Portable SSD vs HDD Under $100: Which Should You Buy?
8/20/2025 · Storage · 8 min
Overview
For external storage under $100, SSDs have become the default for speed, durability, and portability. HDDs still win on raw capacity per dollar, but for gaming libraries and photo/video projects, SSDs feel dramatically faster.
SSD vs HDD at a Glance
- Speed: SSDs load games and copy files 3–10× faster than budget HDDs.
- Durability: No moving parts; far better shock resistance for travel.
- Size & power: Pocket‑sized and bus‑powered via USB‑C.
- Cost: HDDs still cheaper per TB; SSDs are worth it if you value time.
A Strong Budget SSD
Here’s a frequent value pick in our roundup:
What to Look For
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) is a sweet spot for speed and price.
- Controller & NAND: DRAM‑less drives are fine for light use; heavier workflows benefit from better controllers.
- Thermals: Sustained writes can throttle; short bursts (photo offloads) are unaffected.
- Cables: Use the included USB‑C cable or a certified 10 Gbps cable.
Backup & Organization Tips
- Folder strategy: Separate work, media, and backups to avoid accidental deletes.
- Versioned backups: Use built‑in OS tools or cloud sync for critical files.
- Label drives: Simple labels like “Games”, “Footage”, “Archive” save confusion later.
FAQs
- Can I edit video off an SSD? Yes—1080p and even light 4K edits are comfortable on fast external SSDs.
- Does capacity affect speed? Lower capacities can be slower; 1 TB is a good value/performance balance.
Bottom Line
If you value speed and reliability, a portable SSD is the smarter choice. Choose a Gen 2 drive, keep cables certified, and maintain a basic backup routine.
Found this helpful? Check our curated picks on the home page.