subjective, so read reviews before buying.
An external hard drive is a great way to back up files to a computer or to add more space to a computer. It is easy to use even for people who are not familiar with computer hardware, because it usually connects to the computer via a USB port and is ready to use without any hardware or software installation required. To choose the best external drive, consider how much extra space you want, whether or not it needs to be portable, and which brands have the best reputations.
External hard drives are available in at least the same capacities as the regular hard drives inside a computer, and some can hold a huge amount of information. As technology improves, so does the size of available drives. While the price goes up depending on the capacity of the drive, in general, it’s best to buy one that’s larger than you’d expect to need, in order to get more life out of your hard drive.
In addition to the hard drive size capacity, consider whether you want a stationary hard drive or a portable hard drive. While all are relatively portable, some are designed to be more easily moved around. A true portable external hard drive will typically not have a separate power supply, but will instead be powered through the USB port on the computer. Typically you wouldn’t leave a portable hard drive connected all the time.
On the other hand, a fixed external hard drive will generally include a power supply and plug into a power outlet in addition to your computer. As a general rule, a portable drive will be slightly more expensive for a smaller capacity, simply because of its smaller size and greater portability. This type of hard drive generally spins at slower speeds, making it a bit more durable and less prone to shock damage. A stationary external drive will be slightly larger, both in terms of physical size and capacity, and a little less expensive; however, it may be a bit more susceptible to damage and corruption if overthrown.
Brand is another consideration when choosing an external hard drive. Some people have certain brands they like, but in many cases, it’s just a matter of personal preference. It can be helpful to read online reviews of particular hard drives to see if other customers are happy with them, as well as if they hold up over time without fail. Sometimes extended warranties are also available.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
