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The 8 Best encrypted external drives of 2024

Are you trying to find encrypted external drives among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!

We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling encrypted external drives on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 14 hours of research and did 30 encrypted external drives tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!

An overview of our top picks

Table of contents

The best encrypted external drives you can buy today

SaleNo. 1
Apricorn 1TB Aegis Padlock USB 3.0 256-bit AES XTS Hardware Encrypted Portable External Hard Drive (A25-3PL256-1000)
486 Consomer Reviews
Apricorn 1TB Aegis Padlock USB 3.0 256-bit AES XTS Hardware Encrypted Portable External Hard Drive (A25-3PL256-1000)
  • Utilizes Military Grade FIPS PUB 197 Validated Encryption Algorithm
  • Super fast USB 3.0 Connection - Data transfer speeds up to 10X faster than USB 2.0
  • Software Free Design - With no admin rights needed
  • Sealed from Physical Attacks by Tough Epoxy Coating
  • Brute Force Self Destruct Feature
  • Wear Resistant Key Pad
  • Compact, Rugged Design - Perfect for taking your data on the road
No. 2
Kingston IronKey Vault Privacy 80 960GB External SSD | FIPS 197 | XTS-AES 256GB Encrypted | Touch Screen PIN | Secure Data Protection | IKVP80ES/960G
  • FIPS 197 Certified with XTS-AES 256-bit Encryption
  • Unique Intuitive Touch-screen
  • Multi-Password (Admin/User) Option with PIN & Passphrase Modes
  • Configurable Password Rules
  • Dual Read-Only (Write Protect) Modes for Malware Protection
  • English (Publication Language)
No. 3
Apricorn 2TB Aegis Padlock Fortress FIPS 140-2 Level 2 Validated 256-Bit Encrypted USB 3.0 Hard Drive with PIN Access (A25-3PL256-2000F)
  • Apricorn 2TB Aegis Padlock Fortress FIPS 140-2 Level 2 Validated 256-Bit Encrypted USB 3.0 Hard Drive with PIN Access (A25-3PL256-2000F)
  • FIPS 140-2 Level 2 Validated
  • 256-bit AES XTS Hardware Encryption
  • USB 3.0
  • Made in USA
  • Key Pad Pin access
  • Brute Force Self Destruct Feature
  • Integrated USB Cable
  • Wear resistant keypad
SaleNo. 4
Western Digital 2TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive with backup software and password protection, Black - WDBYVG0020BBK-WESN
  • Slim Design.Specific uses: Personal, gaming, Business
  • Software for device management and backup with password protection. (Download and installation required. Terms and conditions apply. User account registration may be required.)
  • 256-bit AES hardware encryption
  • SuperSpeed USB 3.0 port (5Gbps); USB 2.0 compatible
  • 3-year limited warranty
  • English (Publication Language)
SaleNo. 5
Apricorn 5TB Aegis Fortress L3- FIPS Level 3 Validated USB 3.0 Hardware Encrypted Portable Drive (AFL3-5TB)
  • Our fastest and most Rugged 256-bit AES XTS encrypted USB external drive
  • Fips 140-2 Level 3 validated
  • Separate Admin and User mode
  • Two Read-Only modes
  • Brute-force defense
SaleNo. 6
Apricorn 2TB Aegis Padlock DT 256-Bit Encrypted USB 3.0 Hard Drive (ADT-3PL256-2000)
  • Separate Admin and User Modes
  • Aegis Configurator Compatible
  • Admin and User Forced Enrollment
  • Data Reovery PIN's
  • Programable Brute-Force Defense
No. 7
Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3 NX 128GB 256-Bit Encrypted FIPS 140-2 Level 3 Validated Secure USB 3.0 Flash Drive, ASK3-NX-128GB, black
  • Fips 140-2 Level 3 validation (pending 1 Q 2019)
  • Aegis Configurator compatible
  • Separate Admin and User mode
  • Two Read-Only modes
  • Data recovery pins
No. 8
Kingston Ironkey Locker+ 50 16GB Encrypted USB Flash Drive | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | XTS-AES Protection | Multi-Password Security Options | Automatic Cloud Backup | Metal Casing | IKLP50/16GB,Silver
  • XTS-AES Encryption with Brute Force and BadUSB Attack Protection
  • Multi-Password (Admin and User) Option with Complex/Passphrase Modes
  • Automatic Personal Cloud Backup
  • Virtual keyboard to shield password entry from keyloggers and screenloggers
  • Up to 145MB/s read, 115MB/s write
SaleNo. 9
Apricorn 128GB Aegis Secure Key 3 NXC 256-Bit Hardware-Encrypted USB 3.2 Type C Flash Drive, FIPS 140-3 Level 3 Validated (ASK3-NXC-128GB), Black
  • FIPS 140-2 Level 3 Validated
  • 256-BIT AES-XTS Hardware Encryption
  • USB 3.2 With Type C Connector. Power Supply: USB Port / Internal Battery
  • Separate Admin and User Modes
  • Software Free Authentication and operation
No. 10
iStorage diskAshur M2 1TB | PIN authenticated, Hardware encrypted USB 3.2 Portable SSD | Ultra-Fast | FIPS Compliant | Rugged & Portable
  • Easy to use: Simply enter a 7-15 digit PIN to authenticate and use as a normal portable SSD. When the drive is disconnected, all data is encrypted using AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption (no software required).
  • Rugged, Shockproof & Crushproof: The diskAshur M2 is extremely rugged, surviving a drop of up to 4m onto a concrete surface. The drive is also crushproof, withstands the weight of a 2.7 ton vehicle.
  • No need to worry about spills: The drive’s IP68 accreditation means it will survive being submerged under 1.5m of water for 30 minutes and deemed fit enough to withstand dust, dirt and sand.
  • Slim & sleek design: Lightweight and smaller than the size of a phone, making it ultra-portable. Weighs: 86 grams (with sleeve fitted), Weighs 65 grams. (without sleeve).
  • Transfer your files in seconds: Lightning fast backwards compatible USB 3.2 data transfer speeds. Up to 370MB/s Read speeds Up to 370MB/s Write speeds
No. 11
Hardware Encrypted Portable External Hard Drive Enclosure, PIN Authentication, Real time Encryption, High Speed Transfer, USB3.0, Rugged and Waterproof.
  • [Encrypted design] Protect your digital assets with this hardware encrypted portable external hard drive enclosure. Safely store your individual or company data with ease.
  • [Easy to use] Simply enter a multi digit PIN to authenticate and use this enclosure as a regular USB flash drive. No software required, just plug and play.
  • [Durable & compatible] This portable hard drive enclosure is rugged, dustproof, and waterproof. It works with various systems including , OS X, , , , Citrix, and VMware.
  • [Secure access] All data transferred to the drive is encrypted in real time, ensuring authorized access only. Even if the device is lost or stolen, your data remains secure.
  • [High speed transfer] With USB 3.0 interface, enjoy theoretical transfer rates of up to 5Gbps. Backward compatibility with USB 2.0 for convenient connectivity.
No. 12
iStorage diskAshur2 HDD 1TB Blue - Secure portable hard drive - Password protected, dust and water resistant, portable, military grade hardware encryption USB 3.1 IS-DA2-256-1000-BE
223 Consomer Reviews
iStorage diskAshur2 HDD 1TB Blue - Secure portable hard drive - Password protected, dust and water resistant, portable, military grade hardware encryption USB 3.1 IS-DA2-256-1000-BE
  • Easy to use: Perfect solution to protect your digital assets. Simply enter a 7-15 digit PIN to authenticate and use as a normal portable HDD. When the drive is disconnected, all data is encrypted using AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption (no software required).
  • The diskAshur2 helps you ensure compliance with data regulations such as GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA.
  • The diskAshur2 is the perfect solution for storing your personal or company data. Carry the diskAshur2 with you wherever you go. Portable, rugged, dust & splashproof (IP56 certified) Without the PIN, there’s no way IN! All data transferred to the drive is encrypted in real time and is protected from unauthorised access even if the device is lost or stolen! The diskAshur2 incorporates a Common Criteria EAL 5+ (Hardware Certified) secure microprocessor.
  • The diskAshur2 will work on any device with a USB port, no software is required. Compatible with: MS Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Android, Thin Clients, Zero Clients, Embedded Systems, Citrix and VMware.
  • Transfer your files in seconds Lightning fast backwards compatible USB 3.2 data transfer speeds. Up to 160MB/s Read speeds Up to 143MB/s Write speeds.
SaleNo. 13
iStorage diskAshur PRO2 HDD 1TB | Secure Portable Hard Drive | FIPS Level 3 certified | Password Protected | Dust/Water-Resistant | Hardware encryption
  • Perfect solution to protect your digital assets. Simply enter a 7-15 digit PIN to authenticate and use as a normal USB flash drive. When the drive is disconnected, all data is encrypted using AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption (Software Free).
  • Government certified – The diskAshur PRO2 has been certified to FIPS 140-2 Level 3. The diskAshur PRO2 helps you ensure compliance with data regulations such as GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA.
  • Storing your personal/company data. Portable, rugged, dust & water resistant (IP56). All data transferred to the drive is encrypted in real time and is protected from unauthorised access even if the device is lost or stolen!
  • The diskAshur PRO2 will work on any device with a USB port, no software is required. Compatible with: MS Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Android, Thin Clients, Zero Clients, Embedded Systems, Citrix and VMware.
  • Transfer your files in seconds Lightning fast backwards compatible USB 3.2 data transfer speeds. Up to 160MB/s Read speeds Up to 143MB/s Write speeds.
SaleNo. 14
Kingston IronKey Vault Privacy 80 480GB External SSD | FIPS 197 | XTS-AES 256GB Encrypted | Touch Screen PIN | Secure Data Protection | IKVP80ES/480G
  • FIPS 197 Certified with XTS-AES 256-bit Encryption
  • Unique Intuitive Touch-screen
  • Multi-Password (Admin/User) Option with PIN & Passphrase Modes
  • Configurable Password Rules
  • Dual Read-Only (Write Protect) Modes for Malware Protection
  • English (Publication Language)
No. 15
StarTech.com Biometric Enclosure - Encrypted USB 3.0 2.5' SATA Hard Drive Enclosure - Fingerprint/Password Access - 256-bit AES Data Encryption - Secure External USB 3.1 Gen 1 to HDD/SSD (S251BMU3FP)
18 Consomer Reviews
StarTech.com Biometric Enclosure - Encrypted USB 3.0 2.5" SATA Hard Drive Enclosure - Fingerprint/Password Access - 256-bit AES Data Encryption - Secure External USB 3.1 Gen 1 to HDD/SSD (S251BMU3FP)
  • DATA ENCRYPTION & BIOMETRIC SECURITY: Encrypted Hard Drive Enclosure that has 256-bit AES Data Encryption & secure access to external drive by fingerprint or master password to protect sensitive data
  • BROAD DRIVE COMPATIBILITY: USB 3.0 (5Gbps) 2.5" SATA Drive Enclosure supports any SATA I/II/III HDD/SSD (5 mm to 9.5 mm) for fast data transfer speeds; 50 cm USB 3.0 Cable (USB-A to Micro-B) included
  • SECURE FILE ACCESS: Once the USB 3.1 Gen 1 Enclosure is unlocked w/ the master password, an intuitive interface lets you manage up to 8 fingerprints & permissions so multiple users can share the drive
  • BROAD HOST COMPATIBILITY: SSD/HDD enclosure case w/universal OS support & plug-and-play use w/ any USB host/laptop; Fingerprint Management Interface requires Windows OS for initial setup & permissions
  • DESIGNED FOR PERFORMANCE: Compact & portable biometric enclosure w/ aluminum housing protects your drive & has ventilation holes for heat dissipation; LEDs indicate power, lock, unlock & error status
SaleNo. 16
Apricorn 1TB Aegis Padlock SSD 256-Bit, FIPS 140-2 Level 2 Validated Ruggedized USB 3.0 Encrypted External Portable Drive (ASSD-3PL256-1TBF)
39 Consomer Reviews
Apricorn 1TB Aegis Padlock SSD 256-Bit, FIPS 140-2 Level 2 Validated Ruggedized USB 3.0 Encrypted External Portable Drive (ASSD-3PL256-1TBF)
  • Fips 120-2 level 2 validated
  • Separate Admin and User mode
  • Two Read-Only modes
  • Programmable pin lengths
  • Brute-force defense & Optional Self-Destruct pin
SaleNo. 17
Apricorn 4TB Aegis Desktop Padlock FIPS 140-2 Validated 256-Bit Encrypted Hard Drive (ADT-3PL256F-4000)
  • Separate Admin and User Modes
  • Aegis Configurator Compatible
  • FIPS 140-2 Level 2 Inside
  • Data Reovery PIN's
  • 256-bit AES XTS Hardware Encryption
  • FIPS 140-2 Level 2 Validated
  • Secure Pin number access
  • Super Speed USB 3.0
  • Brute Force Self Destruct
  • Compatible with any OS
  • Solid Aluminum Enclosure
  • TAA Compliant, Made in the USA
No. 18
USB Flash Drive 128GB USB Flash Drive 2 in1 Encrypted USB Drive External Storage Flash Drive for iPhone/iPad/iPadmini/Mac/PC
  • This is a encrypted flash drive designed specifically for Apple's iOS iPad and iPhone models. It can set a personal password and fingerprint for your encrypted usb drive to protect your personal files on the flash drive. The password and fingerprint are saved in the flash drive, and only your password and fingerprint can open this flash drive. If the usb fingerprint reader is lost, there is no concern about the files inside the flash drive being leaked. The fingerprint sensor adopts Swedish company, and the fingerprint level has reached financial level, which is safe and easy to use.
  • Multifunctional 2-in-1 iPhone/iPad fingerprint encryption USB3.0 flash drive is suitable for all devices with the following two ports: Lightning connector is suitable for Apple iOS devices; USB 3.0 connector is suitable for computer/Mac.
  • For simplicity and security, setting and managing personal passwords and fingerprints for flash drive can only be done on Apple iOS iPad and iPhone models, including Lightning interface Apple iOS models.Passwords and fingerprints can't be set on Android/Windows/Mac
  • When Apple iOS iPad and iPhone models(Lightning) is used for the first time, please search and download the "i-Encrypted Pro" App in the App Store (at the same time, the installation button will pop up, click "Allow"), and the APP can read more photo formats, including standard image formats. And standard definition and high definition video formats (wav,rmvb,avi, dat, flv, vob, etc). More easily copy/edit/move/delete/share/read files/watch movies on your iPhone/iPad through App.
  • After setting the personal password and fingerprint on Apple iOS(Lightning), pressing the fingerprint sensor on the flash drive on Windows/Mac (USB ) can achieve plug and play (the blue light will light up for 2 seconds, indicating successful fingerprint verification).
No. 19
Encrypted USB Flash Drive,Encrypted USB Drive,3 in1Encrypted Flash Drive 128GB Secure Password Protected U Disk Encryption Storage External Storage for Android/iPhone/iPad/iPadmini/PC…
  • This is a fingerprint encryption flash drive designed specifically for Apple's iOS iPad and iPhone models. It can set a personal password and fingerprint for your flash drive to protect your personal files on the flash drive. The password and fingerprint are saved in the flash drive, and only your password and fingerprint can open this flash drive. If the flash drive is lost, never mind about the files inside the flash drive being leaked. The fingerprint sensor adopts Swedish company, and the fingerprint level has reached financial level. data encryption, security is under your control.
  • USB C flash drive with more secure password and fingerprint management. Compared to Windows and Android systems, Apple's iOS system is more secure.Therefore,only iPhone/iPad can set fingerprints and passwords, and other systems such as Android, Windows, and Mac can't set passwords and fingerprints.
  • When using usb flash drive 128gb for the first time, please search and download the“ i-Encrypted ”App software in the App Store (at the same time, the installation button pops up and click "Allow"). You can use the App to read more image formats, including standard image formats (JPEG and RAW). As well as SD and HD video formats (direct playback WAV,RMVB,FLC, etc.). Make it easier to copy, edit, move, delete, share, read files and watch movies on your smartphone/tablet through this app.
  • After inserting the product into the iOS device and setting the personal password and fingerprint in the “ i-Encrypted ”App, place your finger in the fingerprint identification area of the USB flash drive until the blue light turns off, indicating that the unlock is successful (the blue light turns on for 2 seconds, indicating that the fingerprint verification is successful). Easy and quick plug and play.
  • Multifunctional 3-in-1 iPhone/iPad fingerprint encryption flash drive is suitable for all devices with the following three ports: Lightning connector is suitable for iOS devices; Type-C connector is suitable for iPhone 15 series/iPad (USB C)/Mac and other USB C devices; USB connector is suitable for computer/Mac.
No. 20
SecureData SecureDrive KP 5TB Hardware Encrypted USB 3.0 External Drive FIPS 140-2 Level 3 Unlock via Keypad TAA Compliant, CJIS, HIPAA, CMMC, GDPR Compliant, Works with Mac and Win Free AV
  • The External Hard Drive includes both USB-C and USB-A Cables to make your out-of-box experience great. Ready for any USB-C or USB-A ports on your computer, laptop, or other systems with USB support. Full USB 3.2 Speeds up to 5MBs.
  • The desktop hard drive does not require any drivers or software to validate and unlock the drive. Use the large keypad on the drive to unlock. Keypad is anti-wear, preventing patterns on the keys.
  • USB 3.2/3.1.3.0/2.0 is compatible with all systems and Operating systems. The computer external backup storage device comes formatted NTFS for windows, but you can easily reformat it for Mac or Linux.
  • Protect your files on the encrypted drive with the Antivirus SW included on the drive. This is a subscription service and the first year is included. Go online to activate the license.
  • Included Splash Proof Pouch to keep your encrypted drive safe when carried. Keep your cables and other accessories with you. Water-resistant and shockproof case. Protect your encrypted external hard drive when you are on the go.

How to choose a good encrypted external drives

Does the idea of finding a fantastic encrypted external drives make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!

Your presence here indicates that you are interested in encrypted external drives. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top encrypted external drives products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?

First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top encrypted external drives on the market right now!

The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:

Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top encrypted external drives brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.

Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top encrypted external drives based on those.

Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.

Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.

Customer ratings:  Would it be accurate to suggest that the encrypted external drives were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.

Customer Reviews: Like ratings,  provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.

Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good encrypted external drives, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.

Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your encrypted external drives.

Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting encrypted external drives for months and years to come.

Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.

Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.

These are the standards by which we selected our encrypted external drives. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.

Why should you believe us?

There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what encrypted external drives should you purchase in 2022?

This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on encrypted external drives.