If you’re looking for a way to expand your storage space on your MacBook Pro, an external drive is a great option. However, not all external drives are created equal. There are a few factors you should consider before you purchase one.
First and foremost, you should consider the type of connection the external drive has. Some older models may only have USB 2.0, which will be slower than newer models with USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt connections. You'll also want to make sure the drive is compatible with your MacBook Pro.
Another important factor to consider is the size of the external drive. You’ll want to make sure you choose a drive with enough storage space to suit your needs. Keep in mind that larger drives also tend to be more expensive.
When choosing the best external drive for your MacBook Pro, it can be helpful to read reviews from other users. Look for feedback on the ease of installation, speed, durability, and any other important factors for your needs. Finally, consider the brand reputation and any additional features that may be important to you.
Are you tired of constantly running out of storage space on your MacBook Pro? Want to learn more about the best external drives on the market? Keep reading to discover our top picks and find the perfect solution for your needs.
10 Best External Drive For Macbook Pro
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1
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The product is an external hard drive for storing data, compatible with both Mac and PC computers/laptops and USB-C and USB 3.0/3.1.
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2
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The product is ideal for storing large amounts of data, as well as for use in environments where shock and water resistance are important.
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3
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Ideal for storing and transferring large amounts of digital data on various devices and gaming consoles.
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4
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Ideal for portable and fast storage of large files and media in both USB-C and USB-A compatible devices.
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5
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Ideal for transforming a solid state drive into an external hard drive with high-speed connectivity and durability.
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6
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Ideal for backing up and storing photos, videos, and files from iPhone, iPad, Android mobile, MacBook, and Windows PC.
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7
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The product is ideal for providing extra storage and charging capabilities for Thunderbolt 3 compatible devices.
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8
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The product is ideal for backing up documents, photos, and videos from iPhone, iPad, Android phones, MacBook, and computer.
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9
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The product is ideal for storing and transferring files between a PC or Mac with fast USB 3.0 connectivity.
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10
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Ideal for those who need a durable and waterproof external hard drive to store large amounts of data.
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1. Lacie Moon Silver Mobile Drive – 2tb Storage

Looking for a reliable external hard drive to store your important files, photos, and videos? Look no further than this top-rated 2TB capacity drive, perfect for both personal and professional use.
With compatibility for both Mac and Windows operating systems, as well as USB-C and USB 3.0 connectivity options, this hard drive is incredibly versatile and can be used with a wide range of devices.
In addition to its user-friendly interface, this hard drive also features a convenient one-click backup option, making it easy to ensure that your files are always protected and secure. And for added peace of mind, you can also schedule automatic backups to ensure that you never lose any important data.
But that's not all – this hard drive also comes with a free one-month subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan, which includes a wide range of tools and resources to help you turn your footage into stunning, professional-quality productions. So whether you're a creative professional or simply looking for a reliable way to store your files, this hard drive is the perfect choice.
2. Armor A60: Rugged 4tb Portable Hard Drive

The A60 is the perfect solution for individuals who need a convenient and efficient method of transferring data between their USB-based PC and Type C enabled devices. This device is equipped with a SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interface, which is backward compatible with USB 2.0, ensuring lightning-fast data transfer speeds.
In addition to its impressive functionality, the A60 is built to withstand even the toughest conditions. It boasts military-grade shockproof protection, ensuring that your data remains safe and intact even when the device is dropped or bumped. Furthermore, the device is IPX4 water-resistant, meaning that it can withstand splashes of water from any direction.
For added convenience, the A60 features a cable-carry design, which enables users to easily carry and store the device's cable. This ensures that the cable remains safe and tangle-free, making it easy to use whenever you need it.
It is important to note that the A60 comes pre-formatted as NTFS, making it ideal for Windows users who can use it directly without any additional formatting. However, Mac users will need to reformat the device for it to be compatible with their operating system.
3. Cirago Slim 2tb Portable Usb 3.0 Hard Drive

Introducing the Cirago External Hard Drive – a reliable and durable device that ensures the safety of your data while providing fast transfer speeds. With its three-stage shock protection system, the hard drive can withstand drops and shocks of up to 2m in non-operating mode, making it ultra-resistant to extreme environments. This feature ensures the safety of your data, even in harsh conditions.
Powered by USB 3.0 technology, the Cirago External Hard Drive offers ultra-fast data transmission rates of up to 5.0 Gbit/s, which is much faster than USB 2.0 devices. This means you can transfer large files and backup data in seconds. The hard drive is also compatible with USB 2.0 devices, making it a versatile device that can be used with a wide range of devices.
Setting up the Cirago External Hard Drive is a breeze – simply plug it into your Windows computer, and it will be recognized automatically. You don't need to install any software, making it a hassle-free device. Once connected, you can easily drag and drop files you want to save.
The upgraded version of the Cirago External Hard Drive boasts an ultra-slim design, measuring only 0.43 inches in thickness. Its brushed surface and seamless connection make it a sleek and stylish device that's easy to carry around wherever you go. It's a true external hard drive that provides convenience and portability without compromising durability.
The Cirago External Hard Drive comes with a three-year manufacturer warranty, along with free technical support. In case of any problems, the manufacturer is committed to providing first-class, whole-process trade services to all its consumers.
4. Owc 1tb Envoy Pro Mini Usb-C + Usb-A (10gb/s) Portable Ssd

The Universal Compatibility External Hard Drive is an exceptional device that offers versatility and convenience to its users. This external hard drive is plug-and-play and can be used with USB or Thunderbolt (USB-C) ports on various devices such as Macs, PCs, iPads, Chromebooks, Android tablets, and Surface devices. It is ideal for audio, photography, graphics, gaming, and general data storage/backup uses, making it a perfect companion for professionals, students, and anyone in between.
One of the most significant advantages of this external hard drive is its protective feature. It is Apple Time Machine and Windows File History ready, ensuring that your data is safe and secure. With this feature, users can rest assured that their files are backed up and easily recoverable in case of an unexpected event.
The Universal Compatibility External Hard Drive is slim and pocket-sized, making it easy to carry around and use anywhere. Its compact design ensures that adjacent ports remain available for use, making it a practical choice for those who need to connect multiple devices simultaneously. Additionally, this device is silent and has a heat-dissipating machined aluminum housing that keeps it cool and quiet during use.
Another notable feature of this external hard drive is its wear and share design. It comes with a safety breakaway neck lanyard that keeps the drive at fingertip reach, making it easier for users to transport it on the go. Additionally, the detachable end offers easy drive sharing between devices and other users, making it an excellent choice for group projects and collaborations.
Finally, the Universal Compatibility External Hard Drive comes with a 3-year OWC Limited Warranty, ensuring that users have peace of mind when using this device. Overall, this external hard drive is a reliable and efficient device that offers exceptional performance, durability, and convenience.
5. Owc Envoy Pro Usb 3.0 External Enclosure For Solid State Drive

The external SSD enclosure is an ultra-portable and bus-powered device that provides exceptional USB 3.0 speeds of up to 500MB/s. With an award-winning aluminum design, it is tailored to be compatible with the Flash SSD module used in the 2012/early 2013 13" and 15" MacBook Pro with Retina Display models only, and is not suitable for use with any other SSD modules, including the OWC Aura and Aura Pro 6g SSDs.
It is important to note that the device requires a USB 3.0 standard powered port, and USB 2.0 use is neither supported nor recommended. This external SSD enclosure is compatible with MacBook Pro Retina Model ID: MacBookPro10,2, MacBookPro10,1(13-inch early 2013, 15-inch early 2013, 13-inch late 2012, 15-inch mid 2012).
This product comes with a 1-year OWC Limited Warranty, offering customers peace of mind when making their purchase. The enclosure is ultra-portable, making it ideal for individuals who are always on the go and require a reliable and efficient external SSD enclosure. The award-winning aluminum design ensures that it is durable, and its compatibility with the MacBook Pro Retina models provides a seamless and convenient user experience.
6. Idiskk 1tb Iphone/android Photo Backup Drive

The iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive is a MFi certified 1TB HDD that comes with a built-in 2000mAh battery. With this device, users can easily transfer content among their iPhone, iPad, PC, and Mac computer, and instantly expand their storage by up to 1TB. This product frees up space, allowing users to enjoy their videos and photos anytime, anywhere.
One of the great features of the iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive is the one-tap backup option. Users can easily auto backup their iPhone/iPad album via the app anytime the external hard drive is connected. Future backups only save newly added files, avoiding storage-consuming duplicates. Additionally, users can use the in-App camera to take photos/videos, which will be automatically stored into the drive.
The iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive is equipped with highly confidential data encryption technology. Users can easily share data with families, friends, and colleagues by using this external hard drive. They can enable all data or partial data to be protected via setting a password. All encrypted files stored in this hard drive are invisible on the computer, so users do not have to worry about the disclosure of their privacy.
This product is incredibly easy to use, featuring simple plug-and-play operation. Users just need to plug it into their iPhone/iPad and watch movies directly from the hard drive on their trips or travels. No software installation is required, and they can intuitively drag and drop files to and from their PC or Macbook.
The iDiskk Portable Hard Drive is MFi certified, and its chip and connector guarantee stable and safe data transfer for users' iPhone and iPad/iPad pro series. This product is widely compatible with various iPhone/iPad/Mac/Android/PC models, including iPhone 13/12/11, 13/12/11 Pro, 13/12/11 Pro Max, 13/12 Mini, SE, XR, XS, XS Max, X, 8/7/6S/6 Plus, 8/7/6S/6, 6/5S, iPad 5/6/7/8/9, Mini 2/3/4/5/6 iPad Air-Series, and iPad Pro-Series.
7. Caldigit Av Pro 2: Charge & Store Solution.

This product boasts blazing transfer speeds with its USB-C 3.1 5Gb/s interface and power delivery of up to 30 watts, providing convenient laptop charging while on the go. It also features two additional USB 3.1 5Gb/s Type A hub ports, allowing users to connect multiple USB devices simultaneously.
The removable drive module design of this product offers easy replacement and upgrades, making it simple to swap out drives whenever necessary. Empty replacement trays are also available for users to install their own spare drives.
This USB hub is equipped with both USB Type C and mini USB 3.1 ports, providing versatile host connectivity for a variety of devices. It is compatible with all computers, including 2016+ Macbook Pro, Thunderbolt 3 PCs, and any computer that uses standard USB A ports.
8. Idiskk 2tb Backup Drive For All Devices

Introducing the iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive, a reliable and Mfi certified external hard drive that can backup and expand the storage of your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or PC up to 2TB. With its built-in 2000mAh battery, you can enjoy your photos or videos anytime, anywhere.
Backing up photos or videos is made easier with the iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive. With just one tap, you can effortlessly transfer your iPhone or iPad album to your external hard drive via the app. Future backups only save newly added files, avoiding storage-consuming duplicates. The in-App camera feature also allows you to take photos or videos that will automatically be stored on the drive.
Your privacy is highly valued with the iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive's confidential data encryption technology. Share data with your family, friends, or colleagues with ease by setting a password to protect your data. All encrypted files stored in the hard drive are invisible on the computer, ensuring the utmost privacy.
The iDiskk Portable Hard Drive offers simple plug-and-play operation, making it hassle-free to use. Just plug it into your iPhone or iPad and watch your movies directly from the hard drive on your next trip or travel. No software installation is required, and you can intuitively drag and drop files to and from your PC or MacBook.
The iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive is MFi certified and widely compatible with numerous iPhone/iPad/Mac/Android/PC models. The MFi-certified chip and connector ensure stable and safe data transfer for your iPhone and iPad/iPad Pro series, including iPhone 13/12/11, 13/12/11 Pro, 13/12/11 Pro Max, 13/12 Mini, SE, XR, XS, XS Max, X, 8/7/6S/6 Plus, 8/7/6S/6, 6/5S, iPad 5/6/7/8/9, Mini 2/3/4/5/6, iPad Air-Series, and iPad Pro-Series.
9. Elemental 2tb Usb Drive For Pc & Mac

The WD Elements portable hard drive is a versatile and reliable option for consumers looking for extra storage space for their videos, music, photos, and files. With USB 3.0, the hard drive can transfer data at maximum speed, and it is also compatible with USB 2.0.
In addition to providing ample storage space, this hard drive can also help improve PC performance. When the internal hard drive is nearly full, the PC can slow down. Instead of deleting files, users can transfer them to the WD Elements portable hard drive and free up space on their internal hard drive, allowing the laptop to operate at full speed once again.
The WD Elements portable hard drive is plug-and-play ready for Windows PC, making it easy to use right out of the box. Despite its small and lightweight design, it offers up to 5TB* capacity, providing consumers with a high-capacity storage option that is ideal for those on the go.
Whether you need to store large video files or simply want to free up space on your PC, the WD Elements portable hard drive is a reliable and convenient solution. With its high-speed transfer capabilities and easy-to-use design, it's a great addition to any computer setup.
10. Ultimate Tough Drive: Adata Hd710 Pro 2tb

Looking for a high-performance and durable USB drive? Look no further than this USB 3.1 interface drive that works seamlessly with PC, Mac, and Linux operating systems. This sleek and efficient drive has been designed to offer top-notch performance and reliability, making it a must-have for anyone who needs to transfer data quickly and with ease.
One of the standout features of this USB drive is its IP68 waterproof rating. This means it has been tested and certified to withstand immersion in water for up to 60 minutes at a depth of 2 meters. Whether you're working in a humid environment or need to transfer data in wet conditions, this drive has you covered.
In addition to its waterproof capabilities, this USB drive is also MIL-STD-810G 516.6 certified, making it military-grade shockproof. This drive has been designed to withstand extreme conditions, so you can be sure your data will be safe and secure even if the drive is dropped or subjected to other types of impact.
Another key feature of this drive is its IP6X dustproof rating. This means it is completely sealed against dust, so you can be confident that your data will remain protected even in dusty or dirty environments.
And if all of these features weren't enough, this USB drive also comes with a generous 3-year warranty, giving you added peace of mind and ensuring that you can count on this drive for years to come.
Whether you're a professional who needs to transfer large files quickly and efficiently, or simply looking for a high-performance and durable USB drive for personal use, this USB 3.1 interface drive is the perfect choice. With its top-of-the-line performance, waterproof and shockproof capabilities, and dustproof design, you can be confident that your data will remain safe and secure no matter where you go.
Best External Drive For Macbook Pro FAQs
Can I use a regular external hard drive with my MacBook Pro?
Yes, you can use a regular external hard drive with your MacBook Pro. Most external hard drives are compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems. However, before purchasing an external hard drive, you should make sure that it is formatted to be compatible with your MacBook Pro.
MacBooks typically use the HFS+ file system, while Windows computers use NTFS. Some external hard drives are pre-formatted for Windows, which means they may not work properly on your MacBook Pro without reformatting.
To reformat an external hard drive on a MacBook Pro, you can use the Disk Utility application. Simply connect the external hard drive to your MacBook Pro, open Disk Utility, select the external hard drive, and click Erase. Then choose the format you want to use, such as Mac OS Extended (Journaled), and click Erase again.
It's important to note that reformatting an external hard drive will erase all data on the drive, so make sure to backup any important files before proceeding.
Can I use a Thunderbolt 3 external drive with my MacBook Pro?
Yes, you can use a Thunderbolt 3 external drive with your MacBook Pro. Thunderbolt 3 is the latest version of the Thunderbolt interface developed by Intel and it provides faster data transfer speeds than USB 3.0. Thunderbolt 3 ports are available on most MacBook Pro models since 2016.
Thunderbolt 3 ports are compatible with Thunderbolt 1 and 2 devices, so if you have an older Thunderbolt drive, it should work with a Thunderbolt 3 port. However, if you have a USB-C drive, you will need an adapter to connect it to the Thunderbolt 3 port.
When purchasing a Thunderbolt 3 external drive, make sure it is compatible with your MacBook Pro and has the necessary Thunderbolt 3 ports. Also, consider the size and speed of the drive to meet your storage and performance needs.
Overall, if you are looking for faster data transfer speeds and a more efficient workflow, using a Thunderbolt 3 external drive with your MacBook Pro is a great choice.
How do I choose the best external drive for my MacBook Pro?
When it comes to choosing the best external drive for your MacBook Pro, there are a few key factors to consider.
Firstly, you'll want to decide on the type of drive you need. There are two main types: traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). HDDs are generally cheaper and offer more storage space, while SSDs are faster and more durable.
Once you've decided on the type of drive, you'll want to ensure that it is compatible with your MacBook Pro. Check the interface (e.g. USB, Thunderbolt) and make sure it matches the ports on your computer.
You should also consider the size and weight of the drive, especially if you plan on carrying it around with you. A smaller, lighter drive may be more convenient if you frequently travel with your MacBook Pro.
Finally, you'll want to read reviews and compare prices to find the best option for your needs and budget. Look for drives with good read/write speeds, reliable performance, and a warranty or guarantee for added peace of mind.
Overall, choosing the best external drive for your MacBook Pro requires careful consideration of your specific needs and preferences.
Should I get an SSD or HDD external drive for my MacBook Pro?
It depends on your specific needs and intended use of the external drive. If you prioritize speed and performance, then an SSD external drive would be the better choice. SSDs have faster read and write speeds compared to HDDs, which translates to quicker transfer of large files and faster boot-up times.
On the other hand, if you need more storage space and are willing to sacrifice speed, then an HDD external drive would be a more cost-effective option. HDDs have larger storage capacities and are generally less expensive than SSDs.
Consider your budget, storage needs, and usage patterns before making a decision. If you have the budget and prioritize speed, then go for an SSD external drive. However, if you need more storage space and don't mind slower speeds, then an HDD external drive may be the better choice for you.
What are the advantages of using an external drive with my MacBook Pro?
There are various advantages of using an external drive with your MacBook Pro. Firstly, it provides additional storage space for your files, documents, and media files that your MacBook Pro may not have enough space to store. This can help to free up space on your internal hard drive, which can improve the overall performance and speed of your MacBook Pro.
Secondly, using an external drive can also provide a convenient backup solution for your important files. You can easily store copies of your important files on the external drive, which can help to protect them in case your MacBook Pro experiences a failure or crash.
Additionally, an external drive can be easily transported and used with other devices, such as other computers, laptops, or even gaming consoles. You can also use an external drive to transfer files between different devices quickly and easily.
Overall, using an external drive with your MacBook Pro can offer greater flexibility, convenience, and storage capacity, making it a valuable investment for anyone who needs more storage space or a reliable backup solution.
What are the best external drives for MacBook Pro?
When it comes to finding the best external drives for your MacBook Pro, there are a few options that you should consider. First, you'll want to think about the type of drive that you need. If you're looking for speed and performance, then a solid-state drive (SSD) is a great option. However, if you need more storage space at a lower cost, then a traditional hard disk drive (HDD) may be the way to go.
One of the top options for an external SSD for MacBook Pro is the Samsung T5 Portable SSD. This drive offers blazing-fast transfer speeds and comes with a USB-C to USB-C cable for easy connectivity with your MacBook Pro. Another great option is the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD, which is rugged and durable for on-the-go use.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, then the Seagate Backup Plus Slim is a great choice. This HDD offers up to 5TB of storage space and comes in a slim, portable design.
Ultimately, the best external drive for your MacBook Pro will depend on your specific needs and budget. It's important to do your research and read reviews to find the right drive for you.
What is the fastest external drive for MacBook Pro?
The fastest external drive for MacBook Pro would be an NVMe SSD (Non-Volatile Memory Express Solid State Drive) that uses Thunderbolt 3 connectivity. This type of drive can deliver read and write speeds of up to 3000 MB/s, which is much faster than traditional external hard drives or even standard SSDs.
One example of such a drive is the Samsung X5 Portable SSD, which uses Thunderbolt 3 connectivity and boasts read and write speeds of up to 2800 MB/s and 2300 MB/s, respectively. Another option is the SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD, which also uses Thunderbolt 3 and can achieve read and write speeds of up to 2800 MB/s and 2000 MB/s, respectively.
It's important to note that these drives can be quite expensive, but if speed is a top priority for your work or personal needs, they may be worth the investment.
What is the most affordable external drive for MacBook Pro?
There are several affordable external drives that are compatible with MacBook Pro. One option is the Seagate Backup Plus Slim. It is a portable and lightweight drive that offers up to 5TB storage capacity. It also comes with a USB 3.0 interface that provides fast data transfer speeds. Another option is the Western Digital My Passport. It is available in various storage capacities ranging from 1TB to 5TB. It also comes with a USB 3.0 interface and is compatible with both Mac and Windows systems. Other affordable options include Toshiba Canvio Basics and Transcend StoreJet. It is important to note that the price of external drives may vary depending on the storage capacity and additional features. It is recommended to do thorough research and compare prices before making a purchase.
What is the most reliable external drive for MacBook Pro?
There are many reliable external drives available in the market that you can use with your MacBook Pro. However, the most reliable external drive for MacBook Pro depends on your specific storage needs and preferences. Some popular options for external drives include Seagate Backup Plus Slim, Western Digital My Passport, Samsung T5 Portable SSD, and G-Technology G-Drive Mobile USB-C.
Seagate Backup Plus Slim is a versatile and affordable option that offers up to 5TB of storage space. Western Digital My Passport is another great option that offers excellent performance and up to 5TB of storage space. Samsung T5 Portable SSD is a high-speed and durable option that provides up to 2TB of storage space. G-Technology G-Drive Mobile USB-C is a sleek and reliable option that offers up to 5TB of storage space.
In summary, the most reliable external drive for MacBook Pro depends on your needs and preferences, but these drives are some of the most popular and trusted options available in the market today.
What size external drive should I get for my MacBook Pro?
The size of the external drive you need for your MacBook Pro depends on your specific storage needs. If you have a lot of large files such as videos, photos, or games, you may want to consider getting a larger external drive, such as a 2TB or 4TB drive. However, if you mainly use your MacBook Pro for basic tasks such as browsing the web, checking emails, or working on documents, a smaller external drive, such as a 500GB or 1TB drive, may be sufficient. It's important to also consider the type of external drive you want to get, such as a traditional hard drive or a solid-state drive (SSD), as well as the connection type (USB, Thunderbolt, etc.). Ultimately, the best size external drive for your MacBook Pro will depend on your specific needs and budget.