Video editing requires space. And no, we’re not talking about physical space. This is all about digital space.
Having a proper external hard drive for video editing is essential. Video files can be large, especially high resolution clips. And having a proper place to store those clips and work from makes the editing process more enjoyable.
Note that we DO NOT recommend editing off of a hard drive, unless you choose an SSD. SSDs allow video editors to edit clips without transferring onto a computer. If you are not using an SSD external drive, we highly recommend that you transfer your clips to your computer before beginning to edit.
Keep reading to see 3 external hard drives for video editing that we highly recommend.
3 External Hard Drives for Video Editors
Best Overall: SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD – $99.99 at Amazon
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is 100% our top recommendation for video editors. 1TB provides plenty of room for multiple video projects. And since it’s an SSD, you can edit your video footage without ever transferring the data to a computer.
This external drive is extremely small and compact, making it the perfect external drive for video editors on-the-go. Plus, there’s nothing worse than having bookshelves full of bulky hard drives.
Best for Rough Use: LaCie Rugged 2TB External Hard Drive – $109.99 at Amazon
Hard drives are fragile. Dropping a hard drive at the wrong time or in the wrong way can mean damage. And damage means that there is a potential all your footage is lost.
The LaCie Rugged 2TB External Hard Drive for video editors insures that your footage stays safe by utilizing a layer of outer protection. This layer protects against shock from drops and is even water resistant.
If you have a history of rough use, this LaCie external hard drive for video editing is your best friend.
Best for High Volume/High Resolution Footage: SanDisk Professional 12TB G-Drive Pro – $649.99 at Amazon
If your video editing projects exclusively use high resolution footage (like 4K), and you have a TON of footage, then you’re going to need a TON of space.
Instead of going for an SSD drive with more limited space but more editing flexibility, go for a high volume HDD. The SanDisk Professional 12TB G-Drive Pro is just that.
12TB guarantees you won’t be buying another a hard drive for video editing for some time. And, honestly, this external hard drive looks pretty cool. Not only will it make video clip storage easier, but it also kind of elevates the look of a video editing workstation!
This drive is also available in other sizes from 4TB up to 20TB.