Top 10 Best 500GB External Hard Drives in 2024 Reviews

Computer users own many additional accessories in order to ensure its flawless operation. The choice of decent quality computer accessories lets you enjoy computer usage with great simplicity. The need for sufficient storage space is inevitable for any PC and the same can be facilitated with the use of the external drive. When the internal memory is insufficient to meet the increasing storage needs, it is best to go for the external hard drives. These drives are equipped with different storage capacities in GB (gigabytes). Generally, the 500GB external hard drive works magically to store all your data in a safe manner. In addition to storage, these drives enable the user to transport files from their desktop or laptop to some other devices. With tons of 500GB external hard drive models available currently, go through the best ones discussed below:

Contents

List of Top 10 Best 500GB External Hard Drives in 2024 Reviews on Amazon.Com

10. Seagate Expansion 500GB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0 (STBX500100):

 Seagate Expansion 500GB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0

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The Seagate Expansion his portable in nature and it offers up to 4TB of additional storage for fulfilling an increasing collection of files. Basically, this USB 3.0 hard drive consolidates files into a unified location and also frees up the computer space. It is found that the drive is automatically identified by the Windows OS so there is no dependence on installation or configuration of software. The process to save different files is extremely simple and it comes with the drag-and-drop benefits. The users will be benefitted with quick data transfer speeds through the USB 3.0/2.0 interface.

It comes with a simple transition in regards to discarding the hard drive disk from its enclosure and exchanging the standard 500GB HDD. With the use of a flat head screwdriver, the users are facilitated with soft prying open the two back end corners which are followed by gradually traversing the screwdriver across the sides on upwards towards the front.

Features:

  • This 500GB external portable hard drive comes formatted for Windows OS just out of the box.
  • Implementation of the drag-and-drop file saving feature is found.
  • To present Mac compatibility, it is found that this hard drive needs reformatting.
  • There would be no hassles to upgrade the hard drive of PS4 to 2TB.
  • Inside the driver, there is the inclusion of a 2.5-inch HD that could be discarded and installed inside your PS4.
  • It comes in elegant matte black finish and lightweight structure.

9. Western Digital WDBY9Y5000ABT-WESN WD 500GB My Passport Go SSD Portable External Storage:

 WD 500GB My Passport Go Cobalt SSD Portable External Storage

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One of the prominent traits of this portable external hard drive storage device from Western Digital is its pocket-sized form factor. Moreover, it comes with the cable that enhances the convenience to let you bring it anywhere. This My Passport external HDD comes formatted for use on PC and Mac computers. Moreover, there is the inclusion of automatic backup software to simplify the use. It is alternatively referred to as a solid state drive without including moving parts, persistently designed and prepared by WD for presenting excellent reliability.

Features:

  • This pocket-sized drive incorporates an integrated cable.
  • It could flawlessly function with PS4 and Xbox One
  • There are no compromises to deliver SSD performance of up to 300MB/s rate.
  • There is the special inclusion of the shock-absorbing rubber edges, so the drive is made drop-resistant up to the distance of 2 meters. Also, all the stored contents stay safe against vibrations and bumps.

8. Samsung X5 Portable SSD – 500GB – Thunderbolt 3 External SSD:

 Samsung X5 Portable SSD - 500GB

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Now you could raise your storage tasks to great heights for use on PCs and Macs through this fast working portable SSD from Samsung. Presented from the top-notch brand –Samsung, there are no doubts regarding the reliability and performance. Actually, this X5 drive is designed with Thunderbolt 3 ports to let you connect different devices. Generally, the X5 drive is found ideal for tech-savvy professionals who wish to compile high-resolution contents in the absence of missing a beat. It is assured that its thermal management, as well as password protection, provides security and comfort during use.

Features:

  • This portable SSD from Samsung is the first-ever NVMe-based portable SSD drive that implements Thunderbolt 3 technology.
  • Its appearance showcases a full metal body with a sleek top and non-slip base mat.
  • It comes with the sequential read and write performance levels up to the speeds of 2,800MB/s and 2,300MB/s respectively.
  • The included shock-resistant internal frame allows the drive to withstands drops within the range of 2 meters

7. G-Technology 500GB G-DRIVE mobile SSD:

 G-Technology 500GB G-DRIVE mobile SSD Durable Portable External Storage

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This model of G-DRIVE mobile SSD is intended to offer a lightweight, pocket-sized storage solution. It can effectively store your 4K footage, RAW images, and media libraries in order to edit and save different documents. Regardless of the place and time, there are no troubles to store contents. With the use of this G-DRIVE mobile SSD, the users are facilitated with durable storage to effectively handle a large amount of data. It comes with the capacities up to 2TB within a tiny, lightweight package.

Features:

  • Structure of this G-DRIVE represents a durable design equipped with IP67 water/dust resistance.
  • This hard drive is 3 meters drop tested and 1000lb crush resistance.
  • It comes with the blazing fast transfer speeds of up to 560MB/s.
  • The drive is resistant to vibration and shock.
  • The users could instantly save, edit and also archive big source files.
  • Facility of a versatile USB-C port possessing a USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface makes sure the device is readily available for use with old and new laptops.

6. SanDisk Extreme 500 Portable SSD 500GB SDSSDEXT-500G-G25:

SanDisk Extreme 500 Portable SSD 500GB SDSSDEXT-500G-G25

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The flawlessly working 500GB portable external hard drive presents high-speed storage solution for high-resolution images, videos, and other files. The size of the SanDisk Extreme 500 SSD is less than half the size of a typical smartphone yet it provides surprisingly fast speeds. Within a few seconds, the functioning begins and there are no issues to transfer large videos and images. The speed of such transfers is up to 415MB/s. Generally, this SDSSDEXT is perfect for image storage and editing.

Features:

  • This hard disk device is shock-resistant and presented in a compact size.
  • Execution of the SanDisk Secure Access software effectively encrypts private files.
  • There are no moving parts to break.
  • Implementation of the solid-state technology provides consistent, responsive and fast performance for storage. So, it is useful exceptionally for photographers and videographers who usually capture and convey plenty of huge media files.
  • It could seamlessly function with Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 as well as Mac OS with version 10.4 and higher.

5. Transcend StoreJet M3 500 GB USB 3.0 External Hard Drive:

 Transcend StoreJet M3 500 GB USB 3.0 External Hard Drive TS500GSJ25M3

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The brand Transcend is widely prevalent when it comes to external hard drive and this device is no exception. Even after many years of usage, there would be no compromises in its effectiveness and efficiency. The military-grade shock resistance benefit is specially incorporated to let this drive meet the U.S. military drop-test standards. With its use, the users would be allowed to make the most of ultra-fast file transfers and the supreme level of anti-shock protection.

Features:

  • There is the execution of advanced 3-stage shock protection system. In this system, there is the combination of rough slip-resistant silicone outer case, an unbreakable hard casing, as well as an internal hard drive suspension damper.
  • It supports a maximum bandwidth of up to 5 Gb/s when operated in USB 3.0 mode and 480 Mb/s when operated in USB 2.0 mode.

4. Toshiba Canvio 500 GB USB 3.0 Portable Hard Drive:

 Toshiba Canvio 500 GB USB 3.0 Portable Hard Drive - HDTC605XK3A1

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In accordance with the high-quality product standards set by Toshiba, the Canvio 3.0 products are effectively designed and prepared. This portable hard drive includes cutting-edge technology and easy-to-use user-interface. It also guarantees top-notch performance, superior quality, and workmanship. Through the use of this portable hard drive, you would certainly relish the portable storage space for digital libraries of any size. It could flawlessly store up to 142,000 digital images, or 131,000 digital music tracks, or 410 downloaded digital films.

Features:

  • High storage security is conveyed since the drive works to protect your most essential digital content using cloud
  • It could flawlessly transfer huge media files at extremely fast speeds of up to USB 3.0.
  • The drive stays protected through the use of Internal Shock Sensor and Ramp Loading Technology.
  • It effectively secures your backup through a password.
  • It is quite easy to use since it comes with the plug & play operation.

3. 2.5″ 500GB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive by KESU:

 2.5" 500GB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive USB3.0 HDD Storage Compatible

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The product of external hard drive in the current discussion is actually the upgraded version of the hard drive from the brand KESU.  It is actually an ultra slim drive that comes with a thickness of 0.43 inch. Its structure represents a brushed surface and facilitates seamless connection. By default, it is found that this portable external hard drive comes formatted as ExFAT. Besides, it could flawlessly function with different OS like Windows, Mac, Android, Linux, etc. Its entire operation is plug & play and there is no need for software installation for its use. It is readily available for use instantly.

Features:

  • The ultra-fast data transfers are facilitated since the drive function with USB3.0 and USB2.0 connections.
  • In order to operate this 500 GB drive, just connect the USB cable to your PC and then it is readily available to begin sending out files.
  • The USB3.0 is capable to transfer data at the maximum speed of up to 5.0 Gbit/s and this is approximately 10 times as quick as USB 2.0

2. Samsung T5 Portable SSD – 500GB – USB 3.1 External SSD (MU-PA500B/AM):

Samsung T5 Portable SSD - 500GB

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Offered from the famous brand Samsung, this portable SSD T5 drive enhances the data transfer speeds to all new level. Moreover, it also explores an all-new experience within the external storage. Due to its sleek and durable design, it is recommended for long-lasting use. The facility of password protection makes sure the T5 is extremely convenient to carry and securely store data. Overall, some of the important traits that define this external SSD are quick, solid, secure, minimal, and simple to use.

Features:

  • It facilitates quick read-write speeds of up to 540 MB/s.
  • Right from the top to base, the sturdy metal design would conveniently fit in your palm.
  • There is the provision for optional password protection and high security through the AES 256-bit hardware encryption.
  • For making a flawless connection with other devices, there is the inclusion of USB Type C to C as well as USB Type C to A cables.

1. SanDisk 500GB Extreme Portable External SSD:

 SanDisk 500GB Extreme Portable External SSD-500GB External Hard Drives

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Attaining the top position in the list, when you dive deep into the functionalities of this external SSD, you will admire its uses. Offered from the famous brand SanDisk, this 500GB extreme portable external hard drive supports quick speed transfers at blazing fast speed. Its design is specially intended for PC and Mac users to provide excellent performance. With maximum storage of up to 1TB, the drive also facilitates high-speed storage to store high-resolution images, videos, and audio files. So, it is a perfect drive for computer professionals.

Features:

  • This SanDisk drive allows high-speed transfers of maximum speed up to 550MB/s for reading. This allows the drive to move high-resolution images and videos.
  • It comes with a shock-resistant solid state core to enhance the durability.
  • The drive is made resistant to dust and water.
  • It is an IP55-rated drive suggesting that it is specially designed to withstand dust and water. Moreover, it is certified to withstand up to 2-meter drops.
  • Large storage capacity and great performance are delivered through its compact size unit.
  • Its wide operating temperature range gives assurance that heat dissipation is low during its use.

Concluding Note:

The 500GB external hard drives discussed above are equipped with ample storage capacity and quick transfer benefits. Now you can effortlessly store huge amount of data whenever and wherever you want to cherish your memories.

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