I'm building a collection of movies, anime, and TV shows on a pocket-sized external hard drive so I can take them on trips. I'd like something lightweight and easy to use—ideally like a portable DVD player where I can connect the drive, choose a video, and start watching. A laptop seems bulky for travel, so I'm mainly considering a tablet, but I'm open to other practical options. I won't necessarily have reliable internet access, so local playback is important.
3 Answers
A tablet can work, but a portable SSD is a better match than a traditional external hard drive. Many tablets can read USB-C storage, though you may need a USB-C hub or OTG adapter. If the drive needs more power than the tablet can provide, use a powered hub or power bank. Android tablets are generally more flexible with external storage, while iPads offer a nicer overall media experience but can be expensive. Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S series is a solid Android choice, especially if you find an older model refurbished.
If you use a portable hard drive, make sure it’s the small 2.5-inch, USB-powered type—not a desktop-sized drive that needs a wall adapter. Also keep in mind that airport security may ask you to remove tablets as well as laptops, so a tablet doesn’t always avoid that inconvenience. A compact laptop or refurbished Surface could still be worth considering if you need maximum file compatibility, but for lightweight travel, a tablet with internal storage, a microSD card, or a portable SSD is probably the easiest option.
The simplest setup is to copy the videos onto the tablet itself or use a microSD card, if the tablet supports one. That avoids compatibility and power problems with an external drive. A budget Android or Fire tablet can handle downloaded shows, and a media app such as Kodi or VLC can organize and play common formats. Converting large files to a smaller H.265 version can also save a lot of storage, especially for travel viewing.
I’d prefer an iPad, but the price is a concern. I’m mainly looking for something practical rather than a premium tablet.