Best External Hard Drive For Long Term Storage (2025 Update)

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If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient way to store your data for the long term, an external hard drive is a great investment. Whether you’re a professional photographer, business owner, or a casual user, an external hard drive is a must-have tool that ensures you never lose important files and documents.

When it comes to selecting the best external hard drive for long term storage, there are several factors you should consider. Firstly, storage capacity is of the utmost importance. You want to ensure you have enough space to store all your files without having to constantly transfer them to another hard drive. Secondly, reliability is key. Choose a reputable brand with a good track record for quality products and make sure the device comes with a warranty to cover any defects. Finally, speed is another important consideration. Look for a hard drive with fast read and write speeds, which will save you time when transferring large files.

Do you often find yourself running out of storage space on your computer or losing important files? Are you worried about the safety and longevity of your data? If so, an external hard drive may be the solution you need. By investing in the best external hard drive for long term storage, you can rest easy knowing your important documents, photos, music, and videos are safe and secure. Keep reading to learn more about the features and benefits of external hard drives and how to choose the right one for your needs.

10 Best External Hard Drive For Long Term Storage

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This external hard drive is ideal for individuals who need a durable and secure way to store important data.
2
Ideal for expanding computer storage with a large capacity external hard drive, compatible with PC and laptops.
3
The product is ideal for storing large amounts of data from a computer or laptop with a fast USB 3.0 connection.
4
Ideal for users who need a reliable, high-capacity storage solution that is compatible with both PC and Mac devices.
5
The product is ideal for storing and transferring large amounts of data on both Mac and PC computers.
6
This product is ideal for those who need a high-capacity external hard drive with fast transfer speeds and enterprise-level durability.
7
Ideal for portable backup and storage of large amounts of digital media.
8
The product is ideal for expanding storage capacity and improving performance for gaming and daily computer use.
9
This external hard drive is ideal for storing large amounts of data and is compatible with Mac, Windows, PS4, and Xbox.
10
Ideal for plug-and-play storage with large capacity and fast transfer speeds through USB 3.0 connectivity.
This external hard drive is ideal for individuals who need a durable and secure way to store important data.
Ideal for expanding computer storage with a large capacity external hard drive, compatible with PC and laptops.
The product is ideal for storing large amounts of data from a computer or laptop with a fast USB 3.0 connection.
Ideal for users who need a reliable, high-capacity storage solution that is compatible with both PC and Mac devices.
The product is ideal for storing and transferring large amounts of data on both Mac and PC computers.
This product is ideal for those who need a high-capacity external hard drive with fast transfer speeds and enterprise-level durability.
Ideal for portable backup and storage of large amounts of digital media.
The product is ideal for expanding storage capacity and improving performance for gaming and daily computer use.
This external hard drive is ideal for storing large amounts of data and is compatible with Mac, Windows, PS4, and Xbox.
Ideal for plug-and-play storage with large capacity and fast transfer speeds through USB 3.0 connectivity.

1. Rgb Portable Hdd: Waterproof, Dustproof & Dropproof

Introducing the HD770G, a durable and reliable external hard drive designed to provide ultimate protection for your data. This product boasts a distinct chamfered edge and two light-beam-shaped RGB strips that pulsate with RGB lighting, making it an eye-catching centerpiece on your desk.

The HD770G meets the MIL-STD-810G 516.6 standard, meaning it can withstand accidental drops of up to 1.22 meters, preventing data loss from unexpected falls. Its robust triple-layer construction includes a shock-absorbing silicone casing, sturdy buffer, and cushioned mounting for the hard drive, ensuring maximum protection for your data.

This external hard drive offers unrivaled protection against dust and water, exceeding the highest-level IP68 standard. Therefore, you can rest assured that your data remains safe, even in harsh environments.

In addition to its durability, the HD770G can also be connected to game consoles and used as backup storage for games that are not currently being played. This feature offers convenience and flexibility to gamers, allowing them to store their games safely and freeing up space on their consoles.

2. Seagate Expansion Desktop 14tb External Hard Drive Hdd – Usb 3.0 For Pc Laptop (Steb14000400)

Looking for a reliable and spacious external hard drive to store all your important files, photos, movies, and music? Look no further than this external USB drive! Designed to work seamlessly with Windows computers, this external hard drive is the perfect solution for backing up your important data with a simple drag-and-drop process.

With its enormous storage space, you'll have plenty of room to store all your files for years to come. And setup is incredibly easy—you simply connect the external hard drive to your Windows computer and it will be automatically recognized without the need for any additional software.

This external hard drive also includes an 18-inch USB 3.0 cable and an 18W power adapter, making it a complete and convenient solution for your storage needs. And with the included one-year limited warranty, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you're covered in case of any issues.

So why wait? Upgrade your storage game today with this reliable and spacious external hard drive!

3. Massive Storage Power: Seagate 16tb Hdd

Looking for a reliable and spacious external hard drive for your desktop? Look no further than this high-capacity USB drive, perfect for storing photos, movies, music, and other important files.

Designed with Windows users in mind, this external drive allows for easy backup with a simple drag-and-drop system. With no software required, setting up your new drive is a breeze – simply connect it to your computer and it will be automatically recognized.

Not only does this drive offer an enormous amount of storage space, it also comes with an 18-inch USB 3.0 cable and 18W power adapter for convenient use. Whether you're looking to store important work documents or personal media files, this reliable drive is the perfect solution.

Invest in a quality external hard drive that will serve you well for years to come – order now and enjoy the benefits of this spacious and convenient storage solution!

4. Blue One Touch: 5tb Portable External Drive

The Seagate One Touch HDD is a reliable, on-the-go USB drive that allows users to store and access photos and files with ease. Compatible with both Windows and Mac, this portable external hard drive may require reformatting for use with Time Machine. Designed with a sleek, minimalist brushed metal enclosure, it is the perfect compliment to any personal aesthetic.

This HDD is great for use as a laptop hard drive or PC hard drive. Users can simply plug it in via USB 3.0 to back up their files with a single click, or schedule automatic daily, weekly or monthly backups for added convenience. The Seagate One Touch HDD also comes with a one-year complimentary subscription to Mylio Create, allowing users to easily edit, manage, and share their photos. Additionally, a four-month membership to Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan is included, providing access to a wide range of creative tools. (Please note that this offer must be redeemed within one year of drive registration and is not available in all countries.)

For added peace of mind, this HDD comes with an included two-year limited warranty and a two-year Rescue Data Recovery Service plan, ensuring that users can enjoy long-term reliability and support. For customers in the APAC region, the Rescue Data Recovery Service plan is extended to three years.

5. Thunderbolt Tough: 2tb Portable Hard Drive

The Rugged Thunderbolt USB-C external hard drive is the perfect tool for those who require fast file transfers and durability in a compact package. With transfer speeds of up to 130MB/s, the integrated Thunderbolt cable provides seamless data transfer. The cable can be wrapped around the enclosure when not in use, ensuring easy storage and portability.

Designed for extreme conditions, this portable external hard drive is drop, dust, and water-resistant. Users can confidently take it with them on any adventure without worrying about damage.

Moreover, the Rugged Thunderbolt USB-C also includes a one-month complimentary membership to Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan. This provides access to a range of amazing photo and video editing apps, making it an excellent tool for creators and professionals alike.

This external hard drive comes with a three-year limited warranty protection plan and Rescue Data Recovery services, ensuring users have long-term peace of mind. With these features, users can rest assured that their data is safe and secure.

6. Pro Desktop Drive: 18tb For Mac & Pc

The LaCie d2 Professional external desktop hard drive is the ideal choice for creatives who use Mac/PC SSD-based laptops or all-in-one computers with limited storage capacity. This hard drive offers fast data transfer speeds of up to 260MB/s, enabling users to edit and archive projects with ease.

Designed to be future-proof, the LaCie d2 Professional can seamlessly connect to USB-C USB 3.1 Gen 2 computers. Its aluminum form factor reduces noise and vibration, while the BarraCuda Pro enterprise-class drives ensure ultimate reliability and performance.

Aside from its impressive specs, the LaCie d2 Professional also includes a one-month membership to Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan. This enables users to explore their creativity without any limitations.

Moreover, the LaCie d2 Professional comes with a five-year limited warranty that includes Rescue Data Recovery Services. This gives users long-term peace of mind, knowing that their data is protected and can be easily recovered in case of unexpected data loss.

7. Blue Passport: Your Portable Data Solution

The WD external hard drive is a reliable and secure way to store and backup your important files and documents. With the included WD Backup software, automatic backups are easy to set up and ensure that your data is always protected.

In addition to automatic backups, this hard drive also offers hardware encryption for password protection. This means that your files are safe from prying eyes and can only be accessed with the correct password.

The WD external hard drive is built with trust in mind, boasting the reliability that WD has become known for. You can rely on this hard drive to keep your data safe and secure for years to come.

The hard drive also includes a USB 3.0 port, making it fast and efficient when transferring files. It is also compatible with USB 2.0 ports for added convenience. The hard drive is compatible with Windows 10, Windows 8.1, and Windows 7 operating systems, but does require reformatting for use with Mac OS X.

This product comes with a 3-year manufacturer's limited warranty, giving you added peace of mind in knowing that your investment is protected.

8. Buffalo Ssd 500gb: Fast & Compatible Storage Solution.

Looking for a reliable and compact SSD that can keep up with your on-the-go lifestyle? Look no further than the Buffalo SSD – the perfect accessory for anyone who needs quick and secure storage for their important data.

Compatible with both PS4 and PS5 gaming consoles, Macs, and PCs, the Buffalo SSD is the best value SSD on the market today. With its fast speeds and multi-tasking capabilities, you can easily connect the device to your PC and do large, intensive tasks all at once, saving you valuable time and energy.

Not only is the Buffalo SSD fast and efficient, it's also incredibly durable and reliable. Its shock-resistant, rugged design provides drop protection, making it the ideal choice for anyone who needs to carry their data with them wherever they go. And with its compact form factor, you can easily slip it into your pocket or bag and take it with you on-the-go.

Whether you're a professional in need of fast and secure storage for your photos, videos, and documents, or simply want to save space on your gaming console by storing your game data on an external drive, the Buffalo SSD is the perfect choice.

And with USB 3.2 connectivity and support for both USB-C and USB-A, connecting the Buffalo SSD to your PC and other mobile devices has never been easier. Plus, with a three-year warranty for registered devices (two years if unregistered), you can rest assured that your investment is protected.

9. Gforce 3 Silver: 10tb External Hdd For All

The Fantom Drives Gforce 3 Professional external hard drive is a reliable and high-performance storage device suitable for both Windows and Mac users. This external hard drive comes preformatted for Windows but can be easily reformatted for Mac without the need for any software installation. It is ready to use right out of the box.

With 7200RPM hard drives, the Gforce 3 Professional offers 33% faster performance than regular 5400RPM drives. It also features USB 3.2 Gen 1 which allows for transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps, making it a perfect choice for data-intensive tasks. The external hard drive comes with a USB cable and is backwards compatible with USB 2.0. It also features an eSATA port for specialized uses.

The hard-bodied aluminum construction of the Gforce 3 Professional provides excellent protection for the drives and doubles as a heat sink to keep temperatures cool and operation quiet. Whether you're a Windows user (Vista, 7, 8, 10 or newer), a Mac user (OS X or newer), a PlayStation (PS4) gamer, or an Xbox One (Original, S, X) user, this external hard drive will work seamlessly with your device.

The Fantom Drives Gforce 3 Professional comes with a 1-year limited warranty for long-term peace of mind. If you register your product with Fantom Drives, you will get an extra year of warranty for free. This external hard drive is a reliable and efficient storage device that offers great value for money.

10. Super-Sized Storage: Wd 12tb Elements!

Looking for a reliable and high-capacity storage solution? Look no further than the add-on storage from WD. With its impressive storage capacity, this device offers plenty of space for all your important files and documents, making it ideal for both personal and professional use.

One of the standout features of this add-on storage is its fast data transfer speeds. Thanks to its advanced technology, users can enjoy lightning-fast file transfers and backup times, ensuring that their data is always safe and secure. Whether you're working on a large project or simply need to transfer a few files, this add-on storage is up to the task.

Designed to be plug-and-play ready for Windows PCs, this add-on storage is incredibly user-friendly. Simply plug it in and start using it right away – no complicated setup or installation required. And with its sleek design and durable construction, you can trust that this device will provide reliable and long-lasting performance.

But perhaps the most impressive aspect of this add-on storage is its WD quality. Built with the highest standards of quality and reliability in mind, this device is designed to meet the needs of even the most demanding users. So if you're looking for a high-capacity, fast, and reliable storage solution, look no further than the add-on storage from WD.

Best External Hard Drive For Long Term Storage FAQs

Are external hard drives with solid-state drives better for long-term storage?

External hard drives with solid-state drives (SSDs) are generally considered to be better for long-term storage than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) because SSDs have no moving parts, which makes them less susceptible to physical damage and wear and tear over time. Additionally, SSDs have faster data transfer rates and can access data more quickly than HDDs, which can be beneficial for retrieving data from storage over long periods of time.

However, it's important to note that all storage devices, including SSDs, have a limited lifespan. The lifespan of an SSD depends on various factors, such as the number of write cycles, storage temperature, and usage patterns. Therefore, it's important to properly store and maintain any external hard drive to ensure its longevity, regardless of whether it has an SSD or HDD.

Ultimately, whether an external hard drive with an SSD is better for long-term storage depends on individual needs and preferences. SSDs tend to be more expensive than HDDs and may not offer as much storage capacity, so it's important to consider these factors when choosing a storage device for long-term use.

Can external hard drives be used for archiving and long-term storage of digital media files?

Yes, external hard drives can be used for archiving and long-term storage of digital media files. In fact, they are one of the most common and convenient options for storing large amounts of data, including photos, videos, music, and documents.

When choosing an external hard drive for archiving purposes, it is important to look for a drive with a large capacity and a reliable brand. It is also recommended to use a backup system to ensure that your data is protected in case of drive failure or other issues.

Additionally, it is important to store the external hard drive in a safe and dry place, away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and the risk of physical damage. With proper care and maintenance, an external hard drive can provide a reliable and cost-effective option for long-term storage of digital media files.

How long do external hard drives last as a reliable long-term storage solution?

External hard drives can be a reliable long-term storage solution, but their lifespan depends on various factors such as usage, environment, and manufacturer quality. Generally, external hard drives can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years or more if they are well-maintained and not subjected to physical damage or extreme temperatures.

To prolong the lifespan of your external hard drive, it is important to keep it in a cool, dry, and dust-free environment. Avoid dropping or mishandling the drive, and always eject it properly before disconnecting it from your computer to prevent data corruption.

Regularly backing up your data and replacing your external hard drive after a few years can also help ensure the long-term reliability of your storage solution. Additionally, choosing a reputable manufacturer and purchasing a drive with a longer warranty can provide added peace of mind.

In summary, while external hard drives can be a reliable long-term storage solution, it is important to take proper care of them and be aware of their potential lifespan limitations.

How much storage capacity should I consider for long-term storage?

When it comes to long-term storage, you want to make sure that you have enough storage capacity to accommodate your needs. The amount of storage capacity you should consider will depend on what you plan to store and how long you plan to store it.

If you are storing digital files, such as photos, videos, and documents, you will need to consider the size of each file and how many files you have. A general rule of thumb is to have at least 3 times the storage capacity of what you currently need. For example, if you have 100GB of files, you should consider at least 300GB of storage capacity.

If you are storing physical items, such as boxes, furniture, or equipment, you will need to consider how much space each item takes up. Make sure to measure the items and factor in any additional space needed for movement and accessibility.

In general, it is always better to have more storage capacity than less, as it will give you room to grow and accommodate any future storage needs. So, if you are unsure, it is always a good idea to err on the side of caution and choose a larger storage capacity.

How often should I access my external hard drive to maintain its long-term reliability?

Accessing your external hard drive frequently does not affect its long-term reliability. In fact, accessing it regularly may even increase its lifespan since it helps to circulate the lubricant inside the hard drive. However, it is important to note that external hard drives are still susceptible to wear and tear, and may eventually fail due to physical damage, manufacturing defects, or other factors.

To maintain the long-term reliability of your external hard drive, it is recommended to handle it with care, store it in a cool and dry place, and avoid extreme temperatures or humidity. Additionally, you should always safely eject the drive before unplugging it from your computer to prevent data loss or corruption.

Regularly backing up your data is also crucial to avoid losing important files in case of hard drive failure. It is recommended to back up your data on an external hard drive or in the cloud at least once a week, depending on how frequently you use your computer and how important your data is.

How should I store my external hard drive to ensure long-term reliability?

To ensure long-term reliability of your external hard drive, proper storage is crucial. Here are some tips for storing your external hard drive:

1. Keep it in a cool and dry place: High temperatures and humidity can damage the internal components of your hard drive. Therefore, it is important to store your external hard drive in a cool and dry place.

2. Avoid exposure to sunlight: Direct sunlight can also damage the internal components of your hard drive. Therefore, it is advisable to store your external hard drive in a place where it is not exposed to direct sunlight.

3. Use a protective case: A protective case can help protect your hard drive from scratches, dust and other physical damage. Make sure to use a case that fits the size of your hard drive.

4. Keep it away from magnetic fields: Magnetic fields can erase data from your hard drive. Therefore, it is important to keep your external hard drive away from sources of magnetic fields such as speakers, televisions, and other electronic devices.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your external hard drive remains reliable for a longer period of time.

What are the recommended file formats for long-term storage on external hard drives?

When it comes to long-term storage on external hard drives, it's important to choose file formats that are widely supported and have a low risk of becoming obsolete. The recommended file formats for long-term storage on external hard drives include:

1. PDF (Portable Document Format): This file format is widely used and can be opened on any device with a PDF reader. It's also a good format for storing documents with complex formatting.

2. JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group): JPEG is a popular image file format that is widely supported and can be opened on any device with an image viewer. However, it is a lossy file format, which means that it compresses the image and some quality is lost.

3. MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14): MP4 is a commonly used video file format that is compatible with most devices. It is also a good format for storing audio files.

4. TXT (Plain Text): This file format is simple and easy to use. It can be opened on any device with a text editor, and it's a good format for storing documents that don't require complex formatting.

It's important to keep in mind that no file format is completely future-proof, so it's a good idea to keep multiple copies of important files in different formats and update them regularly to ensure they remain accessible.

What are the top brands of external hard drives for long-term storage?

There are several top brands of external hard drives that are known for their reliability and durability for long-term storage. Some of the most popular brands include Seagate, Western Digital, Toshiba, and LaCie.

Seagate is a well-known brand for its high-quality hard drives that are designed to last for years. Their Backup Plus and Expansion series are popular choices for long-term storage.

Western Digital is another trusted brand that offers a range of external hard drives for various storage needs. Their My Passport and My Book series are popular choices for long-term storage.

Toshiba is also a reliable brand that offers a range of external hard drives for long-term storage. Their Canvio series is known for its durability and reliability.

LaCie is a premium brand that offers high-performance external hard drives for professional and creative users. Their Rugged and Porsche Design series are popular choices for long-term storage.

Overall, when choosing an external hard drive for long-term storage, it is important to consider factors such as capacity, speed, durability, and reliability, and choose a brand that offers the best combination of these features for your specific needs.

What kind of data backup options are available for external hard drives used for long-term storage?

There are several data backup options available for external hard drives used for long-term storage. One of the most popular options is to manually copy and paste files onto the external hard drive. This method is simple and easy, but can be time-consuming and prone to errors.

Another option is to use backup software that automatically copies and stores data on the external hard drive. This method can be more convenient and efficient, but may require additional setup and configuration.

Cloud backup services are also an option for external hard drive backup. These services allow you to upload your data to a remote server, providing an additional layer of protection against data loss. However, these services often come with a subscription fee and require an internet connection.

Lastly, some external hard drives come with built-in backup software that automatically backs up data on a regular basis. These drives may be more expensive, but offer a convenient and reliable backup solution.

Ultimately, the best backup option will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It is important to choose a backup method that is reliable, secure, and fits within your budget.

What type of connection is best for an external hard drive for long-term storage?

For long-term storage, it is recommended to use an external hard drive with a wired connection such as USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt. These connections provide faster data transfer rates and more stable connections compared to wireless options like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Additionally, USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt connections are widely available on most computers and laptops, making them a convenient choice for most users. It is also important to choose an external hard drive with a high-quality enclosure and reliable components to ensure the longevity and safety of your data. Overall, a wired connection like USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt, combined with a high-quality external hard drive, is the best choice for long-term storage of important data.

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