In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the best external hard drives for Mac and help you choose an option that’s right for your needs. ohGet ready to boost your Mac with extra storage!
In today’s digital age, data storage has become essential for any type of user. External hard drives are a reliable and convenient solution for expanding the storage capacity of your Mac or for archiving all of our digital content.
Gone are the storages in physical media such as rewritable CDs or DVDs, whose reliability was proportional to the care and storage that we made of them. We have already seen, recently, that current pen drives or USB flash drives are an option to transfer, store and transport data.
And that we also have storage clouds in which to store our information, not without misgivings, which is why it is booming, since current Macs have 256 or 512 GB, having external drives. Whether it is because we have work data, photographs, videos or collections of any kind, we can find units in which we can only store and consult or units with which to work on a day-to-day basis.
Introduction to external hard drives
Before we dive into the details, it’s important to understand what external hard drives are and how they work in a Mac environment. External hard drives are portable storage devices. that connect via USB or Thunderbolt ports to your Mac.
These devices allow you to store and access your files quickly and safely. Whether you need more space for your photos, videos, music or work files, an external hard drive can be the perfect solution so you don’t have to store everything on one device.
Types of external hard drives: HDD vs. ssd
When it comes to external hard drives, there are two main types that we all know or have heard of: HDD – Hard Drive Disk (hard disk drive) and SSD – Solid State Drive (solid state drive). Both have their advantages and disadvantagesand it is important to understand the differences before making a decision.
HDD hard drives are cheaper and offer higher storage capacity, but are slower in terms of transfer speed. In short, they are recommended as containers, that is, when we want to store a large amount of data that we are only going to use from time to time or to make backups of our computers, devices or jobs.
In general, it is recommended that they be in closed places, that they are not transported and that their frequency of use be minimal, since these units are more delicate and prone to damage and failure, with the disaster that this can entail.
On the other hand, SSD hard drives they are faster and more durable, but tend to be more expensive and have a smaller storage capacity. These units, apart from being faster, are lighter. Ideal for transporting from one place to another and for quick access to your files, so they are useful for daily work. Although they are less prone to damage, it all depends on the care we give them (I’m talking about covers or special boxes), to protect them from unwanted blows.
Depending on your needs and budget, you should choose the type of external hard drive that best suits you.
Transfer speed and capacity
Storage capacity and transfer speed are two key aspects to consider when choosing an external hard drive for your Mac. Capacity refers to the amount of data you can store on the hard drive, and it ranges from a few gigabytes to several terabytes.
If you are a content creator or work with large files, it is advisable to opt for a larger storage capacity. Regarding the transfer speed, it is important to look for external hard drives with fast interfaces like USB 3.0 or Thunderboltwhich will allow you to transfer files efficiently and save time.
Mac compatibility and additional features
When choosing an external hard drive for your Mac, make sure it’s compatible with the macOS operating system. Most external hard drives are compatible with Macbut it is always better check it before making the purchase.
In addition to compatibility, you can also consider additional features such as water and dust resistance, data encryption, and the ability to perform automatic backups. These features can give you greater peace of mind and protection for your important files.
External hard drive recommendations for Mac
Finally, we come to the exciting part: external hard drive recommendations for Mac. Here is a selection of the best external hard drives that are perfectly suited for your Mac. We have chosen external SSD drives for their speed and versatility. Easily transportable and with immediate connection via USB port without the need for a power outlet, so you can work wherever and whenever you want.
sandisk portable sdd
This magnificent external SDD unit from Sandisk stands out for two things: its size and its resistance. Ideal to take anywhere given its robust design and its small size for a unit that fits in the palm of your hand.
They guarantee their resistance to falls of up to 2m in height, so you will be covered against possible accidents. The Extreme range of this model also has IP55 resistance, that is, resistance to splashing water for a certain time.
You can find it in different capacities ranging from 480GB to 4TB, and its speed will depend on the capacity, guaranteeing read and write speeds of between 520-1050MB/s, depending on the model.
Crucial X6 Laptop
Another “pocket” SSD external drive for its small size. Available in different capacities from 500MB to 4TB. Also with a hard casing that allows falls from a height of up to 2m, but also resists shock, vibration and extreme temperatures.
Ideal for those who move from one place to another with the “office” in tow. Its design isn’t quite as ergonomic as the Sandisk we’ve seen before, but its shape is more compact.
Their read and write transfer speeds vary, but they offer up to 800MB/s.
Samsung Portable SSD (MU-PC1T0T/WW)
A beautiful external SSD drive with a design very much in keeping with the Mac due to its metallic casing in a different range of colors. Designed rather to support at home or in the office, because although it has a hard casing that promises to withstand falls of up to 2m in height, it is not prepared to withstand shocks, and it tends to get dented or scratched.
You will also find different capacities ranging from 500GB to 4TB, with transfer speeds of up to 1000MB/s in both reading and writing.
Netac External SSD
With a thin and elegant design, this external SSD unit allows you to have a large storage capacity at hand to work in one place or another.
Perhaps its read and write speed, up to 550MB/s, is not as high as the previous units, but the quality/price ratio makes it highly recommended for a “battle” unit on a day-to-day basis.
Available in capacities from 250GB up to 2TB.
WD My Passport Portable SSD
Finally, this external SSD drive from Western Digital also has a pocket-sized design and a robust and elegant casing. With capacities ranging from 500GB to 4TB and offering read and write speeds of up to 1000MB/s.
Western Digital is a very good brand of external drives, both SSD and HDD. The latter are one of the most reliable you can find on the market and their capacities can reach 20GB.
Its units have internal software that comes pre-installed to make copies and backups in a comfortable and simple way.
Conclusion
External hard drives are an essential solution to expand the storage capacity of your Mac. Whether you need more storage space for your personal or professional files, there are a wide variety of options available.
They are easily transportable and some offer extra resistance to battle with them on a day-to-day basis. Consider your storage needs, transfer speeds, and additional features when choosing the right external hard drive for you.
Boost your Mac with one of the best external hard drives available on the market and enjoy reliable extra storage and convenient!
