Choose cloud storage when automatic access across devices and simpler replacement-device recovery matter most; choose an external HDD for a separate local archive, or a portable SSD when you frequently move large files. For irreplaceable photos and documents, keep more than one copy, check what is actually included in each backup and protect both local storage and cloud-account access.
Family photos, scans, financial documents and personal records can be difficult to replace after a device is lost, stolen, broken or replaced. Keep a recoverable copy in a separate location; the National Cyber Security Centre identifies online storage and removable media as possible backup locations.
Cloud backup can make selected photos and documents available when moving between phones, tablets and computers, but check which folders and content categories are actually included.
A portable SSD can suit regular transfers of large active files when the computer and cable support its interface. Keep another backup rather than making a travelling SSD the only copy.
Start with the files you need to recover, then check where the copy will live, how it will be updated and how you would restore it after a problem.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Separate recoverable copy | Keep the backup away from the original device; confirm the selected files are included; test how files or a device are restored. | I want photos, documents and device files to remain recoverable if the original device is lost, stolen, damaged or unavailable. |
| Regular updates | Check whether cloud backup is enabled and has internet access; for a drive, check whether it must be connected for scheduled backups; confirm the chosen folders. | I need recent photos and documents included without having to remember every manual copy. |
| Capacity and growth | Compare the selected library with available drive space; check file-system requirements; for cloud storage, include shared use across relevant services and leave headroom. | My backup needs room for today’s files as well as future photos, videos and documents without unexpectedly stopping uploads. |
| Privacy and account access | Check encryption or password-protection options for the exact portable drive; enable 2-step verification; keep recovery details current. | I want a lost drive or compromised password to be less likely to expose files or prevent access to my only backup. |
A drive can fail, be lost or be affected by the same incident as the computer. The National Cyber Security Centre has reported ransomware incidents affecting connected USB and network backup storage.
Keep another copy in a separate location or service and, where practical, disconnect at least one local backup when it is not being updated. Test that files can be restored.
Google storage is shared across Drive, Gmail, WhatsApp backups and Photos, and reaching the limit can affect uploads, email and Google Photos backups. Apple distinguishes synchronised iCloud content from iCloud Backup content.
Review current account usage, selected backup categories, retention settings, renewal terms and restore steps before relying on cloud storage as the sole copy.
Samsung states that its T7 maximum speeds depend on a compatible USB 3.2 Gen 2 host, cable and UASP mode. A USB-C-shaped connector alone does not confirm that performance.
Check the actual USB specification, available port, cable and operating-system compatibility of the computer, tablet or phone before choosing a high-speed SSD.
A stolen password can expose or lock down cloud-held files, while a lost portable drive may expose personal information if it is not protected appropriately.
Enable 2-step verification, keep recovery details current and use suitable encryption or password protection for portable storage containing sensitive files.
Relevant for portable SSD backups where quick transfers of active photo, video or project files matter more than an always-connected archive.
Relevant for external HDD and SSD families intended for local photo, document and media backup, including scheduled-backup options on selected One Touch models.
Relevant for households using Google Photos, Drive, Gmail or Android-related backups that want cloud-based access and automated photo or device backup.
Relevant for Windows and Mac users who want selected computer folders, such as Desktop, Documents and Pictures, available through OneDrive across devices.
Relevant for iPhone, iPad and Apple-device households using iCloud Backup, iCloud Photos and iCloud Drive for synchronisation and replacement-device recovery.
Joybuy portable SSD and external HDD options for keeping a separate local copy of photos, documents and larger media files.
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Consider this for a substantial local photo, video and document archive that may also need frequent transfers.
Stated 4 TB capacity, USB Type-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2; USB-C-to-C and USB-C-to-A cables are listed.
Its stated transfer speed of up to 2,000 MB/s requires a compatible USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 host and cable. Check the backup and restore workflow before relying on it.
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This portable option suits a sizeable photo and document library that you want to carry between compatible devices.
Stated 2 TB capacity, USB Type-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, with transfer speeds up to 2,000 MB/s.
Check whether your device supports USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 and whether a USB-A cable is needed. Plan how selected folders will be copied and restored.
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Consider this HDD for a large household archive kept as a separate local copy.
Stated 5 TB capacity, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C and 256-bit AES hardware encryption; a USB-C-to-USB-A adapter is listed.
It is stated to be pre-formatted for Windows; macOS use requires reformatting. Avoid drops, liquid exposure and moving the drive while files are transferring.
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This option is for a mobile local copy of photos and documents used across compatible devices.
Stated 1 TB capacity, USB 3.2 Gen 2, Windows, macOS and Android compatibility, with USB-C-to-C and USB-C-to-A cables listed.
The listing states IP65 dust and temporary water resistance and up to 3 m drop resistance; check that 1 TB is sufficient for the selected library and confirm the backup process.
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This portable SSD suits active photo, video and project files moved between compatible computers and Android devices.
Stated 1 TB capacity, USB Type-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, with USB-C-to-C and USB-C-to-A cables listed.
Its stated maximum speed requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2-compatible host. Compare 1 TB with the chosen file library and check the intended backup schedule and restore workflow.
Not necessarily. Apple states that iCloud Backup excludes data already stored and synchronised in iCloud, including photos when iCloud Photos is enabled. Check separately what is synced, what is included in a device backup and how each category is restored.
Check the exact drive’s supported operating systems, supplied cable types and required file system before copying data. Samsung notes that some operating systems may require T7 reformatting, while Seagate describes selected One Touch drives as compatible with Windows, Mac and Chromebook; reformatting can erase existing contents.
Enable 2-step verification and maintain current recovery information. The National Cyber Security Centre recommends 2-step verification for important accounts, including cloud storage, and Google says current recovery information can help regain access after a forgotten password or suspicious-activity lockout.
Not if it is your only separate local backup. The National Cyber Security Centre reports incidents where ransomware affected connected USB and network storage backups, and advises ensuring that at least one backup is offline at any given time.