Let the task set the priorities
An SSD works without a hard drive's moving read-and-write components. It can offer advantages for frequent file access and active project work, and is often more compact. For mobile use, the actual enclosure and connector durability also matter. An SSD can still fail through liquid damage, electrical faults or a broken socket.
A hard drive may offer more capacity for the price when storing large collections. A longer transfer time may be acceptable for a periodically connected backup. Compare current individual models rather than relying on a general price assumption. A desktop drive with a separate power supply also needs a stable location and suitable mains access.
The connection chain limits performance
A fast external SSD needs a matching port, cable and any intervening hub to reach its capabilities. USB-C initially describes the connector shape. Check the supported data rate throughout the path. An older hub can become the bottleneck even when the drive and computer both support faster transfers.
Consider your file types. Many small files behave differently from one large video. A maximum speed printed on a box does not describe every everyday workload. Also check heat during extended transfers and any manufacturer positioning requirements. Advertised peak rates do not replace adequate capacity and a dependable connection.
Plan backup independently of drive type
If you edit projects directly on an external drive, that drive is their working location, not automatically their backup. A second independent copy remains necessary. For a backup destination, encryption, recovery software and the schedule for connecting or storing it offline matter too.
Make the final decision around a concrete task: daily mobile editing, a rarely accessed archive or regular backup. Write down the required capacity, connection and acceptable transfer duration. Those requirements let you choose an appropriate drive without assuming that either storage technology is the right answer for every purpose.
