Quick summary: Home data backup: a simple external drive starts at $60 and is enough for most users. NAS systems are for those with 2+ people, who want a home server, or need remote access. In this guide, we explain the difference between the two and who needs what.
Why Is Backup So Important?
Most American households have insurance, but no backup for digital files. If you drop your laptop, the hard drive fails, or you get hit with ransomware, you might not be able to recover your photos, documents, and projects.
The backup principle known as the "3-2-1 Rule": 3 copies, 2 different media, 1 kept offsite. This guide covers what you need for the first two steps.
External Drive: Simple and Cheap Solution
For those who want to do a manual backup once a week, protect their laptops, or are budget-focused, an external drive is sufficient.
WD Elements: Best Value
WD Elements is the most reliable and most common external drive series on the market. The 2TB model runs ~$60-70, 4TB ~$90-110. Works directly with macOS Time Machine or Windows Backup.
- Pros: Low price, durable, wide capacity options
- Cons: Only backs up when connected, no network access
Seagate Backup Plus: Compact Alternative
Seagate's Backup Plus series has compact models that connect via USB 3.0. Fits in a bag, can be used while traveling too. 2TB is around ~$65.
| Model | Capacity | Price | Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| WD Elements 2TB | 2TB | ~$65 | Laptop backup |
| WD Elements 4TB | 4TB | ~$95 | Family, video files |
| Seagate Backup Plus 2TB | 2TB | ~$65 | Portable backup |
| Samsung T9 2TB (SSD) | 2TB | ~$130 | Speed-critical work files |
NAS (Network Attached Storage): Who Is It For?
A NAS is a server that connects to your home router and lets all your devices access it over Wi-Fi. Synology and QNAP are the most popular brands.
A NAS makes sense if:
- You want to back up devices for 2+ people in the household
- You want to set up a media server and watch movies/shows on your TV (with Plex)
- You want to automatically back up photos from your phone
- You want remote access to your files when you are away from home
Synology DS223j: Best Choice for Getting Started
The Synology DS223j with 2 slots for 3.5" hard drives is the ideal starter NAS for home users. The DSM operating system is very user-friendly, and setup takes about 30 minutes.
- NAS enclosure: ~$180-200
- Two Seagate IronWolf 4TB (NAS-specific drives): about ~$190 for two
- Total: ~$370-400, 4TB of strongly backed-up storage with RAID-1
Warning: Do not use regular hard drives in a NAS. Synology and QNAP recommend using NAS-specific drives like Seagate IronWolf or WD Red series. Standard desktop drives are not designed for 24/7 operation and can fail early in a NAS.
Cloud Backup: The Third Step of the 3-2-1 Rule
Your external drive or NAS can be damaged in case of a fire or theft at home. For offsite backup, cloud services:
- Backblaze Personal Backup: $9/month, unlimited storage. The most affordable option.
- iCloud+ (Apple): 2TB for $9.99/month, ideal for iPhone/Mac ecosystem
- Google One: 2TB for $9.99/month, good for Android and Google Photos users
Disclaimer: Some Amazon links in this article are affiliate links. Your price doesn't change. I only recommend products I actually use or have personally tested.
