The relentless pursuit of faster, more portable storage has led gamers to a critical question: is an external SSD the key to unlocking a truly mobile gaming experience? Perhaps your gaming laptop is struggling with storage limitations, or you simply crave the freedom of a portable game library. An external SSD offers a compelling solution, expanding storage capacity while allowing you to take your games on the go.
However, navigating the vast landscape of external SSDs can be overwhelming. A hasty choice can lead to disappointment, leaving you wishing you’d invested more wisely. Fortunately, rigorous testing has revealed some standout contenders, poised to elevate your gaming setup rather than hinder it.
The Lexar SL600 Blaze emerges as a top contender, delivering impressive 20Gbps performance at a competitive price. Its unique design, featuring a lanyard opening and optional RGB lighting (in the SL660 variant), adds a touch of personality. Backed by a standard five-year warranty, the SL600 offers a compelling blend of speed, style, and reliability.
The competition in the 20Gbps external drive arena is fierce, with leading brands constantly vying for supremacy. Yet, the Lexar SL600 has edged out the previous champion, Crucial’s X10 Pro, by a mere fraction. This slight advantage, combined with its attractive price point, makes it a particularly appealing choice for gamers seeking exceptional performance without breaking the bank.
For those who demand durability, the PNY RP60 20Gbps USB SSD stands out. Its rugged, IP65-rated exterior provides robust protection against dust and water droplets, making it ideal for gamers who travel frequently or aren't always the most careful with their hardware. Despite its tough exterior, the RP60 delivers impressive performance, even surpassing the Crucial X10 Pro in some tests.
Priced competitively at $85 and $135 for 1TB and 2TB models, respectively, the PNY RP60 offers a practical and reliable solution for gamers who prioritize durability and performance.
The Sabrent Rocket Nano V2 caters to those who prioritize portability above all else. This remarkably compact USB 3.2×2 20Gbps drive measures just 2.73 inches long, 1.16 inches wide, and 0.44 inches thick, making it easily pocketable. The included shock-absorbing silicone jacket not only adds a touch of style but also provides an extra layer of protection.
While not quite as blazing fast as the top performers, the Nano V2 delivers solid overall performance, excelling in random write tests. Available in capacities up to 4TB, it’s a versatile option for gamers seeking a lot of storage in a tiny package, further enhanced by a five-year warranty and a unique presentation box.
For those equipped with USB4-compatible devices, the Adata SE920 EX unlocks unparalleled speeds. This USB4 external SSD delivers the fastest transfer rates tested, outperforming even the OWC Express 1M2 at a more affordable price. Its built-in fan helps maintain optimal temperatures during demanding tasks, and its stylish enclosure adds a touch of elegance.
The Adata SE920 EX offers a compelling combination of speed, affordability, and portability, making it an excellent choice for gamers ready to embrace the power of USB4.
The LaCie Rugged SSD4 reigns supreme for those seeking the ultimate performance from USB4 or Thunderbolt ports. Its speediest 40Gbps USB4 performance, combined with its ruggedized, weatherized design and distinctive orange color, makes it a standout choice for gamers who demand both speed and durability.
Even under heavy workloads, the Rugged SSD4 maintains impressive speeds, making it particularly well-suited for videographers and other creative professionals. Its competitive pricing further solidifies its position as the top choice for high-performance USB4 external storage.
