When it comes to finding the best external hard drive for Mac, the options can be overwhelming. With the surge of data storage needs in 2024, selecting the right external hard drive has become more crucial than ever. Whether you’re looking to back up important files, extend your storage capacity, or transport data on the go, the right hard drive will make a significant difference in your overall experience. In this guide, we will explore the top 10 external hard drives available on Amazon.
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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WD 5TB My Passport Ultra for Mac Silver, Portable External Hard Drive, backup software with defense... | $139.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 2 |
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WD 2TB My Passport for Mac, Navy, Portable External Hard Drive with backup software and password... | $77.50 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 3 |
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UnionSine 1TB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive HDD-USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, Laptop, PS4, Xbox... | $54.19 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 4 |
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Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive HDD — USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, PlayStation, & Xbox -1-Year... | $75.98 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 5 |
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Seagate Portable 5TB External Hard Drive HDD – USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, PS4, & Xbox - 1-Year Rescue... | $129.00 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 6 |
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WD 5TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive for Windows, USB 3.2 Gen 1/USB 3.0 for PC & Mac, Plug... | $119.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 7 |
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Toshiba Canvio Flex 2TB Portable External Hard Drive USB-C USB 3.0, Silver for PC, Mac, & Tablet -... | $79.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 8 |
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Archgon Premium Aluminum External USB 3.0 UHD 4K Blu-Ray Writer Super Drive for PC and Mac | $125.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 9 |
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External Blu Ray Drive, 4K Portable Blu Ray Burner USB 3.0 Type-C UHD BD Player with SD/TF Port,... | $109.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 10 |
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Maxone 500GB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive HDD USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, Laptop, PS4, Xbox one... | $33.31 | Buy on Amazon |
Contents
- The Top 10 External Hard Drives for Mac in 2024
- 1. LaCie Rugged USB-C 2TB External Hard Drive
- 2. Samsung T7 Portable SSD 2TB
- 3. Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB External Hard Drive
- 4. G-Technology G-DRIVE USB-C 4TB External Hard Drive
- 5. WD My Passport 4TB Portable External Hard Drive
- 6. Transcend StoreJet 2TB External Hard Drive
- 7. Sabrent Rocket Nano 1TB Portable SSD
- 8. Buffalo MiniStation 1TB External Hard Drive
- 9. ADATA SD600Q 480GB External SSD
- 10. Seagate Expansion Desktop 8TB External Hard Drive
- Buying Guide: What to Consider When Choosing an External Hard Drive for Mac
- Conclusion
The Top 10 External Hard Drives for Mac in 2024
1. LaCie Rugged USB-C 2TB External Hard Drive
The LaCie Rugged series is synonymous with durability. The USB-C 2TB model offers excellent data transfer speeds of up to 130MB/s thanks to its USB 3.0 interface while holding up against drops, shocks, and rain. Designed specifically for creative professionals, this drive is a perfect fit for anyone working with large video files or backups.
Pros:
- Durable and rugged design
- Fast transfer speeds
- Compatible with USB-C and USB 3.0
Cons:
- A bit pricey compared to standard drives
Overall, the LaCie Rugged USB-C 2TB drives are well-suited for Mac users who need robustness without sacrificing speed.
- Shock, drops up to 4 feet, dust and water resistant for all-terrain use
- For Mac compatibility this Hard Drive requires reformatting. Refer to Application Guide for more details
- Password protection built in
- Uses USB 3.0 which is up to 4 times faster than USB 2.0 (USB 2.0 compatible)
- Includes 1-month complimentary membership to Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan. Must redeem by January 31, 2020
2. Samsung T7 Portable SSD 2TB
Samsung’s T7 Portable SSD offers unparalleled speed at up to 1,050MB/s read and 1,000MB/s write speeds. The slim and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, while its AES 256-bit hardware encryption ensures your data remains secure. It’s perfect for video editing and running applications straight from the drive.
Pros:
- Ultra-fast transfer speeds
- Compact and portable design
- Secure encryption
Cons:
- Higher price point for SSD technology
The Samsung T7 is an ideal choice for those who prioritize speed and portability in their best external hard drive for Mac.
- MADE FOR THE MAKERS: Create; Explore; Store; The T7 Portable SSD delivers fast speeds and durable features to back up any endeavor; Build your video editing empire, file your photographs or back up your blogs all in an instant
- SHARE IDEAS IN A FLASH: Don’t waste a second waiting and spend more time doing; The T7 is embedded with PCIe NVMe technology that brings fast read and write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s¹, making it almost twice as fast as the T5
- ALWAYS MAKE THE SAVE: Compact design with massive capacity; With capacities up to 4TB, save exactly what you need to your drive – from large working files to game data and everything in between
- ADAPTS TO EVERY NEED: Whether using a PC or mobile phone, count on the T7 for extensive compatibility²; It’s a true team player when it comes to heavy-duty application usage or file-saving
- HI RESOLUTION VIDEO RECORDING: Record Ultra High Resolution (4K 60fs) videos directly onto the T7 Portable SSD with your favorite camera or mobile devices; Supports iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video and more³
3. Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB External Hard Drive
With the Seagate Backup Plus Slim, you have stylish, portable storage. This external hard drive has a sleek design and is lightweight, making it an optimal choice for travel. With automatic backup options and compatibility with Time Machine, it is a perfect companion for Mac users wanting effortless data management.
Pros:
- Automatic backup software
- Lightweight and portable
- Time Machine compatibility
Cons:
- Slower than SSDs
The Backup Plus Slim is commendable for ease of use and aesthetic appeal in the world of best external hd for Mac storage options.
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
4. G-Technology G-DRIVE USB-C 4TB External Hard Drive
Renowned for its high-performance storage, the G-Technology G-DRIVE offers generous 4TB capacity combined with USB-C connectivity. This drive is crafted from durable aluminum, making it a robust choice. The 7200 RPM drive provides speedy data transfers that make it perfect for heavy workloads.
Pros:
- Spacious storage
- 7200 RPM speed
- Aluminum casing provides durability
Cons:
- Higher cost due to professional design
Overall, if you need expansive storage with high speed, the G-Technology G-DRIVE is an excellent investment.
- Stylish, aluminum design
- With capacities up to 4TB of portable storage (as used for storage capacity, one terabyte (TB) = one trillion bytes. Total accessible capacity varies depending on operating environment.)
- USB C ready; USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 3 compatible
- Mac ready; easily reformatted for Windows
5. WD My Passport 4TB Portable External Hard Drive
The WD My Passport is one of the most popular external hard drives. With a 4TB capacity, it offers ample space for your files and comes equipped with WD Backup software for hassle-free backups. It’s compact and travel-friendly, making it a staple among Mac users.
Pros:
- Great balance between price and capacity
- Easy to use with WD Backup software
- Dimensions make it easily portable
Cons:
- Not as fast as SSDs
All things considered, the WD My Passport is an affordable external hard drive for users needing significant storage without breaking the bank.
- USB-C and USB 3.1 compatible
- Innovative style with refined metal cover
- Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Formatted for Windows
- 3-year manufacturer's limited warranty
6. Transcend StoreJet 2TB External Hard Drive
The Transcend StoreJet is a rugged external hard drive that combines shock resistance with a lightweight design. Featuring a one-touch backup button and USB 3.0 support, it’s aimed at users who need a reliable backup solution on the go.
Pros:
- Durable and rugged
- One-touch backup
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Transfer speeds are moderate
If you need a best external hard drive for Mac that can withstand tough conditions, the Transcend StoreJet is a worthy contender.
- Military-grade shock resistance
- SuperSpeed USB 3.0 compliant and backwards compatible with USB 2.0
- Advanced 3-stage shock protection system with durable anti-shock rubber outer case
- Advanced internal hard drive suspension system
- Quick Reconnect Button - re-enable safely removed USB hard drive without unplug and reinsert
7. Sabrent Rocket Nano 1TB Portable SSD
For those looking for speed and portability, the Sabrent Rocket Nano is a fantastic option. With read speeds of up to 1,000MB/s, this portable SSD is a great companion for video editors. Its compact design makes it ultra-portable and it works seamlessly with Mac.
Pros:
- Outstanding speed
- Compact design
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 support
Cons:
- Lower capacity compared to traditional HDDs
The Sabrent Rocket Nano offers top-tier performance and is perfect for users seeking a fast and portable SSD.
![SABRENT 1TB External Aluminum SSD, Rocket Nano V2, USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 [SB-1TB-NAV2]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31PWIi9s1WL.jpg)
- Burst transfers over 1500 MB/s with sustained performance capable of smooth 8K video recording. Transfers over USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface for maximum speed. Higher quality content requires better performance - don’t settle for slower, inconsistent portable storage.
- Constructed of aluminum with an external silicone sleeve for ruggedness in all conditions. The nano V2 looks professional in the field while keeping your data cool and protected. The tight design keeps the drive lightweight and portable, proving that great things come in small packages.
- Available at up to 4TB to make sure you never run out of space. Simplify your capture experience, even with high bitrate content. Cutting-edge internal hardware makes sure your storage stays in the game thanks to high-endurance flash and wear management.
- The nano V2 includes both Type-C to Type-A and Type-C to Type-C cables for flexibility. Compatible with a wide range of devices with USB backward compatibility. The native UFD controller additionally assures minimal compatibility issues.
- Please register your nano V2 with the manufacturer to get the most out of your warranty. If you need assistance, our technical support team is ready to help.
8. Buffalo MiniStation 1TB External Hard Drive
The Buffalo MiniStation strikes a nice balance between performance and price. Designed for both Mac and Windows, this drive offers USB 3.0 connectivity and comes with a sleek design. The 1TB capacity is ample for general use, including file backups and media storage.
Pros:
- Affordably priced
- Sleek design
- Dual compatibility for Mac and Windows
Cons:
- Slower speeds compared to SSDs
An attractive option for users looking for practical pricing and functionality, the Buffalo MiniStation is a solid choice.
- USB PC Compatible plug-and-play. Compatible w/ Mac after formatting.
- Ruggedized (mil-spec)
- Hardware Encryption
- NFC technology
- Water and Dust Resistant
9. ADATA SD600Q 480GB External SSD
If you prioritize affordability alongside speed, the ADATA SD600Q can be an appealing choice. Offering decent read/write speeds of 440MB/s, it’s suitable for frequent travels. Its compact design and durability make it a reliable external SSD for everyday use.
Pros:
- Affordable external SSD
- Decent performance for its price
- Compact and durable
Cons:
- Smaller storage than others on this list
For users wanting an external SSD without spending a fortune, the ADATA SD600Q brings commendable value.
- USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C
- Performance up to 2000MB/c with USB Gen 2x2 supported devices. For other type of ports, speed will be limited by host systems.
- Super compact. Smaller than a credit card and weight slightly more than a pen
- Supports new generation game consoles
- Supports multiple operating systems including Windows and Mac. Drive default at exFAT format for cross-platforms compatibility
10. Seagate Expansion Desktop 8TB External Hard Drive
For users needing the highest capacity, the Seagate Expansion Desktop is the answer. With a massive 8TB of storage, it is perfect for extensive file archives and backups. However, it is not portable due to its size, making it ideal for stationary setups.
Pros:
- Massive storage capacity
- Simple plug-and-play functionality
- Affordable price per TB
Cons:
- Not portable
Best suited for home or office use, the Seagate Expansion Desktop is a powerhouse drive to accommodate heavy storage needs.
- Easy-to-use desktop hard drive—simply plug in the power adapter and USB cable
- Fast file transfers with USB 3.0
- Drag-and-drop file saving right out of the box
- Automatic recognition of Windows and Mac computers for simple setup (Reformatting required for use with Time Machine)
- Enjoy peace of mind with the included limited warranty and Rescue Data Recovery Services
Buying Guide: What to Consider When Choosing an External Hard Drive for Mac
When searching for the best external hard drive for Mac, there are several factors you should consider:
Storage Capacity
Depending on your needs, you want to choose a drive that provides ample space. Options generally range from 500GB to several terabytes.
Speed
Consider whether you need an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) for cheaper, larger capacity or an SSD (Solid State Drive) for speed and portability. SSDs are faster and more reliable, while HDDs offer more space for lower prices.
Portability
If you plan to move your drive often, a smaller, more compact design is ideal. For stationary use, a larger drive with more storage might be more suitable.
Durability
Consider getting a rugged option if you frequently transport your drive. Many brands offer shockproof designs that can withstand physical wear and tear.
Compatibility
Ensure that the drive is compatible with your Mac system. Most external hard drives are plug-and-play for Mac, but certain SSDs with specific formats may require reformatting.
Backup and Software
Look for drives that come with backup software or features that go beyond basic storage. This can help streamline your workflow and ensure your data is backed up automatically.
Price
Establish your budget. While SSDs can be more expensive, HDDs provide a more affordable solution for those requiring large amounts of storage without the need for speed.
Conclusion
Selecting the best external hard drive for Mac in 2024 comes down to balancing your storage needs, speed, portability, and budget. The options above represent some of the finest drives available on Amazon, showcasing a variety of features and specifications. Whichever you choose, ensure it meets your particular needs. A good external hard drive can make data storage effortless and enhance your computing experience in many invaluable ways.
Last update on 2024-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.