Introducing the 12 Amazing Mac External Hard Drives for 2023! As technology advances and data storage becomes increasingly essential, having a reliable and spacious external hard drive for your Mac is crucial. Whether you are a creative professional, a student, or simply an avid Mac user, this comprehensive list will guide you in finding the perfect external hard drive that suits your needs. With a range of storage capacities, lightning-fast transfer speeds, and durable designs, these Mac external hard drives are guaranteed to enhance your data management experience in the coming year. Stay ahead of the game and ensure your important files, photos, and videos are safely stored with these top-notch Mac external hard drives.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Western Digital WD 2TB My Passport for Mac is a portable external hard drive designed specifically for Mac users. It comes with backup software and password protection, ensuring the safety of your data. With its 256-bit AES hardware encryption, your files will be secure. The drive features a SuperSpeed USB port for quick data transfer and is also compatible with USB 2.0. It comes with a 3-year limited warranty. The navy blue color gives it a stylish look. The compact size makes it easy to carry and store. Overall, this external hard drive provides reliable storage and protection for your Mac.
Key Features
- Designed for Mac.Specific uses: Personal
- Software for device management and backup with password protection
- 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Super Speed USB port (5Gbps); USB 2.0 compatible
- 3-year limited warranty
Specifications
- Color: Navy
- Dimension: 4.22Lx2.95Wx0.44H
- Size: 2TB
Pros
- Reliable and stylish design
- Software for backup and password protection
- Compact and portable
- Fast data transfer
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Discontinued WD App
- Slower compared to SSD and flash media
The Western Digital WD 2TB My Passport for Mac is a reliable and stylish external hard drive designed specifically for Mac users. It offers software for easy device management, backup with password protection, and 256-bit AES hardware encryption. With its fast data transfer and compact size, it is perfect for personal use. The 3-year warranty provides peace of mind. However, the discontinuation of the WD App and the slower speed compared to SSD and flash media may be a drawback. Overall, this portable external hard drive is a great choice for Mac users who value reliability and data security.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Toshiba Canvio Flex 2TB External Hard Drive offers a versatile storage solution for PC, Mac, and Tablet users. With its USB-C and USB 3.0 compatibility, it provides high-speed data transfer and cross-device compatibility. The sleek silver design adds a touch of elegance to your setup. This hard drive is formatted exFAT, allowing easy file sharing across devices. It comes with both USB-C and USB-A cables for added convenience. With a customer rating of 4.6/5, users appreciate its plug-and-play functionality and compatibility with Time Machine on Mac. The Toshiba Canvio Flex 2TB is a reliable and efficient storage solution for all your digital content.
Key Features
- Designed for PC, Mac, and Tablet (check compatibility at Toshiba's Consumer HDD website)
- Formatted ex FAT for cross-device compatibility
- USB-C ready, USB 3.0 compatible
- Includes USB-C and USB-A cables
- 2TB storage capacity
Specifications
- Color: Silver
- Dimension: 4.37Lx3.15Wx0.53H
- Size: 2TB
Pros
- Easy setup and compatibility with Time Machine on Mac
- High-speed data transfer
- Sleek silver design
- Versatile connectivity options
Cons
- May not accept a standard USB plug
- Transfer speed may be slower on certain devices
The Toshiba Canvio Flex 2TB Portable External Hard Drive is a reliable and versatile storage solution for PC, Mac, and Tablet users. Its USB-C compatibility and high-speed data transfer make it a convenient choice for fast and efficient file storage and sharing. While it may have some limitations regarding the acceptance of standard USB plugs and slower transfer speeds on certain devices, overall, it provides excellent performance and ease of use. The sleek silver design adds a touch of elegance to any setup. With its large storage capacity and compatibility with Time Machine on Mac, the Toshiba Canvio Flex is a great choice for users seeking reliable and efficient external storage for their digital content.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Western Digital 5TB My Passport Ultra for Mac is a highly compatible portable external hard drive designed specifically for Mac users. With its USB-C and USB 3.1 compatibility, it offers fast and efficient data transfers for both business and personal use. Its innovative style featuring a refined metal cover provides a sleek and professional look. The hard drive also comes with password protection and 256-bit AES hardware encryption for enhanced data security. Additionally, it is formatted for Mac and offers a generous storage capacity of 5TB, making it perfect for storing large files such as videos, photos, and music. Overall, the WD My Passport Ultra for Mac is a reliable and convenient storage solution for Mac users on the go.
Key Features
- USB-C and USB 3.1 compatible
- Innovative style with refined metal cover
- Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Formatted for Mac
Specifications
- Color: Silver
- Dimension: 4.33Lx3.21Wx0.83H
- Size: 5TB
Pros
- Fast and efficient data transfers
- Sleek and professional design
- Enhanced data security with password protection
- Large storage capacity for storing files
Cons
- Type-C compatibility has limited impact on speed
- Some users received potentially preowned products
The Western Digital 5TB My Passport Ultra for Mac offers a great combination of performance, compatibility, and design. It provides fast data transfers, reliable security features, and a generous storage capacity, making it an ideal choice for Mac users. However, the limited impact of Type-C compatibility on speed and reported instances of potentially preowned products are slight drawbacks. Overall, this external hard drive delivers on its promises and is an excellent option for those in need of portable storage for their Mac devices.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The WD 2TB Elements Portable HDD is a reliable and convenient storage solution for users on the go. With its compact design and high capacity of 2TB, this external hard drive offers ample space for storing videos, music, photos, and files. The USB 3.0 interface ensures fast data transfer speeds, and the plug-and-play functionality makes it easy to use with Windows PCs. The WD Elements Portable HDD is also compatible with Mac systems, making it a versatile choice. While the hard drive lacks USB-C connectivity, and the proprietary cable may be a drawback, overall it provides excellent performance and reliable storage for both casual and professional users.
Key Features
- Adding extra storage for your videos, music, photos, and files
- Transfer data at maximum speed with USB 3.0; USB 2.0 compatible
- Improve PC performance by freeing up space
- Plug-and-play ready for Windows PC
- High capacity in a small enclosure
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 4.35Lx3.23Wx0.59H
- Size: 2TB
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Fast data transfer speeds
- Easy plug-and-play functionality
- Ample storage capacity
- Compatible with both PC and Mac
Cons
- Lacks USB-C or similar connectivity options
- Proprietary cable limitation may pose difficulties
The WD 2TB Elements Portable HDD is a great choice for those looking for additional storage capacity for their PC or Mac. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, while the fast transfer speeds ensure quick data transfer. The plug-and-play functionality and ample storage space make it a convenient option for users on the go. However, the lack of USB-C connectivity and the proprietary cable limitation may be a drawback for some users. Overall, the WD 2TB Elements Portable HDD offers reliable performance and great value for money.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The UnionSine 250GB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive is a reliable storage solution compatible with various devices such as PCs, Macs, laptops, PS4, Xbox One, and Xbox 360. It offers ultra-fast data transfers with read speeds up to 137MB/s and write speeds up to 103MB/s. The compact design and quiet operation make it ideal for on-the-go use. With plug and play functionality, there's no need to install any software. The hard drive is also equipped with double anti-interference technology and an aluminum anti-interference layer for improved performance and data protection. Included with the package are a USB 3.0 cable, user manual, and a three-year manufacturer's warranty. This UnionSine external hard drive is a great investment for gamers, professionals, and anyone in need of portable storage.
Key Features
- Ultra-Fast Data Transfers with USB 3.0
- Ultra-thin and quiet design
- Compatibility with various devices
- Plug and Play functionality
- Double anti-interference technology
- Includes USB 3.0 cable and three-year warranty
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 4.56Lx3.15Wx0.50H
- Size: 250GB
Pros
- Fast data transfer speeds
- Quiet operation
- Portable and lightweight design
- Compatible with multiple devices
- No software installation required
- Double anti-interference technology
Cons
- Cord may become loose
- Some games may not work properly
- Can overheat during gaming
The UnionSine 250GB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive is a reliable and efficient storage solution for both casual users and professionals alike. With its fast data transfer speeds, quiet operation, and compact design, it is perfect for those who require portable storage for their PC, Mac, or game consoles. The plug and play functionality and compatibility with various devices make it incredibly convenient to use. While there are some minor downsides such as a loose cord and potential overheating during intense gaming sessions, overall, the UnionSine external hard drive offers great value for its price. Whether you’re a gamer, professional, or someone in need of additional storage space, this hard drive is definitely worth considering.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Caraele 500GB Portable External Hard Drive is a versatile and high-performance storage solution for your PC, Mac, laptop, gaming consoles, and more. With its USB-C and USB 3.1 ports, this HDD offers ultra-fast transfer speeds and is built to last with its shock-resistant solid-state core. It requires no external power source and is compatible with various operating systems and devices. With a sleek and compact design, it is easy to carry around. The package includes a USB-C to USB-A cable, and it comes with a 1-year warranty and free technical support. Overall, the Caraele 500GB Portable External Hard Drive provides reliable and efficient storage for your data needs.
Key Features
- Super Fast Type-C/USB3.1 HDD with USB-C and USB-A ports
- Impressive performance with USB 3.1 Super speed 10Gbps transfer rate
- System compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, Chromebook, and gaming consoles
- Plug and play without the need for external power supply or software installation
- Package includes a USB-C to USB-A cable and comes with a 1-year warranty
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 4.76Lx3.03Wx0.47H
- Size: 500GB
Pros
- Fast transfer speeds
- Durable and shock-resistant
- Compatible with various devices
- Easy plug and play setup
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Cons
- Transfer speeds may not reach advertised rates
The Caraele 500GB Portable External Hard Drive offers impressive performance and reliability for users in need of extra storage space. With its USB-C and USB 3.1 connectivity, it provides fast transfer speeds and wide compatibility with different devices and operating systems. The durable and shock-resistant design ensures the safety of your data, while the plug and play setup makes it user-friendly. Although transfer speeds may not always reach the advertised rates, the overall performance and value make this hard drive a great option. Whether you need additional storage for your PC, Mac, gaming console, or other devices, the Caraele 500GB Portable External Hard Drive is a reliable choice.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Sargart 640GB Portable External Hard Drive is a compact and powerful storage solution for PC, Mac, and gaming consoles. With its USB 3.0 interface, it boasts super-fast transfer speeds, making it perfect for backing up massive amounts of data in seconds. Its slim and pocket-sized design allows for easy portability, while the sturdy and durable case ensures protection. This hard drive is compatible with multiple operating systems and devices, making it versatile for different users. With plug and play functionality, it's effortless to use without the need for any additional software. The package includes the portable hard drive, a USB 3.0 cable, and it comes with a 3-year warranty and free technical support service.
Key Features
- Latest Version: 2.5-inch external hard drive
- Super fast transfer speed with upgrade USB 3.0
- Slim and portable design for easy carrying
- Compatible with multiple systems and devices
- Plug and play functionality for effortless use
- Comes with a 3-year warranty and technical support
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 4.80Lx3.03Wx0.47H
- Size: 640GB
Pros
- Fast data transfer speed
- Compact and portable
- Compatible with various operating systems and devices
- Easy to use with no software installation required
- Comes with a 3-year warranty and support
Cons
The Sargart 640GB Portable External Hard Drive is a reliable and efficient storage solution that offers fast data transfer speeds and a compact design. Its compatibility with various systems and devices makes it a versatile choice for different users. The plug and play functionality ensures ease of use, and the sturdy case provides protection during transportation. With a 3-year warranty and technical support, it offers peace of mind to users. Whether you need additional storage for your PC, Mac, or gaming consoles, this portable hard drive is a reliable option.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB Portable External Hard Drive is a sleek and reliable storage device that allows you to quickly add more storage capacity to your PC and other compatible devices. With its plug and play feature, it is easy to use with no software installation required. The USB 3.0 compatibility ensures fast transfer rates, and it is also compatible with USB 2.0. The matte, smudge-resistant finish gives it a sleek profile design. This black external hard drive is perfect for personal, gaming, and business use.
Key Features
- Sleek profile design with matte finish
- Plug and play, no software installation required
- Quickly adds storage capacity to PC and compatible devices
- USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 compatible
- Ideal for personal, gaming, and business use
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimensions: 4.30Lx3.10Wx0.55H
- Size: 2TB
Pros
- Easy to use, plug and play
- Fast transfer rates
- Ample storage capacity
- Sleek and compact design
Cons
- Requires reformatting for Mac OS
- Possible vulnerability to failure due to spinning disk
The Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB Portable External Hard Drive is an excellent choice for those in need of reliable and convenient storage. Its sleek design, fast transfer rates, and ample storage capacity make it ideal for personal, gaming, and business use. The plug and play feature ensures ease of use, though Mac users may need to reformat the drive. The only potential drawback is the presence of a spinning disk inside, which could make the drive more susceptible to failure. However, with proper backup practices, this should not pose a significant issue. Overall, this hard drive offers great value for its price and is a reliable option for expanding your storage capabilities.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The LaCie Rugged Mini 5TB External Hard Drive is a compact and durable portable storage solution. It offers a massive 5TB capacity, allowing users to carry all their important files and media on the go. With USB 3.0 compatibility, it provides fast transfer speeds of up to 130MB/s. The hard drive is designed to withstand all terrain conditions, being drop, crush, and water resistant. Additionally, it comes with a complimentary one month membership to the Adobe Creative Cloud for access to powerful editing apps. Overall, the LaCie Rugged Mini is a reliable and versatile external hard drive suitable for both Mac and PC users.
Key Features
- 5TB massive capacity
- USB 3.0/2.0 compatibility
- Drop, shock, dust, and rain resistance
- Complimentary one month Adobe Creative Cloud membership
Specifications
- Color: Orange,Grey
- Dimension: 3.39Lx5.31Wx1.02H
- Size: 5TB
Pros
- Massive storage capacity
- Fast transfer speeds
- Durable and resistant to damage
- Includes Adobe Creative Cloud membership
Cons
- Only comes with USB-C cable
- May require additional cable for USB-A compatibility
The LaCie Rugged Mini 5TB External Hard Drive is a reliable and robust storage solution for users who require a high-capacity portable drive. It offers fast transfer speeds and outstanding durability, making it suitable for travel or outdoor use. The complimentary Adobe Creative Cloud membership adds value to creative professionals who require access to editing apps. The only drawback is the lack of a USB-A cable, which may require an additional purchase. Overall, the LaCie Rugged Mini is a top choice for individuals seeking a rugged and dependable external hard drive.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Toshiba Canvio Advance 2TB Portable External Hard Drive is a compact and stylish storage solution. With a textured finish and a range of color options, it fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. It offers automatic backup software for easy content backup, along with password protection software to prevent unauthorized access. The hard drive is compatible with both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0, providing fast and versatile connectivity. With its green color and dimensions of 4.30Lx3.10Wx0.55H, it offers 2TB of storage space. Overall, customers have rated it highly for its reliability, ease of use, and ample storage capacity.
Key Features
- Compact design with stylish, textured finish and color options
- Automatic backup software for easy content backup (Windows PC only)
- Password protection software to prevent unauthorized access (Windows PC only)
- USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 compatible
Specifications
- Color: Green
- Dimension: 4.30Lx3.10Wx0.55H
- Size: 2TB
Pros
- Compact and stylish design
- Easy content backup with automatic backup software
- Password protection for data security
- Fast and versatile connectivity with USB 3.0
Cons
- Backup software limited to Windows PC
- Not compatible with all devices
The Toshiba Canvio Advance 2TB Portable External Hard Drive is a reliable and user-friendly storage solution. Its compact design, ample storage capacity, and fast connectivity make it a great choice for users in need of additional storage. The automatic backup software and password protection provide added convenience and security. However, it’s important to note that the backup software is limited to Windows PC, and the hard drive may not be compatible with all devices. Overall, it offers great value for its price and is highly recommended for those looking for a portable, reliable, and stylish external hard drive.
Overall Score: 9/10
The LaCie Rugged Mini 1TB External Hard Drive is a portable HDD that offers shock, drop, dust, and water resistance for all-terrain use. It features password protection and is compatible with both Mac and PC. The hard drive utilizes USB 3.0, providing faster transfer speeds. Additionally, it comes with a 1-month complimentary membership to Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan. The LaCie Rugged Mini is compact and rugged, making it ideal for users who need durable storage solutions on the go. Its orange color adds a touch of style to its functionality.
Key Features
- Shock, drops up to 4 feet, dust and water resistant
- Requires reformatting for Mac compatibility
- Built-in password protection
- USB 3.0 for fast data transfers
- 1-month complimentary Adobe Creative Cloud membership
Specifications
- Color: Orange
- Dimension: 5.32Lx3.40Wx1.02H
- Size: 1TB
Pros
- Durable and resistant to shocks, drops, dust, and water
- Compatible with Mac and PC
- Fast data transfer speeds with USB 3.0
- Includes a 1-month membership to Adobe Creative Cloud
Cons
- Requires reformatting for Mac compatibility
- Does not come with a USB-C to USB-A cable
The LaCie Rugged Mini 1TB External Hard Drive is a reliable and durable storage solution for users who need to protect their data in various environments. With its rugged design and resistance to shocks, drops, dust, and water, it provides peace of mind for those on the go. The USB 3.0 compatibility ensures fast data transfer speeds, and the built-in password protection adds an extra layer of security. While it may require reformatting for Mac users and does not come with a USB-C to USB-A cable, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by its performance and reliability. Overall, the LaCie Rugged Mini is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a portable and sturdy external hard drive.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The SanDisk Professional 8TB G-Drive is a high-capacity external desktop hard drive featuring enterprise-class Ultrastar 7200RPM drive. It provides fast backup with up to 260MB/s read and write speeds. This USB-C (10Gbps) drive is Mac Ready and compatible with Apple Time Machine. The stackable, anodized aluminum enclosure offers premium durability. It also features three modes of brightness to adjust the LED lights. The dark grey drive has a dimension of 8.27Lx5.24Wx1.61H and a storage capacity of 8TB. While it is a decent drive for backup and storage, it may not be optimal for speed-intensive tasks like video editing. The drive has received a customer rating of 4.2/5 on Amazon.
Key Features
- USB-C (10Gbps) for fast backup
- Enterprise-class Ultrastar 7200RPM drive
- Mac Ready, Apple Time Machine compatible
- Stackable, anodized aluminum enclosure
- Three modes of brightness for LED lights
Specifications
- Color: Dark Grey
- Dimension: 8.27Lx5.24Wx1.61H
- Size: 8TB
Pros
- Fast transfer speeds
- High-capacity storage
- Durable aluminum enclosure
- Mac compatibility
Cons
- Noisy and vibrates
- May disconnect or eject itself occasionally
- Not optimal for speed-intensive tasks
The SanDisk Professional 8TB G-Drive is a reliable external hard drive with fast transfer speeds and high-capacity storage. It is suitable for backup and storage purposes, but may not be the best choice for speed-intensive tasks like video editing. The drive’s durability, Mac compatibility, and stackable design make it a convenient option for Mac users. However, it is important to note that the drive may be noisy and prone to occasional disconnection or ejection. Overall, if you are in need of a reliable and spacious external hard drive for your Mac, the SanDisk Professional 8TB G-Drive is worth considering.
Buyer's Guide: Mac External Hard Drive
Important Considerations
When it comes to buying an external hard drive for your Mac, there are several important factors to keep in mind to ensure you make the right choice. Here are some key considerations to help you find the perfect Mac external hard drive for your needs:
- Compatibility: Ensure that the external hard drive you choose is compatible with your Mac operating system. It should support macOS and ideally have Thunderbolt, USB-C, or USB 3.0 connectivity for optimal performance.
- Storage Capacity: Determine the storage capacity you need for your files, documents, multimedia, and backups. Consider both your current and future storage requirements to avoid running out of space over time.
- Speed and Performance: Look for an external hard drive that offers fast data transfer speeds, especially if you plan to work with large files or perform regular backups. Solid State Drives (SSDs) generally offer faster performance compared to traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs).
- Portability: Consider the portability factor if you need to carry your external hard drive with you. Look for compact and lightweight options that are easy to transport, especially if you frequently travel with your Mac.
- Reliability and Durability: Ensure the external hard drive you choose is reliable and built to withstand everyday wear and tear. Look for features like shock resistance or rugged designs if you require extra durability.
- Security Features: If data security is a priority, consider external hard drives that offer encryption features to protect your sensitive information. This can help safeguard your data in case your device gets lost or stolen.
- Price: Set a budget and compare prices to find the best value for your money. While it's essential to consider cost, prioritize the features that align with your needs rather than solely opting for the cheapest option available.
Frequently Asked Questions about 12 Amazing Mac External Hard Drive For 2023
In most cases, yes. However, it is crucial to ensure that the external hard drive you choose is compatible with Mac operating systems and has the required connectivity options, such as Thunderbolt, USB-C, or USB 3.0.
Formatting an external hard drive for Mac typically involves using the Disk Utility application. First, connect the drive to your Mac and open Disk Utility. Select the external drive from the list, choose the format (usually macOS Extended or APFS), and click “Erase” to format the drive for Mac.
Both SSDs and HDDs have their advantages. SSDs are faster, more durable, and consume less power but tend to be more expensive for larger capacities. HDDs are generally more affordable and offer greater storage capacity but are slower and less resistant to shock. Consider your priorities and needs to make the right choice.
Yes, Mac allows you to install applications on external hard drives and run them from there. However, keep in mind that the drive’s performance and connection type may impact the application’s loading speed and overall performance.
It is always recommended to eject an external hard drive before disconnecting it from your Mac. Ejecting ensures that all read and write processes are completed, minimizing the risk of data corruption. To eject the drive, simply drag it to the Trash or use the Eject button in Finder.
Yes, the speed of the external hard drive can affect the backup process. A faster drive will generally complete the backup process more quickly, especially when dealing with a significant amount of data. However, other factors such as the backup software and connection type can also impact the overall backup performance.
Yes, you can use an external hard drive with both Mac and Windows computers by formatting it in a file system that is compatible with both operating systems, such as exFAT. However, be aware that certain features or limitations may arise when using the drive across different platforms.
To enhance data security on your external hard drive, consider using encryption features provided by the drive or third-party software. Encrypting your data will add a layer of protection, requiring a password or encryption key to access the files, even if the drive is lost or stolen.
Backup refers to creating a copy of your important files and data as protection against loss or damage. Storage, on the other hand, relates to the capacity available on the external hard drive to store files. While backup preserves data redundantly, storage allows you to keep the original files accessible.
Yes, Mac external hard drives can be used as Time Machine backups. After connecting the drive to your Mac, you can set up Time Machine through the System Preferences. Time Machine will automatically back up your files, providing a reliable way to restore them in case of accidental deletion or system issues.
The lifespan of an external hard drive varies depending on various factors, such as usage, quality of the drive, and environmental conditions. Generally, external hard drives can last for several years, but it is essential to have regular backups and replace the drive if you notice any signs of deterioration or disk errors.
Mac computers usually support connecting multiple external hard drives simultaneously, given that you have enough available ports or use a USB hub. However, keep in mind that the performance and overall speed may be affected when multiple drives are connected simultaneously, especially if the drives require high bandwidth.
In certain cases, data recovery from a failing external hard drive is possible. However, it is recommended to immediately stop using the drive and consult a professional data recovery service to increase the chances of successful data retrieval.
Thunderbolt and USB-C are different connectivity options. USB-C, also known as USB Type-C, is a versatile connection standard used by various devices, including Mac computers. Thunderbolt, on the other hand, is a faster and more powerful connection option that offers higher data transfer speeds and supports daisy-chaining multiple devices.
