If you're looking for a way to upgrade your video editing setup, investing in the best external drive for video editing is a great choice. As video editing requires large file sizes, a reliable external drive can help you store your projects and make the editing process much smoother.
When choosing an external drive for video editing, there are a few factors to consider. First, determine the size of the drive you need to accommodate your projects. Consider whether you'll be working on multiple projects at once, and whether you'll need to access the drive from multiple devices. Look for a drive with fast transfer speeds to reduce lag time while editing. Additionally, consider the durability of the drive and whether it can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
If you're not sure where to start, ask yourself: do you need a portable or desktop drive? What is your budget? How much storage do you need? Do you prioritize speed or durability? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and choose the best external drive for your needs.
Investing in the best external drive for video editing can greatly improve your workflow and take your video editing skills to the next level. With so many options available, taking the time to consider your needs and asking the right questions can help you make an informed decision and find the perfect drive for your setup.
10 Best External Drive For Video Editing
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The product is ideal for high-speed, portable and reliable external storage solutions.
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The product is ideal for storing and transferring data between Type-C Android devices, PCs, and phones.
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This product is ideal for storing and backing up photos and videos from various devices, including iPhones, iPads, Android phones, and computers.
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Ideal for high-performance gaming PCs, laptops, and video editing machines looking for lightning-fast read and write speeds.
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Ideal for storing and transferring data between various devices such as PCs, Macs, laptops, gaming consoles, etc.
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Ideal for photographers, content creators, and gamers who need fast and secure portable storage for their large files and projects.
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Ideal for high-speed file transfers, storing large amounts of data, and portability with USB-C compatibility.
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The product is ideal for storing and transferring large amounts of data quickly between laptops, phones, and other devices.
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Ideal for storing and transferring large amounts of data quickly and securely.
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High-speed data transfer and storage for professionals, photographers, and gamers who demand top-notch performance.
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1. Sandisk Extreme Pro 1tb Portable Ssd
The NVMe solid-state performance of this product is an excellent solution for those who want to save time storing and transferring data. With its impressive 2000MB/s read/write speeds, users can expect a smooth and efficient experience. Please note that achieving these speeds requires compatible devices and can vary depending on the host device, interface, usage conditions, and other factors. It is also important to keep in mind that 1MB equals 1,000,000 bytes.
Crafted with a forged aluminum chassis, this portable drive is designed to provide higher sustained speeds and act as a heatsink, making it a reliable option for any adventure. The product's durability is further enhanced with up to 2-meter drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance, giving you peace of mind when you're out in the world. Additionally, the product comes with a handy carabiner loop for securing your drive.
The manufacturer offers a 5-year limited warranty that covers any defects or issues with the product. The forged aluminum chassis-silicon shell combo gives the product a premium feel and added protection, ensuring that it will last for years to come.
The included password protection featuring 256-bit AES hardware encryption helps keep private content safe and secure. This feature is particularly useful for those who store sensitive information on their device.
This product is compatible with both desktop and laptop devices. Overall, this is an excellent option for anyone looking for a reliable, durable, and efficient portable drive to store and transfer their data.
2. Gold Yseawolf 256gb Type-C Photostick
YSeaWolf offers a versatile and reliable USB flash drive that is designed to make life easier for its users. The device can be used to transfer files, backup data, share photos and videos, and expand the memory of various devices. The product comes with a new, safe, and free software that allows for easy usage of the photostick mobile for USB.
The flash drive has a 256GB capacity, which means that it can extensively expand the memory of devices and free up space. This feature enables users to transfer files, sync information from devices to USB external storage, and backup files without getting stuck. The device is also equipped with file encryption support, which ensures the safety and security of important files.
The 4 in 1 Type C flash drive is designed to be plug and play, making it easy to transfer data. It supports USB, iPad Mini, iPod, Android, MacBook, PC, laptops, and type-c. The product comes with a protective bag, which ensures that the flash drive is secure and easy to carry.
The high-speed USB 3.0 USB picture stick is equipped with quick data exchange Type C Flash Drive, which reads speeds up to 80MB/s and has a writing speed of 40 MB/s. This feature makes file transmission faster and easier. The device can also be used for game consoles, in-car audio, and more.
YSeaWolf's 256GB Flash Drive Type C is made of premium Grade A chip, and each of the flash drives is tested before shipping to ensure quality and reliability. The product comes with a 1-year limited warranty, and the company offers a 100% money-back guarantee. This feature makes it easy for customers to purchase the product with confidence.
3. Idiskk 256gb Flash Drive For All Devices.
The iDiskk iPhone photo stick is a versatile and multifunctional tool that is compatible with various devices. With MFi certification, it has lightning, USB-C, and USB 3.0 connectors that can work with iOS, Android, Windows, and OS systems. The lightning connector is ideal for iOS devices such as iPhones and iPads, the USB 3.0 connector is suitable for PC/Mac/iMac, and the USB-C connector is perfect for Android phones/Macbook Pro and other USB-C devices. It can also work with iPad Pro with USB-C port.
This photo stick is an excellent solution for freeing up space on your mobile devices. With one-click backup, it offers a quick and easy way to transfer photos and videos among Android devices, iPhones, iPads, and computers/Mac/iMac without using a cable or iCloud. Additionally, it has an in-app camera that allows you to shoot photos/videos and automatically back them up on the iDiskk USB Drive. This feature ensures that you capture every moment of your life without worrying about losing your precious memories due to insufficient storage space.
The iDiskk iPhone photo stick also allows you to enjoy movies or music stored in the flash drive directly. It can realize plug-and-play, making it an ideal companion for trips and travel. The photo stick supports most video formats, including AVI, M4V, MKV, MOV, MP4, MPG, RM, RMVB, TS, WMV, FLV, and 3GP, as well as audio formats such as FLAC, APE, AAC, AIF, M4A, MP3, and WAV.
Data encryption is a crucial feature of the iDiskk iPhone photo stick. Made of metal materials and applied with stable APP software, it supports Touch ID/Passcode encryption and independent passcode on file to protect your sensitive files. With 18 months of worry-free usage, you can rest assured that your files are secure and protected.
The iDiskk iPhone photo stick supports various iOS, Android, and Windows devices, making it a versatile tool for all your storage needs. It is compatible with iPhone 13,13 pro, iPhone 12,12Mini,12 Pro,12 Pro Max, iPhone 11,11 Pro,11 Pro Max, XR,Xs, Xs Max,X,8 Plus,8,7 Plus,7,6S,6S Plus,6 Plus, 6 , SE,5S,5C,5, iPad 2/3/4, iPad Air, iPad Pro series with Lightening port, iMac, Macbook, Macbook Air, PC & laptops.
4. Fantom Venom8: The Lightning-Fast Ssd.
The VENOM8 1TB SSD M.2 is an exceptional storage device designed to cater to the needs of gamers, video editors, and creative professionals. With hyper performance read/write speeds of up to 7400/6000MB/s, the VENOM8 SSD can easily conquer the most demanding software and games, allowing users to game, video edit, or render 3D animations at warp speed.
The VENOM8 SSD is also a great option for PS5 storage expansion. Users can load games faster than the stock PS5 hard drive and store over 25 directly playable games with the VENOM8 SSD 1TB M.2. The number of games that can be stored is based on a 36GB average per game. The VENOM8 SSD 1TB M.2 is equipped with a heatsink that meets the necessary requirements for optimal functionality.
Easily install the VENOM8 1TB SSD M.2 into any Gen 4 motherboards. The VENOM8 SSD is backward compatible with PCIe Gen 3,2,1, making it the ultimate M.2 SSD for both PC and laptop gamers, video editors, and creative professionals.
The VENOM8 SSD is infused with 3D NAND technology and SK Hynix DDR4 DRAM Cache, providing users with exceptional performance. Additionally, the VENOM8 SSD is equipped with TRIM support, SMART (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology), APST, and LDPC ECC Algorithm, ensuring optimal functionality.
With up to 700TBW endurance, 1.6 Million Hours of MTBF, and 5 years of warranty with product registration, the VENOM8 SSD is a reliable and secure storage option. The VENOM8 SSD is secured with End-to-End Data Path Protection and AES 256-bit encryption, ensuring that users' data remains safe and secure.
5. Gold Maxone Ultra Slim External Hard Drive
The Ultra Slim and Sturdy Metal Design Portable Hard Drive is a remarkable storage solution for gamers and computer users alike. With its sleek and durable all-aluminum design, this external hard drive is only 0.4 inches thick, yet it provides outstanding strength and durability while remaining cool and quiet.
Designed specifically for PS4, PS4 Pro, and Xbox One, this reliable game drive delivers fast and stable performance, ensuring that games are not refused or deleted. Additionally, it is compatible with Microsoft Windows and Mac OS (10.6.5 and above), making it a versatile storage option for various devices.
This USB hard drive is powered by USB 3.0 technology, which is much faster than USB 2.0 backup drives while remaining backward compatible. It allows for super-fast transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbit/s, significantly improving PC performance.
The Ultra Slim and Sturdy Metal Design Portable Hard Drive is incredibly easy to use, as it requires no external power supply or software installation. This plug-and-play device is ready to use straight out of the box, making it an ideal extra storage option for your computer or game console.
Included with this portable external hard drive is a 19-inch (48.26cm) USB 3.0 hard drive cable, user's manual, and a 3-year manufacturer warranty with free technical support service, providing peace of mind that your investment is protected.
6. Samsung Shield: High-Speed Rugged Portable Ssd
Introducing the all-new PSSD T7 Shield, a rugged, compact and fast data storage device that's built to last. With an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, this device is designed to endure tough conditions while you create.
The T7 Shield boasts lightning-fast data transfer speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, thanks to its USB 3.2 Gen 2 and PCIe NVMe technologies. This feature allows you to transfer massive files in seconds, and even edit directly from the drive. The high-tech rubber exterior with Dynamic Thermal Guard also ensures that the device stays cool even at high speeds, maintaining steady performance for even giant projects.
What's more, the T7 Shield is built to withstand rough and tumble conditions. It has an IP65 rating, which means it is resistant against water and dust. The rugged design and advanced outer elastomer add extra durability to the device, enabling it to endure a 9.8-foot drop.
The T7 Shield is compatible with a wide range of devices, including PC, Mac, Android devices, gaming consoles, and more. It comes with USB Type C-to-C and Type C-to-A cables for added convenience.
Available in 1TB or 2TB storage capacity, the T7 Shield gives you colossal space in sleek colorways of blue, beige, or black. The stylish rubberized grip also prevents slips, ensuring the device stays in your hands.
7. Lacie Portable Ssd High Performance External Ssd Usb-C Usb 3.0 2tb Sthk2000800
Looking for a reliable and high-performance external SSD to transfer files and edit videos quickly? Look no further than this product!
Boasting a lightning-fast speed of up to 540MB/s, this external SSD is perfect for those who need to transfer large files quickly. With a whopping 2TB capacity, you can store hours of 4K videos and thousands of high-resolution photos with ease.
The product is designed with a USB-C connector, which provides universal compatibility with USB 3.0, Thunderbolt 3, Mac, and PC. This means you can easily connect it to a variety of devices, making it a versatile and practical option for those who work with different devices.
The lightweight and shock-resistant design of this product is perfect for those who are always on the go. Whether you're traveling for work or just need to carry your files with you, this product is designed to travel light and safely.
As an added bonus, this product comes with a 3-year Rescue Data Recovery service, ensuring that your data is always safe and secure. With this service, you can rest easy knowing that your important files are protected in case of any unexpected data loss.
8. Ultra-Fast 1tb Portable Ssd By Aytemglobal
Looking for an external hard drive that delivers excellent gaming experience and can transfer large-sized data with ease? Look no further than this Portable SSD External. With its superb performance, this external hard drive is perfect for gamers and professionals alike who need to transfer large files, including 4K videos, high-resolution photos, games, and more.
This Portable SSD External is compatible with a range of devices, including PC, PS4, XBOX, and more. And it works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, PS4, and XBOX. You won't have to worry about compatibility issues with this external hard drive.
Featuring an aluminum alloy body, this Portable SSD External is shockproof and drop-resistant, providing the ultimate protection for your valuable data. Its shock-resistant solid state core ensures that your data is safe even when the drive is dropped or bumped.
Designed for portability, this external hard drive is lightweight with a gross weight of 75g, and the product itself weighs 42g with a dimension of 92*62*9mm. The cable weighs 14g, and the dimension of the package is 108*96*15mm, which is about 1/3 the size of a phone. With its compact size, you can easily take it with you wherever you go.
This Portable SSD External is also highly efficient, with a storage capacity of 512GB or 1TB and read speeds up to 540MB/s. It has a write speed of up to 500MB/s and a Type-C physical interface for easy connectivity.
9. Oyen Digital U32 Shadow 2tb External Ssd Usb-C Portable Solid State Drive
The U32 Shadow is a high-performance external solid-state drive that offers lightning-fast data transfer rates of up to 10Gbps. The device is built with a USB-C Gen2 interface that is compatible with all USB and Thunderbolt 3 & 4 devices, making it a versatile option for users who require a reliable storage solution.
The U32 Shadow's aluminum housing provides superior protection and heat dissipation, ensuring that the device remains cool and functional even during prolonged use. The device is also designed to be plug-and-play with both Windows and Mac systems, allowing for easy installation and use.
In addition to its impressive performance and durability, the U32 Shadow is backed by a 3-year warranty, providing users with peace of mind and assurance that their investment is protected. The device comes complete with a USB-C cable, a USB 3.0 cable, and a padded carrying pouch, making it a convenient and portable storage option for users on the go.
10. Thunderbolt 3 1tb Ssd – Fantom Extreme
The Fantom Drives eXtreme Thunderbolt 3 external solid state drive is a top-of-the-line storage solution that serves as an excellent option for professionals who require a fast and reliable external drive for their demanding workloads. Boasting a blazing-fast read speed of over 2800MB/s and write speed of over 2300MB/s, this external solid state drive ensures that large files are transferred quickly and efficiently.
The eXtreme SSD is backward compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, which provides a read and write speed of 1050MB/s. This means that users can still enjoy fast data transfer speeds even if their device does not have Thunderbolt 3 support.
In terms of design, the eXtreme portable SSD is compact yet solidly built with high-quality aluminum. Measuring at 0.5" x 2.5" x 4.25", it is small enough to fit into a pocket or bag without taking up too much space. The best part is that no power supply is needed, making it extremely convenient to use on-the-go.
To ensure that the eXtreme external solid state drive stays cool and efficient, it is equipped with Thermal Dissipation Technology. This feature helps to dissipate heat and prevent the drive from overheating during prolonged use.
In the package, customers will receive a Thunderbolt 3 cable, which is essential for connecting the eXtreme SSD to a compatible device. Additionally, the product is backed by a 5-year warranty from Fantom Drives, providing customers with peace of mind knowing that they are investing in a high-quality, reliable product.
Best External Drive For Video Editing FAQs
Can a cheaper external drive work well for video editing?
It depends on the specific requirements of your video editing workflow. Cheaper external drives can work well for video editing if they meet the minimum specifications for your editing software and your system.
For example, if you are working with 1080p footage and you are not doing any heavy color grading or effects, a cheaper external drive with a USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt connection may work just fine. However, if you are working with 4K or higher resolution footage or you are doing a lot of complex editing, you may need a more powerful and expensive external drive with faster read and write speeds.
It's also important to consider the durability and reliability of the external drive. Cheaper drives may not be built to last as long or withstand heavy use as well as more expensive options.
Ultimately, it's important to do your research and choose an external drive that meets your specific needs and budget. Consider reading reviews and consulting with other video editors to get their recommendations.
Can a portable external drive handle video editing?
Yes, a portable external drive can handle video editing, but it depends on the specifications and capabilities of the drive. When it comes to video editing, the most important factors are the drive's read and write speeds, capacity, and connectivity.
A portable external drive with a USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt connection can provide fast transfer speeds, allowing for smooth playback and editing of high-resolution video files. It is also important to have a drive with a high capacity, as video files can take up a lot of space.
In addition, some portable external drives come with built-in hardware encryption and password protection, which can be useful for protecting sensitive video footage.
Overall, if you choose a high-quality and high-capacity portable external drive with fast transfer speeds and good connectivity, it should be able to handle video editing without any issues.
How much should I spend on an external drive for video editing?
The amount you should spend on an external drive for video editing depends on your specific needs and budget. Generally, it is recommended to invest in a high-quality external hard drive with a fast transfer speed and ample storage capacity.
For video editing, it is best to opt for a solid-state drive (SSD) instead of a traditional hard drive (HDD) as SSDs offer faster read and write speeds, which is essential for handling large video files.
The price of an external drive can range from around $50 for a basic 1TB HDD to over $300 for a high-quality 2TB SSD. It is important to consider your budget and the amount of storage and speed you require for your video editing needs.
It is also worth considering cloud storage options, such as Dropbox or Google Drive, as an alternative to an external drive for video editing. Cloud storage allows you to access your files from multiple devices and locations, and can often offer more affordable pricing plans for larger storage capacities.
Is Thunderbolt or USB-C better for video editing external drives?
Both Thunderbolt and USB-C are capable of supporting high-speed data transfer rates, but Thunderbolt offers faster speeds and more bandwidth than USB-C. Thunderbolt 3 has a maximum data transfer rate of 40 Gbps, while USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 has a maximum of 10 Gbps.
For video editing, Thunderbolt would be the better choice, as it can handle high-resolution video files and large data transfers more efficiently. Thunderbolt also allows for daisy-chaining multiple devices, which can be useful for working with multiple external drives or other peripherals.
However, Thunderbolt drives tend to be more expensive than USB-C drives, and not all computers support Thunderbolt connectivity. In these cases, USB-C drives can still provide fast transfer speeds and sufficient performance for most video editing tasks.
Ultimately, the choice between Thunderbolt and USB-C will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you demand high-speed data transfer rates and have the budget for it, Thunderbolt would be the better option. Otherwise, USB-C can still provide decent performance at a more affordable price point.
Should I go for an HDD or SSD for video editing external drives?
When it comes to video editing, having a fast and reliable external drive is crucial. While both HDD and SSD drives have their pros and cons, SSDs are generally better suited for video editing due to their faster read and write speeds. This means that video footage can be loaded and transferred more quickly, which can save you a lot of time when working on large projects.
However, SSDs tend to be more expensive than HDDs, and they also have lower storage capacities. If you are on a tight budget and need more storage space, then an HDD might be a better choice. Just keep in mind that you may experience slower performance and longer load times when working with video files.
Ultimately, the decision between an HDD or SSD for video editing external drives will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you can afford it, an SSD is the better option for faster performance. But if cost is a concern and you need more storage space, then an HDD might be the way to go.
What are the top external drives for video editing?
When it comes to video editing, having a reliable and fast external drive is crucial to store and transfer large files. Some of the top external drives for video editing are:
1. LaCie Rugged Thunderbolt External Hard Drive – It is known for its durability, speed, and compatibility with different operating systems. It comes with a Thunderbolt cable for faster data transfer.
2. G-Technology G-Drive Mobile Pro SSD – This external drive offers lightning-fast transfer speeds, making it an excellent choice for video editors who need to transfer large files quickly.
3. Samsung T5 Portable SSD – This external drive is known for its portability and speed. It comes with a USB-C cable and has a sleek design.
4. Seagate Backup Plus Portable – This external drive offers a large storage capacity at an affordable price. It comes with USB 3.0 connectivity and is compatible with both Mac and PC.
5. WD My Passport Wireless SSD – This external drive is perfect for on-the-go video editors. It allows you to transfer files wirelessly and has a battery life of up to 10 hours.
Ultimately, the best external drive for video editing will depend on your specific needs and budget. It's important to consider factors such as storage capacity, speed, and durability when choosing the right drive for your workflow.
What is the ideal storage capacity for an external drive for video editing?
The ideal storage capacity for an external drive for video editing depends on several factors such as the type of video being edited, the quality of footage, and the duration of the video. Generally, for professional video editing, it is recommended to have at least 1TB (terabyte) of storage capacity. This allows for the storage of high-quality video files, which can take up a considerable amount of space.
However, if you are editing shorter videos or videos with lower resolutions, a smaller storage capacity may be sufficient. It is important to keep in mind that the more storage capacity you have, the more room you will have for future projects and the less likely you are to run out of space.
Additionally, it is important to choose an external drive with a fast read and write speed to ensure smooth playback and editing of video files. A solid-state drive (SSD) is recommended for faster data transfer and increased reliability.
What should I look for in an external drive for video editing?
When looking for an external drive for video editing, there are several factors to consider.
Firstly, you should look for an external drive with a high transfer speed. This will ensure that you can transfer large files quickly and efficiently. A USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt connection will provide the fastest transfer speeds.
Secondly, you should look for an external drive with a large storage capacity. Video files can take up a lot of space, so it's important to have enough storage to accommodate your needs. A capacity of at least 1TB is recommended.
Thirdly, you should consider the drive's durability and reliability. Look for a drive that is shock-resistant and has a sturdy build, as you don't want to risk losing your important files due to damage or failure.
Lastly, it's important to consider the price. External drives can vary greatly in price, so it's important to find a balance between the features you need and your budget.
In summary, when looking for an external drive for video editing, consider transfer speed, storage capacity, durability, and price.
Which brand offers the best external drive for video editing?
There are several brands that offer high-quality external drives for video editing, but the best one is subjective and depends on your specific needs. However, some of the most popular and reliable brands for external hard drives for video editing include Seagate, Western Digital, and LaCie.
Seagate offers a wide range of external drives with different storage capacities and speeds to meet various video editing needs. Their Backup Plus Portable Drive and Expansion Desktop Drive are both excellent options for video editing.
Western Digital is another brand that offers reliable and high-performance external drives for video editors. Their My Passport and My Book series are popular among professionals and beginners alike.
LaCie, a subsidiary of Seagate, is also a well-known brand for external drives in the creative industry. They offer a range of rugged and high-performance drives that are ideal for video editing on-the-go.
Ultimately, choosing the best external drive for video editing will depend on your specific needs, such as storage capacity, speed, and durability. It's important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.
Which external drive is best for 4K video editing?
When it comes to choosing an external drive for 4K video editing, there are a few key factors to consider, such as speed, capacity, and reliability. One of the best options on the market is the Samsung T5 Portable SSD, which offers lightning-fast read/write speeds of up to 540 MB/s and comes in sizes up to 2TB. Another great option is the SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD, which boasts read speeds of up to 1GB/s and capacities up to 2TB. Additionally, both of these drives are durable and reliable, making them great options for professionals who need to transfer and store large amounts of high-resolution footage. Other brands to consider include G-Technology, LaCie, and Seagate, which offer a variety of high-performance external drives for video editing. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and budget.