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

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#1

Winner

G-Technology 12TB G-DRIVE with Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C Desktop External Hard Drive, Silver - 0G05383-1

The G-Technology 12TB G-DRIVE with Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C is a robust external hard drive designed for Mac users. One of its standout features is the massive 12TB storage capacity, which is ideal for users who need to store large amounts of data, such as video editors or media professionals. The inclusion of dual Thunderbolt 3 ports and a USB-C port ensures high-speed data transfer, making it efficient for transferring large files quickly. Additionally, the ability to daisy chain up to 5 additional devices adds flexibility to expand your storage setup seamlessly.

The drive's all-aluminum casing is not only stylish but also adds an extra layer of durability, protecting your data against physical damage. Moreover, the manufacturer's 5-year limited warranty provides peace of mind regarding long-term reliability. However, the drive is relatively large and not as portable due to its 3.5-inch form factor and weight of 2.73 pounds, which might be a drawback for users who need a more travel-friendly option. The device is also more aligned with desktop use rather than on-the-go needs.

Additionally, while the drive is compatible with both Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3.1 Gen 1 interfaces, users with older USB ports or lacking Thunderbolt 3 ports might need additional adapters. The G-Technology 12TB G-DRIVE is an excellent choice for Mac users who need a high-capacity, durable, and fast external hard drive for desktop use, but it may not be the best option for those prioritizing portability.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Connection Interface
The drive performs flawlessly, with Thunderbolt providing great connectivity and freeing up USB ports.
Drive Type
Virtually as fast as an SSD for HD audio and graphics work once the drive is active.
Compatibility
Excellent for photo storage with adequate speed and minimal lag, making it a solid choice for Lightroom and Photoshop users.
Durability
No noise, speed, or heat issues, even with heavy use in photography storage.
#2

SAMSUNG T5 EVO Portable SSD 8TB, USB 3.2 Gen 1 External Solid State Drive, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 460MB/s for Gaming and Content Creation, MU-PH8T0S/AM, Black

The Samsung T5 EVO Portable SSD offers a substantial 8TB storage capacity, making it an excellent choice for users needing significant space for large files, such as gamers and content creators. Its compact and lightweight design enhances portability, allowing users to carry it conveniently wherever they go. The drive uses a USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface, providing impressive sequential read speeds of up to 460MB/s, which ensures fast data transfer, outperforming traditional external HDDs.

This SSD is highly compatible, working seamlessly with various devices including PCs, gaming consoles, tablets, smartphones, and Macs. It also comes with hardware encryption for added security. Durability is another strong point, as it features shock resistance and can withstand falls up to 6 feet, offering reliability during travel or rough handling.

Some users might find the price point higher compared to HDDs or other SSDs with lower capacities. Additionally, while the USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface is fast, it is not the latest standard, which could be a minor drawback for those seeking the absolute fastest transfer speeds available. Despite these points, the Samsung T5 EVO remains a robust and versatile external SSD, particularly suited for users requiring large storage and reliable performance on the go.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Storage Capacity
Great value for storage at the new price point, making it easy to abandon hard disks.
Connection Interface
Easily plugs into various devices, like phones or tablets, for media use and sharing large files.
Drive Type
The SSD offers amazing access speed and reliability advantages over any hard disk device.
Portability
The size is extremely small for an 8TB storage, offering great portability.
Compatibility
Reformatting and using encryption native to the operating system can improve performance.
Durability
It is significantly quieter and has a longer life expectancy compared to traditional hard drives.
#3

LaCie d2 Professional 16TB, External Hard Drive, Black (STHA16000800)

The LaCie d2 Professional 16TB External Hard Drive is an excellent choice for Mac users who need substantial storage capacity. With 16TB of space, it can store vast amounts of data, making it perfect for professionals dealing with large files such as video editors or photographers. The USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface ensures quick data transfer rates up to 260MB/s, which helps in accessing and moving files efficiently.

However, it's worth noting that this drive is designed primarily for desktop use due to its size and the need for an external power supply, which limits its portability compared to smaller, bus-powered drives. Its mechanical hard disk form factor means it may not be as fast as solid-state drives (SSDs) but offers a reliable solution for high-capacity storage needs. Compatibility with both PC and Mac is a strong point, making it versatile for users who operate across different platforms. The sturdy build and professional design add to its durability, making it a dependable option for long-term use.

While it excels in storage capacity and data transfer rates, its lack of portability and reliance on an external power source could be drawbacks for users seeking a mobile storage solution.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Storage Capacity
The LaCie d2 at 16TB is the largest single external HD available today with a 7200 rpm enterprise HD, making it reasonably priced for its capabilities.
Connection Interface
This drive is now my go-to external drive. As a photographer with lots of large files, I find the speed and connection works great.
Drive Type
The HD in the LaCie d2 is an Enterprise Seagate Ironwolf Pro HD, used in many NAS units and comes with a 5-year warranty.
Durability
Well made product with good performance. It performed flawlessly after a full 2 pass erase stress test.

Buying Guide for the Best External Hard Drive For Macs

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 can be used for various purposes such as backing up data, storing large files, or expanding your storage capacity. Understanding the key specs will help you make an informed decision and find a product that meets your requirements.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity refers to the amount of data the external hard drive can hold. This is important because it determines how much information you can store on the drive. Storage capacities typically range from 500GB to several terabytes (TB). If you need the drive for basic tasks like document storage or occasional backups, a smaller capacity (500GB to 1TB) might suffice. For storing large files such as videos, photos, or extensive backups, consider a larger capacity (2TB or more). Assess your storage needs based on the type and amount of data you plan to store.
Transfer SpeedTransfer speed indicates how quickly data can be read from or written to the external hard drive. This is crucial for efficiency, especially when dealing with large files or frequent data transfers. Transfer speeds are influenced by the type of connection (USB 3.0, USB-C, Thunderbolt) and the drive's internal technology (HDD vs. SSD). USB 3.0 offers decent speeds for general use, while USB-C and Thunderbolt provide faster transfer rates, ideal for high-performance needs. Choose a drive with a transfer speed that matches your usage patterns; faster speeds are beneficial for tasks like video editing or large backups.
CompatibilityCompatibility ensures that the external hard drive works seamlessly with your Mac. Most modern external hard drives are compatible with macOS, but it's important to check for any specific requirements or pre-formatted file systems. Some drives come pre-formatted for Windows (NTFS) and may need to be reformatted for macOS (HFS+ or APFS). Look for drives that are explicitly labeled as Mac-compatible or offer easy reformatting options. Ensuring compatibility will save you time and prevent potential issues with data access.
PortabilityPortability refers to the ease with which you can carry the external hard drive around. This is important if you need to transport your data frequently or use the drive on the go. Portable drives are typically smaller, lighter, and powered via USB, making them convenient for travel. Desktop drives, on the other hand, are larger and often require an external power source, but they offer higher capacities and better performance. Consider your lifestyle and how often you'll need to move the drive when deciding between a portable or desktop model.
DurabilityDurability indicates how well the external hard drive can withstand physical wear and tear. This is crucial if you plan to use the drive in various environments or if it will be subject to frequent handling. Durable drives often feature rugged designs, shock resistance, and water or dust protection. If you need a drive for outdoor use or in challenging conditions, look for models with enhanced durability features. For regular home or office use, standard durability should suffice, but always consider the potential risks to your data.
Security FeaturesSecurity features protect your data from unauthorized access and potential breaches. This is important if you store sensitive or personal information on the external hard drive. Common security features include hardware encryption, password protection, and biometric access. Drives with built-in encryption ensure that your data remains secure even if the drive is lost or stolen. If data security is a priority for you, opt for a drive with robust security features to safeguard your information.

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