I'm a huge fan and user of hardware-encrypted drives from companies such as Apricorn, iStorage, and Glyph. I genuinely appreciate the way they protect important files without relying on software on a computer, with encryption happening inside the drive itself, usually using AES 256-bit protection. Access is controlled entirely via a built-in keypad and PIN. That keeps data so much more secure. In my experience, this approach makes them essential for anyone carrying sensitive information between locations, and they are also a practical choice for personal backups of things like financial records, family documents, or private photos.Yes, these drives inevitably cost more than you'd pay for ordinary storage, but the extra protection, portability, and software-free operation make them well worth the asking price, and take away the risk of exposing valuable or confidential data to other people.My favorite encrypted external drives Apricorn 2TB Aegis Fortress L3 FIPS 140-2 Level 3 Encrypted Portable Hard Drive This 2TB drive is available to buy from B&H Photo Video. Apricorn 4TB Aegis Padlock DT FIPS - USB 3.0 Desktop Drive The Padlock DT FIPS comes in capacities from 2TB ($409) to 32TB ($2899). The 4TB version is priced at $459. This FIPS version is for organizations that require certified compliance. For most individuals and many businesses, the standard Aegis Padlock DT edition (see below) essentially offers the same day-to-day protection. Apricorn Aegis Padlock DT - USB 3.0 Desktop Drive It comes in capacities from 2TB ($389) to 24TB ($1579). This model is the 4TB capacity priced at $439. Apricorn 1TB Aegis NVX SSD This 1TB model is on sale at Newegg iStorage 2TB diskAshur3 Hardware Encrypted SSD Sold in the USA by Kanguru, iStorage's diskAshur3 comes in a range of capacities, from 1TB ($450) right up to 8TB ($4,799.95) Glyph Technologies 1TB Securedrive+ Professional Encrypted External SSD Glyph Technologies' 1TB secure SSD is available to buy from B&H Photo Video. One of the biggest advantages of drives like this is their simplicity. You unlock the HDD/SSD before connecting it, so passwords are not typed into a computer and the drive can work across Windows, macOS, Linux, and other supported operating systems. Many models also lock automatically when disconnected or after a period of inactivity. Common features include administrator and user PINs, brute-force protection, read-only modes, and secure erase functions. Some models also carry formal security certifications for organizations that are required to meet government or industry rules.For more savings on storage, we've rounded up the best SSD deals.