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10 Best Backup Device For Mac 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Crucial X10 8TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2 USB-C, External Solid State Drive, Compatible with Windows, Mac & Android, Durable Storage for Games, Photos & Files, Blue - CT8000X10SSD9-02

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,414
Storage Capacity
Speed
Compatibility

Most important from
2305 reviews

Storage Capacity
Managing storage with APFS containers on the SSD allows seamless space allocation between macOS and data without manual partitioning.
Speed
Booting macOS from the Crucial SSD is dramatically faster and quieter than using the internal Fusion Drive, making older Macs feel much more responsive.
Compatibility
Plug-and-play compatibility works flawlessly across Mac, Windows, Android, and gaming consoles without any driver hassles.
Reliability
The drive runs cool and silent even during heavy use, with no noticeable throttling or heat issues.
Portability
Its compact size and solid build quality make it extremely portable and durable enough for everyday travel and rough conditions.

The Crucial X10 8TB Portable SSD offers a huge storage space of 8TB, which is excellent for backing up large amounts of data like photos, videos, and documents on a Mac. It features very fast transfer speeds up to 2,100MB/s, meaning file backups and access will be quick, much faster than traditional hard drives. This speed is handy for anyone who frequently moves or accesses large files.

Compatibility is broad—it works smoothly with Mac computers and other devices like Windows PCs, Android tablets, and gaming consoles, which adds flexibility if you use multiple platforms. The drive is designed to be durable and reliable, with dust and water resistance and the ability to survive drops up to 9.8 feet. This makes it a good choice for users who need a sturdy backup device that can handle travel or rough conditions. It is also very light and compact, enhancing portability for carrying around.

One downside is that while the SSD is fast and durable, the price for such a large capacity drive can be higher compared to smaller or slower models. Also, to take full advantage of its speed, your Mac needs to support USB 3.2 or USB-C connections. The Crucial X10 serves as a strong backup option for Mac users seeking ample storage, speed, and durability in a portable package, especially suitable for students, creatives, and travelers who want reliable and fast data storage on the go.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,414
Storage Capacity
Speed
Compatibility

Most important from
2305 reviews

Storage Capacity
Managing storage with APFS containers on the SSD allows seamless space allocation between macOS and data without manual partitioning.
Speed
Booting macOS from the Crucial SSD is dramatically faster and quieter than using the internal Fusion Drive, making older Macs feel much more responsive.
Compatibility
Plug-and-play compatibility works flawlessly across Mac, Windows, Android, and gaming consoles without any driver hassles.
Reliability
The drive runs cool and silent even during heavy use, with no noticeable throttling or heat issues.
Portability
Its compact size and solid build quality make it extremely portable and durable enough for everyday travel and rough conditions.
#2

Crucial X9 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2 USB-C, External Solid State Drive, Compatible with Windows, Mac, & Android, Reliable Storage for Games, Files, & Backups, Black - CT4000X9SSD902

Rating
9.1
Storage Capacity
Speed
Compatibility

Most important from
7794 reviews

Storage Capacity
With a massive 4TB capacity, it offers ample space to store extensive video libraries, photo collections, backups, and games without constant file management.
Speed
The SSD delivers impressively fast transfer speeds, significantly reducing the time needed for backing up and moving large files compared to traditional hard drives.
Compatibility
Seamless compatibility across multiple platforms—including Mac, Windows, and Android—combined with USB-C and USB-A adapters ensures versatile connectivity.
Reliability
Durability is a strong suit, featuring water and dust resistance plus the ability to withstand drops up to 7.5 feet, providing confidence for travel and everyday use.
Portability
Its compact, lightweight design fits easily in a pocket or laptop bag, making it an ideal portable storage solution for users on the move.

The Crucial X9 4TB Portable SSD is a strong choice for Mac users looking for a reliable backup device with plenty of storage space. Its large 4TB capacity allows you to store a vast amount of files, photos, videos, and backups all in one compact drive. With a fast read speed of up to 1050MB/s via USB-C, it can quickly transfer large files, making backups and media editing less time-consuming compared to traditional hard drives.

The drive is designed to be very durable—it’s water and dust resistant (IP55) and can handle drops from up to 7.5 feet, which is great if you need a portable option that travels well. It easily connects to Macs thanks to its USB-C interface and also works with many other devices, providing flexibility if you use multiple gadgets. Additionally, the SSD comes with three months of useful backup and photo management software, which can simplify organizing your files.

One downside is that while the speed is good for everyday use and casual gaming, it might not be the absolute fastest SSD available for more demanding professional tasks. Also, the drive’s polycarbonate casing, while sturdy, won’t match the premium feel of some metal-bodied drives. This SSD provides a solid blend of capacity, speed, and ruggedness, making it well-suited for Mac users who want a dependable and portable backup device without complicated setup or compatibility issues.

Rating
9.1
Storage Capacity
Speed
Compatibility

Most important from
7794 reviews

Storage Capacity
With a massive 4TB capacity, it offers ample space to store extensive video libraries, photo collections, backups, and games without constant file management.
Speed
The SSD delivers impressively fast transfer speeds, significantly reducing the time needed for backing up and moving large files compared to traditional hard drives.
Compatibility
Seamless compatibility across multiple platforms—including Mac, Windows, and Android—combined with USB-C and USB-A adapters ensures versatile connectivity.
Reliability
Durability is a strong suit, featuring water and dust resistance plus the ability to withstand drops up to 7.5 feet, providing confidence for travel and everyday use.
Portability
Its compact, lightweight design fits easily in a pocket or laptop bag, making it an ideal portable storage solution for users on the move.
#3

Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 2TB External Solid State Drive, Speeds Up to 1,050MB/s, USB 3.2 Gen 2, Reliable Storage for Gaming, Students, Professionals, MU-PC2T0T/AM, Gray

Rating
8.2
Storage Capacity
Speed
Portability

Most important from
38063 reviews

Storage Capacity
With 2TB of storage, it provides ample space for backing up photos, videos, and documents without worrying about running out of room.
Speed
The Samsung T7 delivers speeds about ten times faster than traditional hard drives, making large file transfers significantly quicker.
Portability
Its compact, lightweight aluminum design not only looks premium but also efficiently dissipates heat and protects against everyday drops.
Compatibility
The included USB-C and USB-A cables ensure broad compatibility across devices, from Windows laptops to smartphones.
Reliability
Operating temperatures remain comfortably low under load, preventing thermal throttling and supporting long-term reliability.

The Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a solid choice for Mac users needing fast and reliable backup storage. With a 2TB capacity, it offers plenty of space for large files like videos, photos, and documents. It stands out for its impressive speed—up to 1,050 MB/s read and 1,000 MB/s write—thanks to PCIe NVMe technology. This means backing up or accessing files is quick, saving you time compared to slower drives.

The T7's USB 3.2 Gen 2 connection ensures smooth compatibility with Macs, PCs, gaming consoles, and even smartphones or tablets, making it versatile for various devices. Its compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable, easy to carry in a bag or pocket, which is great for students or professionals on the go. The drive’s durability is also a plus; its aluminum case offers shock resistance and can survive drops up to 6 feet, protecting your data from everyday accidents. Security is considered too, with 256-bit AES hardware encryption to keep your information safe.

It is important to note that while the T7 supports fast speeds, Macs need USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt ports to reach full performance; older Macs might see slower transfer rates. Additionally, the price is higher than typical external hard drives but reasonable for an SSD with these features. For those seeking a reliable, speedy, and portable backup device compatible with Macs and other devices, the Samsung T7 represents a dependable option, especially for handling large files and valuing quick access.

Rating
8.2
Storage Capacity
Speed
Portability

Most important from
38063 reviews

Storage Capacity
With 2TB of storage, it provides ample space for backing up photos, videos, and documents without worrying about running out of room.
Speed
The Samsung T7 delivers speeds about ten times faster than traditional hard drives, making large file transfers significantly quicker.
Portability
Its compact, lightweight aluminum design not only looks premium but also efficiently dissipates heat and protects against everyday drops.
Compatibility
The included USB-C and USB-A cables ensure broad compatibility across devices, from Windows laptops to smartphones.
Reliability
Operating temperatures remain comfortably low under load, preventing thermal throttling and supporting long-term reliability.

Buying Guide for the Best Backup Device For Mac

Choosing the right backup device for your Mac is crucial to ensure your data is safe and easily accessible. Backup devices come in various forms, including external hard drives, SSDs, and network-attached storage (NAS). When selecting a backup device, consider factors such as storage capacity, speed, compatibility, and reliability. 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 backup device can hold. This is important because it determines how much information you can store. Storage capacities typically range from a few hundred gigabytes (GB) to several terabytes (TB). If you have a lot of large files, such as videos and high-resolution photos, you might need a device with higher capacity. For general use, a 1TB to 2TB device is usually sufficient, but if you have extensive data, consider 4TB or more.
SpeedSpeed refers to how quickly data can be read from or written to the backup device. This is important for efficiency, especially if you frequently back up large files. Speed is often measured in megabytes per second (MB/s). Devices with higher speeds, such as SSDs, can significantly reduce backup times compared to traditional hard drives. If you need fast backups, look for devices with higher read/write speeds, typically above 500 MB/s.
CompatibilityCompatibility ensures that the backup device works seamlessly with your Mac. Most modern backup devices are compatible with macOS, but it's important to check for specific requirements or software that might be needed. Look for devices that support Time Machine, Apple's built-in backup software, for the easiest integration. Ensure the device has the necessary ports, such as USB-C or Thunderbolt, to connect to your Mac.
ReliabilityReliability refers to the backup device's ability to consistently perform without failure. This is crucial for ensuring your data is safe over time. Look for devices from reputable brands with good reviews and warranties. Consider features like shock resistance and data encryption for added security. Reliable devices often have longer lifespans and better build quality, which is essential for protecting your data.
PortabilityPortability is the ease with which you can transport the backup device. If you need to carry your backup device with you, look for compact and lightweight options. Portable devices are typically smaller and can easily fit into a bag or pocket. For stationary use, larger devices might offer more features and better performance but are less convenient to move around.

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