For household files, an external drive gives you a local copy you can disconnect after a completed backup; an SSD suits frequent carrying or large file transfers, while an HDD is a local-storage option when capacity matters more than transfer speed. If you also want to recover files when your home storage is unavailable, add a separately managed cloud or off-site copy and check its recovery period and account controls. An ordinary synced folder is not an offline backup simply because it stores a copy.
If family photos or important documents would be difficult to replace, consider how to keep a recoverable copy separate from the computer and any routinely connected drive. The National Cyber Security Centre and the NI Cyber Security Centre advise disconnecting an external backup drive when it is not being used for a backup.
If your photo and video folders are expanding, compare capacity with the space needed for your files and retained versions. Check the drive’s connection and format against your computer and backup software; Which? discusses differences between external hard drives and SSDs, while manufacturers specify compatibility for their individual models.
If you also want to recover files after losing access to your home storage, consider a separately located copy and check how the service handles account access, deleted files and older versions. Microsoft and Backblaze document recovery features and conditions that differ by service.
The National Cyber Security Centre describes ransomware incidents affecting connected backup locations, so consider separation alongside capacity, off-site recovery and a routine you can maintain.
| Concern | What to check when buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Keeping a copy separate | Check when a drive is connected, where it is stored, and whether cloud backup access can be separated from everyday devices or credentials. | If I want a copy that an everyday device cannot keep writing to during a problem, I would plan when to connect and disconnect it. Around 33% of consumers put an offline or digitally disconnected copy first. |
| Capacity and compatibility | Compare capacity with the files and versions you want to keep; check the computer’s port, cable, file system and backup software requirements. | If I have expanding photo or video folders, I need enough usable space and a connection that works with my computer. Around 27% of consumers prioritise capacity and compatibility. |
| Recovery away from home | Check which folders upload, who can change the cloud copy, and how long earlier or deleted files remain recoverable. | If a household incident could make local storage unavailable, I would consider a separately located copy and review its account controls and restore period. Around 27% of consumers put off-site recovery first. |
| A workable backup routine | Check how backups are scheduled, which files are covered and how to restore a representative file. | If I need a routine I can keep up with, I would check that backups complete and practise restoring a photo or document. Around 13% of consumers prioritise ongoing upkeep and recoverability. |
A connected drive can be affected by an incident involving the computer. The National Cyber Security Centre has described ransomware incidents affecting connected USB and network-storage backups.
Plan a repeatable backup, check that it has completed, and then disconnect the drive if it is intended to be an offline copy. Consider how you will cover files created between backup sessions.
A synced account may still be accessible to a compromised device, and deletion or version recovery depends on the service and its terms.
Check the service’s recovery period and account controls, and whether backup-writing access can be separated from everyday use.
A paid plan may be needed for a particular recovery feature or retention arrangement; check the plan details before relying on it.
A drive still needs to work with the computer’s connection and backup software. Samsung’s stated maximum T7 speeds depend on compatible host and cable support, while some backup setups require a particular file-system format.
Check the exact computer connection, drive format and backup software before choosing, then compare capacity and transfer needs.
An additional cable, connection or different drive may be needed if the intended setup is incompatible.
A completed upload or connected drive does not by itself confirm that the file and version you need can be recovered.
Check the folders and dates covered, then periodically restore a representative file without overwriting the original.
The Canvio Basics portable HDD line is a local-storage option for straightforward household file backups.
The Portable SSD T7 line is an SSD option to consider when carrying a drive or transferring large files matters.
Backup Plus Slim is a portable HDD line to consider for scheduled local file backups.
Windows File History and OneDrive offer local and cloud recovery features to assess alongside a disconnected copy.
Computer Backup is a cloud-backup option to assess alongside a separate household copy.
These choices focus on external drives for keeping a local copy of household files, including portable SSD and HDD options that can be disconnected after a completed backup.
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A portable local drive can be disconnected after a completed backup to keep a copy separate from everyday use.
2 TB capacity; USB Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 (3.1 Gen 2); Grey.
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This portable external SSD is a local-copy option if its connection and capacity suit your backup setup.
4 TB capacity; USB Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2x2. The listing says maximum speed requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port.
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A portable local drive can be disconnected after a completed backup to keep a copy separate from everyday use.
1 TB capacity; USB Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 (3.1 Gen 2); Blue.
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This portable SSD is a local-copy option if its capacity and connection fit the files and computer you plan to use.
1 TB capacity; USB Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 (3.1 Gen 2); IP65 rating. The listing cautions against submerging the drive.
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A portable HDD is a local-storage option if its capacity and connection suit your household backup routine.
2 TB capacity; USB 3.0; formatted for PC and Mac.
No. The National Cyber Security Centre describes connected USB backups as exposed in ransomware incidents and advises disconnecting a backup when it is not in use. Reconnect the drive for a planned backup, check that it has completed, and then disconnect it; also consider how to cover files created between sessions.
Not necessarily; check the drive’s format, connection and the software’s setup requirements first. Microsoft documents File History with an external drive or network location. Apple says a Windows-formatted disk may need reformatting for Time Machine, which permanently removes its existing data.
Do not assume that it will; check the service’s retention conditions. Backblaze says its default 30-day version-history setting can result in backed-up external-drive data being removed if the drive stays disconnected for more than 30 days. Its optional one-year setting has different conditions.
Not necessarily; the available recovery features and time limits depend on the service and plan. Microsoft says personal OneDrive items deleted within the last 30 days can be restored, while restoring an entire OneDrive to a point in the last 30 days is available to Microsoft 365 subscribers. Permanently deleted recycle-bin items cannot be recovered through that feature.