10 Best Mac External Hard Drives 2025 in the United States

The G-Technology 10TB G-DRIVE with Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C offers a very generous 10TB storage capacity, making it an excellent choice for users who need a lot of space for their files, such as video editors or data-heavy professionals. Its dual Thunderbolt 3 ports and single USB-C port provide high-speed data transfers, which means quick backups and file transfers.

The ability to daisy chain up to 5 additional devices adds to its versatility, allowing you to connect multiple drives and other peripherals through a single port. The all-aluminum case not only gives it a sleek and stylish look but also enhances durability, protecting the drive from potential damage.

However, its 3.5-inch form factor and mechanical design make it bulkier and less portable compared to smaller, solid-state drives. It's mainly suitable for desktop use rather than being carried around frequently. Also, while it is listed as 'portable,' its size and need for external power make it less convenient for on-the-go use. This external hard drive is ideal for users needing high capacity and fast connectivity, especially those who work at a fixed location like a home office or studio, rather than for those who need a travel-friendly option.

The G-Technology 1TB G-DRIVE mobile SSD is a solid option for those in need of reliable, portable external storage. With a storage capacity of 1TB, it offers ample space for most users' needs. It stands out with its impressive speed, offering transfer rates up to 560MB/s, which ensures quick file transfers and efficient data management.

The connectivity is modern and convenient, featuring the latest USB-C (USB 3.1 Gen 2) technology, making it compatible with a wide range of devices, particularly newer Mac laptops. Durability is one of its key strengths. It boasts an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, has been drop tested from 3 meters, and can withstand up to 1000lbs of pressure, making it suitable for those who need a rugged and reliable storage solution on the go.

Portability is another highlight; it is lightweight (3.03 ounces) and compact (3.74 x 1.97 x 0.57 inches), making it easy to carry around. On the downside, while 1TB is sufficient for many, some users might find the need for more storage, although the product does offer variants up to 2TB. Additionally, the premium build and features come at a higher price point compared to some other options on the market. The G-Technology G-DRIVE mobile SSD is an excellent choice for users looking for fast, durable, and portable external storage, especially those using Mac devices.

The SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB is an impressive external hard drive, particularly suited for gamers, students, and professionals who need reliable, high-speed storage. With a substantial 4TB storage capacity, it can store a vast amount of data, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications and large files. Its standout feature is the blazing-fast sequential read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s, which ensures quick loading and smooth editing of files, even during extended use. This speed is beneficial for tasks like gaming, video editing, and large file transfers.

The drive connects via USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, offering broad compatibility with PCs, gaming consoles, Macs, and even the latest iPhones, making it a versatile choice for various devices. Durability is another strong point; it withstands drops up to 9.8 feet and includes a Dynamic Thermal Guard to manage heat during intensive use, which enhances its longevity. Portability is excellent, thanks to its compact dimensions (3.46 x 2.36 x 0.55 inches) and light weight (4.3 ounces), making it easy to carry around. Additionally, the integrated AES 256-bit hardware encryption ensures data security, which is crucial for professionals handling sensitive information.

On the downside, the USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface might not be fully utilized on devices that don't support this standard, potentially limiting speed. Also, the premium features come at a higher price point, which might be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers. In summary, the SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB is a powerful and reliable external drive that excels in speed, durability, and portability, making it an excellent choice for users needing fast and secure data storage.