Portable external drives are compact, lightweight storage solutions designed for mobility and convenience. Available as either portable HDDs or portable SSDs, they provide users with an easy way to store, transfer, and back up files while on the go. Portable HDDs offer high capacities ranging from 500GB to 10TB at an affordable price per terabyte, while portable SSDs deliver faster transfer speeds (up to 550 MB/s) and improved durability due to their lack of moving parts. Typically powered via USB (3.0, 3.1, 3.2, or USB-C), these drives require no external adapters, making them highly portable and plug-and-play compatible with laptops, desktops, gaming consoles, and even mobile devices with OTG support. While HDD-based models are slightly bulkier and prone to mechanical wear, SSD-based versions are shock-resistant, silent, and significantly faster. Many portable drives come preloaded with backup software and support optional encryption for data security. Their lightweight design, usually under 300 grams, makes them ideal for students, professionals, and travelers needing reliable storage in their pocket or bag. Whether for carrying large media libraries, transferring work files, or expanding console storage, portable external drives remain an essential tool for everyday digital life.