Best External Hard Drive For Editing (2025 Update)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you're looking for a reliable solution for storing large video files and speeding up your editing workflow, an external hard drive can give you the extra space and performance you need. However, not all external hard drives are created equal, and choosing the best one for editing requires considering several factors.

Firstly, you need to think about the storage capacity you need. Video files can consume a lot of space, so it's recommended to opt for at least 1TB or more if you plan on working with high-resolution footage. Additionally, consider the connectivity options of the hard drive – USB 3.0, Thunderbolt, or eSATA provide faster transfer speeds than USB 2.0, and can help reduce lag during editing.

Another factor to consider is the speed of the hard drive. For video editing, it's important to have a fast read/write speed for transferring and retrieving files quickly. The rotational speed of the disk is an important factor here, with 7200 RPM being the recommended speed for video editing.

If you want to elevate your editing game and make your workflow smoother, the right external hard drive can make a big difference. Consider these questions when choosing the best external hard drive for editing: How much storage capacity is necessary for your needs? What type of connectivity do you need? And what speed do you require for efficient editing? Answering these questions will help you find the best external hard drive to meet your unique needs as an editor.

10 Best External Hard Drive For Editing

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for storing and accessing large amounts of data quickly and efficiently on a desktop computer or laptop.
2
It is ideal for storing and transferring large amounts of data for both Mac and PC desktop computers.
3
The product is ideal for those who need a portable and durable external hard drive with high storage capacity.
4
This product is ideal for storing large amounts of gaming data and compatible with various gaming consoles and devices.
5
The product is ideal for storing large amounts of data and accessing it quickly, especially in rugged outdoor environments.
6
The product is an ideal external hard drive for both Mac and PC with Thunderbolt 3 USB-C USB 3.0 connectivity.
7
The product is ideal for those in need of a durable and waterproof external hard drive.
8
This product is ideal for storing and transferring large amounts of data quickly and easily between computers and devices.
9
Ideal for storing large amounts of data and transferring files quickly with USB-C connectivity.
10
Ideal for high-capacity, high-speed data storage and backup solutions for professional and enterprise-level use on Mac and PC.
Ideal for storing and accessing large amounts of data quickly and efficiently on a desktop computer or laptop.
It is ideal for storing and transferring large amounts of data for both Mac and PC desktop computers.
The product is ideal for those who need a portable and durable external hard drive with high storage capacity.
This product is ideal for storing large amounts of gaming data and compatible with various gaming consoles and devices.
The product is ideal for storing large amounts of data and accessing it quickly, especially in rugged outdoor environments.
The product is an ideal external hard drive for both Mac and PC with Thunderbolt 3 USB-C USB 3.0 connectivity.
The product is ideal for those in need of a durable and waterproof external hard drive.
This product is ideal for storing and transferring large amounts of data quickly and easily between computers and devices.
Ideal for storing large amounts of data and transferring files quickly with USB-C connectivity.
Ideal for high-capacity, high-speed data storage and backup solutions for professional and enterprise-level use on Mac and PC.

1. Fantom Drives 4tb External Hard Drive – Gforce 3 Pro 7200rpm, Usb3, Aluminum, Silver , Gf3s4000up

The Fantom Drives Gforce3 is a high-performance external hard drive that comes packed with features designed for professionals in need of maximum reliability and speed. With a USB 3.0 connection, this hard drive allows for transfer rates up to 10 times faster than USB 2.0, which is perfect for audio and video professionals who require swift data transfer.

The Gforce3 is designed with rugged features, making it an optimal storage solution for all your photos, videos, and backups. Its USB 3.0 connection is also backwards compatible with USB 2.0, ensuring seamless plug and play simplicity.

This external hard drive features an aluminum casing that doubles as a heat sink, providing maximum durability and ensuring that it stays cool even during extended use. With a high-speed 7200RPM, the Gforce3 offers faster speed than 5400RPM hard drives, making it ideal for those who require swift data transfer.

The Fantom Drives Gforce3 is great for your home network, MAC, and PC. Its high-performance capabilities make it ideal for demanding tasks, while its compact and portable design makes it easy to take with you wherever you go.

2. Moon Silver Portable Hard Drive For Mac/pc.

Looking for a reliable storage solution? Look no further than the 4TB External Hard Drive. With a whopping 4TB of storage space, this device has ample room for all your photos, playlists, documents, and more. Whether you have a Mac or Windows computer, you can use this hard drive seamlessly thanks to its compatibility with USB-C and USB 3.0.

Backing up your files has never been easier. With just one click, you can back up all your important files, or you can schedule automatic backups for added convenience. Plus, with the included one free month of Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan, you can turn your footage into flawless productions.

This hard drive is designed with performance and reliability in mind, so you can trust it to keep your files safe and secure. With its sturdy construction and advanced features, it's the perfect storage solution for anyone who needs lots of space and wants to keep their files organized and easily accessible.

So why wait? Get your 4TB External Hard Drive today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your files are safe and secure.

3. Rugged Shuttle: The Ultimate Portable Storage Solution

Introducing the Rugged RAID Shuttle External Hard Drive, designed to provide unparalleled convenience, security, and performance. With a massive 8TB capacity, this rugged hard drive is built uniquely flat, making it perfect for packing and sending out content on the go.

The Rugged RAID Shuttle External Hard Drive is not just about storage capacity, it also offers the flexibility of configuring RAID 0/1 using a step-by-step wizard to optimize the system for performance or redundancy. This feature allows users to choose between faster data transfer speeds or a mirrored backup of important files, ensuring data is always safe and secure.

Security is also a top priority with the Rugged RAID Shuttle External Hard Drive. The self-encrypting password system protects projects from unauthorized access, making it ideal for businesses or individuals who value privacy and confidentiality.

In addition to its impressive features, the Rugged RAID Shuttle External Hard Drive also includes a one-month complimentary membership to Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan. This gives users access to awesome photo and video editing apps, making it a great choice for photographers, videographers, and anyone who works with creative content.

4. Game Drive Pro: 8tb Ultimate Performance Boost

Looking for extra storage to capture and collect your best in-screen game captures? Look no further than this high-performance gaming hard drive from WD_Black. With a speed of up to 250 MB/s and rated at 7200RPM, this hard drive is designed to keep up with the demands of even the most intense gaming sessions. And with active cooling technology, you can be sure that your hard drive will stay cool and reliable no matter how long you play.

But that's not all this gaming hard drive has to offer. It also features two 7.5W USB Type-A charging ports, making it easy to charge your gaming gear and accessories right from your desktop. And because it's purpose-built for gamers based on WD_Black quality and reliability, you can be sure that this hard drive will stand up to even the toughest gaming challenges.

So if you're looking for a high-performance gaming hard drive that can keep up with your gaming demands, look no further than this hard drive from WD_Black. With its fast speed, active cooling technology, and convenient charging ports, it's the perfect choice for any serious gamer.

5. Lacie Rugged Thunderbolt Usb 3.0 2tb External Hard Drive Portable Hdd (Stev1000400)

The Rugged Thunderbolt USB 3.0 is the perfect solution for professionals who require speedy transfer rates and extreme durability in an external hard drive. With transfer speeds of up to 130MB/s, this hard drive is lightning fast and comes with an integrated Thunderbolt cable that wraps seamlessly around the enclosure when not in use.

This portable external hard drive is designed to withstand harsh environments, making it the ideal choice for those who frequently travel. It is drop, dust, and water resistant, allowing you to trek confidently without worrying about damaging your data.

To top it off, the Rugged Thunderbolt USB 3.0 comes with a one month complimentary membership to Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan. This gives you access to awesome photo and video editing apps to capture and edit content like a pro.

You can enjoy long term peace of mind with the included three year limited warranty. With this hard drive, you can rest assured that your data is safe and secure.

6. Thunderbolt 3 Lacie Desktop Drive – 14tb

This hard disk boasts an impressive rotational speed of 7200 RPM, ensuring quick and efficient data access. With a read speed of 260 MB/s and a write speed of 260 MB/s, this hard disk delivers lightning-fast performance that can keep up with even the most demanding tasks. Additionally, it offers a data transfer rate of 260 MB/s, making it an ideal choice for those who require speedy data transfer. Whether you're a professional who needs to process large files quickly or a casual user who wants a seamless computing experience, this hard disk is sure to meet your needs. With its outstanding speed and reliability, you can trust this hard disk to deliver top-notch performance every time.

7. Ultimate Protection: Adata Hd710 Pro 4tb External Hd

Looking for a reliable and durable external hard drive? Look no further than this USB 3.1 external hard drive with a wide range of compatible devices including PC, Mac, and Linux. With its IP68 waterproof rating, it has been tested for 60 minutes in up to 2 meters of water, ensuring that your data is safe and secure. Additionally, it is military-grade shockproof and has an IP6X dustproof rating, making it perfect for anyone who needs a sturdy and reliable hard drive for their work.

This external hard drive comes with a 3-year warranty, giving you peace of mind knowing that you are investing in a quality product. Whether you are a professional, student, or simply need a place to store your personal data, this external hard drive is the perfect solution. With its high level of water resistance, shockproof construction, and dustproof design, you can be sure that your data is safe and secure no matter where you go.

8. Ultra-Fast 2tb Ssd For Pc & Mac

The high-performance external solid-state drive offers an incredible read speed of up to 1050 MB/s, making it an excellent choice for those who require fast data transfer and storage. The drive is compatible with a variety of devices, including Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebook, Android, Linux, PS4, and Xbox One, thanks to its USB-C 3.1 Gen2 and USB-A connectors. This versatility makes it a great option for individuals who use multiple devices.

The drive has a durable design, featuring an anodized aluminum core that can withstand drops up to 7.5 feet. Additionally, it's built to withstand extreme temperatures, shock, and vibration, making it a reliable choice for those who need a sturdy and rugged drive.

Backed by Micron, one of the world's largest manufacturers of flash storage, the drive offers peace of mind that you're getting a quality product.

9. G-Technology 4tb G-Drive Mobile Usb-C (Usb 3.1) Portable External Hard Drive, Space Gray – 0g10347

This portable hard drive combines style and function with its sleek aluminum design. It offers up to 4TB of storage capacity, providing ample space for all your important files and documents. (Please note that storage capacity is calculated using one terabyte (TB) equaling one trillion bytes, and the total accessible capacity may vary depending on your operating environment.)

The hard drive is designed with USB C compatibility, as well as USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 3 compatibility, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of devices. It is also Mac ready, and can be easily reformatted for Windows operating systems.

Whether you need to store large media files or simply want to backup important documents, this portable hard drive offers a reliable and secure solution. Its durable design ensures that your data is safe no matter where you go, and its fast transfer speeds make it easy to access your files quickly and efficiently.

10. Sandisk Pro 12tb G-Drive: Your Ultimate Storage Solution!

Introducing the USB-C (10Gbps) drive, a top-performing and speedy device designed for fast backup and storage. With a read and write speed of up to 250MB/s, this drive is a powerhouse when it comes to transferring and accessing data. Please note that these speeds are based on internal testing and may vary depending upon host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors.

The device boasts a high-capacity enterprise-class Ultrastar 7200RPM drive inside, ensuring that all your data is safe and secure. It is also Mac Ready and Apple Time Machine compatible, making it easy to use for Apple users. However, if you are a Windows user, the drive can be easily reformatted to suit your needs.

The enclosure is made of anodized aluminum, which provides premium durability and ensures that the device is stackable. This means that you can stack multiple drives together without worrying about damage or loss of data.

Moreover, the USB-C drive comes with three modes of brightness to adjust the LED lights. This feature allows you to customize the device according to your preference.

Best External Hard Drive For Editing FAQs

Are Thunderbolt external hard drives better for editing than USB?

Yes, Thunderbolt external hard drives are better for editing than USB. Thunderbolt is a faster data transfer technology than USB, providing faster read and write speeds. This means that when editing large video or photo files, Thunderbolt drives can transfer data more quickly, resulting in faster rendering times and overall better performance. Thunderbolt also allows for daisy-chaining multiple devices together, making it easier to connect multiple hard drives or other peripherals to your computer. However, it is worth noting that Thunderbolt drives can be more expensive than USB drives, so it's important to weigh the cost against the potential benefits. Additionally, if your computer doesn't have a Thunderbolt port, you'll need to purchase an adapter, which can also add to the cost.

Can I use a portable external hard drive for video editing?

Yes, you can use a portable external hard drive for video editing. Portable external hard drives are a great option for video editing because they are easy to carry around and can store large amounts of data. When choosing a portable external hard drive for video editing, it is important to consider the drive's speed and capacity.

For video editing, it is recommended to use an external hard drive with a high-speed interface, such as USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt, to ensure that the video files can be transferred quickly and smoothly. Additionally, the hard drive should have a capacity large enough to store all of your video files.

It is also important to note that the performance of the hard drive can affect the speed and efficiency of the video editing process. It is recommended to use a hard drive with a higher RPM (rotations per minute) and a larger cache size to ensure faster read and write speeds.

Overall, using a portable external hard drive for video editing is a great option for those who need to work on-the-go or need additional storage space for their video files.

How do I choose the right external hard drive for my editing needs?

When it comes to choosing the right external hard drive for your editing needs, there are several important factors to consider. First and foremost, you need to ensure that the hard drive has enough storage space to accommodate your files. Depending on the size and frequency of your projects, you may need anywhere from a few hundred gigabytes to several terabytes of storage.

Another important consideration is the speed of the hard drive. For editing large files, you need a hard drive that can offer fast read and write speeds. Look for a drive that has a high RPM and a fast transfer rate. Also, consider whether you need a solid-state drive (SSD) or a traditional hard disk drive (HDD). SSDs tend to be faster and more reliable, but they are also more expensive.

Lastly, you need to ensure that the hard drive is compatible with your editing software and computer. Check the system requirements for your editing software and ensure that the hard drive you choose meets or exceeds those requirements.

Overall, the right external hard drive for your editing needs will depend on your specific requirements. Take the time to research your options and choose a high-quality drive that offers the storage space, speed, and compatibility you need.

How much storage capacity do I need for a video editing external hard drive?

The storage capacity you need for a video editing external hard drive depends on various factors, such as the resolution and length of the videos you are working with, the number of projects you plan to store, and the frequency of your backups. As a general rule of thumb, you should aim for a minimum of 1-2 TB of storage capacity. This will give you enough space to store multiple large video files and ensure that you have room for future projects. However, if you work with high-resolution videos or plan to store a large number of projects, you may need a larger capacity, such as 4-8 TB. It's also important to consider the speed and connectivity of the external hard drive, as this can affect the performance of your video editing software. Overall, investing in a high-capacity and high-performance external hard drive is crucial for efficient and effective video editing.

Is it better to use an SSD or HDD for video editing external hard drive?

For video editing purposes, it is recommended to use an SSD (Solid State Drive) over an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) as an external hard drive. This is because SSDs have faster read/write speeds and can handle large files much more efficiently than HDDs. Video files are often large and require fast read/write speeds for smooth playback and editing. An SSD can provide faster access to the files, resulting in quicker editing and rendering times. Additionally, SSDs are more durable as they have no moving parts, making them less likely to fail due to physical damage. However, SSDs are more expensive than HDDs and offer less storage capacity for the same price. Therefore, it is best to use an SSD for video editing projects that require fast data transfer speeds and a smaller amount of storage, while an HDD is suitable for backing up large amounts of data at a lower cost.

What are the top external hard drives for video editing?

When it comes to video editing, having an external hard drive with fast read and write speeds is crucial to avoid lagging and buffering. Here are some of the top external hard drives for video editing:

1. Seagate Backup Plus Slim: This portable hard drive is available in capacities ranging from 1TB to 5TB and has fast transfer speeds of up to 120MB/s. It also comes with backup software for easy file management.

2. WD My Passport Ultra: This sleek and compact hard drive is available in capacities up to 5TB and has fast transfer speeds of up to 5GB/s. It also comes with password protection and hardware encryption for added security.

3. LaCie Rugged Thunderbolt: This durable hard drive is designed to withstand drops, shocks, and water spills. It has fast transfer speeds of up to 510MB/s and comes with both Thunderbolt and USB-C connectivity options.

4. G-Technology G-Drive: This high-performance hard drive has transfer speeds of up to 250MB/s and comes in capacities ranging from 4TB to 18TB. It also features a sleek and durable aluminum enclosure.

Ultimately, the best external hard drive for video editing depends on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to consider factors such as storage capacity, transfer speeds, durability, and connectivity options when choosing an external hard drive for video editing.

What features should I look for in an external hard drive for video editing?

When it comes to video editing, having a reliable external hard drive is crucial. Here are some features to look for in an external hard drive for video editing:

1. Capacity: Video files can take up a lot of space, so you'll want an external hard drive with plenty of storage capacity. Look for at least 1TB, but preferably 2TB or more.

2. Speed: Video editing requires fast read and write speeds, so choose an external hard drive with a high RPM (at least 7200) or solid-state drive (SSD) technology.

3. Connection: The connection between your computer and the external hard drive is important. Look for a USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt connection for faster data transfer speeds.

4. Durability: If you're on the go with your external hard drive, consider a rugged design that can withstand bumps and drops.

5. Backup software: Look for an external hard drive that comes with backup software to help protect your valuable video files.

Overall, a high-capacity, fast, and reliable external hard drive is essential for video editing.

What is the best brand of external hard drives for editing?

When it comes to choosing an external hard drive for editing, there are several factors to consider such as storage capacity, transfer speed, durability, and compatibility with your editing software. Based on these factors, there are a few brands that are popular among professionals and enthusiasts.

One of the top brands for editing external hard drives is Western Digital (WD). They offer a wide range of options with varying storage capacities, transfer speeds, and durability features such as shock resistance. Their My Passport series is a popular choice for its compact size and portability.

Another popular brand for editing external hard drives is Seagate. They offer high-capacity drives with fast transfer speeds and durable designs. Their Backup Plus series is a popular choice for its affordability and compatibility with both Mac and PC.

Other brands worth considering include LaCie, G-Technology, and Toshiba. Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, so it's important to research and compare the options before making a decision.

What is the best external hard drive for editing on a Mac?

When it comes to editing on a Mac, having a reliable and fast external hard drive is essential. One of the best external hard drives for editing on a Mac is the Samsung T5 Portable SSD. This drive offers lightning-fast transfer speeds of up to 540MB/s, which is ideal for editing large video files or working with high-resolution images. It also comes in a sleek and compact design, making it easy to take with you on the go. Additionally, the Samsung T5 is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems, so it's a versatile choice for anyone who works across multiple platforms. Another great option is the Western Digital My Passport SSD. This drive also offers fast transfer speeds and a durable, compact design, but comes with the added bonus of automatic backup software. Ultimately, the best external hard drive for editing on a Mac will depend on your specific needs and preferences, but the Samsung T5 and Western Digital My Passport SSD are both solid choices to consider.

Which external hard drive is best for storing large video files?

When it comes to storing large video files, it's important to choose an external hard drive that offers enough storage capacity, fast data transfer speed, and reliable performance. Based on these criteria, one of the best external hard drives for storing large video files is the Western Digital My Book Duo.

The My Book Duo comes in various storage capacities ranging from 4TB to 28TB, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. It also features USB 3.1 Type-C ports for fast data transfer speeds of up to 360MB/s, making it ideal for storing and editing high-resolution video files.

In addition, the My Book Duo comes with RAID-optimized WD Red drives, which are designed for 24/7 operation and offer enhanced reliability and data protection. It also features password protection and hardware encryption for added security.

Overall, the Western Digital My Book Duo is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, high-performance external hard drive for storing large video files.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Sharing is caring!