Introduction
In today’s fast-paced, digital world, we’re constantly creating and consuming content. Smartphones, tablets, and cameras are all capable of capturing stunning photos and high-definition videos, leading to an ever-increasing need for storage. Are you constantly running out of space on your devices? Tired of juggling multiple cables and adapters just to transfer files? If so, a wireless external portable hard drive could be the perfect solution.
A wireless external portable hard drive offers a convenient and cable-free way to expand your storage capacity. Unlike traditional external hard drives that require a physical connection to your computer or mobile device, these innovative devices use Wi-Fi to transfer files wirelessly. This allows you to easily access and share your files from anywhere within your home or office network, making them ideal for backing up photos, streaming movies, and sharing documents with friends and family.
The market for wireless storage solutions saw significant growth in recent years, and by two thousand sixteen, several compelling options were available. Our goal is to present a curated list of what we considered to be the best wireless external portable hard drives two thousand sixteen, focusing on their key features, performance, and overall value. We’ll delve into what made these drives stand out in a competitive market. The selection criteria included considerations such as storage capacity, wireless transfer speed, battery life, the user-friendliness of accompanying mobile apps, security features, and, of course, the price.
What to Look for in a Wireless External Hard Drive A Buyer’s Guide
Before diving into the specific models, it’s important to understand the key features to consider when choosing a wireless external portable hard drive. Understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision and select a device that meets your specific needs.
Storage Capacity Considerations
The storage capacity is perhaps the most obvious factor to consider. Wireless external hard drives were commonly available in sizes ranging from five hundred gigabytes to two terabytes or more. Choosing the right capacity depends on how you plan to use the drive. Five hundred gigabytes might be sufficient for backing up photos and documents, while one or two terabytes would be more suitable for storing large video files or entire media libraries. Consider your current storage needs and factor in future growth to avoid running out of space down the line.
Wi-Fi Connectivity and Wireless Standards
The speed and range of your wireless connection are crucial for a smooth and efficient experience. Look for drives that support the latest Wi-Fi standards, such as eight hundred two point eleven ac, for faster transfer speeds and a more reliable connection. Dual-band support, which allows the drive to operate on both two point four gigahertz and five gigahertz frequencies, can also improve performance by reducing interference and providing a more stable connection. Slower wireless standards will mean slower transfer times, which defeats much of the purpose of having a portable drive.
The Importance of Battery Life
Because they are wireless, they rely on batteries. Battery life is another important consideration, especially if you plan to use the drive on the go. Look for drives that offer at least six to eight hours of battery life for extended use without needing to be plugged in. Some models may offer even longer battery life, allowing you to stream movies or transfer files for hours on end. The better the battery life, the better the portability.
App Usability and Functionality
A user-friendly mobile app is essential for managing files, streaming content, and configuring the drive’s settings. The app should be intuitive and easy to navigate, with clear instructions and helpful features. Make sure the app is compatible with your smartphone or tablet’s operating system, whether it’s iOS or Android. A poorly designed app can make using the drive a frustrating experience, so be sure to read reviews and try out the app before making a purchase.
Transfer Speed Matters
While wireless connectivity is convenient, transfer speeds can vary depending on the Wi-Fi standard and other factors. In general, wireless transfer speeds will be slower than wired speeds. However, some drives offer faster wireless performance than others. Look for drives that support faster Wi-Fi standards and have optimized software for efficient file transfers. Keep in mind that the speed of your home or office network can also affect wireless transfer speeds.
Security Considerations
Protecting your data is paramount, especially when dealing with sensitive information. Look for wireless external hard drives that offer robust security features, such as password protection and encryption. Password protection prevents unauthorized access to your files, while encryption scrambles your data to make it unreadable to anyone who doesn’t have the decryption key. These security measures are especially important if you plan to use the drive to store personal or financial information.
Media Streaming Capabilities for Entertainment
Many wireless external hard drives also offer media streaming capabilities, allowing you to stream movies, music, and photos to your smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs. Look for drives that support DLNA or AirPlay for easy streaming to compatible devices. Some drives may also offer built-in media servers for organizing and streaming your media library. This feature is particularly useful for long trips or family gatherings where you want to share media with others.
USB Connectivity for Versatility
Even though they’re wireless, they still need to connect sometimes. While wireless connectivity is the primary feature of these drives, it’s also important to consider the USB connectivity options. Look for drives that support USB three point zero for faster wired transfer speeds. This allows you to quickly transfer large files to and from your computer when a wired connection is available. The faster USB connection, the better.
Considering the Price
Finally, consider the price of the wireless external hard drive and compare it to its features and performance. Wireless hard drives typically cost more than traditional wired drives, so it’s important to find a balance between price and value. Read reviews and compare specifications to find a drive that meets your needs without breaking the bank. Think of the wireless capability as an added feature you’re paying extra for.
The Best Wireless External Hard Drives of two thousand sixteen Reviews and Comparisons
Now that we’ve covered the key features to look for, let’s take a look at some of the best wireless external portable hard drives two thousand sixteen. These drives were selected based on their performance, features, and overall value.
Seagate Wireless Plus
*Image of the Seagate Wireless Plus*
The Seagate Wireless Plus was a popular choice for users who needed a reliable and versatile wireless storage solution.
*Key Features and Specifications:* One terabyte of storage capacity, eight hundred two point eleven n Wi-Fi, up to ten hours of battery life, USB three point zero, compatible with iOS and Android.
*Pros:* Long battery life, user-friendly app, supports multiple simultaneous connections.
*Cons:* Relatively slow wireless transfer speeds, somewhat bulky design.
*Target Audience:* Users who need a long-lasting wireless storage solution for streaming media and sharing files with multiple devices.
*Price:* Approximately one hundred fifty dollars.
Western Digital My Passport Wireless Pro
*Image of the Western Digital My Passport Wireless Pro*
The Western Digital My Passport Wireless Pro was aimed at creative professionals who needed a fast and reliable wireless storage solution for backing up and sharing photos and videos.
*Key Features and Specifications:* Two terabytes of storage capacity, eight hundred two point eleven ac Wi-Fi, up to ten hours of battery life, USB three point zero, built-in SD card reader.
*Pros:* Fast wireless transfer speeds, large storage capacity, built-in SD card reader for easy photo backups.
*Cons:* Relatively expensive, somewhat complex user interface.
*Target Audience:* Photographers and videographers who need a fast and reliable wireless storage solution for backing up and sharing their work.
*Price:* Approximately two hundred dollars.
RAVPower FileHub
*Image of the RAVPower FileHub*
The RAVPower FileHub was a versatile travel companion that combined the functionality of a wireless router, power bank, and wireless storage device.
*Key Features and Specifications:* Supports external hard drives and USB flash drives, eight hundred two point eleven n Wi-Fi, six thousand milliampere-hour battery, USB port for charging mobile devices.
*Pros:* Multifunctional design, can be used as a wireless router and power bank, affordable price.
*Cons:* Slower wireless transfer speeds, requires external storage device.
*Target Audience:* Travelers and users who need a versatile wireless storage solution for sharing files and charging their mobile devices.
*Price:* Approximately fifty dollars.
Concluding Thoughts
Choosing a wireless external portable hard drive is about selecting the right tool for your digital lifestyle. The options available in two thousand sixteen offered a range of features and price points, meaning there was something for almost everyone. We considered the three highlighted models to stand out for different reasons.
The Seagate Wireless Plus provided a good balance of features and affordability, making it a solid choice for general users. The Western Digital My Passport Wireless Pro catered to professionals who needed speed and capacity. The RAVPower FileHub offered a multifunctional solution for travelers.
Ultimately, the “best” wireless external portable hard drive two thousand sixteen depends on individual needs and priorities. Carefully consider the factors discussed in this guide and choose the drive that best suits your specific requirements. We hope this information will make your choice easier.
