Best Backward External Hard Drives of 2026

Kenneth Collin Avatar
Kenneth Collin
Last Updated: 4 Feb 2026

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Backward external hard drives are a type of computer storage device that allows users to store and transfer data between computers. These hard drives are designed to be compatible with older computer models that may not have the latest technology. They typically have a USB 2.0 interface, which is slower than the newer USB 3.0 standard, but it ensures that the hard drive can be used with older computers that do not have USB 3.0 ports. Despite their slower transfer speeds, backward external hard drives are a reliable and affordable way to store and back up important files and documents.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Seagate Portable 1TB External Hard Drive Cover #TOP 1
Seagate Portable 1TB External Hard Drive
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Seagate 5TB Portable External Hard Drive Cover #TOP 2
Seagate 5TB Portable External Hard Drive
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Seagate 2TB Portable External Hard Drive Cover #TOP 3
Seagate 2TB Portable External Hard Drive
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Backward External Hard Drives

Seagate Portable 1TB External Hard Drive

STGX1000400
Black Matt
Seagate Portable 1TB External Hard Drive Cover
Seagate Portable Drive 1TB, External Hard Drive, Dark Grey, for PC Laptop and Mac, Data Rescue Services, Amazon Exclusive (STGX1000400)

The Seagate Portable Drive is designed to work seamlessly with both Windows and Mac computers, making it easy for you to back up your important files with simple drag and drop. You just need to connect it to your computer, and it will be automatically detected without any need for extra software, saving you time and effort. It is compatible with Mac systems after reformatting, so you can use it across different devices. Plus, the included USB 3.0 cable ensures fast data transfer speeds, while still working with older USB 2.0 ports for added convenience.

What We Like
Compatible with Windows and Mac
Plug-and-play setup
Fast USB 3.0 transfer
Works with USB 2.0 ports

Seagate 5TB Portable External Hard Drive

STGX5000400
Black Matt
Seagate 5TB Portable External Hard Drive Cover
Seagate Portable Drive 5TB, External Hard Drive, Dark Grey, for PC Laptop and Mac, Data Rescue Services, Amazon Exclusive (STGX5000400)

The Seagate 5TB Drive is an Amazon exclusive that simplifies file backups for both Windows and Mac users. You can easily back up your files using the drag-and-drop method, making the process quick and straightforward. Installing the drive is hassle-free as it connects directly to your computer and is automatically recognised, eliminating the need for software. With the included 46cm USB 3.0 cable, you can enjoy fast file transfers, ensuring that your data is moved swiftly and efficiently.

What We Like
Easy drag-and-drop backups
Plug-and-play installation
Fast USB 3.0 transfer speeds
Mac compatible with reformatting

Seagate 2TB Portable External Hard Drive

STGX2000400
Black Matt
Seagate 2TB Portable External Hard Drive Cover
Seagate Portable Drive 2TB, External Hard Drive, Dark Grey, for PC Laptop and Mac, Data Rescue Services, Amazon Exclusive (STGX2000400)

The Seagate Portable Drive is a handy 2TB external hard drive that allows you to easily store and access your content while on the go. It is designed for seamless compatibility with both Windows and Mac computers, making backup as simple as drag and drop. Setting it up requires no software, just connect it to your computer for automatic recognition. Additionally, the included 18-inch USB 3.0 cable ensures plug and play convenience, allowing you to transfer files effortlessly.

What We Like
Large 2TB storage capacity
Easy drag and drop backup
No software installation needed
Plug and play setup
#TOP 4

ADATA Dashdrive HD710 Pro External Hard Drive

AHD710P-1TU31-CBL
Blue
1 TB
ADATA Dashdrive HD710 Pro External Hard Drive Cover
ADATA Dashdrive Durable HD710 Pro External Hard Disk Drive, USB 3.1 (1TB, Blue)

The ADATA HD710 Pro is designed for those who need reliable data storage. With its IP68 waterproof and dustproof rating, you can trust that your important files are safe from the elements. The military-grade shockproof feature ensures that your data is protected from accidental drops and impacts. Its advanced triple-layer construction and silicone materials provide excellent shock absorption, giving you peace of mind while on the go. Plus, the SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interface allows for fast data transfer, making it convenient for you to access files quickly.

What We Like
Waterproof and dustproof design
Military-grade shockproof protection
Excellent shock absorption
Fast data transfer speeds
Rugged design for active users
#TOP 5

Toshiba Canvio Partner 1TB Portable Hard Drive

Canvio Partner
Black
1 TB
Toshiba Canvio Partner 1TB Portable Hard Drive Cover
Toshiba Canvio Partner 1TB Portable 2.5’’ External Hard Drive, USB 3.2, Mac & Windows compatible. (HDTB510EK3AB)

The Toshiba Canvio Partner is an excellent external hard drive that offers a generous 1TB of storage, allowing you to easily store all your important documents, photos, music, and videos. Its USB 3.0 interface ensures fast transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps, so you can quickly move large files without hassle. Designed for convenience, the drive is plug-and-play, meaning you can start using it immediately without any software installation. Furthermore, its compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for those who need to take their data with them wherever they go.

What We Like
High storage capacity
Fast data transfer speeds
Plug-and-play functionality
Portable and lightweight design

Sonnics 1TB Blue Portable External Hard Drive

5060291656428
Blue
Sonnics 1TB Blue Portable External Hard Drive Cover
Sonnics 1TB Blue External Portable Hard drive USB 3.0 super fast transfer speed for use with Windows PC, Apple Mac, Smart tv, XBOX ONE & PS4

The Sonnics 1TB Hard Drive offers a USB 3.0 super speed transfer rate of 5Gbps, ensuring quick and efficient file transfers for your Windows PC and Apple Mac. Its ultra-slim and lightweight design makes it easy to transport, perfect for users on the go. You can connect it directly to a USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 port without needing an external power source, simplifying your setup. Additionally, it is formatted to FAT32, allowing seamless compatibility with various operating systems and devices.

What We Like
Super fast transfer speeds
Lightweight and portable design
No external power needed
Compatible with multiple devices
#TOP 7

ADATA Dashdrive Durable HD710 Pro External Hard Disk Drive

AHD710P-1TU31-CRD
1 TB
ADATA Dashdrive Durable HD710 Pro External Hard Disk Drive Cover
ADATA Dashdrive Durable HD710 Pro External Hard Disk Drive, USB 3.1 (1TB, Red)

Features
Military Grade Shockproof Ensure All-Around Data Protection
IP68 Waterproof And Dustproof Ensured Data Integrity
SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Interface And Backwards Compatible With USB 2.1
Ruggedized And Sporty Design For Active Lifestyle
Advanced Triple Layer Construction And Silicone Materials For Excellent Shock Absorption

Sonnics 500GB Portable External Hard Drive

5060291656633
Dark Grey
500GB
Sonnics 500GB Portable External Hard Drive Cover
Sonnics 500GB Dark Grey External Portable Hard drive USB 3.0 super fast transfer speed for use with Windows PC, Apple Mac, Smart tv, XBOX ONE & PS4

The Sonnics 500GB Hard Drive offers USB 3.0 super speed with a 5Gbps transfer rate, allowing you to quickly move large files without any hassle. Its ultra-slim and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, perfect for on-the-go storage. You won’t need an external power source, as it runs directly from a USB port, providing convenience wherever you are. Formatted to FAT32, it works seamlessly with both Windows and Mac operating systems, making it a reliable choice for all your storage needs.

What We Like
Super fast transfer speeds
Lightweight and portable design
No external power needed
Compatible with various systems
#TOP 9

Seagate Basic 1TB Portable External Hard Drive

STJL1000400
1 TB
Seagate Basic 1TB Portable External Hard Drive Cover
Seagate Basic, 1TB, Portable External Hard Drive, USB 3.0, for PC Laptop (STJL1000400)

The Seagate Basic Hard Drive is a lightweight and portable external storage solution designed for users on the move. With its minimalist design, you can easily carry it wherever you go. The quick drag-and-drop functionality allows you to transfer files effortlessly, saving you time and hassle. This external hard drive features a plug-and-play USB 3.0 cable, ensuring a straightforward setup for Windows users, while Mac users can simply reformat it for compatibility. Enjoy the convenience of ample storage space and seamless file management.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable design
Easy drag-and-drop file transfer
Plug-and-play USB 3.0 cable
Compatible with reformatting for Mac

Maxone 500GB Ultra Slim External Hard Drive

2519-500GB Rose Pink
Rose Pink
500GB
Maxone 500GB Ultra Slim External Hard Drive Cover
Maxone External Hard Drive 500GB USB 3.0 Portable Storage Backup 2.5" Ultra Slim Aluminum HDD for PC,Desktop,Laptop,TV,Chromebook,Windows - Rose Pink

The Maxone 500GB HDD features an ultra-slim design at just 0.4 inches thick, making it easy to carry and store. Its all-aluminium casing not only provides durability but also ensures it runs cool and quiet, enhancing your experience. With USB 3.0 technology, you can enjoy super-fast transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbit/s, significantly improving your PC's performance. The drive is compatible with various devices, including game consoles like PS4 and Xbox One, allowing for seamless storage expansion.

What We Like
Ultra-slim and lightweight design
Fast transfer speeds with USB 3.0
Compatible with multiple devices
Durable all-aluminium construction
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our backward external hard drive research, we found 20 backward external hard drive products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,095,521 customer reviews through our big data system to write the backward external hard drives list. We found that most customers choose backward external hard drives with an average price of £65.60.

The backward external hard drives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of backward external hard drives, including Seagate, ADATA, Toshiba, Sonnics, Maxone.

Written by
Kenneth Collin Avatar

Kenneth Collin graduated from Imperial College, London, at 22. He is a UX/UI designer, a web developer, and a writer, amongst others. At age 14, Kenneth programmed his first app. Kenneth's app served as a remote control for censored devices. "When I was 8, I would pick up scraps from electronics and try to rebuild or at least fix them," Kenneth said in one of his recent articles on Home repairs for top gadgets.