Best External Hard Drives for iPhone [2023]

External hard drives for iPhones offer a fantastic solution to expand your device’s storage capacity. They are compact, portable, and ideal for on-the-go usage.

By connecting these hard drives to your iPhone through a lightning cable, you can effortlessly transfer files between devices.

They have the capability to store various types of media, including photos, videos, music, and documents. With a wide range of storage capacities to choose from, you can select the perfect option that suits your needs.

Investing in an external hard drive for your iPhone is a wise decision for anyone in need of additional storage space.

Best External Hard Drives for Your iPhone:

1. G-Technology 1TB Portable External Hard Drive

Best External Hard Drives for iPhone

The G-Technology 1TB Portable External Hard Drive for iPhone offers a reliable and convenient solution to expand your storage capacity, ensuring that you never run out of storage space.

Speed and Performance

The G-Technology 1TB Portable External Hard Drive for iPhone delivers impressive speed and performance.

With USB 3.0 connectivity, it offers lightning-fast data transfer rates, allowing you to back up and transfer files quickly and efficiently.

Whether you are moving large videos or bulky documents, this external hard drive ensures a seamless and time-saving experience.

Ample Storage Capacity

With a whopping 1TB of storage space, the G-Technology external hard drive provides ample room to store your extensive media library.

You can now carry your entire collection of photos, videos, music, and documents wherever you go, without worrying about limited iPhone storage.

The extra space not only frees up your iPhone’s internal storage but also allows you to capture more memories without compromise.

Easy File Management

The G-Technology 1TB Portable External Hard Drive for iPhone simplifies file management with its user-friendly interface and compatible apps.

The dedicated app provides a seamless and intuitive way to transfer files between your iPhone and the external hard drive.

You can effortlessly organize your files, create backups, and access your data whenever you need it, all at your fingertips.

Plug-and-Play Convenience

Setting up the G-Technology 1TB Portable External Hard Drive for iPhone is a breeze.

With its plug-and-play functionality, you can easily connect it to your iPhone and start using it right away.

No complicated setups or software installations are needed.

Additionally, it includes an MFi charging cable, Type-C cable, and user manual for added convenience.

What we like:

  • Stylish aluminum design
  • Capacities of up to 4TB of portable storage
  • USB C ready, USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 3 compatible

What we didn’t like:

  • The external hard drive adds additional bulk when connected to the iPhone.
  • Requires a separate power source for operation, which may not be as portable.

2.  iDiskk 2TB External Hard Drive for iPhone & iPad

best value storage expansion for iphone

The iDiskk 2TB External Hard Drive for iPhone & iPad offers a practical and versatile solution for expanding your storage capacity, ensuring you never have to worry about running out of space for your precious memories and essential files.

Ample Storage Capacity

The iDiskk External Hard Drive provides an impressive 2TB of storage space, allowing you to store and access a vast collection of multimedia files, documents, and more.

With this substantial capacity, you can keep your photos, videos, music, and important files conveniently in one place, freeing up valuable space on your iPhone or iPad.

Dual Connector Design

The iDiskk External Hard Drive features a dual connector design, with both a Lightning connector and a USB connector.

This versatile design allows you to easily connect the hard drive to your iPhone, iPad, or computer for seamless file transfer and backup.

Whether you want to transfer files directly from your iPhone or connect it to your computer for quick and efficient data management, the dual connector design provides convenience and flexibility.

Easy Backup and File Management

By using the iDiskk dedicated app, you can effortlessly back up your photos, videos, contacts, and other important data from your iPhone or iPad to the external hard drive.

The app also offers convenient file management features, allowing you to organize, access, and transfer files between different devices with ease.

This seamless integration streamlines your workflow and ensures that your valuable data remains safe and accessible.

High-Speed Data Transfer

The iDiskk External Hard Drive leverages USB 3.0 technology to deliver fast data transfer speeds.

Having this much speed, you can quickly transfer large files, such as high-resolution photos and HD videos, saving you time and improving your productivity.

Whether you are backing up files or sharing content with friends and colleagues, the high-speed data transfer capability of the iDiskk External Hard Drive ensures a smooth and efficient experience.

What we like:

  • 2TB storage capacity
  • One-key backup feature
  • Plug & play operation

What we didn’t like:

  • The size of the external hard drive may be bulkier compared to smaller storage options.

3. Seagate Backup Plus Ultra Touch 1 TB Portable Hard Drive

ransfer files between your iPhone and computer using this external drive

The Seagate Backup Plus Ultra Touch 1 TB Portable Hard Drive for iPhone offers a secure and convenient solution for expanding your storage capacity, ensuring that your precious memories and essential data are protected and accessible whenever you need them.

Ample Storage Capacity

With a generous 1 TB of storage space, the Seagate Backup Plus Ultra Touch provides ample room to store and back up a vast collection of files.

Whether you have an extensive multimedia library, important documents, or a large number of applications, this external hard drive has you covered.

Say goodbye to storage limitations on your iPhone and welcome the freedom of storing your valuable data in one secure location.

Stylish and Portable Design

The Seagate Backup Plus Ultra Touch features a sleek and stylish design, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal.

Its compact form factor makes it highly portable, allowing you to carry your data with you wherever you go.

The premium metal finish not only adds a touch of sophistication but also ensures durability, protecting your valuable data during travel or everyday use.

Secure Data Protection

Keeping your data secure is a top priority, and the Seagate Backup Plus Ultra Touch excels in this aspect. It features built-in hardware encryption that protects your files with password protection.

This ensures that only authorized individuals can access your data, adding an extra layer of security to your sensitive files.

You can have peace of mind knowing that your personal and confidential data remains safe and protected.

Convenient File Management

With the Seagate Toolkit software, managing your files becomes a breeze.

This intuitive software allows you to schedule automatic backups, create customized backup plans, and sync your files across multiple devices.

The file mirroring feature ensures that your files are always up-to-date and accessible.

Seamlessly manage your data and enjoy the convenience of organized and synchronized files across your devices.

What we like:

  • Secure password-activated hardware encryption
  • Stylish tone-on-tone fabric design
  • Plug-and-play for both Windows and Mac

What we didn’t like:

  • The USB Type-C connectivity may require an adapter for older devices.

4. SUHSAI Portable External Gaming Hard Drive

Keep your iPhone's storage free and organized with this external drive

As gaming on iPhones becomes increasingly popular, the need for additional storage to accommodate large game files and apps has become crucial.

The SUHSAI Portable External Gaming Hard Drive for iPhone provides a practical solution for iPhone gamers, allowing them to expand their storage capacity and enjoy their favorite games without worrying about limited internal space.

Enhanced Gaming Storage

The SUHSAI Portable External Gaming Hard Drive offers ample storage space to accommodate a vast collection of games, ensuring that you can store and access your gaming library conveniently.

With storage capacities available in various options, you can choose the one that best suits your needs, whether you prefer a smaller capacity for casual gaming or a larger capacity for a comprehensive game collection.

Multi-System Compatibility

The SUHSAI Portable External Gaming Hard Drive is compatible with a wide range of systems, including PCs, Macs, Chromebooks, and gaming consoles such as Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5.

This versatility allows you to transfer and play games across different platforms, making it a convenient option for gamers who own multiple devices and enjoy gaming on various platforms.

Plug-and-Play Convenience

Setting up the SUHSAI Portable External Gaming Hard Drive is a breeze.

With its plug-and-play functionality, you can easily connect it to your iPhone and start enjoying extended gaming storage immediately.

No complex configurations or software installations are required. Simply connect the external hard drive, transfer your games, and dive into your gaming adventures immediately.

Quick and Steady Performance

The SUHSAI Portable External Gaming Hard Drive provides quick and steady performance for gaming enthusiasts.

Its high-speed data transfer capabilities ensure fast loading times and smooth gameplay.

With the ability to store and access large game files seamlessly, you can enjoy immersive gaming experiences without interruptions or lag.

What we like:

  • Multi-system compatible
  • Plug-and-play with USB 3.0 Hard Drive
  • Offers gaming consoles a rapid and reliable performance.

What we didn’t like:

  • May require an additional Lightning to USB adapter for newer iPhone models.
  • Limited compatibility with some gaming consoles may require additional adapters.

5. KPAN Portable External Hard Drive

Slim and portable external hard drive designed for iPhone

The KPAN Portable External Hard Drive for iPhone offers a stylish and convenient solution for expanding your storage capacity, ensuring that you never have to worry about running out of space.

Lightweight and Ultra-Slim Design

The KPAN Portable External Hard Drive boasts a lightweight and ultra-slim design that makes it highly portable.

Due to its compact form factor, it easily fits in your pocket or bag, allowing you to carry it with you wherever you go.

Its sleek and elegant appearance, coupled with an aluminum alloy metal shell and matte surface, not only adds a touch of sophistication but also provides durability and protection for your valuable data.

Wide Range of Device Compatibility

The KPAN Portable External Hard Drive offers compatibility with a wide range of devices, including PCs, MacBooks, TVs, PS4s, Xboxes, and smartphones with OTG functions.

Whether you need additional storage for your iPhone, MacBook, or gaming console, this versatile external hard drive has you covered.

Its compatibility across various devices makes it a practical and convenient storage solution for different aspects of your digital life.

Plug-and-Play Convenience

Setting up the KPAN Portable External Hard Drive is a breeze.

With its plug-and-play feature, you can easily connect it to your iPhone or other compatible devices without the need for additional software installation or an external power supply.

This simplicity ensures that you can quickly expand your storage capacity and start transferring or backing up your files with ease.

Ultra-Fast Data Transfer Speeds

The KPAN Portable External Hard Drive utilizes upgrade USB 3.0 ports, enabling ultra-fast data transfers.

With read speeds of up to 120MB/s and write speeds of up to 70MB/s, you can quickly and efficiently transfer large files, including photos, videos, and documents.

What we like:

  • Easy plug-and-play feature
  • Ultra-fast data transfer speeds
  • Highly Compatible to various kinds of devices
  • Lightweight and ultra-slim design for easy portability
  • Stylish aluminum design

What we didn’t like:

  • Limited storage capacity options compared to some other external hard drives.

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best External Hard Drives for iPhone

Compatibility

The first and most important thing to consider is the compatibility of the external hard drive with your iPhone. 

It’s crucial to confirm that the external hard drive you select is compatible with your iPhone because not all external hard drives are.

For example, the USB interface on an external hard drive must match the USB interface of your iPhone.

To find out if the external hard drive is listed as compatible with your iPhone model, it is recommended to visit the manufacturer’s website.

Size and Capacity

The size and storage capacity of the external hard drive are also critical factors to take into account.

You want to choose one that is large enough to accommodate all of your files, but not so large that it becomes cumbersome to carry around.

You should pick an external hard drive with at least twice the storage space of your iPhone.

A 256GB external hard drive might be a decent option, for instance, if your iPhone has 128GB of internal storage.

Portability

You should take the portability of the external hard disc into consideration in addition to its size and capacity.

If you plan to use it on the go, you will want to choose one that is small and lightweight enough to easily carry with you.

Several external hard drives are even made to be portable, with features like built-in wire management and shock-resistant construction.

Transfer Speed

This refers to the speed at which data can be transferred from the external hard drive to your iPhone and vice versa.

Generally speaking, you want an external hard drive with a high transfer rate so that you can access your information quickly and effectively.

Price

Finally, you will want to consider the price of the external hard drive. Depending on their size, capacity, and features, external hard drives can have a wide range of prices.

Generally, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different manufacturers before making a decision.

Though it may be tempting to go with the lowest choice, keep in mind that you also need to take into account the other aspects covered in this article.

Conclusion

Choosing an external hard drive is a smart approach to expanding the storage capacity of your iPhone.

However, it is crucial to make a well-informed decision by taking into account important factors like compatibility, size and capacity, portability, transfer speed, and price.

Engage in thorough research and comparisons to find the ideal external hard drive that fits your specific needs and budgetary constraints.