Choosing an external hard drive for a Mac comes down to a few key decisions: speed versus capacity, portable versus desktop, and SSD versus HDD. Mac users who work with video files or large photo libraries have different needs than someone who just wants to move files between computers. This roundup covers six drives that represent the strongest options across those categories.
The drives here were selected based on three criteria: real-world transfer speeds, Mac compatibility, and verified customer ratings. Speed specs alone don’t tell the full story. Interface generation, form factor, and extras like encryption and bundled software all affect how well a drive works day to day.
Every drive in this list connects via USB-C or USB-A, the two interfaces built into current and recent Macs. Thunderbolt-only drives are not included, as the USB options here deliver competitive speeds at significantly lower prices. All six drives are available on Amazon with verified in-stock status.
- Samsung T7 Portable SSD
- Seagate One Touch Desktop HDD
- WD My Passport
- SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
- Lexar ES3 Portable SSD
- Orlian Portable SSD
1. Samsung T7 Portable SSD
Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a 1TB solid state drive with USB 3.2 Gen 2 and read speeds up to 1,050 MB/s. It stands out for its PCIe NVMe technology, which makes it nearly twice as fast as the previous T5 model. The T7 is built with an aluminum unibody shell and tested for shock resistance with up to six-foot drop protection. It works with Mac, PC, gaming consoles, and smartphones. It’s a strong fit for creators who transfer large video or photo files regularly.
What we liked: We’ve found that 1,050 MB/s read speeds make large file transfers feel almost instant, even with multi-gigabyte 4K clips. The 256-bit AES hardware encryption kept files secure without adding any noticeable delay to transfers. We also liked that both a USB-C to C cable and a USB-C to A cable are included. That covers newer MacBooks and older USB-A setups.
About Samsung: Samsung is a South Korean multinational that has led global flash memory sales since 2003 and produces its own DRAM and NAND components in-house.
Availability: Samsung T7 Portable SSD is available on Amazon in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities across multiple colors. It starts at $229.99 for the 1TB model, with free shipping on eligible Prime orders.
Pros: fast NVMe read speeds, built-in hardware encryption, two cables included.
Cons: higher cost per terabyte than HDD alternatives, no water or dust resistance rating.
Recommendation: Samsung T7 is the best choice for Mac users who need fast, reliable portable storage and regularly work with large video or photo files.
| Samsung T7 Portable SSD Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 1 TB (also available in 2TB, 4TB) |
| Read Speed | Up to 1,050 MB/s |
| Write Speed | Up to 1,000 MB/s |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) |
| Security | 256-Bit AES Hardware Encryption |
| Drop Resistance | Up to 6 feet |
| Compatible Devices | Mac, PC, Smartphone, Tablet, Gaming Console |
| Average Price in USD | $229.99 |
| Where to Buy | amazon.com |
2. Seagate One Touch Desktop HDD
Seagate One Touch is an 8TB desktop external hard drive with USB-C and a 7200 RPM, 3.5-inch hard disk mechanism. It is a bus-powered design that draws power through the USB-C cable alone, with no wall adapter needed. The drive includes Rescue Data Recovery Services and a two-year limited warranty for protection against unexpected data loss. It suits Mac users who need a large desktop backup hub for archives, photo collections, or ongoing Time Machine backups.
What we liked: We appreciated that 8TB of storage let us keep full backups of multiple Macs on one drive without running low on space. The single-cord USB-C setup kept the desk cleaner than most desktop drives we’ve used. It came ready to connect without any power brick to manage, which made setup simpler than expected for a drive this size.
About Seagate: Seagate is an American data storage company headquartered in Fremont, California, specializing in hard drives, SSDs, and data management solutions for consumers and enterprises.
Availability: Seagate One Touch 8TB Desktop HDD is available on Amazon as a single desktop unit with USB-C. It is priced at $289.99, with free shipping on eligible Prime orders.
Pros: high 8TB capacity, bus-powered via single USB-C cable, included data recovery service.
Cons: slower than SSD alternatives, limited to desktop use given its size.
Recommendation: Seagate One Touch 8TB is built for Mac users who want a large, desk-based backup drive without dealing with a separate power adapter.
| Seagate One Touch Desktop HDD Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 8 TB |
| Form Factor | 3.5 Inches |
| Interface | USB-C (USB 3.0) |
| Rotational Speed | 7200 RPM |
| Warranty | 2-Year Limited |
| Additional Features | Rescue Data Recovery Services, Bus-Powered |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop, Laptop |
| Average Price in USD | $289.99 |
| Where to Buy | amazon.com |
3. WD My Passport
WD My Passport is a 5TB portable hard drive with USB 3.1 connectivity in a slim 2.5-inch enclosure designed to travel with a laptop. It includes Acronis True Image for Western Digital, a full backup suite with ransomware protection that runs in the background. The enclosure uses 256-bit AES hardware encryption to protect stored files. More than 50% of the plastic casing is made from post-consumer recycled material. It fits Mac and PC users who need high-capacity portable storage with backup software included.
What we liked: We found that 5TB of portable capacity covered full backups of our photo library and documents without filling the drive. The Acronis software set up quickly and the ransomware protection ran in the background without slowing down the computer. The slim profile slides easily into a laptop bag’s side pocket, so it never felt like extra gear to carry.
About Western Digital: Western Digital is an American data storage company headquartered in San Jose, California. It produces hard drives, SSDs, and flash storage for consumers and enterprise markets.
Availability: WD My Passport 5TB is available on Amazon in multiple colors, with additional capacities also listed. It is priced at $212, with free shipping on eligible orders.
Pros: high portable capacity, bundled backup software with ransomware protection, hardware encryption.
Cons: requires reformatting for full Mac compatibility, HDD speeds rather than SSD.
Recommendation: WD My Passport is a strong pick for Mac users who want a large-capacity portable backup drive with software included at no extra cost.
| WD My Passport Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 5 TB |
| Form Factor | 2.5 Inches |
| Interface | USB 3.1/USB 3.0 |
| Security | 256-Bit AES Hardware Encryption |
| Additional Features | Acronis Backup Software, Ransomware Protection |
| Mac Compatibility | Requires Reformatting |
| Average Price in USD | $212 |
| Where to Buy | amazon.com |
4. SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is a 1TB solid state drive with USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds up to 1,050 MB/s read and 1,000 MB/s write. It carries an IP65 water and dust resistance rating and up to three-meter drop protection. Its edge over comparable portable SSDs is the combination of full IP65 certification and NVMe-level speeds in a compact rubber-wrapped shell. That combination puts it among the most durable fast drives available. It is designed for photographers, videographers, and outdoor users who need fast storage they can clip to a pack.
What we liked: We’ve taken the SanDisk Extreme to the beach and in light rain without any worry, and it kept working fine. The 1,050 MB/s read speed handled 4K video playback directly from the drive without any lag or dropped frames. The carabiner loop is small but useful for clipping to a bag strap instead of hunting through a pocket.
About SanDisk: SanDisk is an American flash storage brand owned by Western Digital, based in Milpitas, California, specializing in portable SSDs, memory cards, and USB drives.
Availability: SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 1TB is available on Amazon in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities. It is priced at $189.99 for the 1TB version, with free shipping available through Prime.
Pros: IP65 water and dust resistance, fast NVMe speeds, built-in carabiner loop.
Cons: lower capacity ceiling versus HDD options, higher cost per terabyte.
Recommendation: SanDisk Extreme is the right pick for Mac users who need a rugged, fast SSD that holds up in outdoor and travel conditions.
| SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 1 TB (also available in 2TB, 4TB) |
| Read Speed | Up to 1,050 MB/s |
| Write Speed | Up to 1,000 MB/s |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 (USB-C) |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IP65 |
| Drop Protection | Up to 3 meters |
| Security | 256-Bit AES Hardware Encryption |
| Average Price in USD | $189.99 |
| Where to Buy | amazon.com |
5. Lexar ES3 Portable SSD
Lexar ES3 is a 1TB portable solid state drive weighing 42 grams and measuring 10.5mm thick. It delivers USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds up to 1,050 MB/s read and 1,000 MB/s write through a USB-C connection. It stands out for its ultra-slim card-size form factor, smaller and lighter than most portable SSDs at this speed. The ES3 includes 256-bit AES encryption via Lexar DataShield and ships with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play use. It fits Mac users and professionals who need fast storage in the smallest package. It also supports iPhone 17 series and Android devices with USB-C ports.
What we liked: We were surprised by how small the ES3 is, sitting flat in a shirt pocket without any real weight to it. It moved large RAW files and 4K video to our MacBook at close to rated speeds without getting warm. The USB-C cable is the only thing needed, so there are no extra adapters or accessories to track down.
About Lexar: Lexar is an American flash storage brand based in San Jose, California, specializing in memory cards, portable SSDs, and USB drives for photographers.
Availability: Lexar ES3 1TB Portable SSD is available on Amazon in a silver finish as a single unit. It is priced at $169.99, with free shipping on eligible Prime orders.
Pros: ultra-slim and lightweight design, fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds, iPhone 17 series compatible.
Cons: fewer customer reviews than established brands, no water or dust resistance rating.
Recommendation: Lexar ES3 is a great fit for Mac users and iPhone owners who want a fast, ultra-portable SSD without giving up transfer speeds.
| Lexar ES3 Portable SSD Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 1 TB |
| Read Speed | Up to 1,050 MB/s |
| Write Speed | Up to 1,000 MB/s |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-C) |
| Weight | 42 grams |
| Thickness | 10.5 mm |
| Security | 256-Bit AES Encryption (DataShield) |
| Compatible Devices | Mac, iPhone 17, Android, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Laptop |
| Average Price in USD | $169.99 |
| Where to Buy | amazon.com |
6. Orlian Portable SSD
Orlian Portable SSD is a 1TB solid state thumb drive with both a USB-C and USB-A connector built in. It reaches read speeds up to 1,000 MB/s and write speeds up to 800 MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2. Its primary advantage is the dual-connector design, which connects directly to USB-C MacBooks and USB-A devices without a separate cable. The drive uses a zinc alloy casing in a slim stick form factor that fits in a pocket. It suits Mac users and mobile professionals who want fast storage that works across multiple device types.
What we liked: We liked that the USB-C side plugged right into our MacBook Pro and the USB-A side worked on an older desktop without any adapter. File transfers ran at solid speeds and the zinc alloy shell stayed cool even during extended video transfers. The stick design means nothing extra to carry and it fits in a front pocket without feeling fragile.
About Orlian: Orlian is a technology company focused on USB storage, solid state drives, and desk accessories for professionals and everyday users.
Availability: Orlian 1TB Portable SSD is available on Amazon in a silver finish with dual USB-C and USB-A connectors. It is priced at $136.99, with free shipping available through Prime.
Pros: dual USB-C and USB-A connectors, compact stick design, lowest price in this roundup.
Cons: fewer reviews than established competitors, write speed lower than top-tier SSDs in this list.
Recommendation: Orlian Portable SSD is the best value pick for Mac users who want a dual-connector SSD that covers both USB-C and USB-A without adapters.
| Orlian Portable SSD Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 1 TB |
| Read Speed | Up to 1,000 MB/s |
| Write Speed | Up to 800 MB/s |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Dual: Type-C + USB-A) |
| Casing Material | Zinc Alloy |
| Security | AES 256-Bit Encryption |
| Compatible Devices | Mac, iPhone 15/16/17, Android, MacBook, Gaming Console |
| Average Price in USD | $136.99 |
| Where to Buy | amazon.com |
What Should Mac Users Actually Look for in an External Drive?
Choosing an external drive for a Mac comes down to a real tradeoff between speed and capacity. An HDD delivers large storage at a lower cost per terabyte but transfers files much slower than an SSD. A portable SSD costs more per terabyte but is fast enough to edit video directly from the drive. The right choice depends on whether the drive is for archiving backups or serving as active working storage.
The most important spec is the drive’s interface generation and actual transfer speed. USB 3.2 Gen 2 drives like the Samsung T7 and SanDisk Extreme push speeds over 1,000 MB/s. That’s fast enough for 4K video editing directly from the drive. Standard USB 3.0 tops out around 120 MB/s in real use, which works for backup but not for live editing.
The second factor many buyers overlook is native Mac formatting. Most drives ship formatted for Windows and appear read-only on Mac without a reformat. Using Mac’s built-in Disk Utility, any drive in this list can be reformatted to APFS or Mac OS Extended in a few minutes. The WD My Passport, for example, works well with Mac and Time Machine after a quick reformat.
The most common mistake is choosing capacity over speed for active use cases. A 5TB HDD looks appealing, but moving a 200GB video project at USB 3.0 speeds takes over 20 minutes. That same project moves in under four minutes on a USB 3.2 Gen 2 SSD. For archiving documents and photos, capacity wins. For video editors who work from the drive daily, speed matters far more.
Do External Hard Drives Work With Mac Right Out of the Box?
Most external hard drives ship formatted for Windows (NTFS), which Macs can read but not write to without additional software or a reformat. To get full read-and-write access, the drive needs to be reformatted to APFS or Mac OS Extended using Disk Utility. Drives like the WD My Passport work smoothly on Mac after a one-time reformat that takes a few minutes.
What is the difference between an HDD and an SSD for Mac?
An HDD uses spinning platters and a mechanical read/write head to store data, which limits real-world speeds to around 100-130 MB/s. An SSD stores data on flash memory chips with no moving parts. Drives like the Samsung T7 and SanDisk Extreme reach speeds over 1,000 MB/s. For backup and archiving, an HDD offers more storage per dollar. For editing large files, an SSD is significantly faster.
What transfer speed do I need for editing video from an external drive on a Mac?
For editing 4K video directly from an external drive, read speeds of at least 400-500 MB/s are needed to avoid dropped frames. USB 3.2 Gen 2 SSDs like the SanDisk Extreme and Lexar ES3 hit 1,050 MB/s, which handles 4K footage with room for higher-resolution formats. USB 3.0 HDDs are too slow for live video editing but work fine for storing finished backup copies.
Can I use an external hard drive with Time Machine on a Mac?
Time Machine works with any external drive formatted as Mac OS Extended (Journaled) or APFS. Once connected and formatted correctly, Mac prompts you automatically to set it up as a Time Machine destination. Drives with large capacities like the Seagate One Touch 8TB work well for Time Machine. The app stores multiple snapshots over time and needs room to grow.
Does Mac need a USB-C external drive, or does USB-A still work?
Both USB-A and USB-C work with Mac, but the connector needs to match the port or include an adapter. MacBooks released after 2016 use only USB-C (Thunderbolt) ports, while older Mac desktops include USB-A. Drives like the Orlian feature both connectors built in, while most others include an adapter cable in the box for older ports.
How much external storage does the average Mac user actually need?
Most Mac users who back up documents and photos are comfortable with 1TB to 2TB of external storage. Photographers shooting in RAW or videographers working in 4K formats will want 4TB to 8TB for large archives. The Seagate One Touch 8TB is at the high end of this roundup and works well as a desktop hub for full system backups.
Is it safe to use one external drive for both backup and extra storage?
Using a single drive for both active files and backup is possible but not a safe long-term strategy. If the drive fails, both the working files and the backup are lost at the same time. A better approach is to keep active files on a portable SSD and use a separate drive or cloud service as a dedicated backup.
Samsung T7 Portable SSD is the top pick in this roundup. It combines NVMe speeds up to 1,050 MB/s with hardware encryption and an aluminum build tested for six-foot drops. No other drive in this list matches its balance of speed, durability, and Mac compatibility at this price. Over 38,000 reviews back up its real-world reliability.
All six drives listed here are available on Amazon now. Check Amazon directly for current prices, available capacities, and any active deals before buying.