· devices · 14 min read
Best Network External Hard Drives: Storage Options and Remote Capabilities
Discover the top 10 network external hard drives for ultimate storage solutions and remote accessibility. Access files effortlessly from multiple devices and enhance your data management strategy.
In today's digital landscape, external hard drives have become an essential tool for storing and accessing data. They offer portability, convenience, and ample storage space. However, for those who need to share and access files remotely, network external hard drives provide an exceptional solution. These advanced devices connect to your home or office network, allowing multiple devices to access and share data wirelessly. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top 10 network external hard drives on the market, helping you choose the perfect device for your specific needs and requirements.
Overview
PROS
- 4TB storage capacity provides ample space for all your files and data.
- Network Attached Storage (NAS) functionality allows for easy access and sharing of files across multiple devices.
- Home Cloud feature enables remote access to your data from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Easy setup and management process makes it accessible to users of all technical levels.
- Compact and sleek design blends seamlessly with any home decor.
CONS
- May not be suitable for professional or enterprise-level storage requirements.
- Transfer speeds may be slower compared to dedicated external hard drives.
The BUFFALO LinkStation 210 Network Attached Storage is an exceptional external hard drive solution that seamlessly integrates into your home network. Its 4TB storage capacity provides more than enough space for your growing collection of files and data, while the NAS functionality allows for effortless sharing and accessibility across all your devices.
One of the standout features of the LinkStation 210 is its Home Cloud capability. This feature empowers you to access your data remotely from any location with an internet connection. Whether you're on the go or simply away from your home network, your files are always at your fingertips. The setup and management process is equally impressive, designed to be user-friendly and straightforward, making it suitable for users of all technical backgrounds.
PROS
- Auto-backup your photos,videos and other important files from your phone, tablet and laptop.
- Personal cloud storage with own Wi-Fi hotspot that doesn't use your data connection.
CONS
- A little bit expensive.
- Transfer files may not be as fast as direct reading from flash drive.
The SSK 2TB External Wireless Hard Drive is a great way to keep all your important files in one place and access them from anywhere. With its own built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, you can connect to the drive wirelessly using your phone, tablet, or laptop and access your files without an internet connection. Then you can enjoy your own movies and musics everywhere.
The drive is also great for backing up your photos, videos, and other important files. You can set it to automatically back up your files from your phone, tablet, or laptop so you never have to worry about losing them. The SSK 2TB External Wireless Hard Drive is a great way to keep all your important files safe and make them accessible from anywhere.
PROS
- Massive 10TB capacity for storing vast amounts of data
- USB3.2Gen2 Type-C interface for lightning-fast data transfer speeds
- Compatible with a wide range of devices including PCs, laptops, and TVs
- Durable and reliable design for secure data storage
- Hassle-free setup and plug-and-play functionality
CONS
- May require an external power supply for some devices
- Not suitable for rugged or extreme environments
The UnionSine 10TB External Hard Drive is an ideal solution for expanding your storage capacity and organizing your digital life. Its massive 10TB capacity provides ample space for storing large files, media collections, and backups. The USB3.2Gen2 Type-C interface enables lightning-fast data transfer speeds, making it a breeze to move even the most extensive files in a matter of seconds.
The drive is compatible with a wide range of devices, including PCs, laptops, and TVs, offering versatile connectivity options. Its durable and reliable design ensures that your data remains safe and protected, while the hassle-free setup and plug-and-play functionality make it easy to get started. Whether you're a professional content creator, a tech enthusiast, or simply someone who needs ample storage space, the UnionSine 10TB External Hard Drive is a powerful and reliable choice for all your storage needs.
PROS
- Ample storage capacity of 6TB to store large media libraries and files
- USB 3.0 interface for fast data transfer speeds
CONS
- May not be compatible with all operating systems
- May require additional power adapter depending on use case
The Western Digital 6TB Elements External Hard Drive Network delivers a reliable and efficient storage solution for your digital needs. With its generous 6TB storage capacity, you'll have ample space to store your media libraries, large files, and essential data. The USB 3.0 interface ensures quick and seamless data transfer, minimizing wait times during file transfers and backups.
While it supports plug-and-play functionality, be aware that compatibility issues may arise with certain operating systems. Additionally, depending on your usage scenario, you may need an extra power adapter for stable operation. Overall, the Western Digital 6TB Elements External Hard Drive Network offers a robust storage solution for personal or professional use, providing convenient and reliable access to your important files and data.
PROS
- Manage and access your data effortlessly with USB 3.1 Gen1 connectivity.
- Enjoy the convenience of hot-swapping hard drives for seamless data management.
CONS
- Hard drives are not included with the enclosure.
- The enclosure may require additional cooling in certain environments.
The TERRAMASTER D4-300 external hard drive network storage enclosure offers a simple and effective solution for expanding your storage capacity. With its four storage bays and USB 3.1 connectivity, you can easily connect multiple hard drives to your computer and manage your data with ease. Hot-swapping allows for seamless drive replacement, ensuring uninterrupted access to your data. While the enclosure does not include hard drives, its compatibility with various drive sizes and capacities provides flexibility for your storage needs. The compact design makes it suitable for various environments, and the durable construction ensures longevity. Overall, the TERRAMASTER D4-300 is a reliable and convenient external hard drive network storage solution for personal or business use.
PROS
- 8TB of ample storage capacity for your data and media
- High-speed data transfer with Gigabit Ethernet connectivity
CONS
- Pricey compared to other network storage options
- Setup process may be challenging for some users
The Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra Network Attached Storage is a powerful and versatile NAS device that offers a plethora of features for home and small business users. With its 8TB storage capacity, you'll have ample space to store all your important files, photos, videos, and more. The Gigabit Ethernet connectivity ensures fast data transfer speeds, making it easy to access and share your files across your network.
Setting up the My Cloud EX2 Ultra is relatively straightforward, although some users may find the process a bit daunting. Once it's up and running, you'll have access to a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to manage your files and settings. The My Cloud EX2 Ultra also supports a variety of apps and add-ons, allowing you to customize your NAS to meet your specific needs.
PROS
- 8TB storage capacity provides ample space for all your files.
- USB 3.0 interface allows for fast data transfer speeds.
- Portable design makes it easy to take your files with you.
- Plug-and-play operation makes it easy to use.
CONS
- Does not include a power adapter.
- May not be compatible with all devices.
The Seagate Expansion external hard drive is a great way to add extra storage to your computer. With its 8TB capacity, you'll have plenty of room for all your files, including photos, videos, music, and documents. The USB 3.0 interface provides fast data transfer speeds, so you can quickly move files to and from the drive. And the portable design makes it easy to take your files with you wherever you go.
The Seagate Expansion external hard drive is easy to use. Simply plug it into a USB port on your computer and you're ready to start using it. The drive is also compatible with both Windows and Mac computers, so you can use it with any computer you have. Overall, the Seagate Expansion external hard drive is a great option for anyone who needs extra storage space. It's affordable, easy to use, and has a large capacity.
PROS
- - Easy to set up and use
- - Plenty of storage space
- - Ability to access files from anywhere
- - Fast and secure file transfer
CONS
- - Pricey compared to other models
- - Not as fast as some other external hard drives
The Western Digital 4TB My Cloud Home Personal Cloud is a great choice for anyone looking for an external hard drive that's easy to use and offers plenty of storage space. It's also a good option for those who want to be able to access their files from anywhere. The setup process is simple, and the drive can be accessed from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection. The drive also comes with a variety of features that make it easy to manage and protect your files, including automatic backup, file encryption, and remote access.
One of the best things about the Western Digital 4TB My Cloud Home Personal Cloud is its large storage capacity. With 4TB of space, you'll have plenty of room to store all of your important files, including photos, videos, music, and documents. The drive is also fast, so you won't have to wait long to access your files. And the built-in file encryption feature helps to keep your files safe and secure.
PROS
- Effortless Remote Access: Wirelessly connect to your data from anywhere, anytime, ensuring your files are always within reach.
- Ample Storage Capacity: The 4TB hard drive provides ample space for storing your important documents, photos, videos, and more.
CONS
- Wi-Fi Connectivity Absence: Unlike some competing devices, this NAS does not support direct Wi-Fi connections.
- Occasional Interface Lag: In certain instances, users have reported experiencing slight delays when accessing files through the user interface.
The SSK Personal Cloud Network Attached Storage is a highly competent device designed to provide a centralized and accessible storage solution for your personal or home office needs. Its primary strengths lie in the convenience of wireless remote access and the generous storage capacity of 4TB. With the ability to connect to your data from virtually anywhere, you gain unparalleled flexibility and peace of mind knowing that your important files are always within reach.
The inclusion of a pre-installed hard drive is a welcome addition, eliminating the hassle of purchasing and installing a separate drive. The straightforward setup process ensures that you can start using the NAS quickly and effortlessly. While the absence of Wi-Fi connectivity may be a drawback for some users who prefer a completely wireless solution, the wired connection offers stable and reliable performance.
PROS
- Enjoy ample storage space of 14TB, accommodating extensive media files, documents, and more.
- USB 3.0 interface ensures lightning-fast data transfer speeds, saving you valuable time.
CONS
- The external drive is solely compatible with Windows operating systems.
- It may not be suitable for heavy-duty use or extreme environments.
Avolusion PRO-5Y Series External Hard Drive emerges as an impressive storage solution for Windows users. Boasting a colossal 14TB capacity, this external hard drive can effortlessly accommodate your vast collection of media files, essential documents, and other data. The USB 3.0 interface empowers you with lightning-fast data transfer speeds, enabling seamless file sharing and backup. Its sleek and compact design makes it a practical companion for your desktop PC or laptop, allowing you to expand your storage capacity on the go.
While tailored specifically for Windows operating systems, the Avolusion PRO-5Y Series External Hard Drive stands out with its user-friendly setup. Simply plug it into your computer's USB port, and it's ready to use, providing instant access to your stored data. However, it's worth noting that this external drive may not be ideal for heavy-duty usage or exposure to extreme environments. For everyday storage needs and reliable data backup, the Avolusion PRO-5Y Series External Hard Drive offers an excellent combination of ample capacity, fast transfer speeds, and user-centric design.
In this extensive exploration, we have meticulously evaluated and ranked the leading network external hard drives based on their performance, storage capacities, security features, and user-friendliness. Our top picks include the BUFFALO LinkStation 210, SSK 2TB Portable NAS, UnionSine 10TB External Hard Drive, Western Digital 6TB Elements Desktop, TERRAMASTER D4-300 USB 3.1 External Hard Drive Enclosure, Western Digital 8TB My Cloud EX2 Ultra Network Attached Storage, Seagate Expansion 8TB External Hard Drive HDD, Western Digital 4TB My Cloud Home Personal Cloud, SSK 4TB Personal Cloud Network Attached Storage, and Avolusion PRO-5Y Series 14TB USB 3.0 External Hard Drive. Whether you're a professional, an enthusiast, or simply someone who needs a reliable storage solution, our curated list will guide you toward the optimal choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of using a network external hard drive over a traditional external hard drive?
Network external hard drives offer several advantages over traditional external hard drives. They allow multiple devices to access and share data wirelessly, making them an excellent option for homes or offices where multiple people need access to shared files. They also provide remote access, enabling you to access your files from anywhere with an internet connection.
What factors should I consider when choosing a network external hard drive?
When choosing a network external hard drive, consider factors such as storage capacity, supported network protocols, security features, compatibility with your devices, and user-friendliness. Determine the amount of storage space you need, the type of network you have, and the level of security you require.
Can network external hard drives be used for data backup?
Yes, network external hard drives can be used for data backup. They provide a convenient and reliable way to back up your important files and data. Many network external hard drives come with backup software that makes it easy to schedule and automate backups.
Are network external hard drives secure?
Network external hard drives typically offer various security features to protect your data from unauthorized access and cyber threats. These features may include password protection, encryption, and remote access control.
Which network external hard drive is the best for home use?
For home use, a network external hard drive with ample storage capacity, user-friendly features, and reliable performance is recommended. Consider options like the BUFFALO LinkStation 210 or the Western Digital 4TB My Cloud Home Personal Cloud.
