Okay, maybe I took a liberty by using ‘indestructible’ in the title, but, if you’re looking for a tough & rugged storage option then this article is for you!
Both Rugged Portable SSDs and Rugged USB Flash Drives have their pros & cons. Rugged SSDs have the advantage of having much faster transfer speeds and higher storage capacities while Flash drives are super lightweight and much cheaper.
So why choose a portable SSD?
The main reasons are speed, reliability and capacity. While flash memory sticks are small and compact, they suffer from overheating which limits their speed. When you transfer files to a flash drive, the top speed quoted on the packaging won’t last for long. This is due to a much smaller cache than you get on an SSD.
Portable SSD’s on the other hand, are proven to reach consistent speeds of up to 10 times faster than your typical flash memory. Tough & Rugged SSD’s take it a step further as you can get them wet, drop them and generally abuse them without worrying about data loss.
As someone who travels a lot, being able to throw a lightning-fast high-capacity drive into my backpack carefree is fantastic.
I used to wrap up my old 1TB HDD in t-shirts to help protect it from shock and bumps, all the time worrying that the next time I plugged it all my data would be corrupted.
The bonus of an SSD is that it uses solid state memory, aka no moving parts, so they’re much less susceptible to shock damage. So let’s get to it, here are the best fully waterproof, shockproof and drop-proof portable SSD’s available. Enjoy!
1. SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD V2 (2023 Model)
SanDisk has upgraded their rugged portable SSD after having issues with the previous version’s ports failing. In 2023, we now have the V2 version that uses USB 3.2 Gen 2 for faster transfer speeds while staying backwards compatible with older ports.
The Type-C 3.2 Gen 2 doubles the transfer rate to over 1000MB/s for both read and write speeds. To top it off, Western Digital are so confident with the V2 version of their SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD V2 that they’ve extended to warranty to 5 years.
The new SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD V2 still comes sealed with an IP55 water & dust protection rating and drop protection to an impressive 2 metres.
Unless you need to dunk your SSD in rivers, the IP55 water protection should have you covered making the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD V2 your number 1 rugged SSD choice!
SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD V2 – Tech Specs
Storage Sizes: 500GB | 1TB | 2TB | 4TB
Transfer Speed: Max 1050MB/s (Read) ~ 1000MB/s (Write)
Connection: Detachable Cable – USB Type-C 3.2 (Type-C to Type-A adapter included)
Tough Credentials: Water & Dust Resistant (IP55), 2 metre drop protection, -20 – + 70 degrees storage temps.
Warranty: 5 Years
N/A – ADATA- Once a household name in rugged SSDs
Unfortunately in 2023, ADATA dropped its line of portable, waterproof and rugged SSDs. Instead opting for mildly rugged, certainly not waterproof, SSD such as the ADATA SE880.
You can still get your hands on the above ADATA SD700, but you won’t have any of the benefits of the latest Type-C 3.2 Gen2 X2 speeds. I’ve left it in at the end of our roundup since its funky design has a special place in my heart.
Goodbye for now.
2. LaCie Portable Rugged SSD Pro
Professional storage makers LaCie recently released their new ‘Rugged SSD Pro’ for content creators who need extra-extra-extra protection.
With super-fast speeds of up to 2800MB/s via the Thunderbolt 3/4 port, you can confidently edit 4K videos straight off the NVMe drive.
Update: LaCie now offers a USB4 & Type-C version of their rugged SSD opening up options for content creators.
In terms of toughness, LaCie has taken it to the next level with the Pro lineup. As well as the standard IP67 water, dust & dirt rating the SSD drive has also been crush tested to 2-tons under a car wheel.
If you’re looking for a super-tough portable SSD Drive and money is no issue, then LaCie Rugged SSD Pro is for you.
If you need top-notch ruggedness, but don’t need the blazing fast speeds, then check out their non-Pro Rugged SSD Range on Amazon.
LaCie Portable Rugged SSD Pro – Tech Specs
Storage Sizes: 1TB | 2TB | 4TB
Transfer Speed: Max 2800MB/s
Connection: Detachable Thunderbolt 3/4 Type-C Cable
Tough Credentials: Water & Dust Resistant (IP67), 3m Drop Protection, Rubber
Warranty: 5 Years + (5 Year Data Recovery Service)
3. G-Drive Mobile SSD 2023
G-Technology has been incorporated into Western Digital’s storage arm. Originally known for its range of high-speed drives and network servers, I think the G-Drive brand will be dissolved soon in favour of the Sandisk Pro Storage line
Side Note: If you need an ultra-secure version of the G-Drive SSD then check out the G-DRIVE ArmorLock SSD (Amazon) which comes with an array of extra security controls while matching the ruggedness
That being said, the latest iteration of the G-Drive has been updated. It now supports up to 4TB in size and uses Type-C 3.2 Gen2 for max speeds of 1050MB/s.
The G-Drive Mobile SSD is one of Western Digital’s portable rugged SSDs that comes with all the tough features needed to earn it a spot in this list.
The three-meter drop-protection is impressive but if you read the small print this has been tested on a carpeted floor, so don’t expect the same results on a hard surface.
As well as drop protection it’s also IP67 rated which means it is protected from all dust and can withstand being submerged in shallow water for less than 30 minutes. Which is more than enough to handle wet weather conditions, just don’t take it swimming.
G-Drive Mobile SSD 2023 – Tech Specs
Storage Sizes: 500GB | 1TB | 2TB
Transfer Speed: Max 1050MB/s
Connection: Detachable Cable – USB Type-C (USB 3.2 Gen 2)
Tough Credentials: Water & Dust Resistant (IP67), 3 meter drop-protection, Shock & Vibration Resistant, 900KG crush protection, Aluminium Core
Warranty: 5 Years
4. Samsung T7 Shield Portable SSD
It’s great to see Samsung back with another Rugged & water resistant SSD that doesn’t break the bank.
They’ve taken their super popular T7 SSD and given it the rugged treatment while keeping the ultra-fast 1050MB/s speeds from the new Type-C 3.2 Gen2 connector.
At 95 grams in weight, this little nipper comes in either 1TB, 2TB or 3TB sizes while offering 3 meter drop protection. Looking at the liquid and dust protection, you’re getting an IP65 rating from an IPX5 test that Samsung performed… say what now?
Well, let’s put it this way. Samsung doesn’t cover the device for any damage from liquids, so while you’ll be fine in light rain, don’t use this device for outdoor work related tasks where you need to be sure of 100% of data protection. The LaCie is a better option.
As one of the cheapest options on this list, the Samsung T7 Shield will no doubt protect many an Xbox and PlayStation from spilt coffee.
Samsung T7 Shield Portable SSD – Tech Specs
Storage Sizes: 1TB | 2TB | 4TB
Transfer Speed: Max 1050MB/s
Connection: Detachable Cable – USB Type-C (USB 3.2 Gen 2)
Tough Credentials: Water & Dust Resistant (IP65), 3 meter drop-protection, Shock & Vibration Resistant
Warranty: 3 Years
5. Crucial X8 Rugged SSD
Better known for laptop & PC upgrades, Crucial has their own Rugged SSD option that touts itself as the most compatible tough SSD available.
And they might just be right, with adapters for both Type-C and full-sized USB in the box, this premium aluminium SSD is compatible with your iPad, Android device, PC or Mac.
There’s no mention of an IP rating, so you don’t want to get this SSD wet, but on the plus side, you’ve got some drop-protection built-in. It’s a shame that they tested dropping the Crucial X8 on carpet though…
Even so, the X8 is a great portable SSD option for the less adventurous.
Crucial X8 Rugged SSD – Tech Specs
Storage Sizes: 500GB | 1TB
Transfer Speed: Max 1000MB/s
Connection: Detachable Cable – Type-C Gen 3.2 to (Type-C + Type-A with adapter)
Tough Credentials: 2m Drop-protection (carpeted floor), Extreme operating temps.
Warranty: 3 Years
6. INEO Rugged SSD Case
If you have a spare SSD lying around from a previous upgrade, another option you have is to install it a case like the INEO Rugged IPX6 Case.
It comes with a waterproof rating, Military Standard Drop protection and support for USB 3.1 via the inbuilt Type-C cable. The frame itself is made from silicone to absorb drops and vibrations with is supported each side by a panel of aluminium for strength.
The benefit of a case like this is that you can upgrade to a larger SSD further down the line when storage prices drop.
INEO Rugged SSD Case – Tech Specs
Storage Sizes: 256GB | 512GB | 1TB | 2TB
Transfer Speed: USB 3.1 Gen 2
Connection: Inbuilt Cable – USB 3.1 (Type-C)
Tough Credentials: Water & Dust Resistant (IPX6), MIL-STD-810G protection
Warranty: 1 Year
7. G-Drive Mobile Pro SSD (Thunderbolt™ 3/4, Type-C, USB4)
The G-Drive Pro drops the IP rating and switches the Type-C port for the Thunderbolt 3 port allowing it to reach sustained transfer speeds of 2800MB/s.
If you regular edit 4K or 8K video footage, then the G-Drive Mobile Pro can easily handle your workflow with you having to worry about shocks, drops or vibrations. There’s isn’t currently a larger 2TB version like we see on the G-Drive Mobile above.
G-Drive Mobile Pro SSD – Tech Specs
Storage Sizes: 500GB | 1TB
Transfer Speed: Max 2800MB/s
Connection: Detachable Cable – Thunderbolt™ 3 Port
Tough Credentials: 3 meter drop-protection, Shock & Vibration Resistant, 450KG crush protection, Aluminium Core
Warranty: 5 Years
8. Samsung Bar Plus
While the Samsung Bar Plus flash drives are limited in capacity, they are tough little buggers that only weigh 9 grams.
And since they’re so light, you don’t have to worry about dropping them, banging them, or even dropping them into water.
I take a couple of these with me travelling, as they’re tough, cheap and 512GB is all I need. They’re also fast if your laptop or computer supports USB 3.1, but just beware they’re not on the same speed level as the SSD’s above.
While memory pen isn’t your first thought when looking for rugged SSD storage, these Samsung drives might just become your lightweight backups for more adventurous trips.
Samsung Bar Plus – Tech Specs
Storage Sizes: 128GB | 256GB
Transfer Speed: Max 300MB/s
Connection: USB Type-A (v3.1)
Tough Credentials: Waterproof (72 hours SeaWater), Shockproof, Working Temps -25°C to 85°C, X-Ray Proof, Magnet Proof.
Warranty: 5 Years Limited
9. WD My Passport Portable SSD
The least rugged of the selection is the redesigned WD My Passport portable SSD. It has blazing fast speeds thanks to its Type-C 3.1 connection giving you up to 540MB/s transfer speeds.
While it doesn’t have any dust, dirt or water protection it has been tested by Western Digital to be protected from drops up to 1.98 metres. This is in part due to its super lightweight design (41g).
If you’re looking to store secure files, the WD Portable SSD comes with 256-bit AES hardware encryption. This type of encryption is easy to set up and doesn’t slow down performance compared to software-based encryption.
WD My Passport Portable SSD – Tech Specs
Storage Sizes: 256GB | 512GB | 1TB | 2TB
Transfer Speed: Max 540MB/s
Connection: Detachable Cable – USB Type-C 3.1 (Type-C to Type-A adapter included)
Tough Credentials: Drop Protection 1.98 metres
Warranty: 3 Years (worldwide)
10. SEAGATE FAST SSD
Okay, so the SEAGATE Fast SSD isn’t a typical rugged SSD, but it’s a great option for the style-conscious fellow who needs a little protection. The build quality is solid and it’s lightweight at only 82g for all for storage sizes.
If you truly want a portable SSD that you can throw in your backpack and forget about then this isn’t the right option for you. But if you just want peace of mind commuting too and from work, while achieving fast transfers? Then you can’t get much better looking than the Fast SSD.
It also uses a USB Type-C cable as standard, meaning you don’t have to mess around with any adapters during your next laptop upgrade.
SEAGATE FAST SSD – Tech Specs
Storage Sizes: 250GB | 500GB | 1TB | 2TB
Transfer Speed: Max 540MB/s
Connection: Detachable Cable – USB Type-C
Tough Credentials: Shock Resistant
Warranty: 3 Years Limited
Older Rugged SSD Options That You Might Still Love…
ADATA SD700 Portable SSD
Editors Update: While we love the funky rubberized design of the ADATA SD700, it’s now been replaced by the ADATA SE880 above. The SD700 is still available to purchase, but you’re missing out on the huge speed increased that came with Type-C 3.2 Gen 2 x2.
The ADATA SD700 is our tried & tested portable SSD that’s been available for a few years now. It comes with USB 3.1 but unfortunately uses a SATA to USB cable which you’ll need to carry with you. It’d be great if ADATA updated the 2016 model to use a USB Type-C connection which is much more widely available. #dontmakemecarryanothercableplease
In terms of rugged credentials, it’s at the top our list with a MIL-STD-810G shock grading (tested to 26 drops at 4ft), an IP68 rating which means it can stay submerged at depths of 1.5m for up to 60 minutes. With a waterproof rating like this, dust & dirt doesn’t stand a chance.
All this protection of cause comes with an Achilles heel… the silicone seal. Forget to close this firmly and you can kiss goodbye to that waterproof rating.
ADATA SD700 Portable SSD – Tech Specs
Storage Sizes: 256GB | 512GB | 1TB
Transfer Speed: Max 440MB/s
Connection: Detachable Cable – USB SATA to USB Type-A
Tough Credentials: Water & Dust Resistant (IP68), MIL-STD-810G 516.6 protection, +5 to +50 degrees operating temps.
Warranty: 3 Years
I’m a big fan of rugged SSD’s the speed benefits over traditional flash memory sticks is impressive! If I’ve missed on a rugged SSD that you think deserves to be on this list, then comment below.
Have an rugged SSD questions, comment below and I’ll do my best :D