As a gamer, you know how important it is to have a fast and reliable external SSD to store your game files. But with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best external SSD for your PC gaming needs. In this article, we will discuss the key points you should consider when looking for the best external SSD for PC gaming.
Firstly, you should consider the storage capacity of the SSD. As games these days are becoming larger and larger, a minimum of 1TB storage is recommended for most gamers. Secondly, the read and write speed of the SSD is important for faster game loading times. Look for SSDs with read speeds of at least 500 MB/s and write speeds of at least 400 MB/s.
Thirdly, the durability and portability of the SSD is important if you plan to carry it around frequently. Look for SSDs with a sturdy build and shock-resistant features. Fourthly, the compatibility of the SSD with your PC is crucial. Ensure that the SSD is compatible with your PC’s operating system and has the necessary ports for connectivity.
Lastly, consider the price of the SSD. While high-end SSDs may offer better performance, they can also be more expensive. Determine your budget and choose an SSD that offers the best value for money.
In summary, when looking for the best external SSD for PC gaming, consider the storage capacity, read and write speed, durability and portability, compatibility, and price. With these key points in mind, you can make an informed decision and choose the best SSD for your gaming needs.
10 Best External Ssd For Pc Gaming
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
|
|
|
2
|
 |
|
|
|
3
|
 |
|
|
|
4
|
 |
|
|
|
5
|
 |
|
|
|
6
|
 |
|
|
|
7
|
 |
|
|
|
8
|
 |
|
|
|
9
|
 |
|
|
|
10
|
 |
|
1. 2tb Seagate Firecuda Gaming Ssd External Drive With Usb-C & Nvme For Pc/laptop (Stjp2000400)
The Seagate Firecuda Gaming SSD 2TB External Solid State Drive is a must-have for gamers who want high-speed, no-lag performance. This portable USB-C drive harnesses the power of fierce FireCuda NVMe SSD performance and cutting-edge USB 3.2 gen 2×2 technology to offer speeds of up to 2000MB/s, ensuring that your gaming experience is smooth and uninterrupted.
With up to 2TB of capacity, you can store a massive library of games and content without worrying about running out of space. This makes it the ideal solution for a PC or laptop SSD, giving you the freedom to store all your favorite games and media in one place.
The FireCuda Gaming SSD comes with customizable RGB LED lights that sync with the Seagate FireCuda Gaming Dock, allowing you to enhance and personalize your desktop gaming setup. Its compact, lightweight, industrial design complements premium gaming rigs, while its sturdy aluminum enclosure offers cooling and heat dissipation for extended reliability. Additionally, it's USB-powered, which means you don't need an external power supply.
The Seagate Firecuda Gaming SSD comes with a limited product warranty protection plan and Rescue Services, giving you long-term peace of mind. You can rest assured that your investment is protected, and in the unlikely event of a problem, you can rely on Seagate's excellent customer service to help you resolve any issues.
In summary, the Seagate Firecuda Gaming SSD 2TB External Solid State Drive is a high-performance, reliable, and customizable storage solution for gamers who demand the best. With its cutting-edge technology, massive storage capacity, and personalized RGB lighting, it's the perfect addition to any gaming setup.
2. Samsung T7 Portable Ssd 1tb – Fast, Reliable Storage For Gaming, Students, And Professionals.
The SAMSUNG SSD T7 Portable External Solid State Drive is a reliable storage solution for gaming, students, and professionals. This pocket-sized device is designed to transfer large files quickly and efficiently, making it an ideal choice for those who need to store crucial business documents, games, or movies.
With USB 3.2 Gen 2 technology and embedded PCIe NVMe technology, the T7 delivers incredible speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s for sequential read/write operations. This makes it twice as fast as the previous T5 model, allowing users to transfer massive files within seconds.
In addition to its speed, the T7 is built strong and secure. Unlike HDDs, it has no moving parts, making it more resistant to shock. Its solid aluminum unibody construction adds further protection, keeping your data safe from falls of up to 6 ft. The device is also backed by a 3-year limited warranty for added peace of mind.
The T7's advanced thermal solution uses the Dynamic Thermal Guard to control heat and ensure that the portable SSD stays at an optimal temperature even at fast speeds. This makes it a reliable choice for professionals who need to work with large files for extended periods.
The T7 is sleek and compact, roughly the size of a credit card and weighing only 2 oz. It fits comfortably in the palm of your hand and is light enough to take your files on the go. Users can choose from three capacities to fit their lifestyle demands: 500 GB, 1TB, or 2TB. Additionally, the T7 is available in classic gray, striking blue, and red to suit different tastes.
Setting up the T7 is simple and straightforward. The device comes embedded with software to help users set up a password and get the latest firmware updates for their PC, Mac, or Android devices. Users can also download the mobile app for Android smartphones and tablets.
Overall, the SAMSUNG SSD T7 Portable External Solid State Drive is a reliable, fast, and secure storage solution that is perfect for gaming, students, and professionals who need to transfer and store large files quickly and efficiently.
3. Samsung T7 Portable Ssd 1tb, Usb 3.2, Ip65 Water Resistant, Compatible With Pc/mac/android/gaming Consoles (Mupe1t0k/am) – Beige (2022)
The SAMSUNG T7 Shield Portable Solid State Drive USB 3.2 1TB, IP65 Water Resistant, External SSD is a rugged and durable storage device that offers exceptional performance and reliability. It is built to withstand tough conditions with an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, making it suitable for use in harsh environments.
The T7 Shield is equipped with USB 3.2 Gen 2 and PCIe NVMe, which enables it to achieve blazing sequential read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s. This makes it ideal for transferring large files quickly, and even editing directly from the drive. The high-tech rubber exterior with Dynamic Thermal Guard controls heat to maintain steady performance for even giant projects.
The T7 Shield is designed to be tough and durable, with an advanced outer elastomer that adds extra durability to even endure a 9.8-foot drop. It is compatible with PC, Mac, Android devices, gaming consoles, and more, making it a versatile storage solution for a wide range of devices. The box includes USB Type C-to-C and Type C-to-A cables for added convenience.
The T7 Shield is available in 1TB or 2TB capacity options and comes in sleek colorways of blue, beige, or black. The stylish rubberized grip prevents slips, ensuring it stays securely in your hands. It offers colossal space to store all your important files and documents, and you can bring everything with you and look great doing it.
As the world's #1 flash memory brand since 2003, SAMSUNG is known for its superior performance and reliability. All firmware and components, including Samsung's world-renowned DRAM and NAND, are produced in-house, allowing end-to-end integration for quality you can trust.
In conclusion, the SAMSUNG T7 Shield Portable Solid State Drive USB 3.2 1TB, IP65 Water Resistant, External SSD is a reliable and durable storage device that offers exceptional performance and versatility. Its rugged design and advanced features make it a great choice for anyone who needs to store and transfer large files quickly and securely, even in harsh environments. With its sleek design and stylish colorways, it is also a great accessory for anyone who wants to look good while staying productive.
4. 1tb Sanzang Usb 4.0 Ssd With 3120mb/s Speed, Type C Interface, And Compatibility With Pc, Mac, Android, And Gaming Consoles.
The SANZANG USB 4.0 (40Gbps) SSD Portable External Solid State Drive 1TB is a high-speed and high-capacity storage solution that offers excellent performance and durability. With USB 4.0 and UASP Acceleration Protocol, this external SSD delivers read and write speeds of up to 3120MB/s, allowing users to transfer large files in seconds. The dynamic thermal protection technology ensures stable performance even for large-scale projects.
The Fusion 1TB SSD is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. It can be used with laptops, smartphones, gaming consoles, and other devices, providing fast data transfer and ample storage space. The internal unibody structure provides additional protection to the chip, making it resistant to external shocks.
The Portable SSD Fusion has a stylish and durable design that reflects its high-quality performance. The colorful plastic shell is designed using high-end IML technology, while the zinc alloy middle frame adds to its durability. The appearance design is inspired by the French flag, making it fashionable and trendy.
This external SSD is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android, iPad OS, and other operating systems. It comes with a 12-month warranty, which covers quality-related replacement or refund. Users can directly contact the manufacturer within the warranty period, even if the Amazon return window has closed after one month.
Overall, the SANZANG USB 4.0 (40Gbps) SSD Portable External Solid State Drive 1TB is an excellent storage solution that offers high-speed and high-capacity performance, durability, and stylish design. It is suitable for professionals, gamers, students, and anyone who needs fast and reliable storage on the go.
5. Wd_black P50 4tb Portable Ssd For Gaming – Up To 2,000 Mb/s – Compatible With Ps, Xbox, Pc & Mac – Wdba3s0040bbk-Wesn
The WD_BLACK P50 Game Drive SSD is a high-performance, portable external solid-state drive designed for gamers. With read speeds of up to 2000MB/s, this drive reduces load times and gets you into your game faster. Its performance may vary depending on usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors.
This drive is available in capacities of up to 4TB, providing ample space for your favorite games and new ones. It comes with an 18-inch USB Type-A to Micro-B cable with a SuperSpeed interface of up to 5Gbps, although cable length may vary.
The WD_BLACK P50 Game Drive SSD is shock-resistant and has a portable form factor, allowing you to access your gaming library anywhere you go. Its actual user capacity may be less depending on the operating environment. Additionally, its high-performance SSD with a SuperSpeed USB 20Gb/s interface makes it compatible with both PCs and consoles.
This drive is purpose-built for gamers based on WD_Black quality and reliability. Its design ensures that gamers can enjoy their games without worrying about load times or storage capacity. It is built to last and can withstand the rigors of regular use.
In conclusion, the WD_BLACK P50 Game Drive SSD is an ideal choice for gamers looking for a high-performance, portable, and reliable external solid-state drive. Its fast read speeds, shock-resistant design, and large storage capacity make it an excellent investment for gamers who want to enjoy their games without any interruptions.
6. 6tb Wd Elements Desktop External Hard Drive With Usb 3.0 – Plug-And-Play Storage (Wdbwlg0060hbk-Nesn)
The WD 6TB Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is an ideal solution for those who require high-capacity storage for their data. With a massive 6TB of storage capacity, this external hard drive offers ample space for large files, including photos, videos, music, and documents.
With fast data transfer speeds, the WD 6TB Elements Desktop External Hard Drive offers quick and efficient data storage and retrieval. This is made possible by the USB 3.0 interface, which delivers data transfer rates of up to 5Gbps.
The WD 6TB Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is designed for plug-and-play functionality, making it easy to use with Windows PCs. Simply connect the drive to your computer's USB port, and it will be recognized immediately, with no need for drivers or additional software.
The WD 6TB Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is built with WD quality inside and out. It features a durable, shock-resistant enclosure that protects the drive from accidental bumps and drops. The drive also comes with a two-year limited warranty, giving you peace of mind knowing that your data is safe and secure.
In conclusion, the WD 6TB Elements Desktop External Hard Drive is an impressive external storage solution that offers fast data transfer speeds, massive storage capacity, and plug-and-play functionality. With its durable design and WD quality, it is an excellent choice for those who require reliable and convenient storage for their data.
7. Sandisk 2tb Extreme Portable Ssd With Usb-C & Usb 3.2 Gen 2, Offering Up To 1050mb/s Transfer Speeds. Model: Sdssde61-2t00-G25.
The SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD is a high-performance external solid state drive that offers users exceptional speed and ample storage capacity. Boasting read speeds of up to 1050MB/s and write speeds of up to 1000MB/s, this portable drive is perfect for content creators, videographers, and photographers who require fast and reliable storage solutions for their work.
While the SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD is designed for speed and performance, it doesn't compromise on durability. With up to 2 meters of drop protection and an IP55 rating for water and dust resistance, this rugged drive is built to withstand the toughest conditions. It's perfect for use in the field or on the go, providing reliable storage and protection for your valuable data.
The SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD also comes equipped with a handy carabiner loop, allowing users to easily attach it to their belt loop or backpack for added security and peace of mind. Whether you're hiking in the mountains or exploring the city, you can rest assured that your data is safe and secure.
In addition to its impressive speed and durability, the SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD also offers advanced security features. The included password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption helps keep your private content safe and secure, ensuring that only authorized users can access your data.
Overall, the SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD is a reliable, high-performance external solid state drive that's perfect for content creators, videographers, and photographers who require fast and secure storage solutions. With its impressive speed, rugged design, and advanced security features, this portable drive is an excellent choice for anyone who needs reliable storage on the go.
8. Vectotech Rapid 8tb External Ssd – Usb-C Portable Drive With Usb 3.1 Gen 2 And 540mb/s Transfer Speeds.
The VectoTech Rapid 8TB External SSD USB-C Portable Solid State Drive is a high-performance storage device designed for users who require fast data transfer speeds and reliable durability. With read/write speeds of up to 540MB/s, this SSD enables users to transfer large files, 4K videos, and high-end gaming data in seconds. Moreover, the USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface (Type-C connection) and 3D NAND technology provide transfer speeds that are 5x faster than conventional hard drives.
The device is compatible with PC and MAC straight out of the box and comes with USB Type C to C and USB Type C to A cables, making it universal for older and newer computers. It is fully compatible with Windows (7 or higher), MAC (macOS 10.x and higher), XBOX, PS4, iPad Pro, Android smartphones with USB C port, Surveillance systems, and Thunderbolt 3 devices.
The VectoTech Rapid 8TB External SSD USB-C Portable Solid State Drive is made out of durable Aluminum 1050 grade, which makes it resistant to minor scratches while providing ideal heat dissipation. It is shock and vibration-resistant up to 1500g at 0.5m/sec, equivalent to a 6-feet drop, making it ideal for users who need to take their data with them while on the go. Additionally, it is capable of withstanding operating temperatures ranging from -13ºf (-25ºc) to 185ºf (85 ºc).
The device comes with a 3-year manufacturer warranty and technical support that can be reached at +1 (800) 987-0197. In summary, the VectoTech Rapid 8TB External SSD USB-C Portable Solid State Drive is a reliable, high-performance, and durable storage device that is ideal for users who require fast data transfer speeds and reliable durability.
9. Crucial X8 2tb Portable Ssd – Usb 3.2 – Up To 1050mb/s – Ct2000x8ssd9
The Crucial X8 2TB Portable SSD is a high-performance external solid-state drive that boasts read speeds of up to 1050 MB/s. This cutting-edge device is compatible with a wide range 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.
With its anodized aluminum core, the Crucial X8 2TB Portable SSD is built to last. It can withstand drops of up to 7.5 feet, extreme temperatures, and shock and vibration. This makes it the perfect choice for those who need a reliable and durable storage solution that can keep up with their active lifestyle.
As one of the largest manufacturers of flash storage in the world, Micron backs the Crucial X8 2TB Portable SSD. This means that you can trust that you are getting a high-quality product that has been tested to meet the rigorous standards set by Micron.
Whether you need to store large files or transfer data quickly, the Crucial X8 2TB Portable SSD is the perfect tool for the job. With its lightning-fast read speeds and high-capacity storage, you can work, play, and create without any limitations.
In summary, the Crucial X8 2TB Portable SSD is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable and high-performance external solid-state drive. Its compatibility with a wide range of devices, durable design, and fast read speeds make it an ideal choice for professionals and consumers alike.
10. Wd_black 1tb Nvme Gaming Ssd With Heatsink For Ps5, Gen4 Pcie, M.2 2280, Up To 7,000 Mb/s – Wds100t1xhe.
The WD_BLACK 1TB SN850 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive with Heatsink is a high-performance storage solution designed for top-tier gaming enthusiasts. It features next-generation PCIe Gen4 technology, which is optimized for gaming applications and delivers incredibly fast read and write speeds of up to 7000/5300MB/s (1TB model) and up to 1,000,000 IOPS (1TB and 2TB models). With up to 2TB of storage capacity, this SSD can easily accommodate all your favorite battle-ready games.
The WD_BLACK Dashboard software, which is available for Windows only, allows users to customize and control their gaming experience. The software provides users with real-time performance and health monitoring, as well as the ability to optimize their gaming settings for maximum performance.
One of the standout features of this SSD is its sleek Heatsink model, which minimizes thermal throttling and helps push the boundaries of performance for top-tier gaming. The heatsink is designed to dissipate heat quickly and efficiently, which can help improve overall system performance and stability.
Additionally, the WD_BLACK 1TB SN850 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive with Heatsink is now compatible with PlayStation 5 consoles (PS5 system software version 21.02-04.00.00 or higher required). This means that gamers can enjoy lightning-fast load times and improved performance when playing their favorite games on the PS5.
Overall, the WD_BLACK 1TB SN850 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive with Heatsink is an excellent choice for anyone looking to take their gaming experience to the next level. With its next-gen technology, incredibly fast read and write speeds, and customizable Dashboard software, this SSD is a top-of-the-line storage solution for serious gamers.
Best External Ssd For Pc Gaming FAQs
Can an external SSD improve gaming performance on a PC?
No, an external SSD cannot directly improve gaming performance on a PC. The performance of a game is primarily determined by the internal components of the computer, such as the CPU, GPU, and RAM. However, an external SSD can improve the overall performance of the PC by providing faster data transfer speeds and quicker load times for game files and applications. This can lead to a smoother gaming experience and faster game load times, but will not directly increase the frame rate or graphical quality of a game. Additionally, if the PC's internal hard drive is slow or running out of space, upgrading to an external SSD can help to alleviate these issues and improve overall performance. Overall, while an external SSD may not directly improve gaming performance, it can still provide benefits to the overall performance of a PC.
What are the pros and cons of using an external SSD over an internal SSD for PC gaming?
Using an external SSD for PC gaming has its advantages and disadvantages. One of the main advantages is that it can be easily moved between computers, making it a portable solution. Additionally, an external SSD allows for more storage capacity without having to replace the internal drive. However, using an external SSD can result in slower loading times compared to an internal SSD due to the limited bandwidth of USB connections. It also adds an extra layer of complexity to the setup, as the drive requires a separate power source and may not be compatible with all systems. On the other hand, an internal SSD offers faster speeds and better performance, but it requires opening up the computer case and potentially voiding warranty. Ultimately, the decision to use an external or internal SSD comes down to personal preference and specific use cases.
What are the top brands of external SSDs for PC gaming?
The top brands of external SSDs for PC gaming are Samsung, Seagate, Western Digital, SanDisk, and Crucial. These brands offer fast read and write speeds, high capacity storage options, and durability for gaming enthusiasts. Samsung's T5 and T7 Touch models are popular among gamers for their compact design and high-speed performance. Seagate's Fast SSD and Expansion Portable SSD are also reliable options for gamers looking for fast speeds and reliable storage. Western Digital offers the My Passport SSD, which is another popular choice for gaming enthusiasts. SanDisk's Extreme Pro Portable SSD and Crucial's X8 Portable SSD are also worth considering for their fast transfer speeds and rugged design. Overall, these top brands offer a range of options to suit the needs of PC gamers who require fast and reliable external storage solutions.
What features should I look for when choosing the best external SSD for PC gaming?
When choosing an external SSD for PC gaming, some important features to consider include the storage capacity, data transfer speed, durability, and compatibility. A larger storage capacity is preferred, as modern games can take up a lot of space. Data transfer speed is also essential since games with high graphics require fast loading times. It is essential to choose an external SSD with a high-speed interface such as USB 3.1 or Thunderbolt 3. Durability is also important, especially if you travel with your external SSD. Look for SSDs with rugged designs, shock resistance, and water resistance. Finally, ensure compatibility with your PC by checking the operating system requirements and the type of USB port available. Overall, a high-capacity external SSD with fast data transfer speed, rugged design, and compatibility with your PC's ports and operating system is an ideal choice for gaming.
What is the ideal storage capacity for an external SSD for PC gaming?
The ideal storage capacity for an external SSD for PC gaming depends on the user's individual needs and budget. However, a minimum of 500GB is recommended for most gamers, as games and their updates can take up significant amounts of space. If the user is a serious gamer or content creator, a larger capacity of 1TB or more may be necessary.
It's important to consider the speed of the external SSD as well, as faster read and write speeds will result in quicker load times and smoother gameplay. The connection type should also be considered, with USB 3.1 or Thunderbolt 3 providing the fastest transfer speeds.
Ultimately, the ideal storage capacity for an external SSD for PC gaming will depend on the user's specific needs and budget, but a minimum of 500GB is recommended for most users.