15 Best External Storage Systems for Digital Art

Choosing the Best External Storage Systems for Digital Artists: NAS, HDD, or SSD?

As a digital artist, your work relies on large file sizes, whether you’re dealing with high-resolution images, complex Photoshop files, AI-generated artwork, or video content. Storing and managing these files efficiently is crucial—not just for security but also for smooth workflow and quick access. But with so many external storage options available, how do you choose the right one?

The three main types of external storage—Network Attached Storage (NAS), Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), and Solid-State Drives (SSDs)—each serve different needs. NAS devices are best for artists working in collaborative environments or those who need remote access to their files from multiple devices. They act as mini file servers, offering automated backups and cloud integration, making them ideal for studios or long-term archiving.

If you’re looking for high-capacity, budget-friendly storage, external HDDs are a great option. While slower than SSDs, they are perfect for storing massive project files and archiving past work. Artists who need a cost-effective solution for backing up large collections of images, videos, or design files will benefit from their affordability.

On the other hand, if speed and portability are top priorities, external SSDs are the way to go. They offer blazing-fast read and write speeds, making them perfect for artists who frequently edit directly from external drives or need quick file transfers. Unlike HDDs, SSDs have no moving parts, which means they are more durable and resistant to drops or physical damage—great for digital artists on the move.

To help you decide, we have compiled a list of some of the best external storage systems for digital art in each category. Whether you need a centralized storage hub (NAS), a high-capacity backup solution (HDD), or a fast and reliable portable drive (SSD), this guide has you covered.

Network Attached Storage (NAS) Devices

• Synology DiskStation DS224+
  A two-bay NAS device offering robust performance and a user-friendly interface at an affordable price, making it suitable for small studios. ​ Amazon
• QNAP TS-233
  A budget-friendly NAS with a sleek design, providing essential features for home users and small offices. ​Amazon
• Asustor Lockerstor 2 Gen2 (AS6702T)
  Equipped with dual multi-gig LAN ports and M.2 NVMe SSD slots, this NAS offers high-speed connectivity and expandability. ​Amazon
• Synology DiskStation DS223j
  An affordable NAS storage solution that comes already equiped with two 4 TB drives. Amazon
• QNAP TS-464
  A four-bay NAS device suitable for small businesses, offering high-speed data transfer and expandability. ​Amazon

External Hard Disk Drives (HDDs)

• Western Digital My Book 12 TB
  A desktop external hard drive offering massive storage capacities, suitable for extensive data backups. ​Amazon
• Seagate Backup Plus Hub 8 TB
  Features high storage capacity and two USB ports, making it versatile for both storage and connectivity needs. ​Amazon
• WD My Passport 5 TB
  A portable external hard drive known for its compact design and reliable performance, ideal for on-the-go storage. ​Amazon
• Seagate Portable External Hard Drive 5 TB
  Offers straightforward plug-and-play functionality with ample storage space, suitable for daily backups. ​Amazon
• Toshiba Canvio Basics 2 TB
  A reliable and affordable option for simple storage expansion and backups. ​Amazon

External Solid-State Drives (SSDs)

• Samsung T7 Portable SSD 2 TB
  Combines high-speed data transfer with high durability and portability. ​Amazon
• SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 4 TB
  Offers rugged durability with high-speed performance, suitable for on-the-go professionals. ​Amazon
• Crucial X9 Pro Portable SSD 2 TB
  A compact and lightweight SSD delivering fast transfer speeds, ideal for travel and quick backups. ​Amazon
• Western Digital My Passport SSD 2 TB
  Features a sleek design with fast data transfer rates, suitable for daily use and quick access to files. ​Amazon
• SSK External SSD 1 TB
  A small-size and affordable entry level SSD. ​Amazon

When selecting an external storage solution, consider factors such as storage capacity, data transfer speed, portability, and specific workflow requirements to ensure the device aligns with your professional needs.