# 💾 Best External Hard Drives for Mac in 2025

> We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

*Published: 2024-03-05 | Updated: 2025-01-23 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/best-picks/best-external-hard-drive*

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Expanding your Mac's storage is a lot easier with the right external hard drive. But with so many choices in 2024, picking one can be a bit overwhelming. You've got speedy SSDs and cost-effective, high-capacity HDDs all vying for your attention. 

To help make the decision easier for you, we pored over the top recommendations from tech gurus and put several drives through their paces. Here are our top picks across various categories to help you find the right match for your storage needs.

## Recommendations

### 1. Samsung T7 Portable SSD (Overall Pick)
**Brand:** ‎SAMSUNG

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.

### 2. WD My Passport 5TB (Runner-Up)
**Brand:** WD

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.

**Best Price:** $123.35 at Amazon

### 3. Seagate Expansion 2TB (Budget Pick)
**Brand:** Seagate

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.

### 4. SanDisk Professional 2TB PRO-G40 SSD
**Brand:** SanDisk Professional

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.

**Best Price:** $274.99 at Amazon

### 5. Seagate Ultra Touch HDD 5TB
**Brand:** ‎Seagate

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.


## How They Compare

| Product | Typical Price | Stands Out For |
|---------|--------------|----------------|
| Samsung T7 Portable SSD | Check price | Strong all-around pick |
| WD My Passport 5TB | ~$123 | Runner-up |
| Seagate Expansion 2TB | Check price | Budget-friendly option |
| SanDisk Professional 2TB PRO-G40 SSD | ~$275 | Best for Professionals |
| Seagate Ultra Touch HDD 5TB | Check price | Best for Backup |

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*How we chose these: We compared prices across thousands of retailers, read through user reviews, and tracked how prices have changed over time to get a sense of value. Our recommendations are not sponsored or paid for.*