Video editing is a resource-intensive task that requires a powerful computer and high-capacity storage to store and manipulate large video files. While many modern computers come with built-in storage, it may not be enough for serious video editing projects. This is where an external hard drive comes in handy, allowing you to store and access your files quickly and easily. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best fit for your needs. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best hard drives for video editing in 2023.
Best Hard Drives for Video Editing — Top Picks
Thunderbolt 3 Drives
Thunderbolt 3 is the fastest external connectivity option currently available, offering transfer speeds of up to 40 Gbps. This makes it an ideal choice for video editors who need to move large files quickly. Some of the best Thunderbolt 3 hard drives for best video editing software include:
LaCie Rugged Thunderbolt 3
This drive offers transfer speeds of up to 240 MB/s and comes with a durable rubber bumper to protect it from drops and shocks.
G-Technology G-DRIVE with Thunderbolt 3
With transfer speeds of up to 250 MB/s, this drive is a popular choice for video editors. It also features an aluminum enclosure for durability and heat dissipation.
NVMe Drives
NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) drives are the fastest type of SSD (Solid State Drive) available, offering lightning-fast read and write speeds. While they may be more expensive than SATA drives, they are worth the investment if you need the fastest speeds possible. Some of the best NVMe drives for video editing include:
Samsung 970 EVO Plus NVMe SSD
This drive offers read speeds of up to 3,500 MB/s and writes speeds of up to 3,300 MB/s. It’s available in capacities of up to 2 TB and is a popular choice for video editors.
Sabrent Rocket NVMe SSD
With read speeds of up to 3,400 MB/s and write speeds of up to 3,000 MB/s, this drive is another top contender for video editing. It’s available in capacities of up to 4 TB and features a sleek aluminum design.
SATA Drives
SATA (Serial ATA) drives are the most common type of hard drive and offer a good balance of performance and affordability. While they may not be as fast as Thunderbolt 3 or NVMe drives, they are still a great option for video editors on a budget. Some of the best SATA drives for video editing include:
WD Black SATA Hard Drive
This drive is available in capacities of up to 14 TB and offers transfer speeds of up to 250 MB/s. It also features a 5-year limited warranty for added peace of mind.
Seagate IronWolf NAS SATA Hard Drive
Designed for use in NAS (Network Attached Storage) systems, this drive offers transfer speeds of up to 210 MB/s and is available in capacities of up to 16 TB.
How to Choose the Best Hard Drives for Video Editing
Video editing requires a lot of storage space and fast read/write speeds. Choosing the right hard drive can make a big difference in your workflow and productivity. In this article, we’ll take a look at the key features to consider when looking for the best hard drives for video editing.
Capacity
The first and most obvious factor to consider is the capacity of the hard drive. Video files are notoriously large and can quickly fill up a drive, so you’ll want to make sure you have enough space to store your projects. A minimum of 1TB is recommended, but if you work with 4K or higher resolution footage, you may want to consider a 2TB or larger drive.
Speed
Speed is another critical factor to consider. Video editing requires fast read/write speeds to handle the large file sizes involved. Look for a drive with a fast transfer rate, measured in megabytes per second (MB/s). A speed of 200 MB/s or higher is recommended for video editing.
Interface
The interface determines how the hard drive connects to your computer. For video editing, you’ll want a fast interface that can handle the transfer speeds you need. Thunderbolt 3 and NVMe are two of the fastest options available, with transfer rates of up to 40 Gb/s and 3500 MB/s, respectively.
Durability
Video editing often requires traveling to different locations or taking the drive on the go. It’s important to choose a hard drive that can withstand the rigors of travel and everyday use. Look for a drive with shock resistance and a rugged design.
Price
Price is always a consideration, and hard drives for video editing can range from affordable to quite expensive. It’s important to consider your budget and needs when selecting a hard drive. SATA drives are typically the most affordable option, while Thunderbolt 3 and NVMe drives are at the higher end of the price range.
FAQs about Best Hard Drives for Video Editing
It depends on the size of your video files and how much storage space you need. For most video editors, a drive with at least 1 TB of storage is recommended.
If you need the fastest transfer speeds possible and have a compatible computer, a Thunderbolt 3 drive may be the best option for you. However, if you want the fastest read and write speeds, an NVMe drive is the way to go.
While you can use a regular external hard drive for video editing, it may not offer the speeds and performance you need. Video editing requires a lot of read-and-write operations, which can slow down a regular hard drive over time.
Best Hard Drives for Video Editing: Final Recommendations
Choosing the right hard drive for video editing can make a significant difference in your workflow and productivity. Whether you need the fastest transfer speeds possible or are looking for an affordable option, there is a hard drive on the market that will meet your needs. Our top picks for the best hard drives for video editing in 2023 include Thunderbolt 3, NVMe, and SATA drives, all of which offer different benefits and features. Take the time to consider your needs and budget before making a decision, and you’ll be well on your way to an efficient and effective video editing process.
