Best External SSD for Android of 2026

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 11, 2026

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External SSDs for Android devices are becoming increasingly popular among users who require more storage space and faster data transfer rates. These compact and lightweight devices are designed to connect to Android smartphones and tablets via USB, providing a convenient way to store, transfer, and access large files on the go. With capacities ranging from 256GB to 2TB, external SSDs offer ample storage space for photos, videos, music, and documents. They also feature high-speed data transfer rates of up to 550MB/s, which makes it possible to transfer files quickly and easily. Overall, external SSDs for Android are a great solution for users who need more storage space and faster data transfer rates on their mobile devices.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD Cover #TOP 1
Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD
ftb score rating icon 9.9
SSK 1TB USB Drive Cover #TOP 2
SSK 1TB USB Drive
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD Cover #TOP 3
Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 External SSD for Android

Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD

CT1000X10SSD9-02
Blue
Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD Cover
Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2 USB-C, External Solid State Drive, Compatible with Windows, Mac & Android, Durable Storage for Games, Photos & Files, Blue - CT1000X10SSD9-02

The Crucial X10 Portable SSD offers incredibly fast data transfer speeds, making it ideal for creators, students, and gamers who need quick access to their files. Its durable design means you can take it anywhere, as it’s built to resist dust, water, and drops up to 9.8 feet, so you don’t have to worry about damage on the go. This SSD connects easily to a wide range of devices including Windows, Mac, Android, and gaming consoles, giving you flexibility and convenience. Plus, with 1TB of storage, you have plenty of room to save your important photos, videos, games, and backups securely.

What We Like
Blazing fast file transfers
Compact and portable design
Reliable performance
Large storage capacity
Cross-platform compatibility

SSK 1TB USB Drive

SSK
SD301
Grey
1 TB
SSK 1TB USB Drive Cover
SSK 1TB USB Drive,External SSD Fast 550MB/s 2-in-1 Dual-Drive Type C+ A USB3.2 Gen2 Solid State ThumbDrive SSD-Stick for iPhone 15/16/PS4/Android Phone/Tablet/Windows/Mac

The SSK 1TB USB Drive is a high-speed external SSD that offers a convenient and efficient way to transfer data between devices. With its dual USB Type C + USB A ports, you can easily connect it to your smartphone, tablet, computer, car audio system, smart TV, and more. This allows you to free up space on your devices or quickly move pictures and movies. The SSK USB Drive boasts ultra-fast transfer speeds of up to 550mb/s read and 520mb/s write, making it 10 times faster than traditional USB 3.0 drives. It is also plug and play, requiring no software installation, and is made of high-grade zinc alloy material for excellent shock resistance and heat dissipation. With its universal compatibility, you can use it with various devices and operating systems. Overall, the SSK 1TB USB Drive provides a reliable and efficient solution for all your data storage and transfer needs.

What We Like
Fast file transfer speed
Sturdy metal build quality
Dual USB-A and USB-C
Wide device compatibility
Generous storage capacity
#TOP 3

Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD

CT2000X9SSD902
Black
Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD Cover
Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2 USB-C, External Solid State Drive, Compatible with Windows, Mac, & Android, Reliable Storage for Games, Files, & Backups, Black - CT2000X9SSD902

The Crucial X9 SSD offers remarkable speed with read rates up to 1050MB/s, making it ideal for transferring large files and editing 4K videos effortlessly. With a generous 2TB capacity, you can store countless games, photos, and important documents securely. It’s compatible with various devices, including gaming consoles and computers, ensuring fast data transfers with the included USB-C cable. Additionally, its compact and robust design provides protection against drops from heights of up to 7.5 feet, as well as water and dust resistance, making it a reliable choice for users on the go.

What We Like
Ultra-compact and lightweight design
High-speed data transfer
Large storage capacity
Wide device compatibility
Quiet, no moving parts

SSK 1TB Portable External NVME SSD

SSK
SD500
Grey
SSK 1TB Portable External NVME SSD Cover
SSK Portable SSD 1TB External Solid State Drives, up to 1050MB/s USB C SSD External Hard Drive USB 3.2 Gen2 for iPhone 15/Pro, Windows, Mac, Android Phones and Tablets

The SSK 1TB Portable External NVME SSD is a high-performance solid state drive with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speed. It features a portable design made of 2mm thick aluminum alloy material, with excellent shock-proof, anti-vibration, waterproof, and dustproof functions to protect your data. It is compatible with Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and includes USB C to A cable and USB C to C cable, making it suitable for use with USB C smartphones, PS5, Xbox, laptops, and MacBook.

What We Like
High-performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speed
Portable design made of durable materials
Compatible with various devices and includes two types of cables
Excellent shock-proof, anti-vibration, waterproof, and dustproof functions
#TOP 5

SAMSUNG T7 Shield 4TB Portable SSD

MU-PE4T0S/AM
Black
SAMSUNG T7 Shield 4TB Portable SSD Cover
Samsung T7 Shield 4TB Portable SSD - 1050MB/s, Rugged, Water & Dust Resistant, for Content Creators - Black

The SAMSUNG T7 Shield is a rugged and durable portable SSD that is perfect for photographers, content creators, and gamers. With its IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, this SSD can withstand tough conditions. The high-speed transfer capabilities of USB 3.2 Gen 2 and PCIe NVMe technology allow for quick file transfers, making it ideal for editing directly from the drive. The advanced outer elastomer and rugged design provide extra durability, even with a 9.8-foot drop. It is compatible with various devices, including PC, Mac, Android devices, and gaming consoles. The T7 Shield also offers a stylish and sleek design with a rubberized grip to prevent slips. Choose from different storage capacities and color options to suit your needs.

What We Like
Fast transfer speeds
Rugged and durable design
Portable and compact size
Wide device compatibility
Reliable data storage
#TOP 6

SSK 512GB External USB C SSD

SSK
SD301
grey
512GB
SSK 512GB External USB C SSD Cover
SSK External USB C SSD Flash Drive 512GB, Up to 550MB/s 2-in-1 Type C+ USB A USB3.2 Gen2 Solid State Thumb Drive, Memory Stick Data Storage for iPhone 15/PS4/PS5/Android Phone/Windows/Mac

The SSK USB C SSD is a versatile storage solution featuring both USB-C and USB-A ports for easy data transfer between your devices. With impressive read speeds of up to 550MB/s and write speeds of 500MB/s, you can quickly move large files like high-resolution photos and videos. The plug-and-play functionality eliminates the need for software installations, making it simple to use with various systems, including Windows, Mac, and Android. Plus, its durable zinc alloy design ensures your data is protected from drops and abrasion, providing peace of mind while you work or study.

What We Like
Dual USB-C and USB-A ports
Fast data transfer speeds
Plug-and-play convenience
Durable zinc alloy design
Wide compatibility with devices
#TOP 7

Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD

LES3XXX001T-RNSAU
Silver
Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD Cover
Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD, PSSD Up to 1050MB/s Read, 1000MB/s Write, External Solid State Drive Compatible with iPhone 16/15 Series/Mac/PS5/XBOX/Laptop/PC, Silver

The Lexar ES3 Portable SSD offers fast file transfers with USB 3.2 Gen 2, allowing you to quickly move large files with speeds up to 1050MB/s for reading and 1000MB/s for writing. This makes your work more efficient and saves you time. It works with a wide range of devices, including the latest iPhone 15 series, Android phones, laptops, gaming consoles like PS5 and Xbox, and more, giving you great flexibility. Its slim, lightweight metal design fits easily in your pocket, making it perfect for carrying your data on the go. Plus, it includes encryption software to keep your files safe and secure.

What We Like
Fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 transfer speeds
Wide device compatibility
Compact, lightweight design
256-bit AES encryption
#TOP 8

Orlian 1TB Dual Port External SSD

U52-Silver-1T-OL
Silver
1 TB
Orlian 1TB Dual Port External SSD Cover
Orlian 1TB External Portable SSD USB Solid State Drive Up to 1000MB/s USB 3.2 Gen 2 Dual Drive Type C + USB A Solid State Thumb Drive for Phone/Android Laptops/Windows/Mac, Silver

The Orlian Dual Port SSD is designed to make transferring files between your devices easy and fast. With both USB Type-C and USB-A ports, you can quickly connect it to your phone, tablet, or computer without needing extra adapters. It offers impressive transfer speeds, allowing you to move large files swiftly or enjoy smooth gameplay. You won’t need to install any software—just plug it in and start using it right away. Plus, its slim, durable design fits comfortably in your pocket, making it perfect for work, travel, or daily use.

What We Like
Dual USB-C and USB-A ports
High-speed data transfer
Plug and play convenience
Compact and durable design
#TOP 9

Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD

CT4000X10PROSSD902
Black
Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD Cover
Crucial X10 Pro 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 2100MB/s Read, 2000MB/s Write, 3.2 USB-C, External Solid State Drive, Durable Storage for PC & Mac, for Professional Creators, Black - ‎CT4000X10PROSSD902

The Crucial X10 Pro SSD is a powerful and versatile external solid-state drive that offers exceptional performance and durability. With read and write speeds of up to 2,100/2,000MB/s, you can edit directly from the drive, making it perfect for creative professionals. It is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, iPad, PC, Linux, PlayStation, and Xbox gaming consoles. The X10 Pro is also dust and splash-proof, with an IP55 rating, and can withstand drops from up to 7.5 feet/2 meters. Additionally, it provides security for your sensitive data with password protection and 256-bit AES hardware encryption. Designed with a sleek and compact form factor, the X10 Pro is made of anodized aluminum with a rubberized soft-touch base, making it both durable and stylish.

What We Like
High-performance
Wide compatibility
Durable and rugged
#TOP 10

SanDisk 1TB Creator Phone SSD

SDSSDE62C-1T00-G25
Blue
SanDisk 1TB Creator Phone SSD Cover
SanDisk 1TB Creator Phone SSD - Up to 1,000 MB/s - Compatible with MagSafe for Your USB-C Smartphone - Shoot in ProRes with iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max - SDSSDE62C-1T00-G25

The SanDisk Creator Phone SSD is designed to boost your creative projects with reliable and fast storage. It lets you capture stunning 4K videos in Apple ProRes format using the latest iPhone 15 Pro and 16 Pro models, so you can record high-quality footage effortlessly. You also get a free month of Adobe Creative Cloud, giving you access to powerful editing tools right away. Plus, the drive is pre-formatted with exFAT, making it ready to use with Windows, Android, and macOS devices without extra setup. This makes it a versatile and convenient choice for anyone looking to streamline their mobile production workflow.

What We Like
Fast 4K ProRes video capture
Includes Adobe Creative Cloud trial
Compatible with multiple OS
Large 1TB storage capacity
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does Android support external SSD?

Yes, Android devices support external SSDs. The SSK Portable External Wireless SSD is a great option for Android users who want a cable-free and portable storage solution.

2. Can you use external SSD on phone?

Absolutely! External SSDs, like the Crucial portable SSDs, are compatible with various devices, including phones. They allow you to increase your storage capacity and transfer large amounts of data easily. If you need to run programs directly from the external drive, a portable SSD is a suitable choice.

3. Can external hard drive work on Android?

Yes, you can use an external hard drive with an OTG cable on your Android device. However, there are pros and cons to consider before making this decision. It provides additional storage options but may have limitations depending on the specific device and OTG support.

4. How do I add external storage to my Android?

To add external storage to your Android device: 1. Connect a USB storage device to your Android device. 2. Open the Files app on your Android device. 3. Tap on 'Browse' at the bottom. 4. Select the storage device you want to open from 'Storage devices'.

5. Why is SSD suitable for mobile phones?

SSDs are suitable for mobile phones because they have no moving parts, making them less prone to mechanical failures compared to HDDs. They are also quieter, consume less power, and weigh less, making them ideal for mobile devices like laptops and smartphones.

6. How do I backup my Android directly to an external hard drive?

To backup your Android directly to an external hard drive: 1. Connect the Android device to the external hard drive using a USB OTG connector. 2. Once the Android device detects the hard drive, tap on the 'File Transfer' icon. 3. Launch the File Manager and select the data you want to transfer to the hard drive.

7. What format does an external drive need to be for Android?

For compatibility with Android, the file system format for the external drive should be FAT32. You can use tools like MiniTool Partition Wizard Free Edition to format an Android flash drive to FAT32.

8. Can I connect a 1TB hard drive to an Android phone?

Yes, it is possible to connect a 1TB hard drive to an Android phone. The maximum storage size that Android can handle depends on the partition size and type. Most hard disk drives are formatted with NTFS, which can support 1TB or more of storage size.

Editor's Notes

During our external ssd for android research, we found 24 external ssd for android products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 161,015 customer reviews through our big data system to write the external ssd for android list. We found that most customers choose external ssd for android with an average price of $121.60.

The external ssd for android are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of external ssd for android, including Crucial, SSK, Samsung, Lexar, Orlian. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.