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Finding reliable, affordable storage feels like a constant balancing act for students juggling coursework, projects, and maybe even a part-time job. That crucial external drive isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s the digital lifeline for your thesis draft, your group project files, or that semester’s worth of research photos. But with tight budgets and a confusing sea of technical jargon, it’s easy to overspend on features you don’t need or, worse, underspend on something that fails when you need it most. The pressure to get it right – without breaking the bank – is real.
Let’s cut through the noise. While the term “SATA drive” is often used loosely, true external SATA (eSATA) ports are increasingly rare on modern laptops. What most students actually need is a budget-friendly external storage solution that leverages the ubiquitous USB interface (like USB 3.0, USB-C) but internally uses a SATA-based hard drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD). This guide focuses on navigating that specific sweet spot: dependable external storage under $100, prioritizing value, essential features for student life, and avoiding costly pitfalls. We’ll demystify the specs that matter most for your backpack and your budget, ensuring your precious data stays safe without draining your wallet.
Top 10 External SATA Drives
Detailed Product Reviews
1. SABRENT USB 3.0 to SATA External Hard Drive Lay-Flat Docking Station for 2.5 or 3.5in HDD, SSD [Support UASP] (EC-DFLT)
![SABRENT USB 3.0 to SATA External Hard Drive Lay-Flat Docking Station for 2.5 or 3.5in HDD, SSD [Support UASP] (EC-DFLT)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Ffqd8GUUL._SL160_.jpg)
Overview:
This versatile docking station supports both 2.5" and 3.5" SATA HDDs/SSDs via USB 3.0, enabling quick external access for backups or data transfers. Its lay-flat design accommodates larger 3.5" drives effortlessly.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The inclusion of UASP protocol support (requiring a compatible host) boosts transfer speeds beyond standard USB 3.0, while the 6Gbps SATA III interface ensures efficient data handling. The bundled Acronis True Image software simplifies drive cloning—a rare value-add in this category.
Value for Money:
Priced competitively against single-bay docks, it justifies cost with dual-drive compatibility, firmware-updatable capacity support, and the free Acronis suite. Lacks the cloning feature of pricier dual-bay models but excels for basic plug-and-play use.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Universal 2.5"/3.5" support; robust UASP acceleration; no drivers needed; sleek lay-flat form. Weaknesses: Requires manual firmware updates for large drives (>8TB); no offline cloning; AC adapter sold separately for 3.5" drives.
Bottom Line:
An efficient, budget-friendly dock for everyday drive access and backups. Ideal for users needing simplicity and broad compatibility, though power users may prefer cloning-capable alternatives.
2. SABRENT SATA to USB Cable - USB 3.0 to 2.5” SATA I/II/III Hard Drive Adapter - External Converter for SSD/HDD Data Transfer (EC-SSHD)
Overview:
A minimalist cable adapter converting 2.5" SATA drives into portable USB 3.0 externals. Designed for quick, temporary connections without enclosure hassles, it targets travelers or IT technicians.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Its ultra-portable cable form factor eliminates bulky enclosures, while UASP support and 5Gbps speeds rival dedicated docks. The integrated LED activity indicator and true plug-and-play operation (no drivers) enhance usability.
Value for Money:
Exceptional value for occasional use—significantly cheaper than enclosures or docks. However, it lacks 3.5" drive support and sustained transfer stability for heavy workloads, making it a niche tool rather than a primary solution.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Pocket-friendly design; hot-swappable; USB 2.0/3.0 backward compatibility; instant setup. Weaknesses: 2.5" drives only; no power delivery for high-draw SSDs; cable strain risks over time; inferior durability vs. enclosures.
Bottom Line:
A superb emergency adapter for on-the-go drive access, but not a replacement for robust enclosures. Best for infrequent transfers where portability trumps longevity.
3. BENFEI 2.5 Inch SATA to USB Tool Free External Hard Drive Enclosure (6Gbps, Optimized for SSD, Support UASP SATA III)
Overview:
This tool-free enclosure transforms 2.5" SATA drives into USB externals with emphasis on SSD optimization. It includes a USB-C/Type-A cable and targets users seeking simplicity and speed for laptops or consoles.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The JMS580 chipset promises stable 6Gbps transfers and 70% faster UASP performance versus USB 3.0. Tool-free installation (slide-in mechanism) and 18-month warranty exceed industry standards, while broad OS compatibility covers most modern systems.
Value for Money:
Slightly pricier than basic enclosures but justified by superior chip reliability, SSD tuning, and warranty. Competes well against Sabrent’s offerings, though the “10Gbps cable” claim misleads—actual throughput capped at SATA III’s 6Gbps.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Effortless setup; excellent SSD support; comprehensive OS coverage; strong warranty. Weaknesses: Marketing overstates cable speed; no 3.5" compatibility; Type-C cable limits some legacy ports.
Bottom Line:
A top-tier SSD enclosure for hassle-free, high-speed external storage. Recommended for MacBook/Windows users prioritizing reliability over raw speed claims.
4. SABRENT USB 3.0 to SATA I/II/III Dual Bay External Hard Drive Docking Station for 2.5 or 3.5in HDD, SSD with Hard Drive Duplicator/Cloner Function [20+TB Support] (EC-HD2B)
![SABRENT USB 3.0 to SATA I/II/III Dual Bay External Hard Drive Docking Station for 2.5 or 3.5in HDD, SSD with Hard Drive Duplicator/Cloner Function [20+TB Support] (EC-HD2B)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41xhWU6Tq6L._SL160_.jpg)
Overview:
A dual-bay dock with built-in cloning functionality, supporting simultaneous 2.5"/3.5" SATA drive connections. Designed for data migration or backups, it eliminates software dependency for cloning tasks.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The offline cloning feature (up to 60Mbps) is its crown jewel—clone drives without a PC. Dual-bay flexibility and 5Gbps USB 3.0 throughput cater to professionals managing multiple drives, while plug-and-play simplicity broadens accessibility.
Value for Money:
Justifies a premium price with unique cloning utility. Cheaper single-bay docks lack this, but note the discrepancy: specs cite “10TB support” despite the “20+TB” title. Essential for IT workflows, overkill for casual users.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Standalone cloning; dual-drive versatility; robust transfer speeds; no driver installs. Weaknesses: Cloning speed lags behind PC-assisted methods; no UASP support; AC adapter required for 3.5" drives.
Bottom Line:
The go-to dock for effortless drive duplication. Highly recommended for sysadmins or content creators, though casual users may prefer simpler (and cheaper) single-bay options.
5. BENFEI 2.5 Inch SATA to USB Tool Free External Hard Drive Enclosure, USB Type-C/Type-A to Sata Compatible for 2.5 Inch SSD(Optimized for SSD, Support UASP)
Overview:
A versatile Type-C/Type-A enclosure for 2.5" SATA drives, emphasizing universal connectivity. It includes dual-interface cables and targets modern devices like USB-C laptops or tablets.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The dual-cable design (Type-C to Type-A/Type-C) ensures compatibility with virtually any device. UASP support delivers 70% faster transfers than standard USB 3.0, while tool-free installation and hot-swapping maintain user-friendliness.
Value for Money:
Priced similarly to Product 3 but with added Type-C flexibility. The lack of a 10Gbps cable upgrade (unlike Product 3’s claim) keeps speeds SATA III-limited (5Gbps), though the broader device support justifies parity for mobile users.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Future-proof USB-C connectivity; plug-and-play simplicity; 18-month warranty; broad drive compatibility. Weaknesses: No speed advantage over SATA III limits; Type-C cable may tangle; redundant for non-Type-C users.
Bottom Line:
An excellent choice for Type-C device owners needing reliable, portable storage. Prioritize this over Product 3 if USB-C compatibility is essential, but skip if legacy USB-A suffices.
6. Unitek USB 3.0 to IDE and SATA Converter External Hard Drive Adapter Kit for Universal 2.5/3.5 HDD/SSD Hard Drive Disk, One Touch Backup Function, Included 12V/2A Power Adapter
Overview:
This versatile adapter kit converts 2.5"/3.5" SATA, IDE, and optical drives into USB 3.0 externals. It uniquely supports legacy IDE drives (via 40/44-pin connectors) alongside modern SATA SSDs/HDDs and optical media, enabling simultaneous operation of three drives. Backed by a robust 12V/2A power adapter for stability during multi-drive use.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Its exceptional compatibility with obsolete IDE drives and optical drives sets it apart. The inclusion of a dedicated 4-pin power cable for 3.5" IDE drives and triple-drive capability is rare. USB 3.0 speeds (5 Gbps) and backward compatibility add flexibility for data recovery or archival tasks involving older hardware.
Value for Money:
Priced competitively for its niche functionality, it’s indispensable for technicians or hobbyists handling legacy systems. While overkill for typical SSD use, the included power adapter and triple-drive support justify the cost compared to basic SATA-only adapters lacking IDE support.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Unmatched IDE/optical drive compatibility; stable triple-drive operation; robust power supply included; USB-A universal compatibility.
Weaknesses: Bulky design; IDE support is increasingly obsolete; requires separate power for 3.5" IDE drives; USB-A limitation excludes newer laptops.
Bottom Line:
Essential for legacy drive recovery or multi-drive setups, but unnecessary for modern SSD-only users. A specialized tool worth the investment if you regularly handle older hardware.
7. SABRENT 2.5 Inch SATA to USB 3.0 Tool Free External Hard Drive Enclosure [Optimized for SSD, Support UASP SATA III] Black (EC-UASP)
![SABRENT 2.5 Inch SATA to USB 3.0 Tool Free External Hard Drive Enclosure [Optimized for SSD, Support UASP SATA III] Black (EC-UASP)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/311m+ah4SDL._SL160_.jpg)
Overview:
A streamlined enclosure designed exclusively for 2.5" SATA SSDs and HDDs. It offers tool-free installation, UASP support for enhanced speeds, and plug-and-play simplicity. Targets users converting laptop drives into portable storage for backups or transfers.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Its SSD-specific optimization and UASP protocol deliver up to 70% faster read speeds than standard USB 3.0. The tool-free slide mechanism allows drive swaps in seconds without screws, while its compact, all-plastic design ensures portability. Hot-swappability adds convenience.
Value for Money:
An affordable entry point for SSD enclosure needs. Though plastic construction feels less premium than aluminum alternatives, the UASP support and effortless installation offer excellent value for casual users upgrading old drives.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: True plug-and-play with no drivers; UASP boosts SSD performance; tool-free installation; lightweight and portable; broad OS compatibility (Win/Mac).
Weaknesses: Plastic build lacks durability/heat dissipation; limited to 2.5" drives; no power adapter included (unsuitable for power-hungry HDDs).
Bottom Line:
Ideal for quickly repurposing 2.5" SSDs into fast external storage. Skip if you need 3.5" support or metal durability, but perfect for budget-conscious SSD users.
8. SABRENT USB 3.0 Enclosure for 2.5” & 3.5” SATA HDD/SSD – Tool-Free, UASP, LED Indicator, Plug & Play, Power Adapter & Cable Included – External Hard Drive Case for Windows/macOS/Linux (EC-KSL3)
Overview:
A versatile, dual-size (2.5"/3.5") enclosure with aluminum construction, UASP support, and included power adapter. It transforms any SATA drive into a high-speed external storage solution compatible across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The combination of universal size support, premium aluminum housing for heat dissipation, and included 12V/2A power adapter is exceptional. UASP optimization pushes transfer speeds toward USB 3.0’s theoretical limit (625MB/s), while the tool-free ABS tray simplifies drive swaps.
Value for Money:
Priced slightly higher than basic enclosures, but the aluminum build, dual-size flexibility, and bundled power adapter justify the cost. Outperforms plastic alternatives in cooling and longevity, especially for 3.5" HDDs or sustained SSD workloads.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Aluminum shell enhances durability and cooling; supports all SATA drives (2.5"/3.5"); includes essential power adapter/cable; UASP for max speed; cross-platform compatibility.
Weaknesses: Slightly heavier than plastic enclosures; no optical drive support; LED indicator is minimally useful.
Bottom Line:
The best all-rounder for users needing a reliable, high-performance enclosure for any SATA drive. Worth the premium for its build quality and versatility.
9. SABRENT USB 3.0 to SATA External Hard Drive Docking Station for 2.5" or 3.5"’ HDD, SSD [Support UASP] (EC-UBLB)
![SABRENT USB 3.0 to SATA External Hard Drive Docking Station for 2.5" or 3.5"' HDD, SSD [Support UASP] (EC-UBLB)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41-6I24iyRL._SL160_.jpg)
Overview:
A minimalist docking station supporting both 2.5" and 3.5" SATA drives via a single slot. It emphasizes plug-and-play simplicity with UASP acceleration, targeting users who frequently swap drives for cloning or data access.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Its dock-and-undock convenience beats screw-based enclosures. UASP support delivers near-native SSD speeds, while the compact form factor saves desk space. The single LED indicates activity without clutter.
Value for Money:
Competitively priced for a docking station, though it lacks a power adapter (relying on USB bus power). Ideal for occasional drive swaps, but frequent heavy-use scenarios might benefit from a powered adapter like Product 8.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Effortless drive swapping; UASP-enabled speed; compact footprint; hot-swappable; broad OS compatibility.
Weaknesses: No included power adapter (may struggle with 3.5" HDDs on low-power ports); plastic construction; no tool-free enclosure for drive protection.
Bottom Line:
Perfect for technicians or users needing quick access to multiple drives. Avoid for permanent 3.5" HDD setups without external power, but excellent for ad-hoc use.
10. Unitek USB 3.0 to SATA III Hard Drive Adapter External Kit Cable for 2.5 3.5 Inch HDD/SSD Hard Drive Disk, Optical Drive, with 12V/2A Power Adapter, Support UASP
Overview:
A streamlined SATA-only adapter kit supporting 2.5"/3.5" drives and optical media up to 18TB. It includes a 12V/2A power adapter and leverages UASP for accelerated transfers, targeting users needing plug-and-play drive access without enclosure installation.
What Makes It Stand Out:
UASP support delivers up to 70% faster reads than standard USB 3.0, while the included power adapter ensures stable operation for power-hungry 3.5" HDDs. Its direct cable design avoids enclosure bulk, and optical drive compatibility adds versatility.
Value for Money:
Offers similar functionality to Product 6 but at a lower cost by omitting IDE support. The UASP boost and included power supply provide strong value for SATA-focused users, outperforming basic adapters lacking UASP.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: UASP significantly improves speeds; included power adapter; optical drive support; simple plug-and-play; supports drives up to 18TB.
Weaknesses: No IDE compatibility; exposed circuitry offers no drive protection; USB-A only; cable can tangle during use.
Bottom Line:
A cost-effective, high-speed solution for SATA drive access. Choose this over Product 6 if you don’t need IDE support, but prefer an enclosure for permanent setups.
Understanding Your Core Storage Needs as a Student
Defining the “Budget External SATA Drive” Reality
It’s crucial to clarify terminology upfront. True eSATA external drives require a specific port on your computer, which most modern laptops lack. What fits the “$100 budget” description today are overwhelmingly external drives using USB connections (USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB-C) that house either a traditional 2.5-inch SATA HDD or a SATA-based SSD inside the enclosure. This guide focuses on these accessible USB-powered solutions, as they are the practical reality for nearly all students seeking affordable external storage.
Why Students Specifically Need External Storage
Your laptop’s internal drive fills up fast with operating system files, applications, and temporary data. External storage becomes non-negotiable for safeguarding large project files (video edits, design portfolios, datasets), creating essential backups to prevent catastrophic data loss from laptop theft or failure, and conveniently transporting work between home, library, lab, and group study sessions. It’s not just extra space; it’s academic insurance.
The Critical Balance: Price vs. Reliability
Chasing the absolute lowest price is a gamble with your academic work. A failed drive can mean losing weeks of effort. The $100 budget is realistic for finding a solution that offers a solid balance – prioritizing basic reliability and sufficient capacity over blistering speed. Investing slightly more within this range often buys significantly better build quality and longevity than the rock-bottom options.
Key Features to Prioritize Under $100
Capacity: Finding Your Sweet Spot
For most students, 1TB represents the ideal value point under $100. It comfortably handles documents, presentations, moderate photo libraries, and even some video projects. While 500GB might seem tempting for the lowest price, it fills up surprisingly fast with modern file sizes. 2TB options are increasingly common near the $100 mark and offer excellent headroom for media-heavy courses or long-term use, making them a smart investment if the price fits.
Interface & Speed: Managing Expectations
Focus on USB 3.0 (or later, like USB 3.1/3.2 Gen 1) with a USB-C connector for future-proofing and broad compatibility. Don’t be swayed by claims of “SSD speed” on budget HDDs; a traditional spinning hard drive inside will max out around 100-150 MB/s, perfectly adequate for document backups and media transfers but not for heavy video editing. Understand that speed within this budget tier is functional, not exceptional.
Portability and Physical Design
Your drive will live in backpacks, get tossed on cafe tables, and endure the student commute. Prioritize compact, lightweight designs (2.5-inch form factor is standard). A rubberized or textured exterior provides better grip and minor shock absorption than a bare metal or glossy plastic shell. Avoid bulky enclosures that add unnecessary weight and take up precious bag space.
Power Requirements: The USB Bus-Power Advantage
Ensure the drive is USB bus-powered. This means it draws all necessary power directly from your laptop’s USB port, eliminating the need for a separate, cumbersome power adapter. This is non-negotiable for true portability and convenience between classes or study spots without easy access to outlets.
Navigating Storage Technology Choices
HDD vs. SSD: The Value Proposition
Within the sub-$100 range, traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) dominate due to their significantly lower cost per gigabyte. They offer ample capacity (1TB, 2TB) at the target price. Solid State Drives (SSDs), while faster, more durable, and silent, typically offer much less capacity (250GB-500GB) for the same price. For pure bulk storage and backups, HDDs are the pragmatic student choice; if speed for specific tasks is critical and capacity needs are lower, an SSD might fit, but capacity is severely limited under $100.
Understanding SATA Internals
Whether it’s an HDD or SSD inside, the SATA interface (usually SATA III, 6Gbps) connects the storage chip/platter to the drive’s USB controller. While the internal SATA speed is fast, the external USB connection (typically USB 3.0/3.1 Gen 1, 5Gbps) becomes the bottleneck for HDDs. This is why advertised “SATA speed” on external drives is often misleading marketing; real-world speeds are dictated by the USB interface and the internal drive type.
The Durability Factor: HDDs and Physical Shock
Spinning HDDs are more susceptible to damage from drops or bumps while operating than SSDs, which have no moving parts. While modern portable HDDs have some shock resistance, it’s vital to safely eject the drive before moving it and avoid using it while actively transporting it (e.g., in a moving backpack). Handle with care – your thesis depends on it.
Maximizing Value and Avoiding Pitfalls
Beware of Unusually Low Prices
If a 4TB drive is listed for $70, be deeply skeptical. It could be refurbished, counterfeit (with artificially inflated reported capacity), or using extremely low-quality components prone to early failure. Stick with reputable brands known for consistent quality control, even if it means slightly less capacity. Your data is worth more than $10.
Importance of Brand Reputation and Warranty
Choose manufacturers with established track records in storage. A minimum 2-year warranty is standard and expected for drives in this category; a 3-year warranty is a positive sign. Check the warranty terms – is it handled directly by the manufacturer for faster resolution? Avoid obscure brands with no local support or extremely short warranties.
Reading Between the Lines of Product Descriptions
Ignore vague terms like “high-speed” or “premium.” Look for specific, verifiable details: exact capacity (formatted vs. unformatted), specific USB standard (USB 3.0, USB-C), physical dimensions, weight, and warranty length. Be wary of listings that only mention internal interface (SATA) without clarifying the external connection (USB).
Essential Setup and Usage Practices
The Non-Negotiable: Safe Ejection Procedures
Always use the “Safely Remove Hardware” or “Eject” function in your operating system before unplugging the drive. Yanking it out risks corrupting files currently being written, potentially leading to partial or total data loss on the drive. Make this a habit as automatic as saving your document.
Implementing a Simple Backup Strategy
One external drive is not a backup; it’s just another place to store data. Follow the 3-2-1 rule as best you can on a budget: 3 copies of important data (your laptop + external drive + cloud storage like free student tiers of OneDrive/Google Drive, or a second occasional backup to a friend’s drive). At minimum, ensure critical files exist in two places.
Optimizing Drive Longevity
Avoid excessive heat – don’t leave the drive running inside a closed, hot laptop bag. Handle it gently, especially when it’s actively reading/writing (indicator light flashing). Periodically check the drive for errors using your operating system’s built-in disk utility. Store it in a cool, dry place when not in use for extended periods.
Future-Proofing Your Purchase
USB-C: The Connector to Prioritize
Even if your current laptop only has USB-A ports, prioritize a drive with a USB-C connector and include a USB-C to USB-A cable. USB-C is becoming standard, offering reversible plugs and potential for higher speeds in the future. This small investment ensures your drive remains compatible with newer laptops you might get later.
Considering Potential Speed Upgrades
While the drive itself might be HDD-based now, buying one with USB-C means that if you later upgrade to a faster internal SATA SSD (still possible under $100 for smaller capacities), the same enclosure could potentially be reused if it’s user-upgradeable (less common now, but check). More importantly, the USB-C port ensures compatibility with faster future interfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a budget external drive for gaming?
While possible for installing and playing less demanding games, expect significantly longer load times compared to an internal SSD. Budget external HDDs lack the sustained speed needed for optimal gaming performance, especially with modern AAA titles. They are better suited for game storage/backup than active play.
How do I know if the drive is actually the capacity it claims?
After initial setup, check the formatted capacity reported by your computer (usually 90-93% of the advertised “decimal” capacity due to binary measurement). Use a free tool like H2testw (Windows) or F3 (Mac/Linux) to verify the actual usable space and detect fake drives that report higher capacity than physically present.
Is wireless functionality worth the extra cost under $100?
Generally, no. Budget wireless drives in this price range often compromise significantly on speed, battery life, and reliability compared to their wired counterparts. The convenience rarely outweighs the performance hit and potential connectivity issues for student use cases. A wired drive is more dependable.
Do I need to partition or format the drive before use?
Most new drives come pre-formatted for Windows (NTFS). If using with a Mac, you may need to reformat to exFAT (for cross-platform use with Windows) or APFS (Mac-only). Back up any pre-loaded software first, as formatting erases everything. Your OS’s Disk Utility makes this straightforward.
How often should I replace my external hard drive?
There’s no fixed timeline, but treat mechanical HDDs as having a finite lifespan (typically 3-5 years of regular use). Signs it’s time include unusual clicking noises, frequent disconnections, slow performance beyond normal, or failing disk checks. Proactively migrate data to a new drive when these occur, or after 3-4 years as a precaution.
Can I leave the external drive plugged in all the time?
It’s generally safe, but not ideal for longevity. Constant operation generates heat and wear. For primary backup purposes, it’s better to connect it specifically for backups and then disconnect. If leaving it connected, ensure it’s in a well-ventilated area, not buried under papers or in direct sunlight.
What’s the difference between “portable” and “desktop” external drives?
Portable drives are compact, bus-powered (no separate power brick), and designed for travel (2.5-inch form factor). Desktop drives are larger, require an external power adapter, offer higher capacities (often 4TB+), but are meant for stationary use. Students almost always need portable drives.
Are cloud backups enough, or do I still need an external drive?
Cloud storage is excellent for accessibility and off-site backup, but has limitations: upload speeds are slow for large initial backups, ongoing costs for significant storage, and reliance on internet access. An external drive provides fast, large-capacity, offline backups – they work best together as part of a layered strategy.
How can I make my external drive more secure?
Enable built-in hardware encryption if the drive supports it (often via included software). For software encryption, use your OS’s tools (BitLocker on Windows Pro, FileVault on Mac) or free tools like VeraCrypt. Always set a strong password. Physical security (not leaving it unattended) is also crucial.
Why does my new drive show less space than advertised?
This is normal and due to how storage capacity is calculated. Manufacturers use decimal (base 10: 1TB = 1,000,000,000,000 bytes), while operating systems use binary (base 2: 1TB = 1,099,511,627,776 bytes). A 1TB drive will typically show about 931GB formatted. Also, a small portion is used for the file system.