Best External SSD for PC: 2025 Guide & Mini PC Combos

Introduction

In 2025, computers are all about being compact and powerful. Mini PCs have become a big hit across Australia, and with our increasingly mobile digital lifestyles, having fast and reliable portable storage has never been more important. An external Solid-State Drive (SSD) is one of the easiest ways to give your setup a serious speed boost — whether you’re using a standard desktop or a mini PC. It’s a simple upgrade that just works and can make a noticeable difference right away.

What Are External SSDs?

Think of an external SSD as the next step up from the old-school external hard drive (HDD). Traditional hard drives rely on spinning disks and a mechanical arm to read and write data — a bit like a tiny record player. SSDs, on the other hand, use flash memory. They’re faster, tougher, and quieter because there are no moving parts.

That solid-state tech means you can access your files almost instantly. Transferring a 4GB movie? We’re talking seconds instead of minutes. That’s proper speed. According to PCMag, a good external SSD can hit around 2,000MB/s or more, while a regular external hard drive usually tops out at just 100–200MB/s.

How External SSDs Work with Mini PCs

External SSDs are fantastic because they’re so simple to use — especially if you’ve got a mini PC. Most modern drives only need a single cable to connect, usually via USB-C or Thunderbolt. There’s no need for an extra power plug since these ports handle both power and data transfer. It’s literally plug in and go.

TechRadar’s rundown of the best mini PCs points out that many compact systems don’t have heaps of internal storage. So, if you’re working with large media files, an external SSD isn’t just handy — it’s essential. Many GEEKOM mini PCs, for instance, come with USB 4.0 or 3.2 ports, which are perfect for high-speed external SSDs. You’ll get lightning-fast transfers and a smooth workflow.

Key Reasons to Choose an External SSD in 2025

Still on the fence? Here’s why an external SSD is one of the smartest buys you can make for your PC or mini PC this year:

• Blazing-Fast Speeds: This is the big one. SSDs save you serious time — whether you’re gaming, editing 4K videos, or shifting big files around. You’ll get more done and spend less time waiting around.
• Perfect for Compact Setups: Mini PCs are all about saving space, and external SSDs fit right in. They’re small, light, and don’t need a tangle of cables — ideal for keeping your desk clean and tidy.
• Durability and Portability: SSDs have no moving parts, which makes them far tougher than traditional hard drives. They can handle the knocks and bumps of travel, whether you’re working from a café, the office, or on the road.
• Ideal for Heavy-Duty Tasks: Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or working with large video projects, an external SSD can make a massive difference. It’s not just more storage — it’s a genuine performance upgrade that transforms how your system runs.

Pros and Cons of Using an External SSD

No tech is perfect, and external SSDs are no exception. Here’s a quick look at why you might (or might not) want one:

How to Use an External SSD with Your PC or Mini PC

Getting started with an external SSD is a breeze. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you set it up:

• 1. Plug It In: Find a USB-C or Thunderbolt port on your computer and connect your external SSD. For the best performance, make sure you’re using the fastest port available.
• 2. Format the Drive (If Needed): If the drive isn’t already formatted, you’ll need to do that first. For most people, exFAT is the best option since it works on both Windows and macOS. If you only use Windows, then NTFS is ideal.
• 3. Start Using It: Once formatted, your computer will recognise it like any other drive. You can now back up files, move data, or even install programs directly to it.

What to Look for Before Buying

Before picking up a new external SSD, here are a few things worth considering:

• Capacity: For most users, 1TB is a solid starting point. But if you’re editing large videos or have a big game library, you might want to go for 2TB or even 4TB.
• Interface: For top speed, choose a drive with Thunderbolt, USB 3.2 Gen 2, or USB 4. Just double-check that your computer’s ports can handle it — otherwise, you won’t get the full speed benefit.
• Brand and Warranty: Stick with trusted names like Samsung, Western Digital, Crucial, or LaCie. It’s also worth checking the warranty length — a longer one usually means the manufacturer backs their product’s reliability.

Related reading: 512GB vs 1TB vs 2TB SSD: The Complete 2025 Buying Guide

An external SSD is not just extra space for your files; it is also a performance booster that can completely change the way you use your computer. An external SSD is a good buy whether you are a professional photographer, a serious gamer, or just someone who wants a faster and more responsive computer. They are perfect for the small but powerful computers of 2025 because they are so fast, durable, and easy to carry around.

A Smarter Alternative: Mini PCs with Expandable Storage

External SSDs typically come in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities. However, if portability isn’t a priority and you’re simply looking to expand your current computer’s storage, there’s a better long-term solution to consider.

When it’s time to upgrade to your next computer, why not choose a mini PC with excellent expandability? GEEKOM mini PCs offer multiple internal drive bays and M.2 slots, allowing you to install much larger storage configurations—often supporting 5TB, 9TB, or even more—all housed within a compact chassis. This eliminates the clutter of external drives whilst providing superior performance through direct internal connections.

With a well-designed mini PC, you get the best of both worlds: a small footprint that saves desk space, combined with the expandability and upgradeability traditionally associated with full-sized desktop towers. It’s a future-proof investment that grows with your storage needs without the limitations of external peripherals.

Frequently Asked Questions