Losing information and data you’ve taken years to create is harrowing. That’s why umpteen portable data storage devices are on the market to help you store your data. IT experts advise that cloud systems are the best place to keep data. Unfortunately, cloud storage is still not convenient. That leaves you with no choice but to use other data storage devices.
Data storage devices range from tiny drives that can be mounted to mobile devices to larger networks best suited for multi-user environments. Select the best device for storing data to ensure that you handle your data and information appropriately. Your device choice shouldn’t only hold your data, but it should also distribute it.
Here are some things that you should look at when buying an external storage device:
1. Storage Capacity
One of the most vital specifications data storage device owners look at when purchasing an external drive is its storage space. Buying a device with encryption, high speed, and remote access is good. However, it may not be beneficial if it isn’t large enough to store your information. Also, paying hundreds or thousands of dollars for a drive you can never fill would be needless.
So, the best size depends on your needs. If you need a device for transferring photos, documents, and other media from your tablet, laptop, or computer, a mid-range flash drive is okay.
Though the largest of such drives can accommodate up to 2TB of information, they’re costly. Furthermore, they may be unnecessary for simple transfers. It would be best to buy a drive with about 64GB because it’ll help you save money.
You’ll need something more significant if you intend to store more information or large folders and files for a long time. A 1TB drive can be ideal for such data and help you store information longer. You can buy a larger disc drive to store thousands of movies.
2. Transfer Speeds
Although size is important when selecting external drives, you should also consider transfer speeds. Regularly transferring files to larger drives may cause the transfer to take longer to complete.
Two factors determine how fast a storage device can be: the connector it uses and its storage technology. Though drives have different transfer speeds, SSDs process information quicker than HDDs, which is why they’re more expensive.
You have several options for connecting your mobile device or PC. Most people prefer using USB interfaces, though Thunderbolt connections may be faster.
3. Portability
If you need a drive to store backups in your home, NAS devices may be a great option. You can wire these devices to your local network and pack them in many storage and drive modes.
But if you want to carry your device wherever you go, you need to consider its portability. It needs to be small and lightweight so that you can stuff it in your pocket or bag and quickly and immediately access it.
Conclusion
Though it’s vital to consider storage and speed when buying an external drive, cost and portability are also factors you must consider. The drive you select should drive its purpose well and help you keep your data secure.
