Hard disk drives (HDDs) can get damaged when dropped.

Solid state drives (SSDs) have limited read and write cycles.

To ensure your data remains safe and secure, consider one of these long-lasting external drives.

Man on top of a mountain

Here are the most durable portable hard drives and SSDs you’re able to buy today.

The small, compact design is excellent for portability.

you might throw the SSD in your bag and have it with you on all of your adventures.

OWC Envoy Pro EX Thunderbolt 3 Size

The build quality on this drive is excellent, meeting MIL-STD810G drop protection standards.

It has a shock-absorbing bumper to survive the bangs and drops when used outdoors.

The Rugged SSD is fast and responsive, with speeds of up to 1050MB/s.

LaCie Rugged SSD

It has a specially designed rubber enclosure to give it long-lasting protection against drops and bumps.

The Armor A30 is pocket-sized and great for portability.

It offers plenty of storage space with capacities up to 2TB, ideal for storing large files and backups.

CalDigit Tuff Nano Colors

But the best part is the level of durability and protection you get for such a tiny drive.

With an IP67 rating, the drive can survive splashes and up to 3.3 feet underwater for 30 minutes.

The Tuff Nano is also impressive in performance, offering speeds of up to 1,055MB/s and 1TB of storage.

SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD

The drive comes preformatted for macOS, but it is also compatible with Windows.

The drive is designed for creators on the go.

So, ensure the port is dry and clean before use.

OWC Envoy Pro EX Thunderbolt 3

You’ll need a laptop with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support to use it to its full potential.

Performance cannot compare to an SSD, but it’s still impressive.

There is a lot of value to be had here, considering the price and all the features combined.

OWC Envoy Pro EX

This drive can survive a fall of up to four feet and crush resistance of up to 2,000lbs.

Accidentally dropping your hard drive on the floor won’t do any damage.

G-Technology ArmorATD

The G-Technology ArmorATD is the most shockproof external hard drive you could buy.

LaCie Rugged SSD Interface

It has three layers of physical protection.

Additionally, the hard drive is dust and water-resistant for added durability.

you could take this drive anywhere for your digital storage needs and productivity.

LaCie Rugged SSD Waterproof

The ArmorATD is also impressive when it comes to raw transfer speeds, hitting speeds up to 140MB/s.

The drive works on both macOS and Windows without needing any reformatting.

FAQ

Q: Is a Hard Drive Durable?

CalDigit Tuff Nano Type-C Port

Q: Is SSD or HDD Better for Long-Term Storage?

Without this charge, your SSD loses its memory.

Also, if your SSD is powered, a sudden power outage or failure can corrupt your entire SSD.

CalDigit Tuff Nano

It can stay unplugged for years while keeping your data safe.

They need to be stored under normal, suitable conditions.

SSDs are better for long-term storage in extreme and harsh environments.

SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD IP55

Also, if you’ll be plugging the drive very often, an SSD is suitable.

Just double-check to use stable power.

Q: Why Do External Hard Drives Fail?

SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD with a MacBook

A hard drive is likely to fail in everyday situations due to accidental drops damaging the platters.

LaCie Rugged Mini

LaCie Rugged Mini Durability

LaCie Rugged Mini in a Bag

G-Technology ArmorATD

G-Technology ArmorATD Durable

G-Technology ArmorATD Shockproof