If you’re looking for the best external hard drive for video editing, there are several factors you need to consider before making a purchase. First, you need to determine the amount of storage you require. The larger the video files, the more storage you’ll need. You also need to consider the connectivity options of the external hard drive. USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt are faster options compared to USB 2.0. Additionally, you need to look for features such as durability, portability, and reliability.
Selecting the right external hard drive can be a challenging task. Ensuring that you have the best external hard drive for video editing can be critical to the success of your project. One of the most important factors to consider is the size of the hard drive. Video files can take up a lot of space, so it’s essential to ensure you have enough storage capacity. Speed is another crucial aspect to consider since you don't want to waste your time waiting for videos to load. Lastly, durability and reliability are critical factors to ensure your external hard drive can handle the wear and tear of everyday use.
Are you struggling to find the best external hard drive for your video editing projects? Do you need storage that can handle your large video files? How do you know which connectivity option is the best for you? By determining your requirements and keeping in mind the factors mentioned above, you can make the right decision in choosing the perfect external hard drive for your video editing needs.
10 Best External Hard Drive For Video Editing
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1
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Ideal for safe and secure storage of large amounts of data with password protection and automatic backup software.
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2
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Ideal for use as a network attached storage hard drive with RAID capability and high storage capacity.
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3
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Fast and portable external storage solution for laptops, desktops, and other devices.
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4
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Ideal for professionals and outdoor enthusiasts requiring reliable, waterproof storage with fast transfer speeds for large files.
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5
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This product is ideal for storing and transferring large amounts of data securely and quickly, even in rugged environments.
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6
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The product is ideal for storing and transferring large amounts of data quickly, making it a suitable choice for professionals.
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7
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The product is ideal for high-speed data transfer and storage for desktop computers or media production equipment.
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8
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Ideal for high-speed data transfer and durable performance in harsh environments like dust and water.
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9
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The product is ideal for those who need a portable and durable external hard drive with high storage capacity.
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10
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Ideal for storing and transporting data in challenging outdoor environments, with shock, dust, and rain resistance.
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1. My Book 12tb: Protected Usb Hdd Backup

This high-capacity external hard drive offers up to 18TB of storage space, providing ample room for all your important files, documents, and media. It should be noted that the actual user capacity may be slightly less depending on your operating environment.
The device comes equipped with software that allows for easy management and backup of your data, as well as password protection for added security. Please note that downloading and installing the software is required, and that terms and conditions may apply. Additionally, a user account registration may be necessary.
In order to ensure your data is kept safe and secure, this external hard drive features 256-bit AES hardware encryption. This advanced encryption technology provides reliable protection against unauthorized access to your data.
For fast and efficient data transfer, this external hard drive boasts SuperSpeed USB connectivity, with speeds of up to 5 Gbps. It is also compatible with USB 2.0 devices, allowing for seamless compatibility with a wide range of devices and systems.
2. Ironwolf 8tb Nas Drive – Ready For Raid!

For those seeking top-of-the-line performance in a multi-user NAS environment, look no further than IronWolf Internal Hard Drives. With a data transfer rate of 6.0 gigabits per second, these drives are the ideal solution for systems with up to 8 bays.
With a massive 8TB of storage capacity and a cache of up to 256MB, IronWolf is optimized for NAS enclosures, delivering unparalleled performance and reliability. These drives are designed to minimize wear and tear, producing little to no noise or vibration, and eliminating lags or downtime. IronWolf also provides increased file-sharing performance, making it perfect for demanding workloads and heavy usage.
With the integrated IronWolf Health Management system, monitoring the health of your drives is easy. This feature ensures long-term reliability, with a 1 million hour MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) rating. Additionally, IronWolf comes with a five-year limited product warranty protection plan and three-year Rescue Data Recovery Services, giving you peace of mind and protection for your investment.
3. Samsung T7 Portable Ssd 500gb: Lightning-Fast Storage

Looking for a reliable and fast way to transfer files? Look no further than the Samsung Portable SSD T7. This state-of-the-art device can transfer files nearly 9.5 times faster than an external hard disk drive, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to move data quickly and efficiently.
With read speeds of up to 1,050 Mb/s and write speeds of up to 1,000 Mb/s on USB 3.2 Gen 2 supported devices, the Samsung Portable SSD T7 is designed to deliver exceptional performance. But don't just take our word for it – Samsung recommends that users download the latest firmware update via the included Portable SSD Software 1.0 to ensure optimal performance.
It's worth noting that data transfer speeds may vary depending on the user's PC environment and the types of data being transferred. To achieve maximum transfer speeds of 1,050 Mb/s, USB 3.2 Gen2 and UASP support are required.
To get the most out of the Samsung Portable SSD T7, it's important to use the included USB Type-C to C and USB Type-C to A cables. Non-original cables may cause performance degradation due to the varying internal resistance and maximum allowable currency.
4. Ultimate 4tb Rugged Ssd For Pros

Introducing the ultra-rugged and high-performing external hard drive that's perfect for professionals on-the-go. With an IP67 water and dust resistance rating, this device is built to withstand tough environments and is even tested to withstand immersion in water up to 1m for up to 30 minutes. Additionally, it can survive drops of up to 3M and 2000lb crush resistance, making it one of the most durable external hard drives on the market. (Please note that limited dust contact does not interfere with operation, but it must be clean and dry before use.)
This external hard drive boasts pro-grade transfer speeds of up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write, ensuring that you can transfer large files quickly and efficiently. (Please note that performance may vary depending upon host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors.) What's more, the aluminum core provides cooling for sustained performance, ensuring that the device won't overheat under heavy use.
With up to 4TB of capacity, you can store a massive amount of data in a small and mighty design. (Please note that 1GB = 1 billion bytes and 1TB = 1 trillion bytes, and actual user capacity may be less depending on the operating environment.) This external hard drive is ready to go with Mac (HFS+) and can work with Windows via reformatting.
Finally, this external hard drive comes with an industry-leading 5-year limited warranty, giving you peace of mind that it's built to last. Whether you're a photographer, videographer, or anyone who needs a reliable and high-performing external hard drive, this device is the perfect choice.
5. Lacie Rugged Thunderbolt Usb 3.0 2tb External Hard Drive Portable Hdd (Stev2000400)

The Rugged Thunderbolt USB 3.0 is a top-of-the-line external hard drive that offers both extreme durability and lightning-fast performance. With transfer speeds of up to 130MB/s, users can capture and edit content like a pro, even when working with large files.
Designed for those who demand speed and reliability, this external hard drive comes equipped with an integrated Thunderbolt cable that seamlessly wraps around the enclosure when not in use. This feature makes it easy to transport and store the device without worrying about tangled cables or lost connections.
One of the standout features of the Rugged Thunderbolt USB 3.0 is its rugged construction. With drop, dust, and water resistance, users can confidently take this portable external hard drive on the go without worrying about damage from the elements. This makes it an ideal choice for photographers, videographers, and other creative professionals who need to work in challenging environments.
In addition to its impressive performance and durability, the Rugged Thunderbolt USB 3.0 also includes a one-month complimentary membership to Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan. This gives users access to a suite of powerful photo and video editing apps that can help take their creative work to the next level.
Finally, customers can enjoy long-term peace of mind with the included three-year limited warranty. With this coverage, users can rest assured that they are investing in a high-quality product that is built to last.
6. Sandisk Pro For Mac – 22tb Usb-C Drive

Introducing the USB-C (10Gbps) drive, perfect for fast backups with read and write speeds of up to 280MB/s. Please note that the performance of this drive may vary depending on the host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors. Its high-capacity, enterprise-class Ultrastar 7200RPM drive inside ensures that you can store all your important files and documents with ease.
This USB-C drive is Mac ready and Apple Time Machine compatible, making it a breeze to use with your Apple devices. It can also be easily reformatted for use with Windows systems. The stackable, anodized aluminum enclosure offers premium durability, ensuring that your drive is protected from any potential damage.
With three modes of brightness, you can adjust the LED lights to your desired level of brightness. This USB-C drive is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable and fast backup solution.
7. Thunderbolt 3 10tb External Hard Drive

The product being reviewed boasts of a powerful dual Thunderbolt 3 ports and a single USB-C port, both of which support USB 3.1 Gen 1. With this feature, users can effortlessly transfer data at high speeds. Additionally, the device allows for daisy chaining of up to 5 additional devices, which makes it a versatile accessory for individuals who require multiple connections.
One of the most impressive features of this product is its high-speed data transfer capabilities. With its advanced ports, users can transfer data quickly and effortlessly. Whether it is a large video file or a series of high-resolution images, this device can handle the task with ease.
Another notable feature of this product is its sturdy all-aluminum case. The casing not only gives the device a sleek and stylish look, but it also makes it highly durable. The device can withstand everyday wear and tear, ensuring that it lasts for a long time.
Furthermore, the product's daisy chaining feature is a major plus for individuals who require multiple connections. Users can connect up to five additional devices, making it a versatile accessory for various applications. This feature makes it ideal for creative professionals who need to connect multiple devices to their computer.
8. Sandisk Pro-G40 Thunderbolt Ssd – 4tb Powerhouse!

Introducing a high-speed, ultra-rugged external drive that boasts super-fast transfer speeds and a durable design – the Thunderbolt 3 External SSD. With read speeds of up to 3000MB/s(1) and write speeds of up to 2500MB/s(1), this external SSD is capable of moving 50GB of data in just one minute or less, making it an ideal choice for users who require fast and efficient data transfer.
This external SSD offers dual-mode compatibility with both Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) and USB-C (10Gbps) connectivity, making it versatile and easy to use. Whether you are using a Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C port, you can enjoy the same lightning-fast transfer speeds.
The Thunderbolt 3 External SSD is designed to withstand tough conditions. It boasts an ultra-rugged design with high-level IP68 dust/water resistance, 4000lb crush resistance, and 3m drop resistance on a carpeted concrete floor. These features ensure that your data is safe and secure, even in the harshest of environments.
The external SSD also features a cool aluminum core that pulls heat away from the internal drive, helping to maintain super-fast transfer speeds. This is an important feature for users who need to transfer large amounts of data quickly and efficiently.
The Thunderbolt 3 External SSD comes in a pro-grade enclosure that offers premium strength you can feel. This enclosure not only adds to the durability of the external drive but also gives it a sleek and professional look.
9. 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.
10. Rugged 1tb Portable Drive – Lacie Usb-C

The Rugged External Hard Drive offers a fast and reliable way to store and transfer files between the latest Windows and Mac computers. With its reversible USB-C cable, users can easily connect to their devices without worrying about the orientation of the plug. For legacy computers, the package comes with a USB 3.0 adapter that allows backward compatibility.
This external hard drive allows for fast file transfers, backups, and image browsing with a USB-C 5Gb/s interface. This makes it ideal for creative professionals who need to work on high-resolution files and large media projects. The Rugged External Hard Drive is also designed to handle any terrain with its drop, crush, and rain resistance. This makes it a perfect companion for outdoor adventures or rough working environments.
In addition to its impressive durability, the Rugged External Hard Drive also offers a complimentary one-month membership to the Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan. This gives users access to a wide range of photo and video editing apps that can help enhance their creative projects.
The Rugged External Hard Drive comes with a two-year limited warranty protection plan and Rescue Data Recovery services. This ensures that users can enjoy long-term peace of mind knowing that their data is secure. With its fast transfer speeds, rugged design, and extra features, the Rugged External Hard Drive is an excellent choice for anyone in need of an external storage device.
Best External Hard Drive For Video Editing FAQs
Are SSD or HDD external hard drives better for video editing?
When it comes to video editing, SSD external hard drives are generally considered better than HDD external hard drives. The reason for this is that SSDs have faster read and write speeds than HDDs, which means that they can transfer data much more quickly. This is especially important for video editing, as video files tend to be very large and require a lot of data transfer.
Furthermore, SSDs are also more durable than HDDs, as they have no moving parts. This means that they are less susceptible to physical damage and are less likely to fail over time. Additionally, they produce less noise and generate less heat than HDDs, making them more suitable for use in quiet environments.
That being said, SSDs can be more expensive than HDDs, so the choice ultimately depends on your budget and specific needs. If you are working with large video files and require fast transfer speeds, an SSD external hard drive would be the better option. However, if you are on a tight budget and don't require the fastest transfer speeds, an HDD external hard drive may be sufficient for your needs.
Can I edit 4K videos on an external hard drive? If so, what specifications should I look for?
Yes, it is possible to edit 4K videos on an external hard drive. However, it is important to ensure that the hard drive meets the necessary specifications to handle the high-resolution footage.
Firstly, you should look for an external hard drive that has a fast transfer speed. This will ensure that data is transferred quickly and seamlessly between the hard drive and your computer. Look for a hard drive with a transfer speed of at least 5 Gbps or higher.
Secondly, you should look for a hard drive with a large storage capacity. 4K videos can take up a lot of space, so it is important to have enough storage space to accommodate your footage. Look for a hard drive with at least 2TB of storage capacity or higher.
Finally, it is recommended to use a hard drive with a USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt connection for maximum speed and performance. These connections are faster than USB 2.0 and will result in smoother video editing.
Overall, when looking for an external hard drive to edit 4K videos, it is important to consider transfer speed, storage capacity, and connection type.
How much should I expect to spend on an external hard drive for video editing?
The cost of an external hard drive for video editing can vary depending on the storage capacity and speed required for your workflow. As a general rule of thumb, a reliable external hard drive with at least 1TB of storage capacity can cost anywhere between $50 to $150. However, if you require higher speeds for faster data transfer and editing, you may need to invest in a solid-state drive (SSD) which can cost significantly more.
Another factor to consider is the connectivity options of the external hard drive. If you need to transfer large files quickly, you may want to consider a Thunderbolt or USB 3.0 connection which can provide faster transfer speeds than USB 2.0.
Ultimately, it is important to assess your specific needs and budget to determine the best external hard drive for your video editing needs. It may be worth investing in a higher-end product to ensure efficient and reliable performance, especially if video editing is a regular part of your work or hobby.
How much storage capacity do I need for video editing on an external hard drive?
The amount of storage capacity required for video editing on an external hard drive depends on various factors such as the resolution, frame rate, codec, and length of the video footage. For example, a 4K resolution video will require more storage space than a 1080p resolution video. Similarly, videos shot at higher frame rates will require more space than those shot at lower frame rates.
As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to have at least 500GB to 1TB of storage capacity for video editing purposes. This should be sufficient for most video editing projects. However, if you are working on large-scale projects with high-resolution footage, you may require more storage space. In such cases, you can consider investing in external hard drives with storage capacities ranging from 2TB to 8TB or more.
It is also important to ensure that the external hard drive you choose has fast read and write speeds for smooth video editing. Look for hard drives with USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt connectivity for faster data transfer rates.
Is it necessary to have a Thunderbolt connection for video editing on an external hard drive?
It is not necessary to have a Thunderbolt connection for video editing on an external hard drive, but it can greatly improve the speed and efficiency of the editing process. Thunderbolt technology allows for faster data transfer speeds than USB or FireWire connections, which means that large video files can be transferred to and from the external hard drive more quickly. This can save time and reduce the risk of dropped frames or other issues that can arise during video editing. However, if your computer or external hard drive does not have a Thunderbolt connection, you can still edit video using a USB or FireWire connection. Just be aware that the transfer speeds may be slower and you may need to make other adjustments to ensure smooth editing.
What are the key features to 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 key features to look for when choosing an external hard drive for video editing:
1. Fast transfer speeds: Look for an external hard drive with fast read and write speeds. This will minimize the time it takes to transfer large video files to and from the drive.
2. Large storage capacity: Video files can take up a lot of space, so it's important to have a hard drive with a large storage capacity. Consider how much storage you'll need for your current projects and future ones.
3. Compatibility: Make sure the external hard drive is compatible with your computer's operating system and video editing software.
4. Durability: External hard drives can be prone to damage if dropped or bumped. Look for a drive that is built to withstand some wear and tear.
5. RAID support: If you're working on large-scale video projects, consider an external hard drive with RAID support. This allows for multiple drives to work together for added speed and redundancy.
Overall, when choosing an external hard drive for video editing, prioritize speed, capacity, compatibility, durability, and RAID support if needed.
What are the pros and cons of using a portable vs desktop external hard drive for video editing?
When it comes to video editing, external hard drives are essential to store and manage large files. However, deciding between a portable and desktop external hard drive can be a tough choice. Here are some pros and cons of each:
Portable External Hard Drive:
Pros:
1. Portability: You can carry it with you anywhere you go.
2. Lightweight: It’s typically smaller and lighter, making it more convenient to move around.
3. USB-powered: No need for an external power source.
Cons:
1. Limited storage: The maximum storage capacity is usually lower than desktop external hard drives.
2. Slower transfer speed: They typically have slower transfer speeds because of their smaller size.
Desktop External Hard Drive:
Pros:
1. Larger storage: The maximum storage capacity is usually much higher than portable external hard drives.
2. Faster transfer speed: They typically have faster transfer speeds because of their larger size.
3. Better durability: They’re generally built to last longer than portable external hard drives.
Cons:
1. Less portable: They’re larger and heavier, making them less convenient to carry around.
2. External power source: They require an external power source to function.
Overall, the choice between a portable and desktop external hard drive depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you value portability and convenience, a portable external hard drive may be the best option for you. However, if you need more storage capacity and faster transfer speeds, a desktop external hard drive may be the better choice.
What do other video editors recommend as the best external hard drive for video editing?
When it comes to video editing, it's important to have a reliable external hard drive that can handle large files and provide fast transfer speeds. Many professional video editors recommend the G-Technology G-Drive Pro SSD as the best external hard drive for video editing. This drive offers lightning-fast transfer speeds of up to 2800MB/s, making it ideal for 4K and high-resolution video editing. It also has a durable and rugged design, which makes it perfect for on-the-go editing. Another popular option is the LaCie Rugged Thunderbolt external hard drive, which is designed to withstand harsh environments and has fast transfer speeds of up to 130MB/s. Other highly rated external hard drives for video editing include the Samsung T5 Portable SSD and the Western Digital My Passport Wireless SSD. Ultimately, the best external hard drive for video editing will depend on your specific needs and budget.
What speed should I look for in an external hard drive for video editing?
When it comes to video editing, the speed of an external hard drive is crucial as it directly impacts the performance and efficiency of the editing process. For video editing purposes, you should look for an external hard drive that has a fast transfer speed, preferably 7200 RPM or higher. The higher the RPM, the faster the drive will be able to read and write data.
Additionally, you should also consider the type of connection interface of the external hard drive. USB 3.0 is the minimum standard you should look for, but Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C would be even better options. These interfaces offer faster data transfer rates than USB 3.0, which means you can transfer large files quickly and efficiently.
Overall, for smooth video editing, it is recommended to invest in an external hard drive with at least 7200 RPM and a fast connection interface. This will ensure that your editing software can access and work with your video files without any lag or delays.
Which brands offer the best external hard drives for video editing?
When it comes to video editing, having a reliable external hard drive is essential. There are several brands that offer the best external hard drives for video editing. One of the most popular brands is Western Digital. Their My Passport and My Book series are great options for video editors as they offer high-capacity storage options and fast data transfer speeds.
Another great brand for external hard drives is Seagate. Their Backup Plus and Expansion series offer similar features to Western Digital with high-capacity storage and fast data transfer speeds.
For those looking for a more portable option, LaCie is a great brand to consider. Their Rugged and Porsche Design series offer durable and compact external hard drives that are perfect for video editors on-the-go.
Finally, G-Technology is another popular brand among video editors. Their G-Drive series offers high-capacity storage options and fast data transfer speeds, making them a top choice for those working with large video files.
Overall, when looking for the best external hard drives for video editing, it’s important to consider storage capacity, data transfer speeds, and durability. Western Digital, Seagate, LaCie, and G-Technology are all reliable brands that offer great options for video editors.