Best External Hard Drives for Mac in 2024

The Samsung T7 Portable SSD earns our 'Overall Best' pick for its exceptional blend of speed, portability, and security features. With transfer speeds of up to 1,050 MB/s, you can move large files quickly, making it an excellent choice for both creative professionals and everyday users. Its compact and lightweight design ensures portability, while the robust build provides durability. Available in capacities from 500GB to 2TB, the T7 offers ample storage for multiple use cases. The AES 256-bit hardware encryption adds a layer of security that gives peace of mind, and its wide compatibility with USB 3.2 Gen 2 makes it a versatile and future-proof option.

The WD My Passport 5TB is our 'Runner-up' choice, perfect for users who need substantial storage without sacrificing performance. This drive delivers excellent value with its massive 5TB capacity, making it ideal for storing large amounts of data. It comes with WD Backup software for seamless backups and is compatible with both Mac and Windows after a simple reformat. The compact and sleek design ensures it is easy to carry around, whether for work or personal use. Overall, it’s a reliable and efficient choice for anyone needing extra storage.

For budget-conscious users, the Seagate Expansion 2TB is a viable pick. Balancing affordability and performance, it offers decent read/write speeds necessary for everyday tasks. Its plug-and-play setup is straightforward, and it can be reformatted to work with both Mac and Windows systems. This drive provides a practical solution for those who need extra storage without a hefty price tag, making it an excellent option for students and casual users alike.

The SanDisk Professional 2TB PRO-G40 SSD is specifically designed for professionals who prioritize speed and robust performance. With lightning-fast transfer speeds up to 2,700 MB/s via Thunderbolt 3, it efficiently handles large video and photo files, making it ideal for creative professionals. Additionally, its IP68 rating ensures resistance to dust and water, adding a level of durability that’s crucial for professionals on the go. The PRO-G40 is a top-tier choice for anyone requiring high-speed and reliable storage in demanding environments.

If your primary need is extensive backup, the Seagate Ultra Touch HDD 5TB stands out. Offering a whopping 5TB of storage, it caters well to users who need substantial space for backups and large data archives. Eco-friendly and performance-efficient, this drive is equipped with USB-C compatibility and is ready for Time Machine backups, providing seamless integration with Mac systems. Included backup subscriptions ensure your data is extra secure, making it an optimal choice for users seeking dependable, long-term storage.