10 Best External Hard Drives For Mac Computers 2026 in the United States

The Samsung T9 Portable SSD is a robust choice for users looking for an external hard drive that works well with Mac computers. With a generous 4TB storage capacity, it provides ample space for storing large files, making it suitable for students, professionals, and gamers alike. One of its standout features is its impressive transfer speed; with up to 2,000MB/s for both reading and writing, you can quickly load and edit files, which is especially beneficial for video editing or large datasets.

Compatibility is also a strong point for the T9, as it works seamlessly with various devices including desktops, gaming consoles, iPhones, and tablets, making it a versatile option for those who own multiple gadgets. Its portability is enhanced by its compact design, making it easy to carry around without the bulk of traditional hard drives.

While the T9 excels in speed and capacity, it’s important to consider a few drawbacks. The cost may be higher than traditional external hard drives, given that it’s a solid-state drive (SSD), which can deter budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, while its durability is praised, SSDs are generally a bit more susceptible to physical damage compared to traditional hard drives, so careful handling is necessary. Security features, such as the hardware encryption and the included Magician Software for monitoring drive health, add value for users concerned about data protection. The T9’s dynamic thermal guard helps maintain optimal performance during heavy usage, ensuring it remains reliable under demanding tasks. The Samsung T9 Portable SSD is an excellent investment for those in need of high performance and reliability in an external drive, particularly for creative professionals or gamers who require fast data transfer and substantial storage capacity. Just be mindful of the higher price point and handle it with care.

The OWC Mercury Elite Pro Dual is a high-capacity external hard drive offering a massive 24TB of storage, which is great if you need to store large amounts of data like videos, photos, or backups. It uses a traditional 3.5-inch drive with a fast 7200 RPM speed, helping data move quickly. You get two connectivity options: USB 3.1, which is common and compatible with most Macs, and eSATA, which is less common but allows for even faster data transfers if your computer supports it.

The dual RAID setup is a big plus—it lets you choose between RAID 0 for speed or RAID 1 for extra data protection, which is handy if you want peace of mind that your files are safe. The unit is relatively portable for a 3.5-inch drive, though it's not as compact as smaller portable drives, so it’s better suited for desktop use or occasional transport. This drive is designed mainly for desktop Mac users rather than on-the-go use, and it requires an external power source. The included Mercury Elite software simplifies managing your RAID setup, which is helpful if you're not tech-savvy.

Some users mention the size and noise level typical for desktop drives, so it may not be ideal if you want something silent or ultra-compact. In terms of compatibility, it works well with Mac computers and should be plug-and-play with macOS, but double-check if your Mac supports eSATA to fully benefit from the faster connection. If you need large, reliable storage with flexible RAID options and fast transfer speeds for desktop use, this drive is a solid choice.

The Seagate Expansion Desktop 16TB External Hard Drive is a solid choice if you need a large amount of storage for your Mac. With 16 terabytes of space, it offers plenty of room to back up important files, photos, and videos. It uses a 3.5-inch mechanical hard drive, which means it’s less portable and requires an external power source, making it best suited for a stationary setup like a desk rather than on-the-go use. The USB 3.0 connection ensures reasonably fast file transfers, though it’s not the fastest available today.

It works with both Windows and Mac computers right out of the box, but if you want to use it with Mac’s Time Machine backup, you’ll need to reformat it first. The plastic casing keeps it lightweight but may not offer much protection against drops or rough handling. An added plus is the included data recovery service, which can be helpful if you accidentally lose files.

This drive is designed for users who need large, reliable desktop storage without portability. If you want a drive that’s easier to carry or offers faster data speeds, smaller SSD-based options might be more suitable.