If you’re looking for a way to expand your iMac’s storage, an external hard drive is a great solution. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which one is the best external hard drive for iMac. But don't worry, here are some factors to consider when looking for the perfect external hard drive.
Firstly, you'll want to make sure the external hard drive is compatible with your iMac's operating system, whether that's macOS Mojave, High Sierra, or an older version. It's also important to consider the storage capacity you need and the type of connection you want, whether that's USB, Thunderbolt, or FireWire. Lastly, you'll want to think about the durability and portability of the hard drive.
To help you make the right decision, ask yourself some of these questions. Are you a professional photographer or videographer who needs a lot of storage space for large files? Do you need a hard drive that can withstand being bumped around during travel? Are you looking for a budget-friendly option or are you willing to pay more for faster transfer speeds? By answering these questions, you'll be able to narrow down your options and find the best external hard drive for your iMac.
10 Best External Hard Drive For Imac
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The product is ideal for storing and backing up photos, videos, and other files from various devices, including iPhones and computers.
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Ideal for backing up and storing files on various devices such as laptops, PCs, gaming consoles, and Chromebooks.
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The product is ideal for storing and transferring data between computers, desktops, laptops, and gaming consoles.
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The product is ideal for storing and transferring data between computers, laptops, and Macs.
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The product is ideal for storing data and files externally in a portable manner.
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This product is ideal for storing and backing up data on a variety of devices such as PCs, Macs, laptops, and desktops.
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Ideal for storing and backing up digital files on a Mac computer.
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The product is ideal for expanding storage capacity and transferring data between devices with USB 3.0 connectivity.
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This product is ideal for storing and accessing data on both desktop and laptop computers.
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This rugged external hard drive is ideal for protecting data on PC, Mac, and iPad Pro devices from shock or damage.
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1. Idiskk 1tb External Storage With Power Bank
The iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive is a must-have for anyone who needs to transfer content between their iPhone, iPad, PC and Mac computers. With a 1TB storage capacity, this external hard drive instantly expands your storage space, allowing you to enjoy your favorite videos and photos anytime, anywhere.
One of the key features of the iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive is its one key backup function. This allows you to easily backup your iPhone or iPad camera roll via the app whenever the external hard drive is connected. Future backups only save newly added files, preventing storage-consuming duplications. Additionally, you can use the in-app camera to take photos and videos, which will be automatically stored into the drive.
The iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive is MFi certified, ensuring stable and safe data transfer. It is also compatible with a wide range of devices, including iPhone 5/6/7/8/X/XR/XS MAX, iPad series, Macbook and PC. The USB+Type C+Micro USB (USB-C) ports make it easy to connect to most devices.
Using the iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive is incredibly simple. It offers plug and play operation, so you can simply plug it into your iPhone or iPad and watch movies directly from the hard drive during your trip or on travel. No software installation is required, and you can intuitively drag and drop files to and from your PC or Macbook.
When you purchase the iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive, you will receive 1 x 1TB iPhone External Hard Drive, 1 x MFi Charging Cable, 1 x Type-C Cable, and 1 x User Manual. Additionally, the product comes with an 18-month worry-free warranty and replacement warranty, as well as dedicated email customer support.
2. Megaz Backup: Slim, Portable 500gb Hdd
Introducing the latest model of a portable external hard drive that is compatible with Microsoft Windows, Mac, PS4, and Xbox One without the need for reformatting. This sleek and stylish device is equipped with USB 3.0 connection, which makes it possible to backup massive data in seconds and delivers ultra-fast transfer speed, improving your PC's performance.
The external drive is designed for both PC and Mac without the need for extra power supply or software installation. The slim style handy sized design measures 11.5 x 8 x 1 cm and is protected by a sturdy and compact case, making it comfortable to fit in your palm.
The package includes a portable external hard drive, a 19-inch USB 3.0 hard drive cable, user's manual, and a 3-year friendly manufacturer warranty. The company also offers a quick replacement or refund service.
Please note that 1MB is equal to 1,000,000 bytes, and 1GB is equal to 1,000,000,000 bytes. The actual usable storage capacity may be less, with 500GB approximately equaling 465GB.
This portable external hard drive is perfect for those who need a reliable and efficient storage device to backup massive data. Its compatibility with various devices, fast transfer speed, and slim design make it a great option for both personal and professional use. The manufacturer's warranty and quick replacement or refund service also provide peace of mind for customers.
3. Blue Boost: 500gb Portable External Hard Drive
Introducing a sleek and slim portable hard drive that offers highly flexible protection for all your important files. Made with sturdy metal materials, this hard drive is built to last and can withstand the rigors of daily use.
By default, this portable hard drive comes formatted as exFAT, which makes it compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. However, some older devices may require reformatting.
One of the best things about this hard drive is that it is automatically recognized by Windows operating systems, so you don't need to install or configure any software. Simply plug it in and start using it right away.
Whether you're using Windows or Mac, you won't need to reformat the hard drive to get it up and running. This means you can save time and hassle and start using your new hard drive right away.
With your purchase, you'll receive a portable hard drive, a USB3.0 cable, a user manual, and a three-year manufacturer's warranty. This ensures that you are getting a quality product that is backed by a reputable company.
4. Lyntex Portable 2.5 Inch Mobile Usb 3.0 External Hard Drive Hdd For Pc Laptop And Mac (500gb)
Introducing the ultra-slim, lightweight and portable external hard drive that boasts a USB 3.0 super speed transfer rate of 5Gbps. With this remarkable technology, you can transfer data at lightning-fast speed, making it the perfect solution for those who want to keep their important files and documents safe and secure.
This portable external hard drive can be connected straight to a USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 port, without the need for an external power source. This makes it a convenient and reliable storage solution for all your data needs.
The external hard drive is formatted to FAT32, which means it can be used with any operating system, including MAC OS and Windows. It is also compatible with PS4, PS3, and XBOX, making it a versatile option for gamers who need to store their game data.
This hard drive is not just for data storage, it can also be connected to a smart TV. This allows you to record all your favourite movies and TV programmes directly onto the hard drive, giving you the freedom to watch them whenever you like. With the ability to add and remove recordings with ease, it offers a user-friendly experience.
The external hard drive comes with a USB 3.0 cable and is available in various capacities to suit your needs. It is packaged in a sturdy cardboard box and comes with a 1-year warranty from Extreme Supplies Ltd.
5. Bipra S2 2.5 Inch Usb 2.0 Mac Edition Portable External Hard Drive – Black (500gb)
Looking for a reliable and easy-to-use external hard drive? Look no further than this USB 2.0 hard drive with a range of storage capacity options to suit your needs.
This hard drive is formatted in MAC OS Journaled, making it ideal for use with Apple devices. And with plug and play support, it's incredibly easy to use – simply connect it to your computer and you're ready to go.
One of the best things about this hard drive is that it's USB bus powered, meaning you don't need to worry about carrying around an external power source. Just plug it into your computer's USB port and you're good to go.
So whether you're looking for a reliable backup solution or just need some extra storage space, this USB 2.0 hard drive is a great choice. With its simple setup, high-speed data transfer, and convenient bus-powered design, you'll wonder how you ever managed without it.
6. Suhsai Slim Storage: 250gb Portable Hdd
Looking for a reliable and high-capacity storage solution for your important files, multimedia content, and backups? Look no further than this External Hard Drive. With its USB 2.0 cable, you can easily transfer and store your data without any hassle.
This External Hard Drive boasts a wide range of system compatibility, making it perfect for use with a variety of devices including PC, Macbook, laptop, and desktop computers. Whether you need a backup drive or USB drive for data, music, gaming, movies, file storage, or photo storage on your PC, this External Hard Drive has got you covered.
This Hard Drive has a durable design with an ABS plastic body, making it sturdy and long-lasting. It also has a compact and portable design that makes it convenient to use on-the-go. Whether you're traveling or working remotely, this external hard drive is the ideal solution for all your storage needs.
With its plug and play feature, you don't need to install any software to use it. Just plug it in and start working on it. This USB hard drive provides read and write speeds of up to 480 Mbps, ensuring fast and reliable data transfer.
This External Hard Drive is also easy to carry thanks to its ultra-thin HDD enclosure that fits comfortably in your hand or pocket. It comes with a USB 2.0 cable and a user manual, making it easy to set up and use. Plus, it comes with a 1-Year Warranty, giving you peace of mind and ensuring that you get the best value for your money.
7. 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.
8. Ultra-Slim Teyadi 500gb Portable External Hdd
The TEYADI 2.5" HDD External Hard Drive is the perfect solution for those seeking extra storage capacity. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android operating systems, and can be easily connected to a PC, laptop or Mac for improved performance. With lightning-fast data transfer speeds, this portable hard disk is equipped with both USB 2.0/3.0 versions, providing read and write speeds of up to 10 Gbps.
The motherboard of the external hard drive has been designed with a noise-free solution, ensuring a quiet working environment. Additionally, its lightweight and portable design allows it to fit comfortably in your pocket, enabling easy portability.
This external hard drive requires no external power supply or software installation, making it ready to use right out of the box. It is an ideal solution for extra storage on your computer or game console.
To reduce electromagnetic field interference and achieve convection cooling, the main body of the external hard drive features a protective coating made of aluminum foil. This feature ensures a secure place for your files, as every HDD device has been tested according to quality standards.
Included in the package is 1 X Portable Hard Drive, 1 X USB3.0 Cable, 1 X User Manual, and a 3-year manufacturer warranty with lifetime technical support. If for any reason you are not satisfied with the product, please contact the manufacturer. They promise to make it right for you.
Investing in the TEYADI 2.5" HDD External Hard Drive guarantees that you will have a reliable and efficient storage solution for all your data needs.
9. Acasis Portable Usb3.0 250gb Hard Drive
Introducing the ultra-slim and portable external hard drive with a sleek aluminum finish, perfect for those on-the-go. This top-quality product is designed with durability in mind, featuring a shockproof and anti-pressure ABS Plastic+Aluminum casing that is merely 0.55 inches thick.
With its USB 3.0 technology, this external hard drive offers lightning-fast transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbit/s, enhancing your PC's performance and making it much faster than traditional USB 2.0 backup drives. Moreover, it is fully compatible with most operating systems, including Windows 2000/7/8/10, Vista, Linux, Mac, Android, TV, and PS4, which makes it a versatile choice for all users.
Setting up this external hard drive is a breeze, with no software installation necessary. Simply plug it in and the drive is ready to use, making it an ideal choice for those who require ease of use.
This package includes a portable hard disk, a USB 3.0 cable, and a user's manual to guide you through the setup process. Plus, you can have peace of mind knowing that this product comes with a 3-year manufacturer warranty, coupled with free technical support service.
10. Armor A30: Rugged 2tb Usb-C External Hdd
Looking for a durable external hard drive that can keep up with your busy lifestyle? Look no further than the A30! This external hard drive offers military-grade shockproof protection, ensuring that your data is safe and secure no matter where you go. Whether you're on the go, commuting to work, or traveling the world, the A30 has got you covered.
But that's not all – the A30 also features a cable storage design that makes it easy to carry your cables with you wherever you go. No more fumbling with tangled wires or searching for a spare cable – with the A30, everything you need is right at your fingertips.
And with a 3 year manufacturer warranty, you can rest assured that your investment is protected. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a casual user, the A30 is the perfect choice for anyone who needs reliable and secure data storage.
Please note that if you're a Windows user, the A30 is pre-formatted as NTFS, so you can use it directly on your computer. However, if you're a Mac user, you will need to reformat the drive for use with your operating system. Regardless of which system you use, the A30 is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. So why wait? Order yours today and experience the ultimate in data storage and protection!
Best External Hard Drive For Imac FAQs
Can I use a Windows external hard drive with iMac?
Yes, you can use a Windows external hard drive with an iMac. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Firstly, the external hard drive needs to be formatted in a way that is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. The most commonly used format that is compatible with both is ExFAT. If your hard drive is not already formatted in ExFAT, you can reformat it using Disk Utility on your Mac.
Secondly, some Windows external hard drives may come pre-loaded with software that is only compatible with Windows. This software may not be usable on a Mac, but it should not affect your ability to use the hard drive for storing files.
Lastly, keep in mind that the iMac may not be able to write to the Windows-formatted external hard drive without additional software. This means that you may only be able to read files from the hard drive, but not save any changes or new files to it. There are third-party software options available that can allow you to write to a Windows-formatted hard drive on a Mac, such as Paragon NTFS for Mac or Tuxera NTFS for Mac.
How do I choose the best external hard drive for my iMac?
When looking for an external hard drive for your iMac, there are a few factors to consider to ensure that you choose the best one that meets your needs. Firstly, you need to consider the storage capacity you require. External hard drives come in different sizes, from 500GB to 10TB or more. Determine the amount of storage space you need based on the size of your files and how much space you currently have on your iMac.
Another important factor to consider is the connection interface. Ensure that the external hard drive you choose is compatible with your iMac. Most modern iMacs come with USB 3.0, Thunderbolt 2 or 3, and USB-C ports. Choose an external hard drive that has the same connection interface as your iMac for faster data transfer rates.
Also, consider the speed of the external hard drive. If you plan to use it for video editing or other data-intensive tasks, you may want to go for a solid-state drive (SSD) as it is faster than a traditional hard disk drive (HDD).
Finally, consider the brand and price. Look for reputable brands that offer warranties and good customer support. Compare prices and choose an external hard drive that fits your budget.
In summary, when choosing the best external hard drive for your iMac, consider storage capacity, connection interface, speed, brand, and price.
What are the benefits of using an external hard drive with iMac?
Using an external hard drive with an iMac can provide numerous benefits for the user. Firstly, an external hard drive can increase the storage capacity of the iMac, allowing the user to store more files, photos, and videos without slowing down the computer's performance. This is especially useful for users who work with large files or who need to store a lot of media content.
Secondly, an external hard drive can act as a backup for important data. By regularly backing up data to an external hard drive, users can protect their data from loss due to hardware failure, accidental deletion, or cyber-attacks.
Thirdly, an external hard drive can allow users to easily transfer files between computers. This is particularly useful for users who work on multiple devices or who need to share files with others.
Finally, using an external hard drive can help prolong the life of an iMac by reducing the strain on its internal hard drive. By offloading files to an external hard drive, the iMac can run more smoothly and efficiently.
What are the best brands for external hard drives for iMac?
When it comes to choosing the best external hard drives for iMac, there are several brands that offer reliable and high-performance products. Here are some of the best ones:
1. Western Digital (WD): WD offers a range of external hard drives that are compatible with iMac. Their My Book and My Passport series are popular among Mac users and offer fast transfer speeds and ample storage capacity.
2. Seagate: Seagate is another well-known brand that offers external hard drives for iMac. Their Backup Plus series is a popular choice as it comes with a range of storage options and offers fast transfer speeds.
3. LaCie: LaCie is a premium brand that offers high-performance external hard drives for iMac. Their rugged drives are particularly popular among photographers and videographers as they are designed to withstand harsh conditions.
4. G-Technology: G-Technology is another premium brand that offers reliable and high-performance external hard drives for iMac. Their G-Drive series is a popular choice among creative professionals as it offers fast transfer speeds and ample storage capacity.
Ultimately, the best brand for external hard drives for iMac depends on your specific needs and budget. It is important to choose a brand that offers reliable products with good customer support.
What are the factors to consider when purchasing an external hard drive for iMac?
When purchasing an external hard drive for iMac, there are several factors that you should consider. Firstly, you need to decide on the storage capacity that you require. This will depend on how much data you need to store, and whether you need to back up your entire iMac system. Secondly, you should consider the transfer speed of the external hard drive. The faster the transfer speed, the quicker you can move files to and from your iMac. Thirdly, you should think about the connectivity options that are available. You will need to ensure that the external hard drive is compatible with your iMac, and that it has the necessary ports to connect to your computer. Fourthly, you should consider the durability and reliability of the external hard drive. Look for a reputable brand with a good track record of producing high-quality and long-lasting devices. Finally, you should consider the cost of the external hard drive, and make sure that it fits within your budget.
What are the most reliable external hard drives for iMac?
There are several reliable external hard drives that are compatible with iMac. One of the most popular options is the Western Digital My Passport for Mac. It offers a large storage capacity, fast transfer speeds, and a sleek design. Another reliable option is the Seagate Backup Plus Portable, which is also designed specifically for Mac and offers a range of storage capacities. Additionally, the LaCie Rugged Thunderbolt external hard drive is a durable and reliable option for those who need to transport their data frequently. Other reliable options include the G-Technology G-Drive USB-C, the Toshiba Canvio Advance, and the Samsung T5 Portable SSD. When choosing an external hard drive for your iMac, it is important to consider factors such as storage capacity, transfer speeds, and durability to ensure that you have a reliable solution for your data storage needs.
What are the top external hard drives compatible with iMac?
There are several external hard drives that are compatible with iMac. Some of the top external hard drives include:
1. LaCie Porsche Design: It is a stylish and high-performance external hard drive that provides up to 5TB of storage capacity. It is compatible with both USB-C and USB 3.0 ports.
2. Western Digital My Book: It is a reliable and affordable external hard drive that provides up to 10TB of storage capacity. It is compatible with both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports.
3. Seagate Backup Plus: It is a portable and versatile external hard drive that provides up to 5TB of storage capacity. It is compatible with both USB-C and USB 3.0 ports.
4. G-Technology G-Drive: It is a high-performance external hard drive that provides up to 14TB of storage capacity. It is compatible with both Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3.0 ports.
It is important to check the compatibility of the external hard drive with your iMac before purchasing. It is also recommended to choose an external hard drive with a higher storage capacity to ensure that you have enough space to store your files and data.
What is the best capacity for an external hard drive for iMac?
The best capacity for an external hard drive for iMac depends on your specific needs and usage. If you are using your iMac for basic tasks like browsing the internet, checking emails, and storing documents, a 1TB external hard drive should be more than enough. However, if you are using your iMac for professional purposes such as video editing, graphic design, or music production, you may need a larger capacity external hard drive. In this case, a 2TB or even a 4TB external hard drive would be more suitable to store large media files and projects. It’s important to consider not only the capacity but also the speed and connectivity options of the external hard drive. A solid-state drive (SSD) with Thunderbolt connectivity will provide faster data transfer speeds than a traditional hard disk drive (HDD) with USB 3.0 connectivity. Ultimately, it’s important to assess your specific needs and budget to determine the best external hard drive capacity for your iMac.
What is the best price range for an external hard drive for iMac?
The price range for an external hard drive for iMac varies depending on the storage capacity, speed, and features. Generally, an external hard drive for iMac with a storage capacity of 1TB to 4TB can cost between $50 to $150. However, if you need a larger storage capacity, such as 8TB or more, the price can range from $150 to $300 or even higher.
Additionally, the price also depends on the type of connection interface. For example, an external hard drive with the latest Thunderbolt 3 interface is likely to be more expensive than one with a USB 3.0 interface.
It is important to note that while price is a crucial factor, it is equally important to consider the quality and reliability of the external hard drive. It is recommended to choose a well-known brand that offers good customer support and a warranty.
What is the best way to backup my iMac using an external hard drive?
The best way to backup your iMac is by using an external hard drive and the built-in Time Machine feature on your Mac. Time Machine is a backup software application that automatically backs up your Mac every hour, every day, and every week. To get started, connect your external hard drive to your iMac and follow these steps:
1. Open System Preferences by clicking on the Apple menu in the upper left-hand corner of your screen and selecting System Preferences.
2. Click on Time Machine.
3. Click on Select Backup Disk.
4. Choose your external hard drive from the list of available disks.
5. Check the box next to Encrypt Backup Disk if you want to password-protect your backups.
6. Click Use Disk to start the backup process.
Once you have set up Time Machine, it will automatically backup your iMac to your external hard drive. It's important to make sure that your external hard drive has enough storage space to accommodate your backups. You may also want to consider periodically checking your backups to make sure they are up-to-date and working properly.