Best storage devices

There are three main types of consumer-grade computer storage: internal, external, and network attached. Internal storage is generally a hard drive or solid-state drive (SSD) that hosts your computer's operating systems and programs. External storage comes mostly in the form of external drives that connect to a computer via a peripheral port, such as USB or Thunderbolt. Finally, network attached storage (NAS) solutions are those that connect to a switch or a router to provide storage space and services to the entire network.

The five devices on this page represent the best among their respective categories.

Synology DiskStation DS1513+

The Synology DiskStation DS1513+ is easily one of the best multiple-bay NAS servers to date, performing superbly both as an advanced storage server and as the central host for a long list of home entertainment and business uses.

Buffalo DriveStation DDR (3TB)

The Buffalo DriveStation DDR is by far the fastest single-volume external drive on the market and makes USB 3.0 a true alternative storage connection to Thunderbolt.

Corsair Voyager Air (1TB, Red)

Despite a few shortcomings, the Corsair Voyager Air is an excellent way to extend your mobile devices' storage capacity and features.

OCZ Vector Series SSD (256GB, SATA III, 2.5-inch)

The OCZ Vector Series SSD would make a great investment for those moving on from using a hard drive as the main drive of their system.

Best portable backup drive

Seagate Backup Plus (1TB, blue)

Seagate Backup Plus carries the flexibility of the GoFlex portable drive while adding performance and style to portable storage. The new drive makes an excellent buy.