If you’re looking for the best external drive for Time Machine, there are a few factors to consider before buying. First, you need to think about the storage capacity and make sure it’s enough to store all of your important data. A drive with at least twice the capacity of your computer’s internal hard drive is a good rule of thumb. You should also look for a drive that has fast read and write speeds to ensure that your backups are completed quickly and efficiently.
Another important factor is the compatibility with your Mac operating system. You want to make sure that the external drive you choose is compatible with the version of macOS you’re running, as well as with Time Machine software. Additionally, consider the durability of the drive. If you plan on using it frequently or carrying it with you, a rugged and shock-resistant drive may be a better option.
Are you tired of constantly worrying about losing all your files, photos, and important documents on your Mac? Do you want a reliable and efficient backup solution that won't break the bank? Look no further than the best external drive for Time Machine! But how do you choose the right one? What factors are important to consider? Read on to find out everything you need to know before making your purchase.
10 Best External Drive For Time Machine
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Ideal for storing and transferring files on gaming consoles, computers, and other devices with its rugged, durable design.
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Ideal for storing and quickly accessing large amounts of data on various operating systems, including Mac, Windows, Linux, and Android.
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This product is ideal for individuals who need to store large amounts of data and work with creative software.
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The product is ideal for fast and reliable external storage with USB-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity.
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Ideal for storing and backing up digital files on a Mac computer.
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It is ideal for storing, backing up and expanding memory on computers, Macs, and desktops with its USB 2.0 technology.
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The product is ideal for portable data storage and transfer for Mac computers equipped with USB-C or USB-A connectivity.
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The product is ideal for storing data and files for various devices including computers, consoles, and laptops.
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Ideal for backing up and securing files on a Mac computer with large storage needs, while remaining portable.
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Ideal for fast and reliable external storage for gaming, students, and professionals.
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1. Armor Drive: 1tb External Hdd For Gaming.
This product is a must-have for anyone in need of a reliable and stylish external hard drive. The flexible cable-carry design allows for easy cable storage, making it convenient to take on-the-go. Its military-grade shockproof and IPX4 water-resistant protections provide peace of mind, knowing that your data is safe from damage caused by accidents or the elements.
The unique surface treatment of the product helps to avoid fingerprints, scratches, and damage caused by daily operations. Its stylish and slim exterior design will complement any workspace or gaming setup. The USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface of the product is backward compatible with USB 3.0/USB 2.0, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.
This external hard drive is ideal for gaming enthusiasts with Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS4, PS4 Pro, and PS4 Slim (PS4 System Software version 4.50 or higher). It also works with PCs and Macs, enabling users to share files between different platforms. With its impressive parameters and specifications, this product is a great investment for anyone in need of reliable and secure data storage.
2. Ultra-Light Joiot Portable Ssd – 250gb
This portable solid state drive is the perfect solution for those in need of a durable, high-performance storage device. Its rugged aluminum alloy body makes it resistant to shock and vibration, ensuring that your digital data remains protected whether you're in the office or outdoors. The sleek design is easy to grip, providing a comfortable and secure hold.
Measuring just 64.5×27.9×9.9mm/2.54×1.1×0.39inch and weighing only 25g (0.81oz), this ultra-light and mini portable SSD is incredibly easy and convenient to carry. It meets all your portable demands anytime and anywhere, as long as you have access to devices with USB slots.
With its built-in NAND Flash and USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface, this external SSD hard drive offers outstanding performance, boasting a write speed of 200MB/s and a read speed of 400MB/s. This makes it ideal for transferring large-sized data, including 4K videos and high-resolution photos. Additionally, it is backward compatible with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0.
You can choose from 120G/250G/500G/1TB external SSD hard drives to suit your specific needs. It comes with a USB A to C cable to connect with all computers with Type A port and is plug-and-play compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux systems, among others. It also supports laptops and smartphones with USB C ports using a connector.
In addition to the portable solid state drive and USB cables, you will also receive an A to C adapter and a storage bag. The product comes with a 12-month warranty for quality assurance. Overall, this portable solid state drive is an excellent investment for those in need of a reliable and high-performing storage device that is also easy to carry.
3. Silver Seagate External Hdd: 2tb Photo & Storage Companion.
Introducing Seagate One Touch, the ultimate solution to all your storage needs. With this portable USB drive, you can easily store and access your photos and files on-the-go, whether you are using a Windows or Mac device (Note: reformatting may be required for use with Time Machine).
This external hard drive features a sleek and minimalist brushed metal enclosure, making it the perfect complement to your personal aesthetic. It can be used as a laptop hard drive or PC hard drive, simply plug in via USB 3.0 to back up your files with a single click or schedule automatic daily, weekly, or monthly backups for added convenience.
With a 1 year complimentary subscription to Mylio Create and a 4 month membership to Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan, you can now easily edit, manage, and share your photos with ease. (Please note that this offer must be redeemed within 1 year of drive registration and is not available in all countries.)
Seagate One Touch comes with a variety of features that make it a reliable and convenient storage solution. It has a capacity of up to 2TB, which means you can store up to thousands of photos, videos, and documents without worrying about running out of space. The USB 3.0 interface ensures fast data transfer speeds, making it easy to back up and retrieve your files whenever you need them.
In addition, Seagate One Touch is designed to be durable and long-lasting. It features a shock-resistant build that can withstand accidental drops and bumps, making it the perfect companion for travel and everyday use.
4. 1tb Fast External Ssd With Usb-C.
The SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD is a high-capacity drive that offers NVMe solid state performance with impressive read speeds of up to 1050MB/s and write speeds of up to 1000MB/s. This powerful drive is perfect for creating and storing amazing content, as well as capturing incredible footage. However, it is important to note that the performance of the drive may be lower depending on the host device, interface, usage conditions, and other factors.
This rugged drive is designed to withstand the toughest conditions with up to 2 meter drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance. The drive also features a handy Carabiner loop that allows users to secure it to their belt loop or backpack for extra peace of mind.
The SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD is equipped with password protection technology that offers 256-bit AES hardware encryption to help keep private data safe and secure.
This drive is also compatible with a range of USB Type-C smartphones, making it easy to back up mobile content quickly and easily.
SanDisk is a brand that professional photographers worldwide trust to handle their best shots and footage. With the SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD, users can rest assured that their important content is safe and secure, even in the toughest conditions.
5. Wd My Passport For Mac Portable External Hard Drive
The external hard drive is specifically designed for Mac users and is ready to be used with Time Machine. With password protection and hardware encryption, this device offers a high level of security to safeguard your personal data.
The external hard drive boasts a reimagined design that is both sleek and modern. It is important to note that the device requires the HFS+ Journaled format and is compatible with macOS High Sierra, Sierra or El Capitan.
The device is built with WD reliability, ensuring that you can trust it to safely store your important files and documents. With a USB 3.0 port, the external hard drive provides fast data transfer speeds. It is also compatible with USB 2.0 devices, making it easy to connect to a wide range of devices.
6. Sleek Storage Savior: Suhsai External Hard Drive
Looking for a reliable and portable external hard drive to safely store your important files and multimedia? Look no further than the Ultra Slim Portable Drive.
This external hard drive is designed to boost the performance of your desktop or laptop while providing speedy data storage and backup capabilities. With its compact size, it's easy to take with you wherever you go.
Backing up your data has never been easier thanks to the portable backup hard drive. With just a single click, you can quickly backup your important data, projects, photos, movies, videos, music, and more. You can then view these files from your desktop PC or Mac laptop with ease.
The Ultra Slim Portable Drive is a plug and play device, which means it's ready to use right out of the box without the need for any software installation. It's also built for easy, space-saving operations, making it an ideal choice for users who are always on the go.
This external hard drive is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems thanks to its multi-system compatibility. It comes with a USB 2.0 extension cable and can transfer data at speeds of up to 480 Mbps for both read and write operations.
When you purchase the Ultra Slim Portable Drive, you'll receive the portable hard drive itself, a USB 2.0 cable, a user manual, and a one-year manufacturer's warranty. With its reliable performance and ease of use, this external hard drive is a smart investment for anyone who needs to store and backup their important files and multimedia.
7. Wd 1tb My Passport For Mac Portable External Hard Drive, Usb-C/usb-A – Wdbfkf0010bbk-Wese,black
The external hard drive is specifically designed to cater to the needs of Mac users. It is Time Machine ready, which means that it can be instantly configured to work with Time Machine backup software. The hard drive offers password protection with hardware encryption, ensuring that all the data stored on the drive remains secure.
The manufacturer of this hard drive is known for its reliability, and this product is no exception. It is a trusted drive that you can rely on for all your data storage needs.
The hard drive is equipped with a USB 3.0 port, which provides high-speed data transfer rates. Additionally, it is compatible with USB 2.0, making it ideal for use with older computers that do not have a USB 3.0 port.
The manufacturer offers a 3-year limited warranty on this product, which gives you peace of mind and ensures that you are covered in case of any defects or malfunctions.
8. Ultra-Slim 750gb Hdd For All Devices
Introducing the latest model of portable hard drive that offers high-quality USB3.0 data cable for seamless backup of massive data in just seconds. With ultra-fast transfer speeds, this hard drive is capable of delivering an outstanding performance that improves your PC's overall speed.
The USB 3.0 Super speed 10Gbps transfer rate ensures that you can transfer files quickly and easily, while the ultra-slim and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around. Plus, it runs straight from a USB 3.0 or USB 2.0 port without requiring an external power source, which makes it even more convenient to use.
This portable hard drive is compatible with a range of systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, Chromebook, and TV, PC, Laptop, PS4, Xbox series consoles, making it versatile and functional. You can easily use it to store your important files, documents, videos, music, and more.
The plug and play feature ensures that you can begin using this external drive right away without any software installations or external power supply needed. It is the perfect extra storage for your computer or gaming console.
The package includes one portable hard drive, one USB 3.0 cable, and gift-type shell packaging. Additionally, it comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty, giving you peace of mind and assurance of its quality.
9. Macsafe: 4tb Portable Backup And Protection
This product is specially designed for Mac users who require top-notch device management and backup solutions. With its advanced software, users can effortlessly manage their devices and ensure secure backups with password protection. However, it's important to note that downloading and installing the software is required, and certain terms and conditions may apply. Additionally, registering for a user account may also be necessary.
One of the most notable features of this product is its 256-bit AES hardware encryption mechanism, which ensures that your data is secure at all times. This is an extremely high level of security that is trusted by many industries including finance and healthcare.
With its SuperSpeed USB port, this product offers lightning-fast transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps. It is also compatible with USB 2.0, making it versatile and easy to use with older devices.
In terms of warranty, this product comes with a 3-year limited warranty, giving users peace of mind knowing that they are covered in case of any issues.
10. Samsung T7 Portable Ssd: Speed And Storage
Introducing the Portable SSD T7, a lightweight and pocket-sized device that offers fast and reliable data storage for transferring large files such as crucial business documents, games, or movies. This portable SSD is designed to deliver lightning-fast speeds with the easy transfer of massive files within seconds. It is equipped with USB 3.2 Gen 2 technology and an embedded PCIe NVMe technology that provides blazing-fast sequential read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, respectively. This makes the T7 2x as fast as the previous T5 model, ensuring that you get your work done in no time.
The Portable SSD T7 is built to be strong and secure with no moving parts, making it more resistant to shock compared to traditional HDDs. Its solid aluminum unibody construction adds further protection, ensuring that your data remains safe even when accidentally dropped from a height of up to 6 ft. Moreover, the device is backed by a 3-year limited warranty, providing you with peace of mind.
The T7 is designed with a reliable thermal solution that uses the Dynamic Thermal Guard to withstand and control heat, ensuring that the portable SSD stays at an optimal temperature even at fast speeds. This feature prolongs the lifespan of the device, making it a worthwhile investment.
Sleek and compact, the Portable SSD T7 is roughly the size of a credit card and only weighs 2 oz, making it easy to fit comfortably in the palm of your hand and light enough to take your files on the go. You can choose from three capacities-500 GB, 1TB, or 2TB-and pick a color from classic gray to striking blue and red, depending on your preference.
Setting up the Portable SSD T7 is incredibly simple. The device comes embedded with software to help you set up a password and get the latest firmware updates for your PC, Mac, or Android devices. You can also download the mobile app for Android smartphones and tablets. This feature ensures that your data remains secure and up to date, minimizing the risk of data loss or corruption.
Best External Drive For Time Machine FAQs
Are there any extra features I should look for in an external hard drive for Time Machine backups?
Yes, there are a few extra features you should look for in an external hard drive for Time Machine backups. First and foremost, make sure that the hard drive is compatible with your Mac operating system, as Time Machine requires specific formatting to work properly.
Additionally, it's a good idea to look for a hard drive with a large storage capacity to ensure that you have enough space for all of your backups. You may also want to consider a hard drive with faster transfer speeds, such as USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt, to speed up the backup process.
Another feature to consider is encryption, which can help protect your data in case the hard drive is lost or stolen. Some external hard drives also come with software that allows you to set up automatic backups and schedule regular backups, which can be convenient and save you time.
Overall, it's important to choose an external hard drive that is reliable, compatible, and has the features that meet your specific needs for Time Machine backups.
Are there any specific brands that are recommended for Time Machine backups?
There are no specific brands that are recommended for Time Machine backups. However, it is important to choose an external hard drive that is compatible with your Mac and has enough storage space to accommodate your backup needs. Generally, any reliable external hard drive with a USB, Thunderbolt, or FireWire connection should work with Time Machine. You may want to consider purchasing a hard drive with a faster connection if you plan on using Time Machine frequently or need to transfer large files. Some popular brands for external hard drives include Seagate, Western Digital, Toshiba, and LaCie. It's also important to regularly check your backup drive for errors and ensure that it is properly connected and functioning.
Can I use a solid state drive (SSD) for Time Machine backups?
Yes, you can use a solid state drive (SSD) for Time Machine backups. In fact, using an SSD for Time Machine backups can provide faster backup and restore times compared to using a traditional hard drive. SSDs are also more durable and less prone to physical damage due to their lack of moving parts.
However, it's important to note that SSDs can be more expensive than traditional hard drives, so you may need to consider the cost factor when deciding whether to use an SSD for your Time Machine backups. Also, make sure the SSD has sufficient storage capacity to accommodate your backup needs.
Finally, it's always a good practice to have multiple backups of your important data, so consider keeping a backup on another drive or using a cloud-based backup service in addition to your Time Machine backup.
Can I use any external hard drive for Time Machine backups?
Yes, in general, you can use any external hard drive for Time Machine backups. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
Firstly, the external hard drive must be formatted in the Mac OS Extended (Journaled) file system. This is the file system that Time Machine requires to function properly. If the hard drive is not formatted in this file system, Time Machine will prompt you to erase and reformat the drive before it can be used for backups.
Secondly, it's recommended to use a hard drive that has at least the same amount of storage capacity as your Mac's internal hard drive. This will ensure that you have enough space to store all of your backups and retain older versions of files.
Finally, it's important to choose a reliable and high-quality external hard drive from a reputable manufacturer. This will help to ensure that your data is safe and secure and that the hard drive will last for a long time.
Overall, as long as you keep these things in mind, you should be able to use any external hard drive for Time Machine backups.
How do I set up Time Machine with an external hard drive?
Setting up Time Machine with an external hard drive is a straightforward process. Here are the steps you need to follow:
1. Connect your external hard drive to your Mac using the USB or Thunderbolt cable.
2. Open System Preferences from the Apple menu.
3. Click on Time Machine.
4. Click the Select Backup Disk button.
5. From the list of available disks, select the external hard drive you just connected.
6. Click Use Disk.
7. If you want to encrypt your backup, select the checkbox next to Encrypt Backup Disk and create a password.
8. Time Machine will now start backing up your files to the external hard drive.
It's important to note that the first backup may take a long time, depending on how much data you have on your Mac. After the initial backup, Time Machine will only backup files that have changed since the last backup, which is a much faster process.
Once Time Machine is set up, it will automatically backup your files every hour, as long as the external hard drive is connected to your Mac. You can also manually start a backup by clicking the Backup Now button in the Time Machine preferences.
Is it possible to use a network attached storage (NAS) device for Time Machine backups?
Yes, it is possible to use a network attached storage (NAS) device for Time Machine backups. In fact, Apple has made it easier to set up Time Machine backups with a NAS device in recent versions of macOS.
To use a NAS device for Time Machine backups, the NAS must support Apple File Protocol (AFP) or Server Message Block (SMB) protocols. Once the NAS is set up with those protocols, you can go to Time Machine preferences on your Mac, select the network drive as the backup disk, and start backing up your files.
However, it's important to note that not all NAS devices are created equal. Some may not be optimized for Time Machine backups and may not perform as well or may not be compatible with all versions of macOS. It's best to check with the manufacturer of the NAS device to ensure it is compatible with Time Machine backups and to follow their instructions for setting it up.
What is the average lifespan of an external hard drive used for Time Machine backups?
The average lifespan of an external hard drive used for Time Machine backups can vary depending on various factors such as the manufacturer, model, usage, and maintenance. Generally, external hard drives have a lifespan of around 3-5 years, although some can last longer if properly maintained. It is important to note that external hard drives are mechanical devices and are subject to wear and tear over time, which can reduce their lifespan. To ensure the longevity of your external hard drive, it is recommended to use it in a cool and dry environment, avoid dropping or mishandling it, and regularly check for updates and errors. Additionally, it's a good practice to use more than one external hard drive for backup purposes and rotate them periodically. This will help ensure that your data is always safe and secure, even if one of the drives fails.
What is the best external hard drive for Time Machine backups?
When it comes to the best external hard drive for Time Machine backups, there are several options available in the market. However, it's important to consider a few factors before investing in one. Firstly, the storage capacity of the drive should be sufficient to accommodate your backup needs. Additionally, the drive should be reliable, durable, and offer fast transfer speeds.
One of the most popular external hard drives for Time Machine backups is the Western Digital My Passport. It offers a range of storage capacities from 1TB to 5TB, is compact and portable, and comes with password protection and hardware encryption to keep your data secure. Another popular option is the Seagate Backup Plus Slim, which is available in capacities up to 5TB and offers fast transfer speeds.
Other options to consider include the LaCie Rugged and the G-Technology G-Drive, both of which are known for their durability and reliability. Ultimately, the best external hard drive for Time Machine backups will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
What is the price range for the best external drive for Time Machine?
The price range for the best external drive for Time Machine can vary depending on the storage capacity and brand. Typically, for a 1TB external drive, the price range can start at around $50 and go up to $100 or more for higher storage capacities such as 2TB or 4TB. Popular brands for external drives for Time Machine include Western Digital, Seagate, and LaCie. It's important to choose a reliable and compatible external drive for Time Machine backups to ensure the safety and security of your data. Additionally, it's recommended to consider features such as portability, durability, and data transfer speed when selecting the best external drive for your Time Machine backups.
What size external hard drive should I get for Time Machine?
The size of the external hard drive you should get for Time Machine depends on the amount of data you need to backup. As a general rule of thumb, the external hard drive should be at least two to three times the size of the internal hard drive or the amount of data you need to backup.
For example, if you have a 500GB internal hard drive, it is recommended to get an external hard drive with a minimum size of 1TB or 1.5TB for Time Machine backup. This will ensure you have enough space for future backups and any additional data you may add to your computer.
It is also important to note that Time Machine will keep multiple backups of your data, so the more space you have on your external hard drive, the more backups you can keep. Additionally, it is recommended to get a reliable and fast external hard drive for Time Machine backups to ensure your data is safe and backups are done quickly.