The 5 best external SSDs for Xbox Series X

Break free from internal storage limitations with an external SSD for Xbox Series X/S and invest in some space for your game library!

Seagate storage expansion card

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The Seagate Storage Expansion Card has a few tricks up its sleeve that make it the best overall choice of external SSD for your Xbox. First, this version comes with 2TB of storage for your Xbox favorites, so you won't run out of space or have to change your game settings anytime soon.

It's also the only expansion card that replicates Xbox's Velocity Architecture, meaning you can enjoy faster load times, richer and more detailed in-game environments, and more engaging gameplay thanks to seamless integration with SSD drive inside Xbox.

Games also launch directly from the SSD without sacrificing performance. You can switch between multiple game titles in seconds. Additionally, installation is extremely simple thanks to the plug-and-play design. This is currently arguably the best external SSD for Xbox.

WD Black C50 storage expansion card

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In 2023, WD launched the WD_Black C50 storage expansion card, giving you 1TB of external storage, allowing for plug-and-play convenience without the high price tag.

Officially licensed for Xbox Series X/S, you don't need to worry about its compatibility. Working with Xbox Velocity Architecture, it delivers performance similar to that of an internal SSD. Plus, time-saving features like the Quick Resume function mean you'll never have to wait too long when switching between games.

The card's durable and shockproof design also makes it suitable for long-term use, giving you plenty of value for your money. All of this makes the C50 one of the most efficient and seamless options for external storage if you're on a budget.

Seagate Game Drive for Xbox

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Another Xbox-certified option, the Seagate Game Drive offers 4TB of portable hard drive storage. It's compatible with Xbox Series X/S as well as all Xbox One generations and has a sleek black appearance with an integrated green LED light bar that complements your console.

Of course, being an HDD, it's less discreet than an external SSD and can't deliver the same performance speeds as an external SSD. However, installation is quick and easy and provides plenty of space for unoptimized game storage, and those games can be played directly from the drive itself.

It provides quick resume functionality for backwards compatible games on Xbox Series X/S; with Xbox, Xbox 360 and Xbox One titles all playable directly from the drive itself. Plus, the Seagate Game Drive's durable design means it's also ideal for taking your game collection to friends.

Crucial X10 Pro 1TB Portable SSD

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Boasting a rugged design with an IP55 water and dust resistance rating and being drop tested to 7.5 meters, the Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD is one of the durable options if you looking for an external SSD.

Available in 1TB, 2TB or 4TB versions, the Crucial X10 Pro SSD provides a portable storage solution for a variety of needs. And with read/write speeds of 2,100 and 2,000 MB/s, its performance isn't too shabby either.

The Crucial X10 Pro SSD is small, light, highly portable, and a great way to carry your saved games with you. Plus, it's compatible with PC, Mac, and Android, making it a versatile choice for work, productivity, and gaming.

SAMSUNG T7 Shield 1TB Portable SSD

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A true tank among external SSDs, the Samsung T7 Shield is rated IP65 for water and dust resistance, and has been drop tested at heights of up to 3m. If you're worried about accidentally damaging your valuable data, this is the solution for you.

The Samsung T7 Shield offers surprisingly good speeds for the price, with read/write speeds of 1,050 and 1,000 MB/s. Of course, it won't be able to run Xbox Series X/S titles natively, but it's still a solid option for backwards compatibility, with older titles working smoothly and seamlessly.

The heavy-duty rubber-coated exterior acts as an effective layer of armor for this versatile SSD, and its broad compatibility makes it a suitable choice for many platforms.

Jessica Tanner

Update 13 December 2023