If you’re looking for a reliable way to expand the storage on your Mac, an external storage device is the answer. External storage can store all your files, music, movies, and other essential data without taking up space on your internal hard drive. With so many options out there, it can be challenging to choose the best one for your needs.
Before buying an external storage device for your Mac, you need to consider some factors such as capacity, speed, reliability, and price. Capacity refers to the amount of storage space the device has. Speed determines how fast files can be transferred between your Mac and the external drive. Reliability is crucial, as you need a device that can be trusted to store your important files safely. Finally, the price needs to work with your budget.
Are you always running out of space on your Mac? Are you worried about losing your valuable files? Do you want to expand your storage capacity without breaking the bank? If so, external storage is the solution you’ve been looking for. Keep reading to learn more about the best external storage options available for Mac users and how to choose the right one for your needs.
10 Best External Storage For Mac
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The product is ideal for expanding and backing up storage for computers, laptops, gaming accessories, and gaming consoles.
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It is ideal for providing extra storage space for PC, laptop and Mac.
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This product is ideal for backing up photos, videos, and files from iPhone, iPad, Android, MacBook, and Windows PC.
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It is an external hard drive that is ideal for backing up photos and videos from iPhones, iPads, Androids, MacBooks, and PCs.
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The product is ideal for storing large digital files and data backup purposes, with fast transfer speeds via USB 3.0.
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This product is ideal for portable external storage for various devices such as PC, Mac, Xbox One, and PS4.
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This product is ideal for securely storing and backing up large amounts of data on a Mac computer.
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It is ideal for storing and transferring files between PC, Mac, laptop, PS4, and Xbox One/Xbox.
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The product is ideal for storing and transferring large amounts of data between Mac computers and other devices.
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Data storage for computers and gaming consoles.
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1. Whitedrive: High-Speed Backup & Storage Solution
The Suhsai Portable Hard Drive is a reliable and secure option for storing your important data and multimedia files. With this external hard disk, you can improve the performance of your PC, Mac, or laptop while also easily backing up your files with just a single click.
One of the best things about this plug-and-play hard disk is that it does not require any software installation. Simply plug it in and you're ready to use it. The compact design of the Suhsai external hard drive makes it easy to take with you wherever you go, and it's perfect for anyone looking for a space-saving storage solution.
This external hard drive is compatible with a variety of devices, including Macs, Chromebook laptops, desktop computers, Windows, gaming systems like PlayStation 4 and 5, and Xbox One. You can use it as a backup drive for all types of data, including videos, photos, files, and more. With a 3.0 USB cable, it provides fast data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbps.
The slim and lightweight design of this portable hard drive makes it easy to carry in your pocket, and the outer cover is made with durable ABS plastic that keeps it running quietly and smoothly. When you purchase this external hard drive, you'll also receive a pouch, USB 3.0 cable, and user manual. Additionally, Suhsai offers a 1-year warranty, giving you added peace of mind when purchasing this product.
2. Goldenslim Portable 2tb External Hard Drive
The Ultra-Fast External Hard Drive is designed to provide quick and efficient data transfers for improved work efficiency. With a super high transmission rate, it runs up to 5 times faster than typical hard drives when reading, and over 1 time faster when writing. This feature makes it a perfect fit for individuals who require high-speed data transfers.
The external hard drive is compatible with nearly all PC systems, including Mac, WIN7/8/8.1/10, and Android. It boasts strong compatibility with 99% of PC systems, making it a great choice for users who switch between different devices often.
The portable external hard drive is ultra-slim and lightweight, making it a space-saving option for users on the go. It is designed to easily fit into a pocket, making it an ideal choice for individuals who need to transport data from one location to another.
With a high storage capacity of up to 1TB or 2TB, this external hard drive is made to free up more space and improve the performance of PCs and laptops. It offers a large storage capacity that users can use to store important data, media files, and more.
This external hard drive is plug-and-play, meaning there is no need to install any software. Simply plug it in, and the drive is ready to use. The external hard drive chip is wrapped with an aluminum anti-interference layer to increase heat dissipation and protect data, ensuring users' data remains safe.
3. Idiskk 2tb Photo Backup Drive.
Introducing the iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive, a Mfi Certified 2TB HDD with a built-in 2000mAh battery that provides a reliable and convenient data backup solution for your iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac, and PC. This external hard drive instantly expands your storage space by up to 2TB, freeing up your device and allowing you to enjoy videos and photos anytime, anywhere.
With just one tap, you can easily backup your iPhone or iPad album via the app, making future backups only save newly added files and avoiding storage-consuming duplicates. You can also use the in-app camera to take photos and videos, which will be automatically stored into the drive. This feature is perfect for those who want to keep their memories safe and accessible.
The iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive features highly confidential data encryption technology that allows you to easily share data with families, friends, and colleagues. You can enable all data or partial to be protected via setting a password. All the encrypted files stored in this hard drive are invisible on the computer, so there's no need to worry about the disclosure of your privacy.
This portable hard drive offers simple plug-and-play operation, just plug it into your iPhone or iPad and watch the movies directly from the hard drive on 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.
The iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive is MFi certified and compatible with a wide range of devices, 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. The MFi certified chip and connector guarantee stable and safe data transfer for your iPhone and iPad/iPad pro series.
4. Idiskk: Your All-In-One Photo Storage Solution
The iDiskk iPhone Hard Drive is the perfect solution for those who need additional storage space for their iPhone, iPad, PC, or Mac. With a capacity of 1TB, this hard drive provides ample space for storing all your photos, videos, and important files. The built-in 2000mAh battery ensures that you never run out of power while transferring your data.
Backing up your photos and videos is now easier than ever with the iDiskk's one-tap backup feature. Simply connect the external hard drive to your iPhone or iPad and let the app do the rest. Future backups only save newly added files, so you don't have to worry about storage-consuming duplicates. Additionally, you can use the in-app camera to take photos and videos, which will be automatically stored on the drive.
Privacy is a top priority when it comes to storing personal data, which is why the iDiskk Portable Hard Drive offers highly confidential data encryption technology. You can enable password protection for all or part of your data, and encrypted files will be invisible on your computer. Rest assured that your privacy is secure.
The iDiskk Portable Hard Drive is easy to use, with simple plug-and-play operation. No software installation is required, and you can intuitively drag and drop files to and from your PC or Macbook. The hard drive is also MFi certified, ensuring stable and safe data transfer between your iPhone and iPad.
The iDiskk Portable Hard Drive is widely compatible with various Apple devices, including the 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. It is also compatible with Mac and Android devices.
5. Toshiba Canvio Basics 4tb Portable External Hard Drive Usb 3.0, Black – Hdtb440xk3ca
The newly designed sleek profile external hard drive boasts a modern look with a matte finish that is resistant to smudges. This device is plug-and-play, which means it's extremely easy to use and requires no software installation. Simply connect it to your PC or any other compatible device, and you're ready to go!
With the ability to quickly add more storage capacity, this external hard drive is a must-have for anyone who needs to store large amounts of data. The device is compatible with both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0, making it versatile and user-friendly. Additionally, this device requires no external AC power cord, making it even more convenient to use.
The device's compact size and lightweight design make it easy to transport, allowing you to take your files wherever you go. Whether you're a student, professional, or just someone who needs a reliable way to store important data, this external hard drive is an excellent choice.
With its impressive storage capacity and user-friendly design, this external hard drive is perfect for anyone who needs to store large amounts of data quickly and securely. The device's parameters are impressive, with a sleek profile design, smudge-resistant matte finish, USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 compatibility, and no external AC power cord needed. So, go ahead and add this external hard drive to your tech collection today!
6. Sargart Slim 500gb Portable Hdd For All Devices
The Sturdy Metal Design of this portable hard drive is built to last with its remarkable strength and durability. Its All-Aluminum anti-scratch model ensures that your data is protected during travel. This hard drive can backup massive data in seconds, delivering ultra-fast transfer speeds that can improve your PC's performance.
This External Hard Drive is Compatible with various operating systems such as Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, PS4, and Xbox series consoles. As a result, it provides stable and fast loading on game consoles.
Powered by USB 3.0 technology, this USB hard drive is much faster than its USB 2.0 backup drive counterparts, yet still compatible with them. This allows for super-fast transfer speeds that can significantly improve your overall experience.
This External Hard Drive is Plug and Play. This means it's ready to use right out of the box, without needing an external power supply or software installation. Its compact size and lightweight design make it a convenient extra storage option for your computer and game console.
Included in the package is one Portable External Hard Drive, one USB 3.0 Cable, and a Gift-type shell packaging. It also comes with a 3-year manufacturer's warranty and free technical support services.
7. Mypassport Mac: 2tb Backup With Password Protection.
This product is specially designed for Mac users who are looking for reliable device management and backup software with added security features. The software comes equipped with password protection and 256-bit AES hardware encryption, ensuring that all your data is safe and secure.
To use this product, you'll need to download and install the software, and agree to the terms and conditions. In some cases, user account registration may also be required.
The product comes with a SuperSpeed USB port that can transfer data at up to 5Gbps, making it an ideal choice for those who need to transfer large files quickly. It's also USB 2.0 compatible, so you can use it with other devices if needed.
This product comes with a 3-year limited warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and secure device management and backup solution for your Mac, this product is definitely worth considering.
8. Ultra Slim 500gb External Hard Drive
TEYADI 2.5" HDD External Hard Drive is a versatile storage device that supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android. It can be easily connected to multiple devices such as laptops, desktops, and MACs.
This external hard drive offers lightning-fast data transfer speeds, thanks to its USB 2.0/3.0 version that provides read and write speeds of up to 10 Gbps. The motherboard is designed to be noise-free, providing you with a quiet working environment. Its lightweight and portable size make it easy to carry in your pocket, making it ideal for taking your files on the go.
The external hard drive is ready to use without the need for an external power supply or software installation. It provides an ideal extra storage space for your computer and game console.
To ensure a secure place for your files and reduce electromagnetic field interference, the main body of the external hard drive features a protective coating made of aluminum foil. Every HDD device undergoes rigorous testing to meet quality standards, ensuring that you receive a reliable and durable product.
With your purchase of the TEYADI 2.5" HDD External Hard Drive, you will receive one portable hard drive, one USB3.0 cable, and one user manual. This product also comes with a three-year manufacturer warranty and lifetime technical support. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, please contact us, and we promise to make it right for you.
9. Macshield: 5tb Of Portable Data Protection
Looking for a top-of-the-line external hard drive that is both stylish and secure? Look no further than this USB-C and USB 3.1 compatible drive, featuring an innovative design with a sleek metal cover that is sure to turn heads. With 256-bit AES hardware encryption and password protection, your data will remain safe and secure at all times.
In addition to its impressive security features, this external hard drive is also formatted for Mac, making it the perfect choice for Apple users who demand both style and functionality. Whether you're storing important documents or your favorite photos and videos, this drive has plenty of space to accommodate all your storage needs.
So why wait? Upgrade your storage game today with this innovative and stylish external hard drive, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your data is safe and secure at all times.
10. Nrico 250gb Portable Usb 3.0 Hard Drive
Introducing the portable hard drive that combines sleek design, thin profile, and sturdy metal construction for highly flexible file protection. With this device, you can securely store and carry all your important files, pictures, videos, and more wherever you go.
By default, this portable hard drive is formatted as exFAT, ensuring seamless compatibility with Windows and Mac operating systems. However, some older devices may require reformatting to work optimally.
The best part? You don't need to install any software or configure the device manually. The Windows operating system will automatically recognize the portable hard drive once it's connected to your computer. Simply plug it in and play.
Along with the portable hard drive, you will receive a USB3.0 cable, a user manual, and a manufacturer warranty that lasts for three years. With all these features, you can have peace of mind knowing that your files are safe and secure.
Best External Storage For Mac FAQs
Are there any additional features or considerations to keep in mind when choosing the best external storage for a Mac?
Yes, there are several additional features and considerations to keep in mind when choosing the best external storage for a Mac. Here are a few:
1. Compatibility: Make sure the external storage device you choose is compatible with your Mac's operating system.
2. Connection type: Consider the connection type of the external storage device. For instance, if you have a newer Mac with Thunderbolt 3 ports, you may want to choose an external storage device that also has Thunderbolt 3 connectivity for faster data transfer rates.
3. Size and capacity: Consider the size and capacity of the external storage device. If you plan on using it for large files such as video projects, you may want to choose a larger capacity device.
4. Durability: Consider the durability of the external storage device. If you plan on using it on the go or in rugged environments, you may want to choose a device that is built to withstand physical shocks and damage.
5. Security: Consider the security features of the external storage device. If you plan on storing sensitive data, you may want to choose a device that has encryption capabilities or other security measures to protect your data from unauthorized access.
Overall, choosing the best external storage for a Mac requires careful consideration of these factors and others, depending on your specific needs and use case.
Are there any external hard drives that are specifically designed for Macs?
Yes, there are external hard drives that are specifically designed for Macs. One of the most popular options is the Western Digital My Passport for Mac. This external hard drive is formatted for macOS and comes with the Apple Time Machine backup software. It also has a sleek design that complements Macs. Another option is the LaCie Porsche Design Mobile Drive, which is also formatted for macOS and has a durable aluminum casing. Other external hard drives that are compatible with Macs include the Seagate Backup Plus Slim and the G-Technology G-Drive Mobile. When choosing an external hard drive for your Mac, it is important to make sure that it is compatible with your operating system and has enough storage capacity for your needs.
Can you recommend an external storage device for a MacBook Pro?
Yes, I can recommend an external storage device for a MacBook Pro. One of the best options is the Samsung T5 Portable SSD. This device offers fast read and write speeds, making it ideal for transferring large files quickly. It is also compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. The Samsung T5 offers up to 2TB of storage, which should be more than enough for most users. Another great option is the Western Digital My Passport Ultra. This device is available in capacities up to 5TB, which is perfect for users who need a lot of storage space. It also has a sleek design and offers fast transfer speeds. Overall, both of these external storage devices are great options for MacBook Pro users who need extra storage space.
How much storage should I consider when purchasing an external drive for my Mac?
When it comes to purchasing an external drive for your Mac, it is important to consider your storage needs. The amount of storage you need depends on what you plan to use the drive for. If you are using it for basic document storage and backup purposes, then a drive with 500GB to 1TB of storage should suffice. However, if you are a professional photographer or videographer, or if you work with large files, then you may require more storage space. In such cases, a drive with 2TB or more is recommended. It is also important to consider the type of drive you want to purchase, whether it is a traditional hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD). SSDs are faster and more reliable than HDDs, but they are also more expensive. Ultimately, the amount of storage you need depends on your specific use case, so it is important to assess your needs before making a purchase.
Is it better to opt for an external SSD or HDD for my Mac's storage needs?
It depends on your specific needs and usage patterns. If you need fast read/write speeds and transfer large files frequently, an external SSD would be a better choice. SSDs use flash memory and have no moving parts, making them faster and more durable than HDDs. They are also more expensive per GB than HDDs.
On the other hand, if you need a large amount of storage space but don't require fast read/write speeds, an external HDD is a more cost-effective option. HDDs use spinning disks and are slower than SSDs, but they are cheaper per GB and can provide a large amount of storage space.
Ultimately, the decision between an external SSD or HDD for your Mac's storage needs depends on your budget, storage requirements, and usage patterns. If you can afford it and need fast read/write speeds, go for an external SSD. If you need a large amount of storage space and don't require fast speeds, an external HDD would be a better choice.
What are the best external hard drives for Mac in 2021?
In 2021, there are several external hard drives available in the market that are suitable for Mac. The best external hard drives for Mac are those that are fast, reliable, and have a large storage capacity. Here are some of the best external hard drives for Mac:
1. Samsung T5: This external hard drive is fast, reliable, and offers a large storage capacity of up to 2 TB. It is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around.
2. LaCie Rugged Thunderbolt: This external hard drive is rugged and durable, making it suitable for people who travel frequently. It has a fast transfer speed of up to 510 MB/s and is available in storage capacities of up to 5 TB.
3. WD My Passport for Mac: This external hard drive is affordable, fast, and reliable. It has a storage capacity of up to 5 TB and comes with WD Discovery software that allows you to easily backup and manage your files.
4. Seagate Backup Plus Slim: This external hard drive is slim, portable, and has a storage capacity of up to 5 TB. It also comes with Seagate's Dashboard software that allows you to easily backup and manage your files.
Overall, the best external hard drive for Mac will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is important to consider factors such as storage capacity, speed, and durability when choosing an external hard drive for your Mac.
What are the differences between USB-C, Thunderbolt, and FireWire connections for Mac external storage devices?
USB-C, Thunderbolt, and FireWire are different types of connections that can be used for external storage devices on Mac computers. USB-C is a newer type of connection that is becoming increasingly popular. It offers faster data transfer speeds than older USB connections. Thunderbolt is another type of connection that is faster than USB-C. It was developed by Apple and Intel and offers speeds of up to 40 Gbps. FireWire is an older type of connection that is not used as much anymore. It offers slower data transfer speeds than USB-C or Thunderbolt.
When it comes to external storage devices, USB-C is the most versatile option because it is compatible with a wide range of devices and offers faster speeds than FireWire. However, if you need the fastest possible speeds, Thunderbolt is the way to go. It is particularly useful for tasks such as video editing or transferring large amounts of data quickly. Overall, the type of connection you choose will depend on your specific needs and the type of external storage device you are using.
What are the top brands to consider when buying external storage for a Mac?
When it comes to buying external storage for a Mac, there are several top brands that you should consider. One of the most well-known and reliable brands is Western Digital. Their My Passport series offers high-capacity storage solutions that are both portable and easy to use. Another great brand is Seagate, which offers a range of external hard drives and solid-state drives that are compatible with Macs. Their Backup Plus line is particularly popular among Mac users. LaCie is also a popular brand, known for their durable and stylish external hard drives. They offer a range of options, including rugged drives that are perfect for those who need to take their data on the go. Other brands to consider include G-Technology, Toshiba, and Samsung. When selecting an external storage device, it's important to consider factors such as storage capacity, data transfer speed, and compatibility with your Mac.
What is the best external hard drive for Time Machine backups on a Mac?
When it comes to choosing an external hard drive for Time Machine backups on a Mac, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you'll want to ensure that the hard drive is compatible with your Mac's operating system. Additionally, you'll want to choose a hard drive with enough storage capacity to accommodate your backup needs.
One popular option for Mac users is the Western Digital My Passport for Mac. This external hard drive is pre-formatted for Mac and comes in a range of storage capacities, from 1TB to 5TB. It also offers fast data transfer speeds and includes software for password protection and automatic backup scheduling.
Another option to consider is the Seagate Backup Plus Portable Drive for Mac. It also comes pre-formatted for Mac and offers up to 5TB of storage capacity. It includes Seagate's Dashboard software for easy backup management and also has a sleek and durable design.
Ultimately, the best external hard drive for Time Machine backups on a Mac will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to do your research, read reviews, and choose a reputable brand to ensure the reliability and longevity of your backup system.
What is the best external SSD for Mac?
There are several external SSD options available in the market that are compatible with Mac, but the best one depends on your specific needs and budget. One of the popular options is the Samsung T5 Portable SSD, which offers a sleek design, fast transfer speeds, and a range of storage capacities up to 2TB. It also comes with software that enables you to set up password protection and encryption for your data.
Another great option is the SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD, which boasts lightning-fast transfer speeds, rugged design, and capacities up to 2TB. It is also designed with an IP55 rating for water and dust resistance, making it ideal for on-the-go use.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, the Crucial X8 Portable SSD is worth considering. It offers fast read and write speeds, a durable design, and storage capacities up to 2TB, all at an affordable price.
In summary, the best external SSD for Mac depends on your specific needs and budget, but the Samsung T5, SanDisk Extreme Pro, and Crucial X8 are all great options to consider.