Best External Zip Drives of 2025
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External Zip drives are portable devices that allow users to store, transfer, and back up large amounts of data. These drives typically offer high-speed data transfer rates and are compatible with both Mac and PC systems. They come in a range of storage capacities, from 100MB to 750MB, and can be connected to computers via USB or FireWire ports. Zip drives are popular among professionals who work with large files, such as graphic designers and video editors, as they provide a reliable and convenient way to store and transport data. Additionally, they are a cost-effective alternative to other forms of portable storage, such as external hard drives.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
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Top 10 External Zip Drives
Iomega 31714
The Iomega USB Zip Drive is a convenient and portable external storage device. Powered through your computer's USB connection, it eliminates the need for additional power cords or batteries. With a data transfer rate of 0.9 MB/sec, it allows for quick and efficient file transfers. The drive is compatible with both PC and Mac systems, making it versatile for users of different platforms. The 100 MB Zip disk, which is sold separately, provides ample storage space, equivalent to 85 floppy disks. Whether you need to back up important files or transfer large amounts of data, the Iomega USB Zip Drive offers a reliable solution with its compact size and high storage capacity.
Iomega Zip 250 MB USB External Drive
The Iomega Zip 250 MB USB External Drive is an ultrathin, mobile external drive designed to work with USB-enabled PC and Macintosh systems. This drive is compatible with both 100 MB and 250 MB Zip disks, offering up to 900 KBps transfer rate. It includes IomegaWare 2.1 with Quik Sync instant backup utility, which allows you to quickly and easily back up your important files.
Iomega Zip 250 MB USB Drive
The Iomega Zip 250 MB USB Drive is a versatile external drive that can be powered through your computer's USB connection. With a data transfer speed of 0.9 MB/sec, you can quickly store and transfer large files. This drive uses either 250 MB or 100 MB Zip disks, allowing you to store the equivalent of up to 170 floppy disks on one 250 MB disk (not included). It is compatible with both PC and Mac systems, making it a great option for users of either platform.
Iomega 10919 Zip 100 Drive
The Iomega Zip 100 Drive (Parallel Port) is a portable, external drive that supports 100 MB Zip disks and has a maximum sustained transfer rate of 1.40 MB/sec. It connects to your PC via its parallel port and comes with complete backup and restore utilities. This drive is ideal for users who need to transfer large files or backup important data. Its portable design allows for easy transportation, making it an excellent option for users who are always on the go. Additionally, its complete backup and restore utilities provide added convenience and peace of mind for users who need to safeguard their data.
Iomega Zip Drive 250MB External USB
The Iomega Zip Drive is a portable external drive that allows you to store your important files on 250MB or 100MB Zip Disks. With its USB connection, you can easily connect to your computer and power your Zip Disk. The drive is lightweight and easy to carry around. The included solutions CD with software provides a quick start guide to help you get started. Protect and organize your files with ease using the Iomega Zip Drive.
Iomega ZIP 250 Starter Kit
The Iomega ZIP 250 Starter Kit is a portable external drive that allows you to easily store and transfer your files. It comes with a USB cable, stand, CD software, and three 250MB Zip Disks. With its ultra-thin design, you can take it with you wherever you go and use it with multiple computers. The kit also includes a CD user's manual with additional applications, as well as Iomegaware software for easy installation. The drive is compatible with both USB-enabled PC and Macintosh systems. With the Iomega ZIP 250 Kit, you can conveniently back up your important data, share files with others, and enjoy the flexibility of using it on different devices.
Iomega Zip 100MB Drive
The Iomega Zip Drive is a compact and efficient storage solution that is powered through USB, making it incredibly convenient for users on the go. With its compatibility for both PC and Mac systems, you can easily transfer and share files between different devices. The 100MB capacity allows you to store a significant amount of data, perfect for backups or transporting important documents. Its sleek design and portability mean you can take your data wherever you need it, ensuring you always have access to your files when necessary.
Iomega Zip USB-Powered External Zip Drive
The Iomega Zip USB-Powered External Zip Drive is a portable and convenient external drive that is powered by USB. It is capable of reading and writing to both 250MB and 100MB Zip disks. It includes a USB cable, Quick start guide, and Solutions CD with software.
Iomega Zip 250 External Drive
The Iomega Zip External Drive by Iomega is a portable 250MB drive in blue/gray color. It is compact, measuring 6.75in x 4.75in x 0.75in. Made of plastic and metal, it doesn't need an external power supply. However, note that it doesn't come with a power supply or USB cable. This host-powered drive, with part number 04160D01, is perfect for on-the-go storage needs. Its United States manufacture ensures quality and reliability, making it a convenient option for quick data transfers and backups.
Iomega ZIP 750
The Iomega ZIP 750 is the fastest and most durable external ZIP drive available. With a transfer speed of 7 Mbps, it is perfect for backing up and archiving important data. The drive comes with Iomega Automatic Backup software, which allows you to easily select and protect your important files. It also includes Iomega Sync software, which seamlessly transfers files between multiple computers. The ZIP 750 adds 750 MB of storage capacity to your computer, and each disk adds an additional 750 MB. With the most durable backup media, you never have to worry about data loss due to scratches. Additionally, the ZIP 750 features Active Disk technology, allowing you to run unique software applications straight from your Zip disk. With the Iomega ZIP 750, you can enjoy fast and reliable data storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between a flash drive and a Zip drive?
The main difference between a flash drive and a Zip drive is the storage technology used. Zip drives utilize rotating magnetic media, known as Zip disks, to read, store, and erase data. Flash drives, on the other hand, use flash memory chips for data storage. Flash drives are smaller, more portable, and do not require a drive mechanism for access.
2. Does anyone use Zip drives anymore?
While Zip drives have become obsolete for mainstream use, they are still used by retro-computing enthusiasts. These individuals use Zip drives as a means to transfer large amounts of data between modern and older computer systems.
3. Why did Zip drives become obsolete?
Zip drives became obsolete due to the rapid growth in hard drive storage capacities. As hard drives started offering much larger storage capacities (10GB - 20GB or more), the smaller storage capacity of Zip drives (typically 100MB, 250MB, or 750MB) made them less relevant as backup devices.
4. What are the disadvantages of a Zip disk?
Some disadvantages of Zip disks include their cost, slower data transfer speeds compared to modern storage options, and the limited storage capacity they offer. Additionally, Zip drives require a compatible drive to access the data, which may not be readily available on newer computers.
5. Which is better, a flash drive or an external hard drive?
When comparing a flash drive and an external hard drive, it depends on your specific needs. External hard drives offer larger storage capacities, faster read/write speeds, and are more suitable for backing up data, using applications, or even booting a computer from. Flash drives, on the other hand, are smaller, more portable, and convenient for transferring smaller files.
6. What came after Zip drives?
After Zip drives, Iomega developed the Jaz drive. The Jaz drive was a successor to the Zip drive and could store 1GB of data on a removable cartridge. However, the Jaz drive also faced obsolescence as newer storage technologies emerged.
7. What is the difference between a Zip disk and a floppy disk?
A Zip disk is similar in size to a floppy diskette but is thicker and can hold more data. While a standard floppy disk could typically hold 1.44MB of data, Zip disks offered higher storage capacities, starting at 100MB and increasing in later models.
8. How much storage can a Zip disk hold?
The storage capacity of a Zip disk depends on the model. Earlier models could hold 100MB, while later models offered capacities of 250MB or even 750MB. These storage capacities made Zip disks a popular choice for data backup during their time.
During our external zip drive research, we found 24 external zip drive products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,904 customer reviews through our big data system to write the external zip drives list. We found that most customers choose external zip drives with an average price of $333.56.
The external zip drives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of external zip drives, including Iomega and more. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 111 consumers with an average rating of 4.1.
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.