· external hard drives · 14 min read
Best External RAIDS for Storing & Protecting Your Data
Safeguard your valuable data with our top picks for the best external RAIDs. These devices provide reliable storage, redundancy, and fast transfer speeds to meet your demanding needs.
External RAIDs offer a solution for data protection and management that combines high storage capacity with data redundancy. This makes them suitable for professionals who deal with large amounts of data, such as photographers, videographers, and designers. Our guide presents the best options available in the market, ensuring reliable storage and data security.
Overview
PROS
- Massive storage capacity of 16TB, ideal for handling extensive data collections
- RAID 1 mirroring ensures data redundancy and protects against drive failure, providing peace of mind
- Exceptional transfer speeds of up to 250MB/s in RAID 1 mode, significantly reducing file transfer times
- Multi-connectivity options via Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3.0, allowing seamless integration with various devices
- Durability and reliability backed by the renowned SanDisk Professional brand
CONS
- The external RAID configuration may limit portability compared to standalone drives
- RAID 1 requires a minimum of two drives, which can add to the overall cost
The SanDisk Professional 16TB G-RAID Mirror external hard drive is a formidable storage solution designed to safeguard and expedite the management of large data volumes. With its immense capacity of 16TB, it caters to professionals, content creators, and anyone requiring ample storage space for their projects and archives.
The RAID 1 mirroring technology employed by this device elevates data protection to new heights. By mirroring data across multiple drives, it ensures redundancy and minimizes the risk of data loss in the event of a drive failure. This feature provides peace of mind, knowing that your valuable files are securely backed up and accessible.
PROS
- Enormous 16TB capacity for extensive data storage needs
- RAID 1 configuration offers data redundancy and protection against drive failure
CONS
- Relatively high cost compared to non-RAID external drives
- May not be as portable as smaller external drives due to its size
The WD 16TB My Book Duo is an external hard drive designed for demanding storage requirements. It boasts a massive 16TB capacity, providing ample space for extensive data backups, media libraries, and other large file collections.
One of the key features of this drive is its RAID 1 configuration. RAID 1 creates a mirror image of your data across two separate drives, ensuring that even if one drive fails, your data remains intact. This level of data protection makes the My Book Duo an excellent choice for critical data that cannot be compromised.
PROS
- Versatile compatibility with 2.5/3.5" SATA HDD/SSDs
- Impressive storage capacity of up to 40TB
- Multiple RAID modes (0/1/3/10) for data protection and performance optimization
- Fast data transfer speeds of up to 6Gbps via USB 3.0 connectivity
- Integrated cooling fan for optimal temperature regulation during operation
CONS
- May require a separate power source for stable operation
- RAID setup may require technical knowledge for configuration
This external raid enclosure is a powerful solution for expanding storage capacity and enhancing data protection. Its compatibility with both 2.5" and 3.5" SATA HDDs and SSDs provides great flexibility for various storage needs. The impressive capacity of up to 40TB allows for ample storage space for large files, backups, or media collections.
The multiple RAID modes offer diverse options for data management and performance optimization. RAID 0 maximizes capacity, RAID 1 mirrors data for redundancy, RAID 3 protects against single drive failure, and RAID 10 combines RAID 1 and RAID 0 for enhanced speed and data integrity. The fast USB 3.0 connectivity ensures rapid data transfer speeds, making it efficient for data transfers and backups.
PROS
- Supports up to five 2.5 or 3.5-inch SATA HDDs
- USB 3.0 and eSATA interfaces for fast data transfer speeds
- RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, and JBOD RAID modes for data protection and performance
- Up to 80TB storage capacity to meet large-scale storage requirements
- Hot-swappable drive bays for easy drive maintenance
CONS
- May require additional cooling for extended high-load operations
- RAID configuration and management can be complex for inexperienced users
The Syba 5 Bay USB 3.0/eSATA RAID Hard Drive Enclosure is designed to meet the demanding storage requirements of professionals and power users. Supporting up to five 2.5 or 3.5-inch SATA HDDs, it offers a massive storage capacity of up to 80TB. Featuring USB 3.0 and eSATA interfaces, this enclosure ensures fast and efficient data transfer speeds.
The enclosure supports various RAID modes, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, and JBOD, which provide users with customizable options for data protection, performance, and storage optimization. RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 modes focus on enhancing performance and data redundancy, while JBOD mode offers maximum storage capacity. This flexibility allows users to tailor the enclosure to their specific storage requirements.
PROS
- Dual-drive configuration for RAID 0/1/JBOD/SPAN modes, maximizing storage capacity and data protection.
- USB 3.0 connectivity with UASP support for blazing-fast transfer speeds of up to 6Gbps.
- Accommodates both 2.5 and 3.5-inch SATA HDD/SSDs, providing flexibility in storage options.
- Built-in cooling fan efficiently dissipates heat, ensuring optimal performance even during demanding workloads.
- Compact and portable design, ideal for professionals, photographers, video editors, and other data-intensive users.
CONS
- Requires additional HDD/SSDs for RAID functionality, which adds to the overall cost.
- May not be compatible with all motherboards or operating systems, requiring additional configuration in certain cases.
The ACASIS External Dual-Drive RAID Enclosure is an exceptional storage solution designed to safeguard and enhance the accessibility of your valuable data. Its RAID functionality allows you to configure your drives in multiple modes, including RAID 0 for maximum performance, RAID 1 for data mirroring and redundancy, JBOD for independent disk access, and SPAN for combining storage capacity. This flexibility ensures that your data is protected against drive failures and allows you to tailor the storage configuration to your specific needs.
The enclosure features USB 3.0 connectivity with UASP support, enabling lightning-fast transfer speeds of up to 6Gbps. This makes it an ideal choice for transferring large files, backing up data, or accessing your files quickly and efficiently. Additionally, the enclosure supports both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA HDD/SSDs, providing compatibility with a wide range of storage devices. The built-in cooling fan ensures that the enclosure remains cool even during extended periods of operation, preventing overheating and potential damage to your drives.
PROS
- Featuring an ultra-fast 7200RPM Ultrastar HDD, delivering exceptional read/write speeds for efficient data transfers.
- Equipped with USB-C (10Gbps) and USB 3.2 Gen 2 interfaces, ensuring seamless connectivity with modern devices.
CONS
- Its larger size may not be suitable for setups where space is a constraint.
- The lack of built-in RAID functionality may require additional configuration and hardware.
Introducing the SanDisk Professional G-Drive Enterprise Desktop Hard Drive, a powerful external storage solution designed for professionals with demanding workflows. Boasting a massive 12TB capacity, this drive offers ample space for large media files, software applications, and expansive data backups. Its exceptional performance is driven by a lightning-fast 7200RPM Ultrastar HDD, delivering impressive read/write speeds that enable seamless file transfers and smooth operation.
Connectivity is effortless with the versatile USB-C (10Gbps) and USB 3.2 Gen 2 interfaces. The USB-C interface provides broad compatibility with modern laptops, desktops, and other devices, while the USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface ensures backward compatibility with older systems. This drive is also Mac Ready, making it a perfect companion for both Windows and macOS users. Whether you're a creative professional, a data enthusiast, or simply need reliable and spacious storage, the SanDisk Professional G-Drive Enterprise Desktop Hard Drive stands as an excellent choice.
PROS
- The OWC ThunderBay 4 External RAID 5 is a professional-grade storage solution that delivers blazing-fast Thunderbolt 3 speeds and incredible storage capacity.
- The ThunderBay 4 features a versatile RAID 5 configuration, providing optimal data protection and exceptional performance.
- With its rugged construction and reliable components, the ThunderBay 4 ensures the safety and integrity of your critical data.
CONS
- The OWC ThunderBay 4 External RAID 5 is a premium storage solution and its price reflects its high-end features and capabilities.
- The unit requires a compatible Thunderbolt 3 port on your computer, which may not be available on older systems.
The OWC ThunderBay 4 External RAID 5 is a stellar storage solution for creative professionals, photographers, videographers, and anyone who demands fast, reliable, and secure data storage. With its blazing-fast Thunderbolt 3 speeds, the ThunderBay 4 delivers exceptional performance, allowing you to transfer large files, edit high-resolution images, and render videos seamlessly.
The ThunderBay 4 features a versatile RAID 5 configuration, providing optimal data protection and redundancy. RAID 5 ensures that your data remains accessible even if one of the drives fails, giving you peace of mind and keeping your projects safe. The unit is also equipped with a hardware RAID controller, optimizing performance and ensuring data integrity.
PROS
- Agile transfer speeds up to 1,000MB/s with Thunderbolt 3 connectivity.
- Versatile storage solution supporting both RAID and JBOD configurations.
- Compact and stylish design, perfect for any workspace.
- Intuitive QTS operating system for seamless storage management.
- Extensive compatibility with Mac, Windows, and Linux systems.
CONS
- Requires separate hard drives for storage.
- Fan noise can be noticeable during intensive operations.
The QNAP TR-004 is an external hardware RAID storage solution that combines exceptional performance, versatility, and compact design. Its four drive bays and Thunderbolt 3 connectivity empower creative professionals and demanding workloads with blazing-fast data transfer speeds of up to 1,000MB/s, ensuring seamless file transfers and smooth video editing. Supporting both RAID and JBOD configurations, the TR-004 offers flexibility in data protection and storage optimization.
The TR-004 boasts a sleek and stylish design, making it a perfect addition to any workspace. Its intuitive QTS operating system provides a user-friendly interface for effortless storage management, including volume creation, RAID configuration, and system monitoring. Compatibility with Mac, Windows, and Linux systems ensures seamless integration into diverse computing environments.
PROS
- Versatile RAID configurations (RAID 0/1/Single) for data redundancy and performance optimization.
- USB Type-C interface for fast data transfer speeds and effortless connectivity with various devices.
CONS
- Requires separate purchase of hard drives, which adds to the overall cost.
- May not be suitable for ultra-portable use due to its size and need for an external power source.
The TERRAMASTER D2-310 USB Type C External Hard Drive RAID Enclosure provides a robust and versatile storage solution for both personal and professional use. Its RAID capabilities allow you to configure your storage based on your specific needs, whether you prioritize data redundancy with RAID 1 or enhanced performance with RAID 0. The USB Type-C interface ensures fast and reliable data transfer, making it an ideal companion for content creators, photographers, and anyone who deals with large files.
While the RAID enclosure itself does not include hard drives, this flexibility allows you to choose drives that suit your capacity and performance requirements. The enclosure supports both 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch SATA hard drives, offering you a wide range of options to customize your storage solution. Additionally, the enclosure features a compact and durable design, making it easy to integrate into your workspace or take with you on the go.
PROS
- Expands storage capacity for reliable data backup
- Supports multiple RAID modes for optimal data protection and flexibility
CONS
- Requires separate hard disk drives for operation
- May require additional setup for advanced RAID configurations
The TERRAMASTER D4-300 External Hard Drive Enclosure offers a comprehensive storage solution for expanding your storage capacity and protecting your essential data. With its USB 3.1 (Gen1) Type-C interface, this enclosure provides fast and efficient data transfer rates for seamless file management. Its hot-swappable design allows for convenient drive replacement, minimizing downtime and ensuring uninterrupted access to your data. Utilizing multiple RAID modes, you can customize the enclosure's configuration to meet your specific data protection and performance requirements.
The TERRAMASTER D4-300 supports various RAID modes, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, and JBOD, providing flexibility in data protection and storage optimization. RAID 0 offers enhanced performance by combining multiple drives into a single high-capacity volume, while RAID 1 mirrors your data across multiple drives for redundancy and data security. RAID 5 and RAID 10 offer a balance of performance and data protection, distributing data across multiple drives with varying levels of redundancy. Additionally, JBOD mode allows you to use the drives independently without RAID protection.
External RAIDs provide a robust solution for safeguarding your data, offering vast storage capacities and data redundancy to protect against data loss. Their exceptional performance, coupled with user-friendly interfaces, makes them a go-to choice for professionals and individuals alike. Whether you seek an external RAID for personal or professional use, our comprehensive review has you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of using an external RAID?
External RAIDs excel in providing comprehensive data protection, ensuring your data remains safe from potential drive failures. They feature ample storage space, accommodating vast amounts of data, and offer impressive performance, facilitating swift data access and transfer.
How do I choose the best external RAID for my needs?
Consider factors such as storage capacity, performance requirements, compatibility with your devices, and RAID configuration options. Our guide provides detailed insights into each product's capabilities, empowering you to make an informed decision.
What are RAID levels and how do they impact data protection?
RAID levels determine the level of data redundancy and protection. RAID 1 mirrors your data across multiple drives, providing immediate redundancy, while RAID 5 evenly distributes data across multiple drives, offering a balance of performance and protection.
How do I set up and maintain an external RAID?
Setting up an external RAID is typically straightforward, involving connecting the RAID to your computer and following the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Regular maintenance includes monitoring drive health, updating firmware, and backing up data regularly.
What are the limitations of external RAIDs?
External RAIDs may have higher costs compared to traditional storage devices, and their performance can be constrained by the speed of the connected drives. Additionally, data recovery from a failed RAID can be a complex and potentially costly process.
