Drive Care and Fixes
Can an External Hard Drive Be Fixed?
Can an external hard drive be fixed? Often yes, if the fault is the cable, port or file system. Learn what you can repair and when data is at risk.
Pick a drive that fits your files, your computer and your budget
We compare portable SSDs and external hard drives from Samsung, SanDisk, Seagate, WD, LaCie and others by capacity, speed, cable and toughness. Start with what you want to store, or with the backup question on your mind.
Latest guides
Fast SSD DrivesWhat to Look for in an External SSD
What to look for in an external SSD: speed, interface, capacity, rugged rating and encryption. A plain guide to picking the right drive first time.
Fast SSD DrivesCrucial X9 1TB Portable SSD Review
Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD review: speed, IP55 durability, USB-C compatibility and where the drive fits, plus Sandisk and Samsung alternatives.
Drive MatchupsWD Elements vs Easystore: Which Drive to Buy?
WD Elements vs Easystore: compare speed, size and everyday use, then pick the WD drive that fits your backup, travel or archive plans.
- Big Hard Drives
How to Use an External Hard Drive on a PC
Learn how to use an external hard drive on a PC: plug it in, format it for Windows, copy and back up files, and eject it safely before unplugging.
Fast SSD DrivesBest 4TB External SSDs for Storage
The best external SSD drive 4TB for storage, compared by speed, capacity and case. Find the right 4TB portable SSD for backups, video and travel.
Big Hard DrivesBest External Hard Drives for Video Editing
The best external hard drives for video editing: fast SSDs for active projects and roomy HDDs for archives. Compare speed, capacity and protection.
- Fast SSD Drives
How to Get a PC to Recognize an External SSD
Here's how to get a PC to recognize an external SSD: check the cable and port first, then Disk Management. Covers drive letters, drivers, and ports.
- Drive Matchups
External Hard Drive Types Explained
The main types of external hard drives are portable HDDs, desktop HDDs and portable SSDs. Compare each type by size, speed, power and use before you buy.