Do you have a lot of data that you need to store? Who doesn't, right?!! That's why external hard drives are so popular – they offer a lot of extra storage space for your files. And with 16TB of space available, you won't have to worry about running out of room anytime soon!

Not all external hard drives are created equal, though. That's why I've taken the time to review some of the best options on the market and help you decide which one is right for you. Each option has its features, so it's important to consider what matters most to you before making a purchase.

How I Choose the Best 16TB External Hard Drive

It's time to up your computer storage capacity, but which external hard drive should you invest in? You could spend hours reading reviews on Amazon, and still not be any closer to knowing which one to buy.

Well, after doing a deep dive and reading tons of reviews, I've found the best 16TB external hard drive for your needs for the best value. They are reliable, fast, and have plenty of storage space for all of your files.

MUST BUY: LaCie 2big Dock RAID 16TB External RAID HDD

MUST BUY: LaCie 2big Dock RAID 16TB External RAID HDD

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This is my MUST BUY because when it comes to storage, a powerful and reliable external RAID hard drive is a must-have. This 16TB drive is ideal for laptop-based workflows, offering ample space for all your files and high speeds of up to 440MB/s.

LaCie 2big Dock RAID 16TB on desk with cable

With its built-in SD and CF card slots, the 2big Dock makes it easy to ingest files from your camera or other devices directly. And its USB 3.0 hub is perfect for charging devices or offloading footage. Plus, with dual Thunderbolt 3 ports, you can easily connect multiple devices and daisy-chain them together.

And if you need even more connectivity options, there's also a USB 3.1 port for computers and a display port for high-res monitors. Configuring the RAID 0/1 settings is easy, thanks to the step-by-step wizard included with the drive.

So whether you're looking for maximum performance or redundancy, the 2big Dock is a MUST BUY.

LaCie 2big Dock RAID 16TB connections panel

What You Should Know About LaCie 2big Dock 16TB External HDD

The LaCie 2big Dock RAID 16TB External RAID Hard Drive is the perfect solution for anyone needing plenty of storage space and reliable data backup. This drive comes equipped with hot-swappable IronWolf Pro enterprise-class drives for ultimate reliability and performance.

It also includes a five-year limited warranty protection plan with Rescue Data Recovery Services, so you can rest assured knowing your data is well-protected.

LaCie 2big Dock RAID 16TB with speed mention


With a fast USB 1.1 connection, this MUST BUY external drive is easy to set up and use, making it a great choice for business and personal use. It writes incredibly fast and will secure your files reliably for years to come, and that is why this is my MUST BUY.

LaCie 2big Dock RAID 16TB - recovery tool

Here's the Deal

If you need 16TB of data then chances are you're operating with big files. Don't cheap out and risk losing years of data and memories. This MUST BUY might be at the top of the price point but Lacie is a great brand that I've trusted for years and never had any problems with.

GREAT BUY: WD 16TB My Book Desktop External Hard

GREAT BUY: WD 16TB My Book Desktop External Hard

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This is MY GREAT BUY because, with this bad boy, you can store your files for a third of the price of the LaCie. This operates on USB 3.0 and writes faster than its cousin, the WD Elements. The reading speed is 208 mb/s and the writing speed is 200 mb/s.

WD 16TB My Book - storage mention

MyBook works on ex-fat formatting so that you can use this for pc and mac straight out of the box, and it's a sleeker design than the LaCie, so it takes up less real estate.

With a whopping 16TB of space (1TB = one trillion bytes. Actual user capacity may be less depending on the operating environment), it's perfect for storing all your important files, photos, videos, and more. Plus, it comes with software for easy device management and backup and is password protected for added security.

WD 16TB My Book - software mention

What You Should Know About WD 16TB My Book Desktop External Hard

This GREAT BUY is a great way to keep your important files safe and secure. With a capacity of 16 TB, it has enough space to store all your critical data. The 256-bit AES hardware encryption ensures that your data will be protected from unauthorized access.

WD 16TB My Book dimensions


The SuperSpeed USB (5 Gbps) connection provides fast and reliable data transfer, and the USB 2.0 compatibility ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices. The WD 16TB My Book Desktop External Hard is a GREAT BUY and the perfect solution for your storage needs.

You can store your files inexpensively and still transfer decently fast. That's an alternative to keep in mind. So why wait? Get this WD 16TB My Book Desktop External Hard Drive today!

WD 16TB My Book - usb and speed mention

Here's the Deal

This operates on USB 3.0 and writes faster than its cousin the WD Elements. Reading speed 208 mb/s writing speed 200 mb/s. You can store your files inexpensively and still transfer decently fast - a GREAT BUY overall.

CAN'T GO WRONG BUY: WD 16TB Elements

CAN'T GO WRONG BUY: WD 16TB Elements

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Looking for a high-capacity external hard drive that's easy to use? You CAN'T GO WRONG with the WD 16TB Elements external hard drive. This drive offers plenty of space for all your photos, videos, music, and documents, and transferring data is quick and easy thanks to the USB 3.0 interface.

WD 16TB Elements storage capacity mention

Offering high-capacity add-on storage, you can easily improve your PC performance. These come in many different sizes, depending on how much you might need. Plus, it's plug-and-play ready for Windows PCs, so you can start using it immediately.

That doesn't mean you can't use it with a Mac. The WD Elements hard drive is formatted NTFS and compatible with Windows 10+ and can be reformatted for Mac.

WD 16TB Elements - fast data transfers

What You Should Know About WD 16TB Elements

The WD 16TB Elements external hard drive is a great choice for anyone needing a large amount of digital storage. This CAN'T GO WRONG drive offers a whopping 16 TB of space, making it ideal for storing photos, videos, music, documents, and more. The hard drive is also very easy to use, with a simple USB 3.0 interface that makes it quick and easy to transfer data.

WD 16TB Elements dimensions

This hard drive is powered with the included AC power adapter - so there's no battery or battery replacement to worry about. Plus, the hard drive comes with a three-year warranty from Western Digital so that you can be confident in its quality and performance.

Whether you're looking to back up your important files or simply free up space on your computer, the WD 16TB Elements external HDD has got you covered, and that is why this is my CAN'T GO WRONG Buy.

WD 16TB Elements plug and play

Here's the Deal

If you're going for style and simplicity over anything, you've come to the right place. Simple, sleek, and a bit slower than Mybook - but people love the Elements. It's a great hard drive for PC users out there.

HONORABLE MENTION BUY: Seagate Expansion 16TB External HDD

HONORABLE MENTION BUY: Seagate Expansion 16TB External HDD

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My HONORABLE MENTION is an easy-to-use desktop hard drive, the Seagate Expansion desktop drive. The fast file transfers with USB 3.0 make it a breeze to save your files, and the drag-and-drop file saving makes it even easier.

Seagate Expansion 16TB External HDD high capacity storage

Just plug in the power adapter and USB cable, and you're good to go! Plus, the huge 16TB storage space will ensure you never have to worry about running out of room again.

Seagate Expansion 16TB External HDD storage mention

What You Should Know About Seagate Expansion 16TB External HDD

The Seagate Expansion 16TB is the perfect storage solution for your computer. This HONORABLE MENTION BUY offers huge space for all your files, and the automatic recognition feature makes it easy to set up on both Windows and Mac computers. Simply plug in the included power supply and USB cable, and you are ready to go.

Seagate Expansion 16TB External HDD - plug and play


The hard drive is also reformatted for use with Time Machine, so you can easily back up your data. The sleek design and small size make it easy to store and transport, and the plug-and-play functionality makes it simple.

This drive is ready to go for mac or pc and is worth getting if you're a Seagate guy or gal. With so many features and space, the Seagate Expansion 16TB External Hard Drive is a must-have for any computer user, and that is why this is my HONORABLE MENTION BUY.

Seagate Expansion 16TB External HDD - preformatted for Windows and Mac

Here's the Deal

So maybe you don't want to shell out some extra money or go WD...well, the HONORABLE MENTION is the Seagate Expansion. It's sleek and doesn't stand too tall so you don't have to worry about destroying files if it is knocked over. Ready to rock with a PC or mac out of the box, it's comparable with WD.

SPECIAL BUY: Seagate FireCuda Gaming Hub External 16TB HDD

SPECIAL BUY: Seagate FireCuda Gaming Hub External 16TB HDD

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This SPECIAL BUY is especially for gamers who find that they have more files than space. This massive drive gives you up to 16TB of space to store your gaming library without sacrificing titles. And the bold and refined design is crafted to complement your gaming.

Seagate FireCuda 16TB Gaming Hub - rgb leds


Don't miss a beat with the FireCuda's blazing-fast performance - this hard drive is built for gamers who demand the best. Get ready to take your gaming to the next level with the Seagate FireCuda Gaming Hub.

Seagate FireCuda 16TB Gaming Hub dual front facing ports

What You Should Know About Seagate FireCuda External 16TB HDD

The Seagate FireCuda Gaming Hub External Hard Drive is the perfect way to increase your storage capacity while also powering your peripherals. That's part of what makes it a SPECIAL BUY.

Seagate FireCuda 16TB Gaming Hub high capacity

With 16TB of storage, you'll be able to store all of your games, photos, and videos with ease. The dual front-facing USB ports allow you to connect and power your devices, making it easy to stay connected.

The 1-year limited warranty gives you peace of mind in case of any damage or defects. Whether you're a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, the Seagate FireCuda Gaming Hub External Hard Drive is the perfect solution and that is why this is my SPECIAL BUY.

Seagate FireCuda 16TB Gaming Hub great design

Here's the Deal

This is for the ultimate gamer. Designed with front-facing USB C and A ports, it's meant for easy access to your gaming needs. It has customizable RGB colors to fill your room with the right vibe and is immediately recognized by Playstation and Xbox.

16TB External Hard Drive - FAQs

You've just realized that you need more storage but don't know where to start. It can be overwhelming when you're trying to figure out the best external hard drive for your needs. So many options are available, and it's hard to know which is right for you. Lower price isn't always your ally!

We've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about the best 16TB External Hard Drive for your needs. This will help you make an informed decision and find the perfect external hard drive for your needs.

Are 16TB hard drives reliable?

Yes, 16TB hard drives are reliable. They use the latest technology to ensure data is securely stored and accessed quickly. Additionally, they come with a warranty from the manufacturer, so you can be confident your data is safe.

How long can an external hard drive stay on?

External hard drives are designed to be plugged in and left on for extended periods of time, so there's no need to turn them off when you're not using them. However, if you're concerned about power consumption or want to free up a USB port, you can safely unplug your external hard drive when you're not using it.

What should I consider when buying an external hard drive?

When buying an external hard drive, you should consider the following factors:

1. Capacity - How much data do you need to back up? The external hard drive should have a large enough capacity to store all your data.

2. Speed - The external hard drive should have a high transfer speed to back up your data quickly.

3. Size - The external hard drive should be small and portable so that you can easily take it wherever you go.

4. Price - External hard drives vary in price, so you should find one that fits your budget.

Which hard drive is best, SSD or HDD?

Both SSD (Solid State Drive) and HDD (Hard Disk Drive) have their advantages and disadvantages, so it depends on your needs as to which one is best for you. If you need a lot of storage space, then an HDD is probably the better option.

However, an external Solid State Drive would be a better choice if you need faster data access or data transfer speeds. Also, keep in mind that SSDs are generally more expensive than HDDs.

How many hours do hard drives last?

On average, a hard drive will last for about four to five years before it needs to be replaced. However, several factors can impact the lifespan of a hard drive, including how often it is used and how well it is maintained.

For example, if a hard drive is used regularly and isn't given breaks to cool down, it will likely need to be replaced sooner than one that isn't used as frequently.

Regular backups should also be made to protect data in case the hard drive does fail.

How big is a 16TB hard drive?

16TB is really big! It's the size of a small hard drive. It's 1,728 times bigger than a 4GB flash drive.

1TB (terabyte) = 1000GB (gigabytes)

16TB = 16,000GB

So basically, if you filled up a 16TB hard drive with photos, it would hold around 2 million photos!

How often do external hard drives fail?

External hard drives are often considered more reliable than internal hard drives. However, external hard drives can and do fail. The rate at which they fail is not well documented, but it is thought to be higher than that of internal hard drives.

There are several reasons for this: external hard drives are more likely to be jostled or dropped, they typically operate at a higher temperature than internal hard drives, and they have more vulnerable data connections (e.g., USB).

That said, you can minimize the chance of your external hard drive failing by taking proper care of it. Treat it gently, don't expose it to extremes of temperature, and keep the data connection clean and secure.

Are external hard drives good for long-term storage?

Yes! External hard drives make great long-term storage solutions because they're durable, reliable, and easy to use. They can also hold a lot of data, which is perfect for archiving your important files.

Plus, most external hard drives come with backup software that helps you protect your data in case of a system failure or accidental deletion. So if you're looking for a safe and secure way to store your files, an external hard drive is the way to go!

How do I make my external hard drive faster?

You can do a few things to make your external hard drive faster. One is to defragment your drive - this will help to improve the speed at which files are accessed. Another is to use a faster interface (like USB 3.0 or FireWire 800) if your drive supports it. Finally, you can try using a cache or similar caching software to speed up read/write times.

What is the weakness of an external hard drive?

The weakness of an external hard drive is that it is susceptible to being damaged or broken more easily than an internal hard drive since it is not as well protected. Additionally, if you lose your external hard drive, all the data on it will be lost unless you have a backup.

How is data stored on an external hard drive?

Data is stored on an external hard drive in a variety of ways. Data can be stored in several different ways depending on the structure of the drive and the file system used. For example, data is typically stored in files and folders on a Windows PC.

Each file contains a certain amount of data, and each folder can contain multiple files. The way that files are organized on an external hard drive can vary depending on the operating system of the computer that it is connected to.

What is an external drive made of?

External hard drives are usually made of metal and plastic. The metal is used to create the enclosure that holds the drive, and the plastic is used to create the casing you see on the outside.

The internal components of an external hard drive are typically a spinning disk, a controller board, and some memory. The spinning disk stores your data while the controller board reads and writes data to it. The memory is used to cache data to read and write more quickly.

The Best 16TB External Hard Drive For You

So, there you have it! Our top 16TB external hard drives. We hope this article was helpful and informative in your search for the best possible storage solution for your needs.

Click on any of the buttons to check the prices for yourself on Amazon, this great platform that provides a delivery date for each product. Thanks for reading this comprehensive product review, and happy shopping!

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