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10 Best Mac External Hard Drives 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.7 score

LaCie Rugged Mini 2TB External Hard Drive Portable HDD - USB 3.0/ 2.0 Compatible, Drop Shock Dust Rain Resistant Shuttle Drive, For Mac And PC Computer (LAC9000298), orange

The LaCie Rugged Mini 2TB External Hard Drive is designed for durability and portability, making it an excellent option for users needing a robust storage solution. With a digital storage capacity of 2TB, it offers ample space for storing large amounts of data. Its USB 3.0 connectivity ensures faster transfer speeds, up to four times quicker than USB 2.0, although it remains compatible with older USB 2.0 ports. This makes it suitable for both Mac and PC users, though Mac users will need to reformat the drive for compatibility.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,100
Speed
Connectivity
Durability

Most important from
31194 reviews

Speed
The transfer speed is impressively fast, making copying and moving large video files a breeze.
Connectivity
The included USB-C connection ensures compatibility with newer devices, and it comes with a USB-A adapter for older devices.
Durability
The drive is very durable, compact yet sturdy, and has had zero problems even after extensive use over several months.
#2
9.4 score

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

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.

Rating
9.4
Speed
Connectivity

Most important from
338 reviews

Speed
Runs quietly with no noticeable heat issues, and the speed is adequate for still photography storage.
Connectivity
The Thunderbolt connectivity is fantastic, freeing up USB ports and providing reliable performance.
#3
9.1 score

G-Technology 1TB G-DRIVE mobile SSD Durable Portable External Storage - USB-C (USB 3.1), Up to 560 MB/s - 0G06053-1, black

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.

Rating
9.1
Speed
Connectivity
Durability

Most important from
1587 reviews

Speed
The drive is incredibly fast, outperforming even the MacBook Pro's internal SSD in some tests.
Connectivity
Plug and play compatibility with Mac devices, ensuring seamless integration.
Durability
Excellent build quality with aluminum internals for heat dispersion, keeps cool even after constant use.
Portability
Solid construction and lightweight design make it highly portable and easy to carry.

Top 10 Best Mac External Hard Drives 2025 in the United States

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Buying Guide for the Best Mac External Hard Drives

Choosing the right external hard drive for your Mac can significantly enhance your storage capabilities and ensure your data is safe and easily accessible. When selecting an external hard drive, consider factors such as storage capacity, speed, connectivity, durability, and portability. Understanding these key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity refers to the amount of data the external hard drive can hold. This is important because it determines how much information, such as files, photos, videos, and applications, you can store. External hard drives typically range from 500GB to several terabytes (TB). If you need to store large files or a significant amount of data, opt for a higher capacity drive, such as 2TB or more. For basic use, like documents and photos, a smaller capacity, such as 500GB to 1TB, may suffice.
SpeedSpeed is determined by the type of drive and its connection interface. Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) are generally slower than Solid State Drives (SSDs). SSDs offer faster read and write speeds, which means quicker access to your files and faster data transfer. The connection interface, such as USB 3.0, USB-C, or Thunderbolt, also affects speed. Thunderbolt and USB-C are faster than USB 3.0. If you need quick access to large files or plan to use the drive for applications that require high-speed data transfer, an SSD with a Thunderbolt or USB-C connection is ideal. For general storage, an HDD with USB 3.0 may be sufficient.
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. Ensure the drive you choose is compatible with your Mac's ports. If you have a newer Mac with USB-C or Thunderbolt ports, selecting a drive with these interfaces will offer better performance and convenience.
DurabilityDurability is important if you plan to carry your external hard drive with you or use it in various environments. Some drives are designed to be rugged and resistant to shocks, drops, and water. If you need a drive for travel or outdoor use, look for one with a durable, rugged design. For home or office use, a standard drive without extra protection may be sufficient.
PortabilityPortability refers to the ease of carrying the external hard drive around. Portable drives are typically smaller, lighter, and powered via the connection cable, making them convenient for travel. Desktop drives are larger and often require an external power source, offering higher capacities but less portability. If you need a drive to take with you on the go, choose a portable model. For stationary use with higher storage needs, a desktop drive may be more appropriate.

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