What is the best external hard drive to choose for Mac in 2022?

External hard drives for Mac come in many models. Some can accommodate large amounts of data, while others can store a more limited number of items. Note that their size, color and shape also vary according to the model. There are also external hard drives for Mac that are compatible with PC computers.

Our pick of the 7 best hard drives for Mac in 2022:

Samsung T7 MU-PC1T0T/WW: the best external hard drive for a fast Mac

Samsung T7 MU-PC1T0T/WW – DR

This is a very fast model that receives your data very quickly (speed reaches 1050 MB/s). A plus for users in a hurry. In addition, thanks to its large storage capacity, it can accommodate a large number of items. So you will be able to place large files there without any problem. Additionally, don’t forget that this hard drive is compatible with Android and Windows and offers password security for your data. Finally, it is a very light disc with a modern look with an aluminum body.

Most:

  • Large storage capacity;
  • Fast;
  • Compatible with Android and Windows;
  • Password protected information.

Minors:

  • Its maximum efficiency is achieved only when used as a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port.

WD Elements: the best easy-to-use Mac hard drive

WD elements
WD Elements – DR

This external hard drive for Mac has an excellent storage capacity of 4 TB. In addition, its compact size is very remarkable because you can store it anywhere you want. Its weight is also very light (236 g). Thanks to the USB 3.0 port, you can connect it very easily. When your hard drive is connected to this type of port, know that its speed is excellent. Finally, it is also compatible with Windows and makes very little noise. A plus for your night use.

Most:

  • Excellent storage capacity;
  • Compact size;
  • High performance speed;
  • Quiet.

Minors:

  • A rather banal design;
  • After some time, it is poorly recognized by the computer.

Seagate Backup Plus Hub: Best Hard Drive for Mac with Large Storage Capacity

Seagate Backup Plus Hub
Seagate Backup Plus Hub – DR

This hard drive actually offers a very good storage capacity of 14 TB and can store a lot of files with it. There is no need to multiply USB keys: with this type of accessory, a single piece of equipment is enough. Movies and other multimedia files can be stored there easily. In addition, it is guaranteed for two years and is compatible with Windows using a simple NFTS driver. It has a little extra: it has two USB 3.0 ports, which allows you to transfer more files from different devices. Note that by purchasing this product, you will get two months of free access to Adobe Creative Cloud for video editing, for example.

Most:

  • Large storage capacity;
  • Compatible with Windows;
  • Two USB 3.0 ports;
  • Guaranteed for two years.

Minors:

  • Heats up quickly;
  • It is noisy.

Seagate 1TB: the best hard drive for an entry-level Mac

Seagate 1TB
Seagate 1TB – DR

Mindful of small budgets, this hard drive is ideal if you want to invest in quality equipment without paying high prices. Its 1TB storage capacity is pretty decent. Moreover, it loads your data quite quickly (a few seconds are enough to place them) and very easily. In fact, you don’t need any recognition software to connect this drive to your computer. Finally, there is a USB 3.0 port that further speeds up data recovery.

Most:

  • Most;
  • Charging speed;
  • No recognition software is needed;
  • Equipped with a USB 3.0 port.

Minors:

LaCie 4 TB: the best quality/price ratio Mac hard drive

LaCie 4TB
LaCie 4TB – DR

With a quality (4 TB) storage capacity, this hard drive for Mac offers good performance at an affordable price. It also has good read speed (240 MB/s) and can be connected via USB-C port. It also closes very easily and makes very little noise. Finally, its material is particularly robust.

Most:

  • Good storage capacity;
  • Reasonable price;
  • Good reading speed;
  • A little noisy.

Minors:

  • The blue light seems a little too much.

WD My Passport: The best hard drive for Mac design

WD My Passport
WD My Passport – DR

This model actually has a designer look with its black dress and silver lettering. In addition, its compact size will allow you to place it wherever you want in your apartment or, for example, in the office. In addition to this, it also has a highly secure nature as it password-protects your data with a highly effective encryption software. Its USB 3.0 port allows you to receive your data very quickly (5 Gbit transfer per second). Finally, its 1TB storage capacity is not insignificant.

Most:

  • design;
  • Compact;
  • Very well preserved;
  • Good storage capacity.

Minors:

  • It must be reformatted for use with Windows.

Seagate Backup Plus Hub 10TB: the best hard drive for premium Mac

Seagate Backup Plus Hub 10TB
Seagate Backup Plus Hub 10TB – DR

This external hard drive for Mac can easily fall into the category of high-end hardware. Among its many quality features, it offers the ability to recover your data in case of loss, along with USB 3.0 technology, it has an exceptional storage capacity of 10 TB. Note that it is also compatible with Windows computers and provides free access to Adobe. Creative Cloud for two months to edit your video or photo.

Most:

  • Data recovery software;
  • Excellent storage capacity;
  • USB 3.0 port;
  • Adobe offers a free two-month subscription to Creative Cloud.

Minors:

How do I choose the storage capacity of my external hard drive for Mac?

This is one of the main buying criteria to check before buying your external hard drive for Mac. To determine it, you need to check your Mac’s memory capacity. It must be larger than your computer to allow you to transfer large amounts of data.

What is the storage speed of an external hard drive for Mac?

To measure the data transfer speed of your data, you need to check the number of MB per second. The higher the latter, the faster your data transfer.

How can I make sure my external hard drive is compatible for Mac?

You need a USB cable to connect your hard drive to your computer. Some are only compatible with Macs, while others can connect to Windows computers as well.

What is the difference between an external hard drive and an SSD drive for Mac?

SSD has a higher read speed than its counterpart, and the latter usually has more space. Moreover, its price is cheaper.

Is an external hard drive for Mac easily portable?

Some hard drives are very compact and light and easy to carry. Others, on the contrary, are more voluminous. However, be aware that this is fragile equipment and should be handled with care.

Now you know what the main buying criteria are when buying an external hard drive for Mac. It is up to you to determine your options.

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