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- 10 Best External Hard Drives in the Philippines 2023 | Seagate, Transcend, and More
10 Best External Hard Drives in the Philippines 2023 | Seagate, Transcend, and More
External hard drive prices can vary widely, depending on its storage and specifications. We're here to guide you through buying an external hard drive and all the features that can come with it. We're also listing our top 10 recommendations for hard drives you can buy online today. We hope that after reading this, you'll find the best HDD for your PC, consoles, or mobile devices!
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Table of Contents
- How to Choose an External Hard Drive – Buying Guide
- ① Choose a Hard Drive With Ample Storage for Your Needs
- ② Check the OS Compatibility to Ensure Seamless Operation
- ③ Go for an HDD With NAS to Access Files From Different Devices
- ④ Select the Transfer Speed According to Your Preference
- ⑤ Consider Wireless External HDDs for a Portable Option
- ⑥ Look for Additional Features That Offer More Value and Security
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can External Hard Drive Be Used as Internal?
- How Long Do External Hard Drives Last?
- How to Prolong the Lifespan of External Hard Drive?
- More Gadgets for On-the-Go Accessibility
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
How to Choose an External Hard Drive – Buying Guide
Here are some key points to consider:
- Choose a hard drive with ample storage for your needs.
- Check the OS compatibility to ensure seamless operation.
- Go for an HDD with NAS to access files from different devices.
- Select the transfer speed according to your preference.
- Consider wireless external HDDs for a portable option.
- Look for additional features that offer more value and security.
For more information, read through our buying guide below.
① Choose a Hard Drive With Ample Storage for Your Needs
If you plan to use the hard drive continuously, like in a security system, make sure it has enough space. In the case of a CCTV camera, a 1TB drive can store about 100 hours of full high definition (FHD) video. This means that if you don't want to keep cleaning the hard disk every 100 hours, it would be best to invest in a bigger model.
② Check the OS Compatibility to Ensure Seamless Operation
Also, most external hard disks on the market are now compatible with recent Windows OSes, namely 7, 8, 10, and 11. Macs are slightly more complicated to pair, so it's important to get a hard drive specifically made for a Mac if you use older OS versions. Whether you use Mac or Windows, always research the compatibility first before purchasing.
③ Go for an HDD With NAS to Access Files From Different Devices
If you want to access your data across multiple devices in your home, choose an external hard disk with Network Attached Storage or NAS. This feature lets you access different files and media from your computer, smartphones, and other connected and compatible devices.
This feature is handy for large, technophile families who love to share media among themselves. It's also useful for people who work from home, as they can access their files without being stuck in their home office. This feature is incredibly handy but may come at a high cost, so think carefully before deciding to buy a hard drive with it.
④ Select the Transfer Speed According to Your Preference
Transfer speed refers to how much data will travel from one device to another in a specific period of time. It's important to check this before buying a hard drive, especially if you need to move large amounts of data at faster speeds.
For example, if you regularly work with large files such as high-definition videos throughout your workday, higher speeds up to 5 GBps might be better for you. However, if you are a casual user and only need to occasionally transfer or backup a few files at home, hard drives with average speeds of around 100 MBps will work just fine.
⑤ Consider Wireless External HDDs for a Portable Option
These devices aren't the most durable, though, especially the cheaper models. A corrupted hard drive can make you lose all your data and make it impossible to recover. This can also happen if you disconnect your HDD haphazardly, so make sure you practice safe removal to avoid damages.
⑥ Look for Additional Features That Offer More Value and Security
Some of the more expensive external hard drives have features that can be convenient and of great value for users. There are some hard drives that can serve as a Wi-Fi hotspot, useful for those who may need to share their internet access with others, and it can serve as backup internet access for individuals with slow or unreliable internet connections.
There are also external hard drives that can be used as a power bankーconvenient for people who heavily use their phones or other devices and need to charge them often. Furthermore, there are hard drives that offer password encryption for additional security. Lastly, if you're always on the go, some hard drives come in shockproof cases that ensure their physical safety.
10 Best External Hard Drives to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Western Digital My Book | | Gives You Tons of Space for Storing Movies, Music, and Large Files | |
2 | Seagate Backup Plus Hub | | A 2-in-1 Desktop Drive and Recharging Station | |
3 | Transcend StoreJet 25M3 | | Backup Your Files With a Touch of a Button | |
4 | LaCie Rugged Mini External Hard Drive | | A Shockproof Drive for Ultimate On-the-Go Storage | |
5 | Toshiba Canvio Advance | | A Sleek and Slim Way to Store Data | |
6 | Western Digital My Passport | | Security and Convenience in One Drive | |
7 | SSK SSM - F200 Portable NAS External Wireless | | A Wireless Drive for Convenient Access and File Sharing | |
8 | Seagate Backup Plus Slim | | Allows Easy Backup and Sharing of Files Between Mac and Windows OS | |
9 | Transcend StoreJet Rugged Compact | | A Tough Drive With File and Folder Encryption for Added Protection | |
10 | ADATA HD330 Rugged and Shockproof | | Keep Your Data Safe From the Inside Out |
Western DigitalMy Book
Gives You Tons of Space for Storing Movies, Music, and Large Files
This 14TB external hard drive by Western Digital (WD) is a dependable storage space for all your important files. Complementing its big storage space is its lightning speed of up to 5 GB/sーthis is one of the best hard drives for those who regularly work with large files!
It works with both Windows and Mac, so you won't need to worry about incompatibility. This also has a password encryption feature, ensuring that all your information is safe. This also comes with WD Backup, providing you with a simpler way to completely backup your files.
Most importantly, it boasts WD's Discovery software, which connects the device to social media platforms and cloud storage services like Facebook, Dropbox, and Google Drive. With its high speeds, large storage, and extra features, this is a great value product you should not miss.
SeagateBackup Plus Hub
A 2-in-1 Desktop Drive and Recharging Station
Despite not being a portable model, this external HDD is slightly more compact than its other desktop-type counterparts and can hold a large amount of storage - providing space for your phone or other devices as you charge. Finally, this hard drive offers decent transfer speeds at 160 MBps, which works well for those who don't need to work with extremely large files.
TranscendStoreJet 25M3
Backup Your Files With a Touch of a Button
The outer casing has a military-grade drop-proofing for that added durability. The one-button transfer and hard-case shell make it a good choice for those constantly on the move, both in their daily lives and data. All these features come at a modest price, which reviewers raved about.
LaCieRugged Mini External Hard Drive
A Shockproof Drive for Ultimate On-the-Go Storage
There's no telling what could happen to you when you're on the go. Rain, dirt, and dust could ruin your devices. This LaCie hard drive takes care of that problem with its IP-67 rated drop, rain, dust, and crush resistance.
Despite its compact size, this device boasts high transfer speeds at 1,050 MB/s. This is also compatible with Thunderbolt 3, USB-C, and USB 3.0 for both Mac and Windows, enabling you to jump between the two operating systems seamlessly, anytime.
ToshibaCanvio Advance
A Sleek and Slim Way to Store Data
For added security, the drive also has an auto-backup feature whenever you connect it to a computer, so you don't have to worry if you forget to do that particular task. It also has security in the form of password protection, ensuring safety in a slim package.
Western DigitalMy Passport
Security and Convenience in One Drive
WD has proven itself a powerhouse in the storage game, and their small external hard drives pack as much punch as their colossal counterparts. The 256-bit AES hardware encryption and password protection make it a really safe storage device despite its simple style. It also offers an automatic backup feature.
It offers a bit more flexibility in terms of capacity than the other models of the same size. However, reviewers have stated that the design is a little clunkier than other small external hard drives. In terms of performance, however, it passes with flying colors.
SSKSSM - F200 Portable NAS External Wireless
A Wireless Drive for Convenient Access and File Sharing
SSK's 2TB hard drive is a jack of all trades with its many impressive features. As the first wireless and first NAS device on our list, it allows you to share and manage your files with others freely, without the hassle of using cables. This high-end HDD can also share data with your smart TV, smartphone, laptop, or other devices.
Along with high transfer speeds of up to 300 MB/s, it also has its own Wi-Fi hotspot and can function as a power bank. Additionally, it has a one-click backup feature, so no need to worry about losing any file. This product is compatible with IOS, Android, Windows, and Mac.
SeagateBackup Plus Slim
Allows Easy Backup and Sharing of Files Between Mac and Windows OS
Plenty of external hard disks on the market prioritize giving additional storage and backup solutions to computers. Thankfully, this model lets you back up the files from your smartphone. You can use the Mobile Backup feature to store all your smartphone’s data in the cloud and this device.
TranscendStoreJet Rugged Compact
A Tough Drive With File and Folder Encryption for Added Protection
This Transcend hard drive adds a layer of protection with its 3-stage shock protection rubber casing. The drop protection is military-grade, which makes this hard drive ideal for anyone who's clumsy and drops their devices often. It also has 256-bit AES file & folder encryption, so your files are protected as well.
It might be the heaviest and biggest drive on the list, but that's the price that comes with protection. The transfer speeds are top-notch, and it has Transcend's one-button backup capabilities. Reviewers like the protection it offers for a relatively affordable price.
ADATAHD330 Rugged and Shockproof
Keep Your Data Safe From the Inside Out
The silicone casing of this hard drive makes it practically impervious to bumps and drops. Along with physical security, it also has AES-certified encryption to protect it from digital dangers. This drive is second-to-none in safety.
Aside from the safety capabilities, it has decent transfer speeds and is Windows and Mac compatible, making it great in any scenario. Due to its silicon casing, the drive is clunky and a little hard to bring around, but it's great as a stationary backup drive at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Can External Hard Drive Be Used as Internal?
Technically, yes. However, some external hard drive manufacturers have locking mechanisms in place in order to prevent consumers from repurposing their products. If you do have an external hard drive that can be disassembled, you can try to convert your external drive into an internal one.
You should check your device's health first, then proceed to dismantle the drive in order to place it inside your laptop or desktop computer. Take note that this will lead to the invalidation of your external hard drive's warranty, so it's best to think twice before dismantling.
How Long Do External Hard Drives Last?
Just like any other electronic device, external hard drives don't have the longest lifespan. HDDs usually last for 3 up to 5 years on average, as long as they're taken care of. Luckily, this can always be lengthened through several ways, which will be discussed below.
How to Prolong the Lifespan of External Hard Drive?
The first tip is to, of course, handle your hard drive carefully. Larger ones most likely do not have shock resistance, and even if your hard drive has one, it's not worth the risk to drop your device and possibly lose your files. Thus, it's important to handle your hard drive with care if you want it to last longer.
Secondly, make sure to turn it on only when you need to use it and turn it off when you're finished using it. Additionally, remember to eject your hard drive before disconnecting it from your device. Other ways to lengthen the lifespan of your hard drive are to avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures and also to take care of its cables or wires.
More Gadgets for On-the-Go Accessibility
A hard drive isn't the only portable device that can make your life easier. An affordable laptop and a portable printer are great gadgets that allow you to work anywhere. Power banks are handy devices that keep your phone alive throughout the day. Here are our picks for the best laptops under PHP 30,000, the best portable printers, and the best 20,000 mAh power banks on the market:
Re-editor: Beatrice Fajardo
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 External Hard Drives
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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