Hey there, gamers! Are you tired of waiting forever for your games to load? Those long delays can kill the excitement, right? Whether you’re on a PS5, Xbox Series X, or a gaming PC, slow load times are a real drag.
It’s like watching paint dry when all you want is to jump into the action.
Did you know that using an external SSD can slash those load times big time? These solid-state drives are way faster than old-school hard drives. They can get you into the game in a snap with speedy file transfers.
Stick with us, and we’ll show you the 7 best external SSDs for faster game load times. We’ve picked options with killer transfer speeds, solid storage capacity, and support for USB 3.2 and USB Type-C ports.
No matter your budget or setup, we’ve got a portable drive that fits. Keep reading!
Key Takeaways
- Samsung T9 Portable SSD offers top speeds of 2,000MB/s for read and write, with prices starting at $117.49 for 1TB.
- Crucial X9 is a budget pick with read speeds up to 1,050MB/s, priced at $239.99 for the 4TB model.
- Adata SE920 is the fastest, hitting 3,800MB/s read and 3,700MB/s write, costing $177.31 for 1TB.
- Samsung T7 Shield is super tough with an IP65 rating and survives 3-meter drops, priced at $163.34 for 2TB.
- SanDisk Desk Drive excels in backups with 8TB capacity and speeds of 1,000MB/s read, priced at $663.98.
Key Features to Consider in an External SSD for Gaming
Hey there, picking the right external SSD for gaming can feel like finding a hidden treasure. Let’s chat about what really matters, like speed and toughness, to amp up your gaming setup!
Transfer speed
Transfer speed matters a lot for gaming on an external SSD. You want games to load fast, right? A quick drive cuts down wait times, so you jump into action sooner. Look for SSDs with high read and write speeds, like the Samsung T9 at 2,000MB/s for both.
Or check out the Adata SE920, hitting a blazing 3,800MB/s read and 3,700MB/s write. These numbers mean your file transfers zip along with no lag.
Speedy connections help too, such as USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 or Thunderbolt 4 ports. They push data faster than older USB 3.0 options. For instance, the Crucial X9 offers 1,050MB/s read speed, with real tests showing around 960MB/s.
Pick a portable SSD with solid sequential transfer speeds, and your gaming performance will soar.
Storage capacity
Storage capacity matters a lot for gamers like you. Think of it as the size of your digital backpack. You need enough room for all your games, saves, and updates. Most external SSDs for gaming, like the Samsung T9, Crucial X9, and Adata SE920, come in options of 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB.
That’s plenty of space for big titles that eat up gigabytes.
Picking the right size depends on your gaming habits. If you play a few heavy hitters, 1TB might do the trick. Got a huge library? Go for 2TB or even 4TB to keep everything handy on your portable SSD.
More storage capacity means less hassle with deleting old games to free up space on your external drive. Stick with what fits your needs, and you’re good to roll!
Durability and portability
Hey there, gamers, let’s chat about why durability and portability matter for your external SSD. You want a drive that can take a hit, right? Look at options like the Samsung T7 Shield with an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, plus it survives drops up to 3 meters.
Then there’s the Adata SD810, rocking an IP68 rating, meaning it laughs off dust and water. And don’t sleep on the TeamGroup PD20, sporting an IP54 rating for solid protection.
Portability is just as key, especially if you’re always on the move with your portable storage. A lightweight, compact SSD fits easy in your bag, whether you’re gaming on a PS4 or Xbox Series X/S.
These rugged external SSDs keep your data safe without weighing you down. Pick one with a tough build and a small form factor, and you’re good to go anywhere.
Compatibility with gaming platforms
Got a gaming setup that spans multiple devices? Compatibility with gaming platforms is a big deal for external SSDs, since you want a drive that works smoothly with your gear, be it PCs, handhelds, or consoles like Xbox Series X or S.
Think of it like picking the right key for a lock. Most portable SSDs connect via USB Type-C or USB Type-A ports, making them a fit for many systems. Just make sure your device has the right USB port, and for top speed with tech like USB4, check if write caching is turned on.
This little trick can boost performance big time on supported hardware!
Security features
Hey there, gamers, let’s chat about keeping your data safe with external SSDs. Security features matter a ton when you’ve got sensitive stuff stored, like game saves or personal files.
Many modern portable SSDs come with hardware encryption, which locks down your data without slowing your file transfers. That means speedy access and top-notch protection, all at once.
Dig this, some drives even offer cool extras like fingerprint readers for added safety. If that’s not your style, a basic password setup on most solid-state drives can still guard your info just fine.
Whether it’s for PC or Xbox Series X/S, these tricks help shield your storage from prying eyes.
Best Overall External SSD for Gaming: Samsung T9 Portable SSD
Hey, gamers, want lightning-fast load times? Check out the Samsung T9 Portable SSD, a real game-changer for your setup!
Features & Description (Samsung T9 Portable SSD)
Check out the Samsung T9 Portable SSD, a real game-changer for faster load times. This solid-state drive packs a punch with capacities of 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB, giving you plenty of space for games.
It uses USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for blazing file transfer speeds, hitting up to 2,000MB/s for both read and write. That means less waiting and more playing, folks.
On top of that, the T9 keeps consistent speeds above 900MB/s even after the initial peak. Priced at just $117.49 for the 1TB model, often discounted to $101.99, this portable SSD offers top-tier gaming performance without breaking the bank.
If speed and storage capacity are your goals, this drive fits the bill like a glove.
Pros & Cons (Samsung T9 Portable SSD)
Hey there, gamers, let’s break down the good and the bad of the Samsung T9 Portable SSD in a neat, easy-to-read table.
|
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
| Delivers consistent high speeds for snappy game load times. | Misses out on water and dust resistance, so handle with care. |
| Comes at a discounted price, saving you some hard-earned cash. | Not the best pick for rough outdoor use or clumsy moments. |
Dig into these points, folks, and see if this drive matches your gaming vibe. Got a cluttered desk or a knack for dropping gear? Keep that in mind. This SSD, with its zippy performance, could still be your trusty sidekick for slashing load screens.
Best Budget External SSD: Crucial X9
Hey, if you’re hunting for a wallet-friendly external SSD that still packs a punch, check out the Crucial X9. Wanna know why this portable drive with speedy USB 3.2 Gen 2 support is a steal for gamers?
Features & Description (Crucial X9)
Let’s chat about the Crucial X9, a solid pick for gamers on a budget. This external SSD packs a punch with speedy performance, hitting up to 1,050MB/s for read speeds. In real tests, it clocks in close at about 960MB/s, so your game load times shrink fast.
With storage options like 1TB, 2TB, and even 4TB, it holds plenty of titles without breaking the bank.
Built with USB 3.2 Gen 2×1, the Crucial X9 hooks up easily to your PC or console via a USB Type-C port. It sustains peak speeds for over six minutes, which means big file transfers won’t slow you down.
Priced at just $239.99 for the 4TB model, this portable drive offers great value. Plus, its compact design makes it a breeze to carry anywhere you game.
Pros & Cons (Crucial X9)
Hey there, gamers, I’m thrilled to break down the ups and downs of the Crucial X9, a budget-friendly external SSD that’s catching eyes for all the right reasons. Check out the table below to see its strengths and weaknesses at a glance.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | – Wallet-friendly pricing makes it a steal for gamers on a tight budget.- Delivers sustained peak speeds, so your game load times won’t drag.
– Fits nicely into any setup with its compact design. |
| Cons | – Falls short on performance when stacked against top-tier models.- Lacks the extra bells and whistles of pricier SSDs, like advanced security.
– Might not keep up with the fastest drives during heavy file transfers. |
Fastest External SSD for Gaming: Adata SE920
Hey, gamers, want lightning-fast load times? Check out the Adata SE920, a top-notch NVMe SSD that screams speed with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support!
Features & Description (Adata SE920)
Let’s talk about the Adata SE920, a top pick for gamers craving speed. This external SSD is a beast with rated performance hitting 3,800MB/s for reads and 3,700MB/s for writes. That means your game load times shrink, getting you into the action fast.
To snag those crazy file transfer speeds, you’ll need a USB4 port with write caching turned on. Priced at $177.31 for the 1TB model, it’s a solid deal for such power. Plus, with options up to 4TB, this portable SSD offers huge storage capacity for all your gaming needs via USB Type-C.
Pros & Cons (Adata SE920)
Hey there, gamers, let me break down the strengths and weaknesses of the Adata SE920, a speed demon in the external SSD arena, with a handy table to keep things crystal clear.
|
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
| Blazing fast with near-internal SSD speeds, slashing game load times like a hot knife through butter. | Demands specific USB4 compatibility to hit those peak performance levels, which might cramp your style. |
| Perfect for quick data transfers, making lag a distant memory. | Not all devices play nice with USB4, so you might hit a snag or two. |
Most Portable External SSD: TeamGroup PD20
Hey there, wanna know about a super tiny drive that fits right in your pocket? The TeamGroup PD20, a slick portable SSD, packs a punch with its compact design and solid storage for your gaming needs!
Features & Description (TeamGroup PD20)
Check out the TeamGroup PD20, a tiny powerhouse for gamers on the go. This portable SSD packs a punch with capacities of 1TB, 2TB, and even 4TB. It hooks up fast using USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, giving you speedy file transfers to cut down game load times.
On top of that, it’s super compact and tough with an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance. You can toss it in your bag without a worry. With a price of just $154.60 for the 2TB model, this solid-state drive fits your budget and boosts gaming performance on any device with USB Type-C ports.
Pros & Cons (TeamGroup PD20)
Hey there, let’s chat about the TeamGroup PD20, a portable SSD that’s a real game-changer for gamers on the move. This tiny beast is compact and portable, fitting right in your pocket, so you can haul your games anywhere with ease. It boasts solid storage capacity, and with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support, it offers decent file transfer speeds for quick game loads.
On the flip side, though, its write speed lags a bit behind its read speed, which might slow down big file transfers. Still, for a portable SSD that’s durable and easy to carry, it’s a trusty sidekick for your gaming adventures.
Best Durable External SSD: Samsung T7 Shield
Hey, wanna know about a tough cookie in the external SSD game? Check out the Samsung T7 Shield, built to handle bumps and drops like a champ, perfect for gamers on the go!
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Features & Description (Samsung T7 Shield)
Folks, let’s chat about the Samsung T7 Shield, a rugged external SSD built for gamers who need tough portable storage. This beast boasts an IP65 rating, meaning it’s dust and water-resistant, perfect for those accidental spills or dusty setups.
Plus, it can survive drops from up to 3 meters, so no worries if it slips off your desk mid-game.
This SSD comes in capacities of 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB, giving you plenty of space for games and files. With USB 3.2 Gen 2×1, it hits speeds of 1,050MB/s for reading and 1,000MB/s for writing, slashing load times like a hot knife through butter.
Priced at $163.34 for the 2TB model, the Samsung T7 Shield packs a punch for both durability and swift file transfers on any gaming rig.
Pros & Cons (Samsung T7 Shield)
Hey there, let’s chat about the Samsung T7 Shield, a rugged external SSD built for gamers who need tough gear. This portable drive shines with high durability and drop resistance, making it a solid choice if your setup takes a beating. It’s got an IP65 rating, so dust and water splashes won’t slow it down. Plus, with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support, file transfers are pretty snappy for most gaming needs.
On the flip side, its speed isn’t the best compared to top-tier models like some NVMe SSDs out there. If you’re craving lightning-fast load times, this might not keep up with the fastest portable storage options. Still, for a durable and reliable external SSD, it’s hard to beat this one for the price.
Best External SSD for Backups: SanDisk Desk Drive
Hey there, if you’re hunting for a solid backup solution, the SanDisk Desk Drive might just be your new best friend. Stick around to see why this external SSD packs a punch for keeping your data safe!
Features & Description (SanDisk Desk Drive)
Let’s talk about the SanDisk Desk Drive, a solid choice for gamers needing huge storage. This external SSD offers massive capacities of 4TB and 8TB, perfect for storing tons of games and backups.
It uses USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 for quick file transfers, hitting rated speeds of 1,000MB/s for reading and 900MB/s for writing. That means less waiting and more playing!
On top of that, the SanDisk Desk Drive delivers steady performance, holding speeds around 930MB/s over 1.6TB in just 30 minutes. Priced at $663.98 for the 8TB model, it’s a hefty investment, but worth it for serious storage needs.
Plus, with external power delivery, this SSD keeps running smoothly during long gaming sessions. How cool is that for a portable storage beast?
Pros & Cons (SanDisk Desk Drive)
Hey there, gamers, let’s chat about the SanDisk Desk Drive, a solid choice for external SSD storage. It shines with large capacity, perfect for stacking up tons of games without a hitch. Plus, its consistent speeds mean your file transfers won’t drag on, keeping you in the action with solid state performance.
On the flip side, this portable drive isn’t the easiest to tote around. Its need for external power makes it less handy for on-the-go gaming compared to other SSD drives. Still, if you’re setting up a steady spot at home with USB ports ready, this could be your go-to for big storage needs.
Best External SSD for Video Editing and Gaming: Lexar SL660 Blaze Game Portable SSD
Hey, gamers and video editors, wanna turbocharge your workflow with a slick portable drive? Check out the Lexar SL660 Blaze Game Portable SSD, packing wild USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds for snappy file transfers!
Features & Description (Lexar SL660 Blaze Game Portable SSD)
Let me tell you about the Lexar SL660 Blaze Game Portable SSD, a fantastic pick for gamers and creators alike. This solid-state drive packs a punch with a maximum read speed of 2,000 MB/s and a write speed of 1,900 MB/s.
Using a USB 3.2 connection, it ensures super-fast file transfers, so you’re not stuck waiting around.
On top of that, it comes in 512GB and 1TB storage capacities, giving you plenty of room for games and videos. Its durable aluminum build protects against bumps, while the compact 2.5-inch size and cool RGB lighting add style and easy portability.
Plus, with 256-bit AES hardware encryption, your data stays safe, and it works great on PC, PS5, PS4, and Xbox platforms.
Pros & Cons (Lexar SL660 Blaze Game Portable SSD)
Hey there, gamers, let’s chat about the Lexar SL660 Blaze Game Portable SSD, a solid pick for boosting your gaming performance. This external SSD packs a punch with read speeds hitting up to 2,000MB/s and write speeds at 1,900MB/s. That means your games load fast, and it’s great for video editing too. On top of that, it offers 256-bit AES hardware encryption, keeping your data safe from prying eyes.
Now, here’s the flip side, folks. Its maximum storage capacity tops out at 1TB, which might feel tight if you’ve got a huge game library. Still, it shines with compatibility across PC, PS5, PS4, and Xbox, making it a versatile portable SSD. Plus, its compact 2.5-inch size and durable aluminum build make it easy to toss in your bag without worry. What a handy little beast for gaming on the go!
How We Test External SSDs for Gaming
Hey, want to know how we pick the best external SSDs for gaming? Stick around, and let’s chat about our cool testing tricks!
Performance tests
Let’s talk about how we check the speed of external SSDs for gaming. We use tools like CrystalDiskMark, IOMeter, and 3DMark Storage to measure raw performance. These benchmarks show us read and write speeds in hard numbers.
For instance, the Samsung T9 hit 1,753MB/s read and 1,661MB/s write speeds, which is blazing fast for file transfers.
We also run real-world tests to see actual gaming performance. Think of loading up FFXIV to check game load times or copying big files to track speed. The Kingston XS2000, for example, copied a game in just 1.21 seconds at 1,138MB/s.
With USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support, these portable drives prove their worth for quick access on your Xbox Series X/S or desktop PC. How’s that for snappy?
Durability tests
Hey there, gamers! Let’s explore how we evaluate whether an external SSD, like a rugged external SSD, can withstand harsh conditions. We subject these drives to desk-height drop tests to check if they endure everyday mishaps.
Imagine a clumsy moment, dropping your portable SSD from the table. We test to ensure your data remains secure even after a fall.
Visualize this, folks, a drive like the Samsung T7 Shield can endure drops from up to 3 meters. That’s a significant fall! Our tests replicate real-life accidents to verify these solid-state drives won’t fail when it matters.
So, you can rely on your gaming gear, loaded with high storage capacity, to match your daring adventures.
Compatibility tests
Testing compatibility is a priority for us. We ensure external SSDs work seamlessly with PCs, handhelds, and consoles. No one wants a drive that fails to connect, right? Our aim is to guarantee your portable SSD functions wherever you play.
We connect them to different systems to identify any issues.
Beyond that, we explore details like USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 support. USB4 reaches speeds of 20 to 40 Gbps and provides extensive compatibility. Thunderbolt 4, on the other hand, peaks at 40 Gbps for incredibly quick file transfers.
We evaluate these on devices with USB Type-C ports and Thunderbolt ports to verify they perform for Xbox Series X/S or your desktop PC. It’s all about maintaining your gaming performance at its best!
Takeaways
Hey there, gamers, let’s finish this strong! Choosing the right external SSD can really enhance your gaming with incredibly quick load times. Whether you pick the Samsung T9 for exceptional performance or the more affordable Crucial X9, you’re set for a great experience.
Don’t delay; get a portable solid-state drive today and jump into your games faster than ever. Stay with us for more advice to improve your setup!
FAQs on Best External SSDs for Faster Game
1. What makes an external SSD better than a portable hard drive for gaming?
Man, if you’re tired of waiting forever for games to load on your Xbox Series X or S, an external SSD is your ticket to speed city. These solid-state drives, like the Samsung T9, offer blazing sequential transfer speeds compared to clunky old hard drives. Plus, with tech like PCIe 4.0 or USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, you’re getting file transfers that feel like a quick snap of the fingers.
2. Which external SSD works best for my MacBook Pro?
Hey, if you’re rocking a MacBook Pro, check out something like the Crucial X9 Pro with USB Type-C and Thunderbolt 3 support. It’s built to mesh smoothly with Macs, delivering fast file transfer speeds for your gaming needs.
3. Can a rugged external SSD handle my on-the-go lifestyle?
Absolutely, pal, a rugged external SSD like the ADATA SD810 with an IP68 rating can take a beating and keep on ticking. Whether you’re hauling it to a friend’s place or gaming at a cafe, this portable storage shrugs off dust and water like a champ. Pair it with USB 3.2 Gen 2, and you’ve got durability plus speed for your desktop PC or console.
4. How does storage capacity affect my choice of portable SSD?
Listen up, storage capacity on a portable SSD, say with the SanDisk Desk Drive, matters big time when you’ve got hefty game files piling up. You don’t want to keep juggling titles on and off your drive, right?
5. Why should I care about PCIe 3.0 or PCIe 5.0 in an external SSD?
Well, buddy, think of PCIe 3.0 or PCIe 5.0 as the fast lanes on a highway for data with non-volatile memory express tech. Opting for a drive like the Samsung 990 Pro with PCIe support means your gaming performance gets a turbo boost, especially with IOPS and file transfers zipping along quicker than a rabbit on the run.
6. Are there external SSDs with cool extras like RGB lighting?
Heck yeah, some drives come with flair, like RGB lighting to jazz up your setup while still packing a punch for gaming. Take a peek at options reviewed on PCMag.com; they often highlight portable SSDs with neat perks alongside USB power and SuperSpeed USB connectors. It’s like getting a flashy car that also hauls serious cargo for your Xbox or desktop PC gaming rig.
