Are you looking to enhance your music production with reliable and high-performance storage? With digital audio workstations growing more complex, a robust external hard drive is a must-have.
This article will guide you through the 10 best external hard drives tailored for music production, their features, and how they can boost your workflow. Gear up with a better hard drive and take your studio setup to new heights!
The Glyph Atom RAID SSD is our top choice for music production external hard drives. Its lightning-fast USB 3.1 Type-C connectivity, robust 1TB storage (using two 500GB M.2 SSDs), and rugged design make it a must-have for music producers. While it's a bit pricier and may need adapters for older devices, its speed, durability, and versatility make it a reliable choice for professionals on the go.
- Key Type & Count: SSD
- Speed & Performance: Rapid-fire data transfer rates, USB 3.1 Type-C connectivity.
- Durability & Portability: Not specified, but it's ruggedly designed.
- Capacity Options: Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB models.
- Security Features: Not specified.
The SAMSUNG SSD T7 Portable External Hard Drive is our Runner-Up for Music Production due to its blazing-fast speeds, rugged build, and compatibility with multiple devices. It's perfect for music professionals on the move. However, it's relatively expensive compared to traditional USB drives and requires a USB 3.2 gen 2 port for optimal performance, which may not work with older devices.
- Key Type & Count: SSD
- Speed & Performance: Blazing fast sequential read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s.
- Durability & Portability: Sturdy metal body, drop-resistant up to 2 meters, pocket-sized.
- Capacity Options: Available in 500 GB, 1TB, and 2TB models.
- Security Features: Not specified, but it may have encryption options.
The Toshiba Canvio Advance 1TB Portable External Hard Drive is our top budget pick for music production. It offers ample storage, fast USB 3.0 transfer speeds, and built-in password protection and backup features. Its compact design is perfect for on-the-go use, but Mac users may face software limitations, and some durability concerns have been reported.
- Key Type & Count: HDD
- Speed & Performance: USB 3.0 compatibility for faster transfers.
- Durability & Portability: Compact and stylish design.
- Capacity Options: Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB models.
- Security Features: Password protection and automatic backup software.
SAMSUNG SSD T7 Portable
- Key Type & Count: SSD
- Speed & Performance: Blazing fast sequential read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s.
- Durability & Portability: Sturdy metal body, drop-resistant up to 2 meters, pocket-sized.
- Capacity Options: Available in 500 GB, 1TB, and 2TB models.
- Security Features: Not specified, but it may have encryption options.
For music producers on the move, who value speed and durability, theSAMSUNG SSD T7 Portable External Hard Drive could be a game-changer.
This external hard drive has impressive data transfer speeds which can greatly improve your workflow.
The portability factor is essential for busy music professionals who need to access large files like sound libraries or editing software quickly - regardless of location.
The Samsung SSD T7 shines in its design decisions too. It's not only pocket-sized but also encased in a sturdy metal body that makes it drop-resistant up to 2 meters, ensuring your valuable work will be safe and sound even on hectic tour schedules or during intense recording sessions.
As for speed, Its Embedded PCIe NVMe technology delivers blazing fast sequential read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s!
We've selected this product as our No.1 pick for music producers because of how seamlessly it integrates into their professional needs while offering unbeatable performance and reliability; making it an investment worth considering.
This product is perfect for tech-savvy consumers who are looking for a reliable, compact and speedy storage solution. The Samsung T7 500GB Portable External SSD delivers fast data transfer and portability in one device.
- Superfast transfer speeds
- Sturdy, compact and lightweight design
- Compatible with multiple devices
- Available in 500 GB, 1TB and 2TB models to store all your files in one place
- Relatively expensive compared to traditional USB flash drives
- Requires a USB 3.2 gen 2 port for optimal performance which may not be compatible with older devices
Seagate One Touch SSD
- Key Type & Count: SSD
- Speed & Performance: Speeds up to 1030 MB/s.
- Durability & Portability: Compact and travel-friendly, Android backup app.
- Capacity Options: Available in 500 GB, 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB models.
- Security Features: Not specified.
The Seagate One Touch SSD is another compact, speedy storage solution designed to meet the needs of music producers who value efficiency and portability.
The One Touch SSD feature offers impressive speeds of up to 1030 MB/s which ensures quick file transfers you need for managing large audio files or complex DAW projects.
The device also provides robust compatibility with Windows, Mac, and Android platforms through USB-C and USB-C to A connections making it easy for a producer working across different systems.
This external drive ranks number two on our list due to its travel-friendly size combined with high capacity storage options up to 2TB - perfect for those heavy sessions packed with multiple tracks.
Moreover, the built-in Android app allows you to backup videos and photos effortlessly, increasing your device's space as well as keeping all your creative assets organized in one place. Its sleek black design is sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of the active lifestyle of most music professionals.
Inclusion of additional perks like 1-year Mylio Create (a multimedia management app) sets Seagate One Touch SSD apart from others in this category giving users extra tools at their disposal.
So whether you're transferring big sound libraries or running sessions directly from the drive - this Seagate One Touch SSD offers reliably and good value for your money.
With up to 2TB capacity, USB-C and USB C-to A connections, Android App support, and speeds up to 1030MB/s, the Seagate One Touch SSD is the perfect blend of speed and convenience for tech-savvy travelers who need to fit a lot into a small package.
- Dual USB-C and USB C-to A compatibility for quick connections
- Included Android backup app for photo and video transfer
- Available in 500 GB, 1TB and 2TB and 4 TB models to store all your files in one place
- Fast speeds up to 1030 MB/s write and comparable to NVMe
- The included Android backup app may have limited functionality and compatibility with certain devices.
- Some of the Seagate One Touch SSD models are priced higher than similar products with similar features.
Sandisk Extreme 500 Portable SSD
- Key Type & Count: SSD
- Speed & Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
- Durability & Portability: Two-meter drop protection, IP55 water and dust resistance.
- Capacity Options: Available in 500 GB, 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB models.
- Security Features: Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption.
If you're a music producer in need of reliable and high-performance data storage, the Sandisk Extreme 500 Portable SSD is a great solution.
With its NVMe solid-state performance that delivers up to 1050MB/s read and up to 1000MB/s write speeds, this portable drive handles heavy digital files with ease.
That means smooth sailing when backing up those big audio projects or transferring mixdowns and masters between different workstations.
What sets the Sandisk Extreme apart is not only its remarkable speed but also its robust design.
It has been tested for two-meter drop protection and possesses IP55 water and dust resistance rating; this ensures safety even when you have field recording sessions or impromptu jamming gigs in unpredictable environments.
An added layer of security is also present through password protection featuring 256-bit AES hardware encryption - keeping your unreleased tracks safe from prying ears.
But why do we rank it as No.3? While it boasts impressive specs, some other options have a better cost-per-gigabyte ratio; yet for music producers who value reliability, speed and portability wrapped into a rugged design – the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD shines!
This Sandisk Extreme 500 Portable SSD is perfect for content creators and digital nomads who need to quickly access their data on the go.
With its lightning-fast speeds, IP 55 water and dust resistance, plus its password protection with 256‐bit AES hardware encryption, it offers everything you need for secure storage and quick transfers.
- High - speed performance with up to 1050MB/s read and up to 1000MB/s write speeds
- Secure files with password protection featuring 256 - bit AES hardware encryption
- Portable and durable design with a Carabiner loop for easy attachment
- Water and dust resistant with two - meter drop protection
- Limited compatibility with older devices that do not have USB - C or USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports.
- The included password protection and encryption software may require additional downloads and installation, which can be cumbersome for some users.
- The Carabiner loop for securing the drive to a belt or backpack can be easily lost or misplaced if not properly attached.
Lacie Rugged Mini
- Key Type & Count: HDD
- Speed & Performance: USB 3.0/2.0 compatibility for quick transfers.
- Durability & Portability: Resistant to drops, shocks, dust, and rain.
- Capacity Options: 5TB capacity.
- Security Features: Not specified, but it may not have hardware encryption.
If you're a music producer, the Lacie Rugged Mini is worth considering as it provides top-quality performance and serious storage space.
With its 5TB capacity, this external hard drive can hold thousands of studio-quality audio files without breaking a sweat.
The USB 3.0/2.0 compatibility ensures quick transfers and compatibility with older equipment.
But what sets the LaCie Rugged Mini apart is its durability – thanks to its resistance to drops, shocks, dust, and rain – which makes it perfect for on-the-go producers who are constantly moving between studios or locations.
Whether you're producing music in a climate-controlled studio or out in unpredictable field conditions, this reliable Hard Drive will keep your work intact and accessible.
Plus, it has value-added features for digital creatives such as a two-year limited warranty and one-month complimentary Adobe creative cloud membership for advanced editing apps.
Overall, the LaCie Rugged Mini offers an exceptional blend of massive storage capacity paired with rugged durability that will serve you well in your creative endeavors.
This LaCie Rugged Mini 5TB External Hard Drive is best for on the go professionals, students or small business owners who need extra storage capacity and value security and convenience.
With its all-terrain durability, complimentary access to Adobe creative cloud apps and impressive transfer speeds, this drive offers reliable storage in an ultra-portable package.
- 5TB storage capacity
- Drop, crush, and water resistant
- Fast transfer speeds up to 130MB/s with USB 3.0
- Compact and portable design
- Limited compatibility with some older devices that do not have USB 3.0/2.0 ports
- Can be slightly bulky and may not easily fit in small pockets or bags
- The included two - year limited warranty may not offer the same level of coverage compared to other external hard drive brands
WD My Passport
- Key Type & Count: HDD
- Speed & Performance: SuperSpeed USB 3.0 port for fast data transfer.
- Durability & Portability: Slim and portable design.
- Capacity Options: Available in 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, and 5TB models.
- Security Features: 256-bit AES hardware encryption and password protection.
The WD My Passport is a great tool for music producers. Boasting 1TB storage capacity (also available in 2TB, 4TB and 5TB models) it can easily accommodate your vast library of samples, tracks and projects.
The slim and portable design means you can carry your entire musical portfolio wherever inspiration may strike.
Plus, its SuperSpeed USB 3.0 port ensures lightning-fast file transfers, which is essential when dealing with large audio files.
What sets the My Passport apart is its emphasis on security. The built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption combined with password protection software provides an added layer of security to keep your valuable compositions safe from unauthorized access or data loss - even on the go!
Also, the included backup software simplifies creating copies of your work, allowing you peace of mind in case of accidental loss or deletion.
Investing in a WD My Passport is like having an ultra-secure mobile studio that fits in the palm of your hand.
Whether you're working from home, collaborating at another artist's space or preparing for a live performance - this drive will handle all your storage needs reliably and securely while keeping up with the fast-paced world of music production.
This WD My Passport Portable External Hard Drive is perfect for tech-savvy professionals and entrepreneurs looking for an easy way to back up their data safely with password protection and secure 256-bit AES hardware encryption.
- 1TB, 2TB, 4TB or 5TB storage capacity for ample space to store and backup files.
- SuperSpeed USB 3.0 port for fast data transfer but it is also compatible with USB 2.0
- Hardware encryption ensures secure protection of sensitive data.
- Slim design makes it portable and easy to carry on the go.
- Available in both PC and MAC models.
- May be a bit pricey compared to other external hard drives on the market
- Some users have reported issues with compatibility with certain operating systems
- The USB cable that comes with it may be too short for some users' preferences
Glyph Atom RAID SSD
- Key Type & Count: SSD
- Speed & Performance: Rapid-fire data transfer rates, USB 3.1 Type-C connectivity.
- Durability & Portability: Not specified, but it's ruggedly designed.
- Capacity Options: Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB models.
- Security Features: Not specified.
The Glyph Atom RAID SSD is a music producer's dream for dealing with vast amounts of data and files. With its USB 3.1 Type-C connectivity, this external hard drive offers rapid-fire data transfer rates that beat most competitors hands down.
This feature allows you to save time while transferring your complex musical arrangements, making the Glyph Atom RAID SSD a vital tool for any studio.
This unit doesn't just offer speed; it comes packed with 1TB of storage in the form of two 500GB M.2 SSDs making it an ideal solution to store all your audio samples and projects securely.
The included USB-C cables allow seamless connection to new-gen devices helping you stay current in the rapidly evolving world of digital music production.
What makes this harddrive particularly attractive is its rugged design - music producers often have to move around, and this durable build ensures that your valuable work will be safe even in less than optimal conditions.
Whether you're working in a home studio or hopping between recording locations, the Glyph Atom RAID SSD delivers reliability and performance at impressive speeds, without sacrificing durability—a crucial combo for today’s busy music professionals.
The Glyph Atom RAID SSD is perfect for the tech-savvy person looking for a reliable, powerful external storage option.
With two 500GB M.2 SSDs inside and USB Cables included, this ruggedly designed Glyph Atom RAID SSD provides speed and security when transferring data quickly and safely
- Versatile connectivity options - Featuring the latest 10Gb USB 3.2, Gen2 Type-C port, it is also compatible with USB 3.1, 3.0 as well as Thunderbolt 3. All the cables you'll ever need are in the box.
- Durable and rugged design for reliable use in various environments
- Large storage capacity of 1TB with high - speed performance due to the use of two 500GB M.2 SSDs (also available in a 2TB and 4TB models)
- Limited storage options compared to other external SSDs
- May require additional adapters for use with older devices
- More expensive than some other similar capacity external SSDs
Seagate Backup Plus 4TB
- Key Type & Count: HDD
- Speed & Performance: USB 3.0 compatibility for fast file transfers.
- Durability & Portability: Minimalist metal enclosure.
- Capacity Options: Available in 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, and 5TB models.
- Security Features: Not specified.
The Seagate Backup Plus is a versatile tool for any music producer, offering a colossal 4TB of storage to hold all your tracks, sessions, and samples.
This portable external hard drive provides seamless USB 3.0 connectivity, perfect for the quick transfer of large files from your PC or Mac laptop.
Featuring an elegant minimalist metal enclosure, it not only stores but also protects your invaluable content.
Its one-click backup function or scheduled automatic backups provide peace of mind so you can focus on crafting the perfect mix rather than worrying about losing data.
As an added perk with each purchase is a complimentary two-month membership to Adobe Creative Cloud Photography Plan – though primarily oriented towards photo and video editing apps, savvy producers will find utilities within Adobe's creative suite that can augment their workflow in unexpected ways.
With its user-friendly design and robust storage capacity, the Seagate Backup Plus would be an indispensable asset in any music producer’s toolkit.
The Seagate Backup Plus Portable 4TB External Hard Drive is perfect for the tech-savvy creative looking to store and protect their photos, videos, documents, and other files.
It even has additional features such as a complimentary 2 month Adobe Creative Cloud plan membership and an included USB 3.0 Cable!
- Easy plug-and-play setup with USB 3.0 compatibility for fast file transfers
- Offers ample storage space with its 4TB capacity (also available in 1TB, 2TB and 5TB models)
- Includes a complimentary 2 - month membership to Adobe Creative Cloud Photography Plan for access to photo and video editing apps
- 2-year limited warranty for long-term peace of mind
- Reformatting may be required for use with Time Machine
- Limited compatibility with older operating systems or devices
- Some users have reported slow transfer speeds when backing up large files
Glyph Blackbox Pro
- Key Type & Count: HDD
- Speed & Performance: 7200 RPM speed, USB-C (3.1 Gen2) connectivity.
- Durability & Portability: Rugged aluminum chassis, optimized passive cooling.
- Capacity Options: Available in 2TB and 4TB models.
- Security Features: Not specified.
The Glyph BlackBox Pro is an exceptional tool for music producers who need reliable, high-speed storage.
With its 7200 RPM speed and USB-C (3.1 Gen2) connectivity, this external hard drive allows quick access to files and rapid transfers at up to 220 MB/s - a crucial feature when handling large audio files or multiple projects simultaneously.
It's also compatible with both Mac OSX 10.4 and above as well as Windows XP and onwards which broadens its usability across different operating systems.
What sets the BlackBox Pro apart from other drives on the market is its rugged design and durability. It comes with a strong aluminum chassis and robust rubber bumper that can withstand heavy use in busy studio environments.
Moreover, it uses optimized passive cooling technology to handle heat dissipation without any noisy fans, ensuring quiet operation during late-night mixing sessions or live recordings.
Not only is it designed for longevity but also user reassurance; the Glyph includes three years of hardware coverage, two years of level one data recovery service, and a one year advance replacement warranty—a comforting plus especially when storing precious tracks or project backups on the drive.
The Glyph Blackbox Pro External Hard Drive is the perfect solution for creative professionals who want a reliable product they can trust.
With its fast transfer speeds, aluminum chassis and rugged outer shell, this drive offers top-notch performance and security to keep all your data safe and sound.
- High-speed data transfer with USB-C (3.1, Gen2) technology
- Rugged and durable design, ideal for creative professionals on the go
- Advanced data recovery options and hardware coverage for peace of mind
- Available in 2TB 4TB and larger capacity models, too,
- Compatible with both Mac OSX 10.4 and above and Windows XP above.
- Package includes a USB-C to USB-C (3.1) cable, USB-C to USB 3.0/2.0 cable, and an External power adapter
- Not compatible with older versions of Mac OSX or Windows operating systems
- Relatively expensive compared to other external hard drives on the market
- May not be as durable as advertised, especially if subjected to extreme conditions
Toshiba Canvio Advance
- Key Type & Count: HDD
- Speed & Performance: USB 3.0 compatibility for faster transfers.
- Durability & Portability: Compact and stylish design.
- Capacity Options: Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB models.
- Security Features: Password protection and automatic backup software.
The Toshiba Canvio Advance 1TB Portable External Hard Drive offers a large storage capacity - perfect for storing extensive libraries of samples, patches, and projects.
The USB 3.0 compatibility ensures high-speed data transfer so that loading large files won't keep you waiting.
The Drive comes with password protection software to secure your unique sounds and creations from unauthorized access; this is particularly useful when collaborating or working in public studios.
Furthermore, it features an automatic backup software which can be a lifesaver; imagine losing days or weeks of work due to a sudden system crash or hardware failure!
Additionally, the compact design and stylish finish means it won't look out of place next to your MIDI controllers and mixing desk.
We know running between sessions and gigs is part of life as a music producer; hence the lightweight Toshiba Canvio Advance is designed for portability without compromising on performance.
This Toshiba Canvio Advance 1TB Portable External Hard Drive is perfect for the tech-savvy user who needs to keep their important data secure and backed up.
In addition, it’s easy to install, with compatibility for both USB 3.0 and 2.0, plus password protection software and automatic backup software included!
- USB 3.0 compatibility for faster transfer (also compatible with USB 2.0)
- Protect your data with password protection software
- Easily backup your content with automatic backup software
- Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB models
- Compact and stylish design
- The free downloads for password protection and automatic backup are only compatible with Windows PC, limiting its usage for Mac users.
- Some customers have reported that it isn’t durable enough and can easily break or stop working after a short period of use.
- Despite being USB 3.0 compatible, some users have experienced slower transfer speeds compared to other external hard drives in the same price range.
Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC
- Key Type & Count: HDD
- Speed & Performance: USB 3.0 connectivity.
- Durability & Portability: NFC technology for quick access, shock-resistant, water, and dust resistant.
- Capacity Options: 2TB model.
- Security Features: Hardware encryption, NFC-based access.
The Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC is equipped with a unique wrap-around USB 3.0 cable and secure hardware encryption.
Iit offers both convenience and security when storing your important tracks and sound mixes.
The built-in NFC technology allows you to unlock and access your files using your smartphone or smartcard without having to remember a password - an essential feature for those on-the-go moments when you need quick access to your projects.
Music production often requires moving around between studios or locations, which is where this rugged portable hard drive really shines.
It features US Military Standard shock protection with specialized bumpers designed to absorb shocks from accidental drops up to 1.2 meters in height, providing assurances that those precious recordings won't be lost due to rough handling.
In addition, as it's both water and dust resistant, there's no more worrying about unexpected splashes or dusty environments ruining your data.
Its 256-bit AES hardware encryption will keep all your important musical compositions safe and secure whether you're storing backup tracks or transporting content between different workstations.
This Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC USB 3.0 2 TB Rugged Portable Hard Drive is perfect for tech-savvy people who demand both quality and reliability.
Featuring premium hardware encryption, drop protection, and water/dust resistance plus fast speeds.
- 3 - year manufacturer's warranty for added peace of mind.
- TAA compliant, made in Japan for high - quality and reliable performance.
- Integrated wrap - around USB 3.0 cable for convenient storage and portability.
- Water and dust resistant design.
- May require formatting for use with Mac
- Only compatible with PC and not other devices such as gaming consoles or smartphones
Be sure to check out our video that covers the 5 best external hard drives for music production that we covered above:
Factors to Consider When Choosing an External Hard Drive for Music Production
Selecting the right external hard drive for your music production demands careful evaluation of numerous factors. Such as, storage capacity, speed, shock resistance and durability, compatibility with your software, connectivity, data protection and, of course, price.
Storage Capacity
We’re starting with storage capacity, because that is one of the most important factors for comparing hard drives. You need to have ample space to store all of your tracks, samples, recorded sessions and mixed audio files.
But don’t limit yourself to what you have produced so far. You need an external hard drive which will meet your needs now and for the foreseeable future.
However, keep in mind that additional storage capacity is expensive, so find a balance between what you think you will need in the future and what you can afford to pay. Having a large quantity of storage space that you won’t use is an extravagance you can do without.
Speed
Of course, speed plays a crucial role in a seamless production experience. Slow transfer rates can cause lag during playback or recording, disrupting your creative process.
Transfer speeds may differ considerably between different hard drives. External SSDs offer faster speeds than traditional HDDs but come at a higher price point.
When you compare various hard drives, be sure to compare their relative speeds as well as storage capacity to find the one that is best for your needs.
Shock Resistance and Durability
Your hard drive should be strong enough to withstand the rigors of travel if you’re constantly on the move or perform live shows regularly. Look for features like shock resistance as well as the durability of the build.
All of the external hard drives on our list are built by major manufacturers who are known for the quality of their products.
Compatibility with Software
Compatibility with both your computer’s operating system and your specific music software is another significant factor you cannot ignore when purchasing an external hard drive for music production.
Check the specs of each product carefully to make sure it will work smoothly with your operating system., your music software, and any software you are considering purchasing in the future.
Connectivity
Connectivity options affect data transfer speed significantly and lack of the proper options may be a hindrance. USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt connections are often considered superior choices in this regard while also ensuring portability benefits particularly if you frequently need to work outside your studio.
Data Protection
Data protection features are another critical consideration. Losing cherished musical pieces due to hardware failure could be devastating! Hard drives usually come with basic backup software,, but you need to be sure they are user-friendly so backups are seamless.
Price
Of course, acquiring a hard drive with a large capacity, high speed, durability, and the many premium features available in this market, increases the price. The important thing is to Remember, although price is of course important, it isn’t the only factor to consider. Try to find a balance between affordability and performance!
By considering the critical factors discussed above, and weighing them against what you need to take your music to the highest level and what you can afford, you’ll be able to find the external harddrive that will satisfy your needs at a price you can afford.
We have selected two excellent hard drives as our top picks, but that isn’t all we did. We continued our list to include models that might be more suitable for producers with specialized needs. So read the whole list and consider your hardware, software, studio setup, music production style, as well as your individual preferences and future needs to find the perfect external harddrive for you!
FAQs
1. How much storage space do I need on an external hard drive for music production?
The amount of storage space you need on an external hard drive for music production depends on several factors, such as the size and number of audio files, and if you use sample libraries. Generally, it’s advisable to have at least 1 TB of storage. Reliable external hard drives like the Samsung T5 offer a lot of storage and are suitable for both Windows and Mac users.
2. Can I use any external hard drive for music production?
Yes, you can use various external hard drives for music production, including both hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid state drives (SSDs). Ensure the drive has a fast data transfer speed (USB 3.0 or higher) and enough storage. Note that some drives may need to be reformatted to be compatible with your operating system.
3. Is it better to have a portable or desktop external hard drive for music production?
Choosing between a portable or desktop external hard drive for music production depends on your workflow. Portable drives, like disc drives or solid state drives, offer mobility and ease of use. Desktop hard drives typically provide a larger amount of space but are less mobile. Consider how much storage you need and whether you require the drive to be portable.
FINAL VERDICT
Our top pick is the Samsung T7 Portable SSD, followed by the Seagate One Touch SSD. Both offer ample storage space, with options for more if required, fast data transfer rates, and a compact design suitable for music producers. Their reliability and sufficient storage capacities make them ideal choices for backing up files and supporting music production activities.
The Glyph Atom RAID SSD stands out as the best budget choice for external hard drives in music production due to its blazing-fast USB 3.1 Type-C connectivity, making data transfer lightning-fast.
It offers a substantial 1TB storage capacity with dual 500GB M.2 SSDs, ideal for securely storing audio samples and projects.
Additionally, its rugged design ensures durability, making it a reliable choice for music professionals on the move, although it may require adapters for older devices and is slightly pricier than some alternatives.
Before you go…
Selecting the best external hard drive is only the first step in setting up your music production environment.
You’ll need additional essential equipment to excel as a producer.
Browse our other articles for detailed advice on choosing the best music gear for your studio!
hey, so I was wonderin about the connectivity part, like does it really make a big diff if I go with USB-C over the regular USB? Just started out and not sure if it’s gonna matter much for my setup. thanks for the insight, Daniel.
got a hard drive last year but it’s slow as heck, need something fast that won’t break the bank, any suggestions?
beatz_boy92, sounds like you need something with an SSD, they’re way faster than HDDs and prices are getting better. Check the speed section of the article, it explains the difference.
Really impressed with the breakdown of data protection. Not something I considered deeply before, but with all my project files at stake, it’s definitely a priority now. Great job covering this crucial aspect, Daniel.
While I appreciate the emphasis on shock resistance and durability, don’t you think that for home studios, focusing on sound quality through better connectivity options might be more pertinent? Interested to hear your thoughts, Daniel.
I noticed you mentioned USB-C and Thunderbolt for connectivity, but there wasn’t much about the actual performance difference between them. From what I know, Thunderbolt offers faster data transfer, which can be crucial for large projects. Might want to clarify this for the readers. Otherwise, solid article!
Picking an external hard drive for music? Guess I can’t just choose the one with the coolest sticker on it, huh? Gonna need to dive into those tech specs you mentioned, thanks for the wake-up call!
Fascinating read, even for someone outside the music production sphere. The emphasis on data protection and compatibility with software is equally important in my field. I’ll be keeping these points in mind for my next external hard drive purchase. Excellent article, Daniel.