Data storage is paramount in video production, and having the proper external hard drives will go yards to ensure a smooth production. Some of these can be expensive, but we have found 3 that are $90 or less.
Seagate (STGX2000400) External Hard Drive – $70 – $85
The Seagate Portable Drive is a compact and user-friendly storage device. It offers easy drag-and-drop file transfer, plug-and-play PC compatibility, and quick data transfer with USB 3.0. The drive is also compatible with USB 2.0. It’s USB-powered, requiring no external power source, and automatically recognized by Windows systems, ensuring hassle-free use.
Toshiba (HDTB420XK3AA) Canvio Basics – $65 – $85
The Toshiba Canvio Basics series are sleek, matte black external hard drives, offering up to 4TB storage. They are very easy to use, with plug-and-play and drag-and-drop file transfer abilities. Importantly, this drive is small and light, for easy portability to and from the production site. This drive can also help speed up one’s computer by freeing internal storage. It includes a USB 3.0 cable, quick start guide, and a 1-year warranty. Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB, it supports USB 3.0 and 2.0, has a fast transfer rate, and is compatible with Windows and requires reformatting for macOS.
Western Digital WDBU6Y0020BBK $70 – 90
The WD Elements Portable Hard Drive enhances PC performance and is built for durability, shock tolerance, and reliability. It comes in storage sizes ranging from 1TB to 5TB, and uses a Micro-B connector. Compatible with Windows 10+, reformatting may be needed for other systems. We recommend using the exFAT format settings for this drive. It features a USB 3.0 interface, also working with USB 2.0, and offers fast data transfers in a compact, lightweight design.
