6 Best External SSDs for iPad Pro You Should Buy

Apple’s iPad Pros are exceptional tablets and are a joy to use. The base model iPad Pro also provides good value for money, but you only get 128GB of onboard storage. So, if you want to edit videos or do any sort of real work, pairing them with external SSDs is the way to go. Here are some of the best external SSDs for the iPad Pro you can consider buying.

The latest iPad Pros come with a USB-C port that supports Thunderbolt 3 speeds. That means you are getting super-high data throughput speeds which are essential when working straight off of an SSD. When you are using external SSDs, you won’t notice any dip in performance. Also, note that all the SSDs we have mentioned come in several storage configurations. You can choose the storage capacity based on your needs.

So, let’s get to our list, shall we? But before that,

• Protect your iPad’s screen while giving it an anti-glare finish using matte screen protectors for the iPad Pro.
• Keep your iPad safe using cases and covers for the Apple iPad Pro.
• Don’t want to splurge on Apple Pencil? Consider getting a more affordable alternative to the Apple Pencil for notetaking and sketching.

1. Samsung T9 Rugged SSD

Samsung’s SSDs have always been a top option for those looking for a reliable storage device. While the Samsung T7 mentioned next still holds its own even now, the T9 brings about a few improvements — mainly a rugged exterior and faster speeds — that make it the better option. Moreover, it doesn’t cost a whole lot more compared to the T7 so the extra price is worth the extra peace of mind.

The T9 supports USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 standards and hits max read speeds of 2,000MB/s. If you’re a video editor, the speeds are fast enough to allow you to work with clips straight off of the SSD. You can snag the Samsung T9 with a starting configuration of 1TB all the way up to 4TB. It doesn’t always hit max speeds — at least on the 1TB version as per reviews. But, it’s still fast enough for everyone’s needs.

2. Samsung T7 Portable SSD

The Samsung T7 SSD has a solid aluminum unibody construction that can take a fall of up to 6 feet without sustaining any damage. It also comes with advanced thermal solutions such as ePCM technology and Dynamic Thermal Guard, ensuring that SSD operates at fast speeds while maintaining optimum temperature. 

You can also get the T7 touch variant of the SSD, which comes with on-device fingerprint authentication to keep your data secure. You will need to use either a Mac or Windows computer to set up the fingerprint. Once set up, it works without a hitch on the iPad Pro. 

3. WD My Passport SSD

WD My Passport SSD also ups the ante in terms of durability. You get up to 6.5 feet of drop resistance along with shock and vibration resistance. You can get this SSD in several storage configurations ranging from 500GB to 4TB.

If you’re looking for an extremely compact SSD that can fit into the smallest of compartments in your backpack or even iPad sleeve for that matter, the WD My Passport SSD is a solid option.

4. SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD

The SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable also offers better durability. You get up to two meters of drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance. The SSD also features 256-bit AES hardware encryption to safeguard your data.

If you are prone to losing your gadgets, you will appreciate the handy carabineer loop that can be used to secure the SSD by attaching it to your keychain or bag. You can get this SSD in up to 5TB storage configurations. Notably, there are several reports of the SanDisk Extreme Pro failing after a while which is concerning. So, proceed with caution.

5. G-Technology G-DRIVE Mobile SSD

For this extreme protection, you are losing out on the fast transfer speeds as this SSD can reach theoretical read and write speeds of only 560MBps. While it’s slower than other full-size SSDs mentioned on this list, it should be enough for most users. 

We think that the best use case of this SSD is for creating long-term storage, backups, and archives. This durable SSD ensures that you won’t lose your files with water or drop damage. You can get this SSD in 500GB to 2TB storage configurations.

6. SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Luxe

That said, you will be sacrificing transfer speeds for the extreme portability you are getting. Theoretically, you can expect up to 150MBps read speeds, with write speeds changing depending on the storage model you choose. The higher the storage capacity, the better will be the write speeds. 

You might find working off this storage device odd, owing to its slower read and write speeds. It’ll work best to take backups and transfer files between multiple devices.

Expand Your iPad’s Storage

From ultra-portable to super-fast to extremely durable SSDs, these are the 6 best external SSDs that you can buy for your iPad Pro to expand its storage. Connect an SSD to your iPad Pro and work with it like a boss.