Maybe you’re looking for a secure, high-speed way to carry files between devices, without going all-in on higher-capacity (and higher-cost) drives. If you’re dealing with everyday storage, occasional backups, or lightweight media editing, a 250GB external SSD might be exactly what you need.
These drives are small in size, big on performance, and ideal when you’re working within a tight budget or just need speed over size.
If you want fast, dependable, portable storage without investing in terabytes you’ll never fill, 250GB is the entry point to high-performance external SSDs. But not every drive in this class is created equal.
Our purpose? To help you confidently choose a 250GB external SSD for your workflow.
Here’s what we focused on in our evaluation:
- Read/Write Speed and Interface Type
In this class, USB 3.2 Gen 2 is the standard, but NVMe drives using USB-C connectors lead the pack with speeds up to 1,000MB/s or more. We looked at the:
- Sequential performance for large file transfers
- Random read/write for smaller files and OS boot-ups
- Sustained throughput under heavy usage
We avoided older SATA-based or USB 3.0-only models unless their value and stability offset the lower speed.
- Form Factor and Portability
The biggest strength of 250GB SSDs? Size. We looked for drives that were:
- Lightweight and ultra-compact
- Durable enough to handle drops and bumps
- Easy to carry on a keychain or in a shirt pocket
- Thermal Stability
Yes, even small drives can overheat if poorly designed. The best models maintain consistent speed over time, even after large transfers.
- Encryption, Backup Tools & OS Compatibility
For personal or professional files, data security matters. We gave preference to models that offer:
- AES 256-bit hardware encryption
- Password protection software
- Plug-and-play compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Price-to-Performance
A 250GB SSD should be affordable, but not cheap in build or speed. We carefully balanced specs, brand reputation, and warranty support against real-world pricing. Our picks offer strong ROI, especially for users who don’t need 1TB+ capacities.
We’ve looked at trusted models from Samsung, SanDisk, Crucial, Kingston, and some other competitors, with a focus on compact speed, everyday reliability, and value-driven pricing.
The Following are the Best 250GB External SSDs:
Contents
SSK External SSD 250GB, USB C SSD External Solid State Drives |
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|---|---|
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| Storage Capacity | 250GB |
| Storage Drive Type | SSD |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows OS, Mac OS, Android |
| Data Transfer Speed | 1050MB/s |
| Data Encryption | Yes |
| Encryption | AES 256 Bit |
| Interface | USB 3.2, Type C |
| Color | Black |
| Casing Material | Silicone Rubber, PVC, Metal |
| Weight | 2.11 ounces |
| Power Source | USB Port |
| Features | Portable, 1050 MB/s, LED Light |
| Reasons to Buy | High speeds, Good cheap drive |
Silicon Power 250GB MS70 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable External SSD |
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|---|---|
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| Storage Capacity | 250GB |
| Storage Drive Type | SSD |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows OS, Mac OS, Android |
| Data Transfer Speed | 1050MB/s |
| Data Encryption | Yes |
| Encryption | AES 256 Bit |
| Interface | USB 3.2, Type C |
| Color | Black |
| Casing Material | Rubber, Metal |
| Weight | 0.704 ounces |
| Power Source | USB Port |
| Features | 5 year warranty |
| Reasons to Buy | High speed, portable, reliable |
ORICO 256GB External SSD Up to 1050MBs, Hanging Hole Design Portable Solid State Drive |
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|---|---|
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| Storage Capacity | 256GB |
| Storage Drive Type | SSD |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows OS, Mac OS, Android |
| Data Transfer Speed | 1050MB/s |
| Data Encryption | Yes |
| Encryption | AES 256 Bit |
| Interface | USB 3.2, Type C |
| Color | Black |
| Casing Material | Silicone Rubber, PVC, Metal |
| Weight | 3.52 ounces |
| Power Source | USB Port |
| Features | 2 in 1 USB C & A Cable: Adapt USB-C and USB-A devices(Smart phones, PC, Laptops and Tablets |
| Reasons to Buy | Good performance, Portable |
HP P600 250GB Portable USB 3.1 External SSD |
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|---|---|
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| Storage Capacity | 250gb |
| Storage Drive Type | SSD |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows OS, Mac OS, Android |
| Data Transfer Speed | 500MB/s |
| Data Encryption | Yes |
| Encryption | AES 256 Bit |
| Interface | USB 3.2, Type C |
| Color | Black |
| Casing Material | PVC, Metal |
| Weight | 4 ounces |
| Power Source | USB Port |
| Features | High speed |
| Reasons to Buy | Good performance, value for money |
Take a look at the top rugged external ssds and also the top ones for long term archiving.
