With the ever-expanding size of audio files and the need for seamless data transfers, having a high-quality external SSD (Solid State Drive) can be a game-changer for music producers. It's a massive help to store large sample libraries and/or your music project files on an external drive to free up space on your computer.
In this guide, we will explore the top five external SSDs that cater specifically to the demands of music production. From lightning-fast data access to rugged durability, these SSDs are designed to unleash the full potential of your creative process. Join us as we delve into the features, performance, and advantages of these top-rated external SSDs.
What is the Best External SSD for Music Production?
While there are many great options out there that could have potentially made this list, I've narrowed down the top external SSDs to these 5:
Samsung T7 Portable SSD - $119
Crucial X6 Portable SSD - $109
Seagate One Touch SSD - $169
All of these SSDs offer their own unique advantages and are some of the highest quality options currently on the market. With all that said, let's learn more about each of these options and dive into our list of the best external SSDs for music production.
Cost: $119
Transfer Speed: Up to 1,000 MB/s
Cost per MB/s: $0.12
The Samsung T7 external SSD stands out as one of the fastest and most reliable options for music production. With read and write speeds of up to 1,050MB/s and 1,000MB/s respectively, the T7 ensures lightning-fast data transfers, reducing load times and enabling smooth audio playback during production.
Its compact and lightweight design, along with its durable build, makes it a perfect companion for producers on the move. The T7's built-in AES 256-bit encryption also provides an extra layer of security for sensitive audio files. With USB 3.2 Gen 2 compatibility, the Samsung T7 SSD offers seamless connectivity to a wide range of devices, including laptops and desktops from Mac and PC.
It's also worth noting that the T7 offers the best combination of speed and price, boasting the best cost per MB/s ratio of all 5 options on this list.
Cost: $309.99
Transfer Speed: Up to 2,000MB/s
Cost per MB/s: $0.15
The SanDisk Extreme Pro external SSD is another top contender for music producers who prioritize speed and ruggedness. With read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s, this SSD enables lightning-quick data transfers and accelerated audio processing, enhancing your workflow efficiency.
Designed to withstand harsh conditions, the SanDisk Extreme Pro is both water and dust-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor recordings and on-the-go production. Its durable aluminum construction ensures protection against drops and shocks, adding to its reliability in demanding environments.
Cost: $349.95
Transfer Speed: Up to 560MB/s
Cost per MB/s: $0.62
The G-Technology G-DRIVE Mobile SSD is tailored for music producers seeking a combination of performance and style. With read and write speeds of up to 560MB/s, this SSD delivers fast and consistent data access for smooth audio playback and recording, although it has the slowest transfer speeds on this list.
The G-DRIVE Mobile SSD's sleek and portable design, coupled with its aluminum enclosure, exudes elegance and durability. Similar to the SanDisk, this SSD offers water and dust resistance and includes a USB-C to USB-C cable and a USB-C to USB-A cable, ensuring versatile connectivity across different devices, including laptops and smartphones.
Even though it has the slowest transfer speeds on the list, G-Technology is a highly respected brand so you know this drive is built with the highest quality materials and will last you for many many years of use.
Cost: $109.99
Transfer Speed: Up to 800MB/s
Cost per MB/s: $0.14
The Crucial X6 Portable SSD is an affordable yet powerful option for music producers who require speed and portability. With read speeds of up to 800MB/s, this SSD enables quick data access for seamless audio editing and production.
Compact and lightweight, the Crucial X6 is a convenient choice for producers on the move. Its shock-resistant and durable build ensures data integrity during travel or on-location recordings. Equipped with a USB-C connector, this SSD offers hassle-free compatibility with modern devices, including tablets and smartphones, and is another great balance between price and transfer speeds.
Cost: $169.99
Transfer Speed: Up to 1,030MB/s
Cost per MB/s: $0.17
The Seagate One Touch SSD is an excellent choice for music producers seeking reliable performance and a user-friendly experience. With read and write speeds of up to 1,030MB/s, this SSD delivers responsive data transfers for audio recording and processing tasks.
The Seagate One Touch SSD features a slim and stylish design, making it an attractive addition to any studio setup. It also sports a rugged and durable design, ensuring a long life for your new SSD. Its compatibility with both USB-C and USB C-to A connectors ensures seamless connectivity with a wide range of devices right out of the box, offering flexibility for different production setups.
I hope this guide helps you learn about some of the top external SSDs for music production available on the market! Enjoyed this guide? Make sure to check out our Bedroom Producer Essentials Guide or some of our other reviews/buyer's guides.
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