Buying Guide
The Best External SSD for Gaming
Five external drives compared, from the GARMESE to the Rugged SSD4, with the trade-offs of each named.
By The PC Journal editorial team
12 min read5 products evaluated
An external SSD holds a game library for a PC or console and loads faster than a hard drive. These are ordered by listed read speed.
Our comparison rests on published figures for drive type, capacity (as reviewed) and max read speed; where a maker leaves a figure out, we say so, and no figure here comes from our own testing.
Quick Picks
Our 5 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Fastest Rated Read Speed
LaCie Rugged SSD4 1TB
The fastest rated read speed here (4,000MB/s).
Best for: Buyers who put rated read speed first.
Our take Check price for LaCie Rugged SSD4 1TB (opens in a new tab)
Also Consider
Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD 1TB
2,000MB/s rated writes.
Best for: Buyers who want 2,000MB/s rated writes.
Our take Check price for Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD 1TB (opens in a new tab)
Strong Alternative
Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD 2TB
2,000MB/s rated writes.
Best for: Buyers who want 2,000MB/s rated writes.
Our take Check price for Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD 2TB (opens in a new tab)
Worth a Look
Crucial X10 Portable SSD 2TB
An IP65 rating.
Best for: Buyers who want IP65 rating.
Our take Check price for Crucial X10 Portable SSD 2TB (opens in a new tab)
Lowest Price Here
GARMESE 1TB External SSD
The lowest price of the group at our last check.
Best for: Getting 33g body with a keychain hole for the least money.
Our take Check price for GARMESE 1TB External SSD (opens in a new tab)
| Pick | Why it’s here | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| The fastest rated read speed here (4,000MB/s). | Buyers who put rated read speed first. | Check price for LaCie Rugged SSD4 1TB (opens in a new tab) |
| 2,000MB/s rated writes. | Buyers who want 2,000MB/s rated writes. | Check price for Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD 1TB (opens in a new tab) |
| 2,000MB/s rated writes. | Buyers who want 2,000MB/s rated writes. | Check price for Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD 2TB (opens in a new tab) |
| An IP65 rating. | Buyers who want IP65 rating. | Check price for Crucial X10 Portable SSD 2TB (opens in a new tab) |
| The lowest price of the group at our last check. | Getting 33g body with a keychain hole for the least money. | Check price for GARMESE 1TB External SSD (opens in a new tab) |
Our Picks
Fastest Rated Read Speed1 of 5
LaCie Rugged SSD4 1TB on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
LaCie's Rugged SSD4 uses a 40Gbps USB connection and offers 4,000MB/s reads and 3,800MB/s writes, the fastest figures here.
Best for
- Buyers who put rated read speed first.
Skip if
- Skip it if price comes first: the GARMESE cost less when we checked.
Why we like it
It is the only 1TB drive in this guide, and it needs a USB4 or Thunderbolt port to reach those speeds. It reads at up to 4,000MB/s over USB 40Gbps and Thunderbolt, and it is IP54-rated with 3-metre drop and 1-ton crush resistance. It suits fieldwork with large video files.
It matches the X10 Pro and the GARMESE on capacity (1TB). Its 4,000MB/s rated read speed is the fastest here; the X10 Pro comes next at 2,100MB/s. It also offers compatibility with Thunderbolt 3, 4 and 5 as well as 5-20Gbps USB and a three-year warranty with Rescue data recovery. It was the most expensive pick when we checked, so weigh what it adds over the X10 2TB.
Key dimensions & specs
- Drive type: SSD
- Capacity (as reviewed): 1TB
- Max read speed: 4,000MB/s
- Connection: USB 40Gbps (Thunderbolt 3, 4 and 5 compatible)
- Durability claim: IP54, drops up to 3m, 1-ton pressure
- Security: None stated
Pros
- rated reads up to 4,000MB/s
- 3,800MB/s rated writes
- Compatibility with Thunderbolt 3, 4 and 5 as well as 5-20Gbps USB
- Three-year warranty with Rescue data recovery
Cons
- Costs more than the GARMESE at the time of writing
Also Consider2 of 5
Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD 1TB on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Crucial's X10 Pro offers 2,100MB/s reads and 2,000MB/s writes with IP55 protection and a lanyard loop.
Best for
- Buyers who want 2,000MB/s rated writes.
Skip if
- Skip it if price comes first: the GARMESE cost less when we checked.
Why we like it
It suits creators with a 20Gbps port. It reads at up to 2,100MB/s and writes at 2,000MB/s, and it is rated IP55 with 7.5-foot drop resistance. Full speed needs a 20Gbps USB port.
It matches the Rugged SSD4 and the GARMESE on capacity (1TB). It also comes with Acronis True Image and Mylio Photos+ trials. Its top speed needs a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20Gbps) port; most laptops and all Macs run it at 10Gbps speeds instead.
Before buying, weigh one limit: costs more than the GARMESE at the time of writing. Its price falls between the GARMESE and the X10 Pro 2TB, based on our last check.
Key dimensions & specs
- Drive type: SSD
- Capacity (as reviewed): 1TB
- Max read speed: 2,100MB/s
- Connection: USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (USB-C)
- Durability claim: IP55, drops up to 7.5ft
- Security: None stated
Pros
- rated reads up to 2,100MB/s
- 2,000MB/s rated writes
- Lanyard loop and activity light
- Acronis True Image and Mylio Photos+ trials
Cons
- Costs more than the GARMESE at the time of writing
Strong Alternative3 of 5
Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD 2TB on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Crucial's X10 Pro offers 2,100MB/s reads and 2,000MB/s writes, so large exports copy back nearly as fast as they read.
Best for
- Buyers who want 2,000MB/s rated writes.
Skip if
- Skip it if price comes first: the GARMESE cost less when we checked.
Why we like it
It adds IP55 water and dust resistance, a 7.5ft drop rating and password protection built into the drive. It reads at up to 2,100MB/s and is rated IP55 with 7.5-foot drop resistance. Full speed needs a 20Gbps USB port.
You get an SSD password protection security here, which sets it apart from the GARMESE and its a none stated security. It also comes with a lanyard loop and activity light and three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image. Another plus is capacity of 2TB, ahead of the Rugged SSD4. When we checked, only the X10 Pro and cheaper picks cost less, and the X10 2TB cost more.
Key dimensions & specs
- Drive type: SSD
- Capacity (as reviewed): 2TB
- Max read speed: 2,100MB/s
- Connection: USB 3.2 (USB-C, USB-A supported)
- Durability claim: IP55, drops up to 7.5ft
- Security: SSD password protection
Pros
- rated reads up to 2,100MB/s
- 2,000MB/s rated writes
- Lanyard loop and activity light
- Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image
Cons
- Costs more than the GARMESE at the time of writing
Worth a Look4 of 5
Crucial X10 Portable SSD 2TB on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The X10 offers 2,100MB/s reads with an IP65 rating and 9.8ft drop resistance.
Best for
- Buyers who want IP65 rating.
Skip if
- Skip it if price comes first: the GARMESE cost less when we checked.
Why we like it
Crucial names PS4, PS5 and Xbox support. Full speed needs a 20Gbps USB port. Registering it adds three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image backup software.
Its matte blue shell is compact enough for a pocket. It matches the X10 Pro 2TB on capacity (2TB). Its top speed needs a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20Gbps) port; most laptops and all Macs run it at 10Gbps speeds instead.
Before buying, weigh one limit: costs more than the GARMESE at the time of writing. Its price falls between the X10 Pro 2TB and the Rugged SSD4, based on our last check.
Key dimensions & specs
- Drive type: SSD
- Capacity (as reviewed): 2TB
- Max read speed: 2,100MB/s
- Connection: USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (USB-C)
- Durability claim: IP65, drops up to 9.8ft
- Security: None stated
Pros
- rated reads up to 2,100MB/s
- IP65 rating
- Drop resistance up to 9.8ft
- PS4, PS5 and Xbox compatibility in the listing
Cons
- Costs more than the GARMESE at the time of writing
Lowest Price Here5 of 5
GARMESE 1TB External SSD on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
GARMESE's SSD offers 2,000MB/s reads in a 33g body with a keychain hole.
Best for
- Getting 33g body with a keychain hole for the least money.
Skip if
- Skip it if capacity matters most to you; the X10 Pro 2TB offers 2TB.
Why we like it
A USB-A adapter is included. It reads at up to 2,000MB/s over USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, which is twice a standard 10Gbps drive. Full speed needs a 20Gbps port.
On capacity it ties with the Rugged SSD4 and the X10 Pro at 1TB. On rated read speed it trails the group at 2,000MB/s, while the Rugged SSD4 offers 4,000MB/s. It also offers 1,800MB/s rated writes.
Its top speed needs a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20Gbps) port; most laptops and all Macs run it at 10Gbps speeds instead. No other pick here cost less at our last price check, and the X10 Pro was closest. Capacity is its weakest area, and the X10 Pro 2TB covers it better at 2TB.
Key dimensions & specs
- Drive type: SSD
- Capacity (as reviewed): 1TB
- Max read speed: 2,000MB/s
- Connection: USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (USB-C, USB-A adapter)
- Durability claim: Shock resistant
- Security: None stated
Pros
- rated reads up to 2,000MB/s
- 33g body with a keychain hole
- 1,800MB/s rated writes
- Included USB-A adapter
Cons
- Capacity trails the X10 Pro 2TB (2TB)
- Rated read speed trails the Rugged SSD4 (4,000MB/s)
How We Chose
Each pick was assessed across 4 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- Drive type and speed
- We recorded whether each drive is an SSD or hard drive and its read speed.
- Durability
- We noted listed drop, water and dust claims.
- Connection
- We checked the USB standard and connector each maker names.
- Security and extras
- We checked for password protection, encryption and backup software.
What to Look for in an External SSD for Gaming
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
How much rated read speed you need
Among these picks, rated read speed runs from 2,000MB/s on the GARMESE to 4,000MB/s on the Rugged SSD4. Settle how much you need before comparing prices, since paying for more rarely helps if your use never reaches it.
SSD or hard drive
A portable hard drive gives the most terabytes per dollar and suits backups. A portable SSD is several times faster, lighter and more tolerant of drops, which suits working files and games.
Size for what you store
1TB suits documents and a few games. 2TB or more suits photo libraries, video and large game libraries. Hard drives reach larger sizes for the money.
Drop and water ratings
IP ratings and drop heights are manufacturer claims. They matter for drives that travel in bags; a drive that stays on a desk needs less.
Password and encryption
Hardware encryption with a password protects a drive that could be lost. Software-only encryption depends on an app being available on each computer.
How to Choose an External SSD for Gaming
By priority
| Priority | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Buyers who put rated read speed first | Rugged SSD4 | The fastest rated read speed here (4,000MB/s) |
| Buyers who want 2,000MB/s rated writes | X10 Pro | 2,000MB/s rated writes |
| Buyers who want 2,000MB/s rated writes | X10 Pro 2TB | 2,000MB/s rated writes |
| Buyers who want IP65 rating | X10 2TB | An IP65 rating |
| Getting 33g body with a keychain hole for the least money | GARMESE | The lowest price of the group at our last check |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Key specs side by side
Figures as each maker states them.
| Drive | Drive type | Capacity (as reviewed) | Max read speed | Connection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rugged SSD4 | SSD | 1TB | 4,000MB/s | USB 40Gbps (Thunderbolt 3, 4 and 5 compatible) |
| X10 Pro | SSD | 1TB | 2,100MB/s | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (USB-C) |
| X10 Pro 2TB | SSD | 2TB | 2,100MB/s | USB 3.2 (USB-C, USB-A supported) |
| X10 2TB | SSD | 2TB | 2,100MB/s | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (USB-C) |
| GARMESE | SSD | 1TB | 2,000MB/s | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (USB-C, USB-A adapter) |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
By price at the time of writing
Prices change often; these tiers reflect Amazon prices when this guide was updated.
| Price tier | Drives |
|---|---|
| About $150 to $250 | GARMESE, X10 Pro |
| About $250 to $500 | X10 Pro 2TB, X10 2TB, Rugged SSD4 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do these external drives compare on capacity?
The X10 Pro 2TB leads at 2TB, ahead of the X10 2TB at 2TB; the GARMESE sits at the other end with 1TB.
Which is the cheapest pick in this guide?
The GARMESE. It undercut the X10 Pro when we checked, while the Rugged SSD4 cost the most of the group.
Will these work with PS5 or Xbox?
Consoles can store and play older-generation games from USB drives. Current-generation games usually must run from internal storage; check the console's own rules.
Can I run PC games from an external SSD?
Yes. Launchers such as Steam can add a library folder on an external drive. Load times depend on the drive and port; an SSD on a 10Gbps port is far quicker than a hard drive.
How long do portable drives last?
It depends on use and handling. Check the warranty length as a signal of the maker's confidence, and replace a drive that reports errors.
Bottom Line
Our first pick is the Rugged SSD4, chosen for the fastest rated read speed here (4,000MB/s). Look at the X10 Pro for 2,000MB/s rated writes, the X10 Pro 2TB for 2,000MB/s rated writes and the X10 2TB for an IP65 rating if those matter more to you.
Consoles may limit which games run from external storage; check your console's rules.