10 Best Encrypted Drives in 2023 – Reviews & Buying Guide

In a world of pervasive cybercrime and security threats, protecting our data from hackers and other malicious individuals is essential.

Much of our information and data is found unprotected on our computers, making us vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

The best-encrypted drives are a reliable and easy way to ensure your protection, but with so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one.

We researched encrypted USB drives / USB drives/flash drives to find the best of the best. We’re going to go over some of the best crypto readers with options that will give you what you pay for.

Built-in 8 GB Encrypted Drive – Best Overall

With its impressive array of features, the 8GB Full Crypto Drive tops our list of the best-encrypted drives available. It is a secure and waterproof device that holds all your data and keeps it behind a 256-bit AES encryption code. 

AES 256-bit encryption code is industry standard. However, military-grade security isn’t the disc’s only standout feature. This device also comes with a rugged and shock-resistant design, along with intelligent software that ensures safe data storage.

The encryption key is compatible with Windows and MacOS computers. Hackers will also find it difficult to bypass the secure entry protection and brute force password attack feature of this device. 

This ensures that all data will be automatically erased -; with the player itself reset -; if you enter the wrong password more than six times. 

The player is easy to set up and is very accessible, even for beginners. Its steel outer casing also protects its internal components from collision or submersion. 

However, it should be noted that it does not come with a data recovery plan, which is a disaster if you lose your password. Once you have set a password, it is better to keep it preciously. 

You may also be interested in some of the best external hard drives on our list, so take a moment to check them out.

Apricorn Aegis Encrypted Reader – Best Portable

Effortless and super fast, the Apricorn Aegis padlock is another great choice for an encrypted USB drive. In addition to offering impeccable speed, the key offers unbeatable data security. 

For starters, you’ll appreciate the drive’s XTS hardware encryption, which is the strongest algorithm available on a drive. The drive itself is also compatible with all operating systems, with a quick and easy installation process. 

A USB 3.0 interface provides fast data access and fast real-time encryption. This means that your files are kept safe even if you eject the hard drive from its case.

Note that once the drive is entered, it remains active until it is removed and restarted. The Apricorn Aegis padlock is suitable for corporate deployment or private use, and also supports multiple passwords. 

This means that up to ten people can enter their password using the keypad and access it whenever they want. 

However, the support for these multiple passwords also means that your data is not private just for you. You need to make sure that you only share them with people you trust.

The reader is equipped with many features, including a data reset function and data recovery PIN codes. Unlike the previous option, you know that your data is not entirely lost even if you forget your password. 

The low power consumption also means that the supplied Y power cable is hardly necessary.

The downside, however, is that the drive crashes when you restart your computer, and your data becomes inaccessible with the restart. 

For more amazing storage solutions, check out our guide to the best hard drive docking stations.

Apricorn Aegis Secure Key Encrypted Drive – Best Validated

For anyone with confidential data that needs efficient storage, the Apricorn Aegis Secure Key has a well-deserved place in our list of encrypted hard drives. 

While the Aegis padlock was a great security option, the Apricorn Aegis Secure Key takes it a step further by incorporating PIN access and military-grade hardware encryption. 

This disc does not require access to any software or a particular driver and is compatible with the most common operating systems (including Linux and ChromeOS).

One of the most notable features is the ability to configure it with independent user and administrator PINs, making it an ideal choice for businesses and government institutions. 

The device is also equipped with a “reader reset” function which can delete user and administrator PIN codes, erase stored data and generate a new encryption key. 

This allows you to reuse the player as many times as you want. Ease of use and accessibility are additional advantages of the Apricorn Aegis security key. 

You also get a high-quality aluminum casing and a hard-wearing keyboard. However, the device tends to be much slower -; a demerit that will affect your user experience. 

Perhaps this is due to the number of features or just a manufacturer defect. For more useful devices like this, read our full guide to the top external SSDs.

Kingston Digital Vault Encrypted Privacy Reader – Best Vault Privacy

The Kingston Digital Vault Privacy Data Traveler may seem small and basic, but the device is very good when it comes to security. This device gives you excellent data protection at an affordable price. 

Data Traveler provides enterprise-grade security with AES hardware encryption, while incorporating virus protection. This player is available in three models -; standard, managed and antivirus. 

Whatever your business or individual needs, you can benefit from effective data security with this option from Kingston.

Data Traveler features SafeConsole management, making it an ideal choice for corporate users. 

This feature allows increased control through management tools, which is very useful for IT administrators who want to manage secure flash drives centrally to meet compliance requirements. 

Professionals who manage confidential information will also appreciate its ease of use and customization features.

The Data Traveler also gives you a solid structure, while the wired software allows you to easily install the device. The reader is compatible with any computer, and it will also work on a USB 2.0 port effortlessly. 

Unfortunately, the storage capacity of the device is limited. With only 16GB of storage space, businesses moving tons of data might find it inconvenient to work with this product. 

However, it might be sufficient for individual use. Be sure to also check out our pick of the best external optical drives for more quality devices that you might find useful.

DataLocker FE2000 Encrypted Drive – Best Hard Drive

DataLocker FE2000 Encrypted Drive – the epitome of data security and convenience, revolutionizing the way you protect your valuable information. Prepare to embark on a journey of unparalleled peace of mind, where your data remains impenetrable against even the most advanced threats.

As the crown jewel among hard drives, the DataLocker FE2000 is the pinnacle of cutting-edge technology, meticulously crafted to safeguard your sensitive data with military-grade encryption. With its robust hardware encryption chip, your files are transformed into an impenetrable fortress, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access your information. Say goodbye to sleepless nights filled with worry about potential breaches and unauthorized access.

But security is only the beginning of this remarkable device’s capabilities. With a sleek and stylish design, the DataLocker FE2000 is not just a security powerhouse but also a visual masterpiece that seamlessly complements your modern lifestyle. Its compact size allows for effortless portability, making it the ideal companion for professionals constantly on the move or individuals who value privacy in their day-to-day activities.

Equipped with lightning-fast transfer speeds and ample storage capacity, the DataLocker FE2000 ensures that your files are always within reach when you need them most. Bid farewell to time-consuming data transfers and frustrating delays; this exceptional hard drive allows you to access your files swiftly and efficiently, enabling you to focus on what truly matters.

INNOVATIONS STATUS Encrypted USB key – Best with Password Protection

The ST STATUS INNOVATIONS encrypted USB key is one of the most robust and recommended. It’s the perfect USB flash drive for people with an active lifestyle, thanks in part to its nearly indestructible construction. 

Ease of use is one of the attractive features of this player, and it doesn’t take long to set up thanks to the easy-to-follow instruction manual and a good support process.

This desire does not disappoint in terms of safety and performance. Its list of impressive features includes automatic locking, software-free operation, and cross-platform compatibility. 

It features super-fast transfer speeds, which allows you to transfer large amounts of data in a relatively short time. 

The auto-lock feature is activated as soon as you eject the drive from your computer, preventing unauthorized persons from gaining access to your secure data. 

The STATUS INNOVATIONS encrypted USB key is bulky, and that may be its Achilles heel. However, when you consider its powerful and sturdy shell, which is water and shock resistant, the player seems like a worthwhile investment 

Farsler Encrypted Read Key – Best Pen Drive

The Farsler Encrypted USB Drive has one of the most interesting designs in the world of encrypted USB drives, and all at a great price. 

This device has fingerprint encryption for more security of your files; you can enter up to six fingerprints so that more than one person can access the data on the key.

This encrypted drive from Farsler comes with a very simple instruction manual for setup. It also comes with dual storage and public / private sector for public and private data storage. 

You can only access the private sector through fingerprint identification. USB sticks are all the rage; however, it is made of plastic and is not as sturdy as it looks. 

The device is compatible with most computers, including Mac and Windows. But the fingerprint reader is not compatible with laptops and Apple MacBook computers. 

However, at this price point, you will hardly find a similar device that encrypts your data more securely.

IStorage DiskAshur Encrypted Drive – Water Resistant

With a superb combination of performance and durability, the iStorage DiskAshur encrypted drive is one of the best and most recommended drives on the market. 

Its design and list of impressive features are hard to ignore. This player is compatible with most platforms. You can use it on any device that has a USB port in all operating systems, including Linux, Chrome, and embedded systems. 

The device is certified by the government, and it also offers high data transfer speeds. Setting up the device can be tricky at first, but overall it’s easy to use.

The iStorage reader uses PIN code authentication for better security, which is a superior system. Please rest assured that hacking the device is impossible without the PIN code. 

So far, the only grime on the product is its hefty price tag, but the safety is well worth it. You might also like some of these quality network-attached storage devices on our list, so be sure to check them out.

iStorage DiskAshur PRO2 – Best Dust Protected

The iStorage DiskAshur PRO2 is currently one of the fastest and most reliable encrypted drives on the market. With its many features, it’s easy enough to see why:

This device is currently NCSC CPA, FIPS 140-2 level 2 certified, and NATO restricted level certified. Thanks to a series of government certifications and user recommendations, the device comes with high-level encryption.

The iStorage DishAshur PRO2 is compatible with all platforms and can work with any device via the USB port. The installation process takes a while, but the user manual is straightforward and should speed up the initial process. 

We have noticed that the customers who have complained about the setup are the ones who haven’t bothered to check the manual. This design is portable, rugged, and tamper-proof.

The device cannot be accessed without PIN code authentication. For other amazing storage options, check out these amazing microSD cards from our list.

Corsair padlock 3 – Best Budget

The Corsair 3 padlock does not look like a USB drive and features one of the most attractive designs of any USB drive available on the market. 

Combine its attractive appearance with quality build and top performance, and you have a device that will have no problem securing your data. 

The USB flash drive is very affordable and users will appreciate its tamper-proof design. It also has optimal encryption, thanks to the AES-256 hardware encryption.

If you lead an active lifestyle, this urge may be perfect for you. It is shock and water proof, and with government security protocols, there is hardly a project it does not meet. 

But unfortunately his blessing could also be his curse -; once your data is lost, recovering it will be next to impossible. Additionally, the device only holds 16GB of data, so businesses with massive data loads might not find it useful.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best-encrypted drive for you, keep these characteristics in mind:

Capacity readers – Encrypted drives have capacities ranging from 8 GB to 1 TB Before buying a disc, think about how much information you want to store, for more storage space means more money.

If you are just storing personal information, an encrypted drive with a capacity of 8 GB may be reasonable. However, if you need an encrypted drive in your work, you may need a drive with a larger capacity.

Data Transfer Rate – If you need to use your drive consistently, you should consider purchasing a fast encrypted drive. The more data your disk contains, the faster the expected transfer rate should be. 

USB 3.0 is faster than USB 2.0, so if your encrypted drive needs to hold up to 1TB of data, you may want to consider purchasing a USB 3.0 encrypted drive.

Protection – The main purpose of buying an encrypted drive is to keep confidential data secure, so it goes without saying that you should consider protection when looking for an encrypted drive.

The type of disc you buy depends on the level of security you need. Some encrypted USB drives have simple password protection, while others have pin or fingerprint authentication features. 

The most secure encrypted flash drives have AES 256-bit encryption and are almost impossible to hack.