If you’re looking for a reliable backup solution for your Mac, an external hard drive for Mac time machine is a must-have accessory. Time Machine is a built-in backup feature of macOS that automatically saves your files and system settings. However, to use it effectively, you need an external drive that is compatible with your Mac and has enough storage space to hold all your backup data.
Before buying an external hard drive for Mac time machine, there are several factors to consider. First, make sure the drive is formatted for Mac and has a compatible interface, such as USB-C, Thunderbolt, or FireWire. Also, check the drive's storage capacity, which should be at least double the size of your Mac's internal storage. Finally, consider the durability and portability of the drive, especially if you plan to carry it with you.
Do you worry about losing important data on your Mac? Do you want an easy backup solution that doesn't require any manual intervention? Are you tired of using unreliable backup software or services? If so, you need to invest in the best external hard drive for Mac time machine. With a compatible drive, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your data is safe and always accessible. So why wait? Browse our collection of top-rated external hard drives for Mac time machine and choose the one that suits your needs and budget.
10 Best External Hard Drive For Mac Time Machine
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This product is ideal for storing large amounts of data and easily transferring files between Mac and Windows devices.
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High-speed storage solution for large files and data backup, compatible with USB 3.2 devices.
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The product is ideal for storing large amounts of data and comes with added software for editing photos and backup services.
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This product is ideal for storing a large amount of data on MacOS devices and using Time Machine backup.
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This product is ideal for Mac users who need portable external storage with high capacity and fast data transfer.
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6
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This external hard drive is ideal for storing and transferring data between various devices such as PCs, laptops, gaming consoles, and more.
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7
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Ideal for storing and backing up data on a Mac computer, compatible with Time Machine and includes Adobe CC Photography software.
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8
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Ideal for storing large amounts of data and transferring files between computers quickly via USB 3.0.
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Ideal for backing up Mac computers and storing large files on-the-go with fast transfer speeds via USB 3.0 interface.
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10
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Ideal for portable and durable storage of large amounts of data, with both Thunderbolt and USB-C connectivity options.
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1. Wd 4tb My Passport For Mac Portable External Hard Drive, Usb-C/usb-A – Wdbp6a0040bbk-Wese
This external hard drive is the perfect companion for Mac users who value security and reliability. With its sleek design and compatibility with Time Machine, backing up important files has never been easier.
One of its standout features is its password protection with hardware encryption, ensuring that sensitive data remains safe from prying eyes. Additionally, this trusted drive is built with WD reliability, giving users peace of mind that their data is secure.
The external hard drive boasts a USB 3.0 port, which is compatible with USB 2.0 devices, allowing for fast transfer speeds of up to 625 MB/s. This makes it ideal for transferring large files such as videos and photos.
To top it all off, this product comes with a 3-year manufacturer's limited warranty, providing users with added confidence in their purchase.
2. Owc Mercury Elite Pro 6tb 7200 Rpm Storage Solution W/usb 3.2 5gb/s
Looking for a reliable and versatile external hard drive that can seamlessly work with your Mac, Windows, or Linux machines, gaming consoles, and smart TVs? Look no further than this rugged and flexible external hard drive that boasts a range of impressive features and benefits.
One of the standout features of this external hard drive is its compatibility with a wide range of devices, including Mac, Windows, and Linux computers, PS4 and Xbox consoles, and Smart TVs. You can easily use it across multiple devices without any compatibility issues.
The hard drive also comes equipped with Apple Time Machine and Windows File History, making backups a breeze. With built-in shock isolation and non-skid rubber feet, you can protect your drive while using it in a secure horizontal position or with the matching vertical stand.
The included high-quality double-shielded USB Type A-B connecting cable ensures a fast and secure connection to your device, while the preconfigured solutions undergo rigorous multi-step performance certification to guarantee optimal performance.
In addition, this external hard drive comes with a comprehensive up to 3-year limited warranty, which includes 1-year level 1 data recovery and lifetime US-based live support. You can feel confident that you are investing in a high-quality and reliable product that is backed by a trusted manufacturer.
3. Seagate Portable Hard Drive With Bonus Features.
The Seagate One Touch HDD is an excellent choice for people who need a reliable and portable external hard drive to store and access their files and photos. It works seamlessly with both Windows and Mac operating systems (although reformatting may be necessary for use with Time Machine). The USB 3.0 interface allows for quick and easy data transfer, making it the perfect addition to any laptop or PC setup.
One of the standout features of the Seagate One Touch HDD is its minimalist brushed metal enclosure, which not only looks stylish but also provides durability and protection for your data. With just a single click, users can back up their files or schedule automatic daily, weekly, or monthly backups, ensuring that their data is always safe and secure.
The Seagate One Touch HDD also comes with some fantastic software features, including a one-year complimentary subscription to Mylio Create and a four-month membership to Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan. These programs allow users to edit, manage, and share their photos easily, making it an excellent choice for photographers or anyone who loves to capture memories. It's important to note that users must redeem these offers within one year of drive registration, and they may not be available in all countries.
Seagate is known for its high-quality products, and the One Touch HDD is no exception. The drive comes with a two-year limited warranty, providing users with long-term peace of mind. Additionally, the two-year Rescue Data Recovery Service plan ensures that if anything goes wrong with the drive, data recovery services are available for up to three years in the APAC region.
4. Macos Time Machine Companion: Avolusion 8tb Hard Drive
Introducing the Built-in 8TB Capacity USB 3.0 External Hard Drive, the perfect solution to expand your computer's storage instantly! This external hard drive works seamlessly with any Windows OS Desktop PC or Laptop with a USB 3.0 port, allowing you to add extra storage without opening up the case.
With this external hard drive, you can easily expand your hard drive storage and create a backup storage for your entire Windows OS system. It's the perfect solution to ensure that your important files and data are safe and secure, especially before any unexpected crashes. Daily schedule backup is no longer optional, and with this external hard drive, you can ensure that your data is always protected.
This external hard drive comes with a 2-year warranty from the reseller, providing you with peace of mind that your investment is protected. It's the perfect addition to any computer system, providing you with the storage space you need to keep your important files and data safe and secure.
5. Wd 2tb Silver My Passport For Mac Portable External Hard Drive – Usb 3.0 – Wdbzyl0020bsl-Nesn
The Passport for Mac is the perfect external hard drive for Mac users who value speed, security, and compatibility. With its USB 3.0 interface, it delivers ultra-fast transfer rates that make backing up and transferring files a breeze. Whether you're working with large video files or just need to move a bunch of documents around, this drive can handle it all.
One of the best things about the Passport for Mac is that it comes HFS+ journaled, which means it's ready to use right out of the box with your Mac computer. However, if you're a Windows user, you can easily reformat the drive to work with your PC. This makes it a versatile option for anyone who needs to move files between different operating systems.
In addition to its compatibility, the Passport for Mac also offers robust security features to keep your data safe. It comes with password protection and hardware encryption, so you can rest assured that your files are protected from unauthorized access. This is especially important if you're storing sensitive information, such as financial data or personal documents.
And if you're looking to back up your Mac, the Passport for Mac is compatible with Apple Time Machine backup software. This makes it easy to set up automatic backups of your entire system, so you can always have a reliable copy of your files in case something goes wrong.
Finally, the Passport for Mac comes with a 3-year limited warranty, so you can buy with confidence knowing that you're covered in case of any defects or issues. Overall, this is a high-quality, reliable external hard drive that offers excellent speed, security, and compatibility for Mac users.
6. Seagear Slim Portable 320gb External Hard Drive
Introducing the newly upgraded portable hard drive that promises to revolutionize the way you store and transfer your data. With its ultra-shock resistance and ultra-slim design measuring just 0.43 inches, this portable hard drive is built to withstand accidental drops and bumps while providing sleek portability and convenience. The brushed surface and seamless connection further enhance its aesthetic appeal.
Powered by USB3.0 technology, this portable hard drive boasts of ultra-fast data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbit/s, making big data backup a matter of seconds. Additionally, it is compatible with USB2.0 devices, ensuring seamless connectivity across all your devices.
This portable hard drive is designed to work with a range of operating systems, including Windows 7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS X, Linux, and Android OS, among others. Whether you're using a PC, desktop, laptop, MacBook, or Chromebook, this hard drive has got you covered.
The plug and play feature eliminates the need for software installation, making it incredibly easy to use. Simply connect the external hard drive to your Windows computer, and it will be automatically recognized. You can then drag and drop files you want to save, and you're good to go.
In the package, you'll receive one portable hard drive, a USB3.0 cable, and gift-type shell packaging. With a three-year manufacturer's warranty and free technical support services, you can trust that you're getting a reliable and high-quality product.
7. Mac Slim Backup: 1tb Usb Hard Drive
The Backup Plus Slim for Mac is an external hard drive that offers a stylish and convenient solution to store and access up to 1TB of content. With a sleek and modern metal enclosure, it is the perfect complement to any personal aesthetic.
This USB drive is easy to use – simply plug it into a Mac or Windows computer via the included USB 3.0 cable to back up files with a single click or schedule automatic daily, weekly, or monthly backups. Please note that reformatting may be required for use with Time Machine.
As an added bonus, users will receive a complimentary two-month membership to the Adobe Creative Cloud Photography Plan, providing access to an array of photo and video editing apps.
Rest assured with the included two-year limited warranty, providing long-term peace of mind.
With its combination of style, convenience, and practicality, the Backup Plus Slim for Mac is an excellent choice for those in need of extra storage space and easy accessibility to their content.
8. One Touch 1tb External Drive – Renewed
The Seagate One Touch is the perfect solution for storing and accessing photos and files while on-the-go. This USB drive is compatible with both Windows and Mac, making it an ideal choice for those who use multiple devices.
Not only is it great as a laptop or PC hard drive, but it's also incredibly easy to use. Simply plug it in via USB 3.0 and back up your files with ease. With fast transfer speeds, you won't have to wait long to store or access your data.
In addition to its functionality, the Seagate One Touch also boasts a sleek and stylish design. Its minimalist brushed metal enclosure is the perfect complement to any personal aesthetic.
It's important to note that the Seagate One Touch Renew product does not come with the NO Rescue Service. However, with its reliable performance and durability, you can trust that your data will be safe and secure.
9. Wd 1tb Black My Passport For Mac Portable External Hard Drive – Usb 3.0 – Wdbjbs0010bsl-Nesn
Looking for a portable storage solution that guarantees security and convenience? Look no further than this high-capacity external hard drive, boasting up to 3TB of storage space. With optional 256-bit AES hardware encryption, you can rest assured that your data is safe from prying eyes.
This hard drive is not only secure, but also versatile. Compatible with Apple Time Machine, it seamlessly integrates with your Mac system. Plus, its sleek design complements your creative style, making it a perfect addition to your workspace.
With USB 3.0 connectivity, you can transfer files quickly and efficiently. And while it comes formatted for Mac OS X out of the box, it can easily be reformatted for use with Windows systems.
This hard drive also comes with a 3-year limited warranty, so you can trust in its quality and durability. Say goodbye to worrying about storage space and security with this reliable and stylish external hard drive.
10. Lacie 2tb Rugged Thunderbolt Usb-C External Hard Drive, Orange
Looking for a reliable and durable external hard drive for your important data? Look no further than this shock and drop-resistant external hard drive!
Built to military standard 810-F, this external hard drive can withstand drops of up to 2 meters while in non-operating mode, ensuring your data stays safe and secure even in the event of an accidental drop or impact.
With Thunderbolt and USB-C connectivity, this external hard drive is compatible with a wide range of devices, including PCs and Macs. It's also backwards compatible with USB 3.0, making it a versatile choice for any user.
In addition to its rugged construction and compatibility, this external hard drive also comes equipped with automatic backup software and AES 256-bit encryption, providing seamless protection for your important data. And with a free three-year rescue data recovery plan included, you can rest easy knowing your data is always safe and secure.
So if you're looking for a reliable and durable external hard drive that can keep up with your busy lifestyle, look no further than this shock and drop-resistant external hard drive.
Best External Hard Drive For Mac Time Machine FAQs
Are there any external hard drives that are specifically designed for Time Machine backups on a Mac?
Yes, there are external hard drives that are specifically designed for Time Machine backups on a Mac. These external hard drives are either pre-formatted for use with Time Machine or come with software that makes it easy to set up and use with Time Machine.
One example of an external hard drive that is designed for Time Machine backups on a Mac is the Western Digital My Passport for Mac. This external hard drive comes pre-formatted for use with Time Machine and includes WD Backup software for easy setup and management of backups. It also has a sleek design that complements Mac computers.
Another example is the Seagate Backup Plus Slim for Mac. This external hard drive is also pre-formatted for use with Time Machine and includes Seagate Dashboard software for easy setup and management of backups. It also has a slim design and comes in different color options to match your Mac computer.
It is important to note that while these external hard drives are designed for use with Time Machine, they can also be used for other purposes and with other operating systems.
Are there any specific brands or models of external hard drives that are recommended for Time Machine backups on a Mac?
When it comes to external hard drives that are compatible with Time Machine backups on a Mac, there are several options available in the market. However, not all external hard drives are created equal, and some of them may not work as effectively as others.
One popular brand that is recommended for Time Machine backups is Western Digital (WD). They offer a range of external hard drives with different capacities and features, such as the My Passport, My Book, and Elements models. These drives are specifically designed to work with Mac OS X operating systems and are compatible with Time Machine.
Another brand worth considering is Seagate. They have a wide range of external hard drives that are compatible with Time Machine, such as the Backup Plus Slim and the Expansion Desktop models. These drives come in different sizes and are designed to be fast and reliable for backing up your data.
Ultimately, the best external hard drive for Time Machine backups on a Mac will depend on your personal preferences and needs. It's important to choose a drive with enough storage capacity to accommodate your backups and ensure that it's compatible with your Mac's operating system.
Can I use a solid-state drive (SSD) for Time Machine backups on my Mac?
Yes, you can use a solid-state drive (SSD) for Time Machine backups on your Mac. In fact, using an SSD can significantly improve the speed and performance of your backups compared to using a traditional hard disk drive (HDD). SSDs have no moving parts, which means they are faster, quieter, and more reliable than HDDs. They also consume less power and generate less heat, which is important for laptops and other portable devices.
To use an SSD for Time Machine backups, simply connect the drive to your Mac and select it as your backup destination in the Time Machine preferences. Time Machine will then automatically back up your files to the SSD on a regular schedule. It's important to note that you should use an SSD with a capacity that is larger than the total storage space of your Mac's internal disk to ensure that you have enough space for future backups. Additionally, it's a good idea to choose an SSD from a reputable brand and to regularly check for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
How do I format an external hard drive for Time Machine backups on my Mac?
To format an external hard drive for Time Machine backups on your Mac, follow these steps:
1. Connect the external hard drive to your Mac. Ensure that the drive is compatible with Time Machine and has enough space for backups.
2. Open the "Finder" by clicking on the desktop or the Finder icon in the dock.
3. Click on "Applications" in the left sidebar and then click on "Utilities".
4. Open "Disk Utility".
5. Select the external hard drive from the list of available drives in the left sidebar.
6. Click on the "Erase" button at the top of the window.
7. Choose a format for the drive. Time Machine requires the drive to be formatted as "Mac OS Extended (Journaled)".
8. Give the drive a name and click on the "Erase" button.
9. Once the formatting is complete, close Disk Utility.
10. Open "Time Machine" from the System Preferences or the menu bar.
11. Click on "Select Backup Disk".
12. Choose the newly formatted external hard drive from the list of available disks.
Your external hard drive is now formatted and ready to be used as a backup drive for Time Machine on your Mac.
How much storage capacity do I need in an external hard drive for Time Machine backups on my Mac?
The amount of storage capacity you need in an external hard drive for Time Machine backups depends on the amount of data you have on your Mac and how much of it you want to backup. As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to have at least twice the amount of storage capacity as the size of your internal hard drive. For example, if your Mac has a 500GB internal hard drive, you should aim for an external hard drive with at least 1TB of storage capacity. This will allow for enough space to store multiple backups and ensure that you have enough space for future backups as well. However, if you have a large amount of data on your computer or plan on storing backups for an extended period of time, you may want to consider a larger capacity external hard drive. It's always better to have more storage than you think you need, to avoid running out of space and losing important backups.
How often should I back up my Mac using Time Machine and an external hard drive?
It is recommended to back up your Mac using Time Machine and an external hard drive on a regular basis, ideally on a daily or weekly basis. This ensures that you have the most recent version of your data saved in case of any unexpected events, such as a hard drive failure or accidental deletion of important files. However, the frequency of your backups may depend on your individual needs and usage habits. If you frequently work with large files or make frequent changes to your data, you may want to consider backing up more frequently. Additionally, it is important to check that your backups are being completed successfully and that your external hard drive has enough storage space to accommodate your backups. Overall, it is better to err on the side of caution and back up your Mac more frequently rather than less frequently to avoid the risk of data loss.
Should I choose a portable or desktop external hard drive for Time Machine backups on my Mac?
When it comes to choosing an external hard drive for Time Machine backups on your Mac, both portable and desktop options have their advantages and disadvantages.
Portable hard drives are compact and easy to carry around, which can be convenient if you need to take your backups with you on the go. They are also often less expensive than desktop options. However, their small size means they typically have smaller storage capacities and may not be as durable as their desktop counterparts.
Desktop hard drives are larger and bulkier, but they often have larger storage capacities and are more durable. They also tend to be faster and may offer more connectivity options, such as Thunderbolt or USB-C. However, they are less portable and may take up more space on your desk or in your bag.
Ultimately, the choice between a portable or desktop external hard drive for Time Machine backups depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you need to take your backups with you frequently or have limited desk space, a portable option may be the better choice. If you prioritize storage capacity, durability, and speed, a desktop option may be the way to go.
What are the best external hard drives for Mac that are compatible with Time Machine?
There are several external hard drives that are compatible with Time Machine and work seamlessly with Mac computers. One of the best options is the Western Digital My Passport for Mac. It offers fast data transfer rates, ample storage space, and a compact design that makes it easy to carry around. Another great option is the Seagate Backup Plus Slim for Mac, which is also highly portable and offers reliable performance. The LaCie Rugged USB-C is another popular choice, especially for those who need a rugged and durable drive that can withstand harsh environments. Other top picks include the G-Technology G-Drive Mobile, Toshiba Canvio Advance, and the SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD. Ultimately, the best external hard drive for your Mac will depend on your specific needs, such as storage capacity, portability, and durability.
What features should I look for in an external hard drive for Time Machine backups on my Mac?
When it comes to choosing an external hard drive for Time Machine backups on your Mac, there are a few key features you should consider.
First and foremost, ensure that the hard drive is compatible with your Mac's operating system. Look for a drive that supports macOS, and check that it is formatted correctly for Time Machine backups.
Storage capacity is also an important consideration. You'll want a hard drive with enough space to hold all of your important files and data, as well as any future backups. A good rule of thumb is to choose a drive with at least twice the capacity of your Mac's internal storage.
Data transfer speed is another crucial factor. Look for a hard drive with a fast transfer rate, ideally using a USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt connection. This will ensure that your backups are completed quickly and efficiently.
Finally, consider the durability and reliability of the hard drive. Look for a well-reviewed brand with a solid reputation for quality and longevity. A drive with built-in encryption and backup software can also provide added security and convenience.
Overall, choosing an external hard drive for Time Machine backups requires careful consideration of compatibility, capacity, speed, and reliability. Take the time to research and compare options before making a purchase.
What is the price range for external hard drives that are compatible with Time Machine backups on a Mac?
The price range for external hard drives that are compatible with Time Machine backups on a Mac can vary depending on the storage capacity, brand, and features. Generally, you can find a good quality external hard drive that is compatible with Time Machine backups for under $100. However, if you need more storage capacity, you may need to invest in a more expensive external hard drive. For example, a 1TB external hard drive can range from $50 to $100, while a 8TB external hard drive can range from $150 to $300. It's important to consider the reputation of the brand, read reviews, and compare prices before making a purchase. Additionally, investing in a durable and reliable external hard drive can help protect your important data and prevent any potential loss or damage.