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10 Best External Hard Drive For Mac 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

Avolusion T1 Series 1TB USB 3.0 Portable External Hard Drive for PC, Mac, Playstation & Xbox (White) - 2 Year Warranty

The Avolusion T1 Series 1TB USB 3.0 Portable External Hard Drive is a practical option for Mac users looking for additional storage. It offers a sizeable 1TB capacity, suitable for storing large amounts of data, whether for personal use or professional tasks. The drive type is mechanical, which is generally reliable though not as fast as solid-state drives (SSD). Connectivity is straightforward with USB 3.0, enabling faster data transfer speeds compared to older USB versions.

This external hard drive is bus-powered, meaning it does not require an additional power source, making it highly portable. Its compact dimensions (5 x 3 x 0.5 inches) and light weight (10.5 ounces) further enhance portability, making it easy to carry along with your MacBook or iMac. The product is also durable, ensuring it can withstand regular use and travel. Compatibility is broad; it works with not only Macs but also PCs, PlayStations, and Xboxes, although reformatting might be required for some devices.

A drawback could be the mechanical nature of the hard drive, which isn't as fast as SSDs. Additionally, it is advisable to reformat the drive for Mac use, which might be cumbersome for less tech-savvy users. The product comes with a two-year warranty, providing some peace of mind regarding its durability.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Storage Capacity
Works perfectly with PS5 after reformatting, providing a whole TB of external storage.
Compatibility
Works perfectly with PS5 after reformatting, providing a whole TB of external storage.
#2

G-Technology 18TB G-DRIVE USB-C (USB 3.1 Gen 1) Desktop External Hard Drive - 0G10826-1

The G-Technology 18TB G-DRIVE USB-C is a robust choice for Mac users in need of substantial storage capacity. With 18TB of space, it can handle extensive file backups and large media collections effortlessly. The drive features a USB-C connector and USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface, ensuring fast and universal data transfers. Additionally, the USB Power Delivery feature allows you to charge your compatible laptop while accessing and backing up files, which is a convenient multitasking capability for users on the go.

The drive's sleek, all-aluminum enclosure not only looks stylish but also provides durability, making it a sturdy addition to your desktop setup. It's also Apple Time Machine ready, simplifying regular file backups for Mac users. However, at 4.09 pounds and with dimensions of 7.72 x 5.04 x 1.38 inches, it is quite heavy and not ideally portable compared to smaller, lighter drives. Its primary design as a desktop hard drive means it is best suited for stationary use rather than frequent transport. The hard disk form factor of 3.5 inches and desktop installation type further support this.

This external hard drive is excellent for users seeking ample storage and durability, particularly for desktop use with Mac systems, but less convenient for those needing portability.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Storage Capacity
This is the third G-Drive I've gotten because it is the only one that seems to be large enough and reliable enough.
Connectivity
It's a lot of storage for the price and the USB connection has options.
Durability
The transfer speed is very quick and it's extremely durable.
#3

G-Technology 10TB G-DRIVE with Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C Desktop External Hard Drive, Silver - 0G05378-1

The G-Technology 10TB G-DRIVE is a robust external hard drive designed for Mac users who require substantial storage capacity and fast data transfer speeds. One of its key strengths is the large 10TB storage capacity, which is ideal for storing large files, backups, and extensive media libraries. The inclusion of dual Thunderbolt 3 ports and a USB-C port ensures compatibility with modern Mac systems and supports high-speed data transfers, which can be a significant advantage for professionals working with large files or multimedia content.

Additionally, the ability to daisy chain up to 5 extra devices offers great flexibility for expanding your setup without extra clutter. The all-aluminum case not only provides a stylish appearance but also adds to the device's durability, making it a reliable choice for long-term use.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The drive is described as portable, but its 3.5-inch form factor and desktop installation type suggest that it is not as easily transportable as smaller, more compact models. It is better suited for a stationary setup rather than frequent travel. Additionally, as a mechanical hard disk, it may not offer the same speed and shock resistance as solid-state drives (SSDs). This makes it less ideal for users who need the fastest data access speeds or for those who require a drive that can withstand more rigorous handling.

In conclusion, the G-Technology 10TB G-DRIVE is a powerful and versatile external hard drive for Mac users who need large storage capacity and fast connectivity, especially in a stationary environment.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Storage Capacity
No noise, speed, or heat issues; perfect for still photography storage.
Drive Type
The drive has performed flawlessly, even when working with HD audio and graphics.
Connectivity
The thunderbolt connectivity is fantastic and has freed up USB ports.
Durability
Disappointed with the incessant knocking noises and slower-than-expected transfer speeds.

Buying Guide for the Best External Hard Drive For Mac

When choosing an external hard drive for your Mac, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. External hard drives are essential for expanding storage, backing up data, and transferring files. By understanding the key specs, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your requirements.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity refers to the amount of data the external hard drive can hold. This is crucial because it determines how much information you can store. Capacities typically range from 500GB to several terabytes (TB). If you need to store large files like videos or extensive photo libraries, consider a drive with at least 1TB or more. For basic document storage and backups, 500GB to 1TB should suffice. Assess your storage needs based on the type and volume of data you plan to store.
Drive TypeExternal hard drives come in two main types: Hard Disk Drives (HDD) and Solid State Drives (SSD). HDDs are generally more affordable and offer larger storage capacities, but they are slower and more prone to physical damage. SSDs, on the other hand, are faster, more durable, and consume less power, but they are more expensive per gigabyte. If speed and durability are your priorities, especially for tasks like video editing or frequent file transfers, an SSD is a better choice. For general storage and backups, an HDD is a cost-effective option.
ConnectivityConnectivity refers to how the external hard drive connects to your Mac. Common interfaces include USB 3.0, USB-C, and Thunderbolt. USB 3.0 is widely compatible and offers decent speeds, while USB-C and Thunderbolt provide faster data transfer rates and are more future-proof. If your Mac has USB-C or Thunderbolt ports, opting for a drive with these interfaces will ensure faster performance and better compatibility. Consider the ports available on your Mac and choose a drive that matches for optimal performance.
PortabilityPortability is about the size and weight of the external hard drive. If you need to carry the drive around frequently, a compact and lightweight model is ideal. Portable drives are typically smaller and powered via the USB connection, making them easy to use on the go. Desktop drives, while offering larger capacities, are bulkier and require an external power source. Determine how often you will need to transport the drive and choose a portable model if mobility is a key factor.
DurabilityDurability refers to the external hard drive's ability to withstand physical damage. This is particularly important if you plan to carry the drive around frequently. Some drives come with rugged designs, including shock resistance, water resistance, and reinforced casings. If you need a drive for travel or outdoor use, look for these features to ensure your data remains safe. For home or office use, standard drives without extra durability features may be sufficient.
CompatibilityCompatibility ensures that the external hard drive works seamlessly with your Mac. Most modern drives are compatible with macOS, but it's important to check if the drive is pre-formatted for Mac or if it requires reformatting. Some drives come with software that enhances compatibility and offers additional features like automatic backups. Ensure the drive you choose is compatible with your Mac's operating system version and consider any additional software benefits that may come with it.

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