10 Best External Hard Drive For Macs 2026 in the United States

The G-Technology 10TB G-DRIVE with Thunderbolt 3 is a solid choice for Mac users needing a large amount of storage. With 10TB capacity, it offers plenty of space for backups, videos, photos, and large files. It supports fast data transfer thanks to its dual Thunderbolt 3 ports and a USB-C port, making it compatible with modern Macs and allowing quick file access or transfers. The device also supports daisy chaining, which is handy if you want to connect multiple drives without cluttering your ports.

Its all-aluminum case provides good durability and a sleek design, which fits well on a desktop setup. However, it is a mechanical hard drive spinning at 7200 RPM, so while it’s fast for a traditional drive, it won’t match the speed of solid-state drives (SSD). Being a 3.5-inch desktop drive, it’s less portable than smaller external drives—it's best suited for stationary use.

This G-DRIVE model is a reliable, high-capacity external hard drive tailored for Mac users who need strong compatibility, decent speed, and a robust build for desktop use but do not prioritize portability or built-in security.

The Samsung T5 EVO Portable SSD offers a substantial 8TB storage capacity, making it an excellent choice for users needing significant space for large files, such as gamers and content creators. Its compact and lightweight design enhances portability, allowing users to carry it conveniently wherever they go. The drive uses a USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface, providing impressive sequential read speeds of up to 460MB/s, which ensures fast data transfer, outperforming traditional external HDDs.

This SSD is highly compatible, working seamlessly with various devices including PCs, gaming consoles, tablets, smartphones, and Macs. It also comes with hardware encryption for added security. Durability is another strong point, as it features shock resistance and can withstand falls up to 6 feet, offering reliability during travel or rough handling.

Some users might find the price point higher compared to HDDs or other SSDs with lower capacities. Additionally, while the USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface is fast, it is not the latest standard, which could be a minor drawback for those seeking the absolute fastest transfer speeds available. Despite these points, the Samsung T5 EVO remains a robust and versatile external SSD, particularly suited for users requiring large storage and reliable performance on the go.

The LaCie d2 Professional 16TB External Hard Drive is an excellent choice for Mac users who need substantial storage capacity. With 16TB of space, it can store vast amounts of data, making it perfect for professionals dealing with large files such as video editors or photographers. The USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface ensures quick data transfer rates up to 260MB/s, which helps in accessing and moving files efficiently.

However, it's worth noting that this drive is designed primarily for desktop use due to its size and the need for an external power supply, which limits its portability compared to smaller, bus-powered drives. Its mechanical hard disk form factor means it may not be as fast as solid-state drives (SSDs) but offers a reliable solution for high-capacity storage needs. Compatibility with both PC and Mac is a strong point, making it versatile for users who operate across different platforms. The sturdy build and professional design add to its durability, making it a dependable option for long-term use.

While it excels in storage capacity and data transfer rates, its lack of portability and reliance on an external power source could be drawbacks for users seeking a mobile storage solution.