Need fast, reliable storage for your MacBook or iMac? These external SSDs offer native USB-C connectivity, Time Machine compatibility, and speeds that make file transfers effortless. Here are the top picks across different budgets and use cases.
What to Look For
- Interface — USB 3.2 Gen 2 handles most users well at 1,050MB/s; Thunderbolt 3/4 doubles that for video professionals.
- Capacity — 1TB covers general use; 2TB+ suits photographers and video editors with large libraries.
- Durability — IP ratings indicate water and dust resistance; look for drop protection if you travel frequently.
- Mac Compatibility — Most drives work out of the box but may need reformatting for Time Machine; some come pre-formatted for macOS.
- Encryption — Hardware-based 256-bit AES encryption protects sensitive files without slowing performance.
Product Recommendations
Samsung T7 Shield — Best Overall
The T7 Shield combines rugged durability with consistent performance, making it the most versatile choice for Mac users.
Samsung’s T7 Shield delivers up to 1,050MB/s read speeds with IP65-rated protection against water and dust. The rubberized exterior survives drops up to 9.8 feet, and it works seamlessly with Mac, iPad, and iPhone 15 Pro for ProRes recording.
Pros:
- IP65 water and dust resistance with 9.8-foot drop protection
- Consistent speeds even during sustained transfers
- Works with iPhone 15 Pro for direct ProRes video capture
- Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB
Cons:
- Requires reformatting for Time Machine
- Slightly bulkier than non-rugged alternatives
Best for: Mac users who need reliable everyday storage with peace of mind for travel and outdoor use.
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Samsung T9 — Best for Speed
With 2,000MB/s transfer speeds, the T9 nearly doubles the performance of standard USB SSDs for demanding workflows.
The T9 leverages USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 to hit 2,000MB/s read and write speeds. Its aluminum construction manages heat effectively during large transfers, and Samsung’s Magician software monitors drive health. Note that Macs currently don’t support USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, so you’ll see closer to 1,000MB/s on most Mac hardware.
Pros:
- Up to 2,000MB/s speeds on compatible hardware
- Excellent thermal management for sustained performance
- 3-meter drop resistance
- Samsung Magician software for drive monitoring
Cons:
- Full speed requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, which Macs don’t currently support
- Higher price than the T7 Shield for similar real-world Mac performance
Best for: Users who also work on Windows PCs or want future-proofed speed when Mac hardware catches up.
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SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD — Best Value
A proven performer with solid speeds and rugged construction at a competitive price point.
The Extreme Portable delivers up to 1,050MB/s with IP65 water and dust resistance. The carabiner loop makes it easy to clip to a bag, and 256-bit AES hardware encryption keeps files secure. It’s one of the most reliable drives in its class with a proven track record.
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- IP65 rating with 3-meter drop protection
- Built-in carabiner loop for portability
- Available up to 8TB capacity
Cons:
- Write speeds can slow during very large sustained transfers
- Plastic loop feels less premium than competitors
Best for: Budget-conscious Mac users who want proven reliability without overpaying.
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SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD — Best for Video Editing
Professional-grade speeds and durability for content creators working with large video files.
The Extreme PRO doubles the speed of the standard Extreme with 2,000MB/s read and write speeds via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2. The forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink for sustained performance during long editing sessions. IP65 rating and 3-meter drop protection handle field work.
Pros:
- 2,000MB/s speeds for demanding workflows
- Aluminum heatsink maintains performance under load
- IP65 water and dust resistance
- Professional-grade build quality
Cons:
- Full speed requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (limited Mac support)
- Premium pricing
Best for: Video editors and content creators who need fast, sustained transfers for 4K+ footage.
Crucial X10 Pro — Best for Creative Professionals
Blazing fast speeds with IP55 protection and a compact form factor built for professional workflows.
The X10 Pro delivers up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds in a compact package. IP55 water and dust resistance pairs with 7.5-foot drop protection. Includes a one-month Adobe Creative Cloud subscription, which adds value for creative users.
Pros:
- Among the fastest portable SSDs available
- Compact anodized aluminum design
- Includes Adobe Creative Cloud subscription
- Password protection with hardware encryption
Cons:
- IP55 rating is less robust than IP65 competitors
- Higher price tier
Best for: Photographers and videographers who need maximum speed in a portable package.
Crucial X9 Pro for Mac — Best Mac-Optimized
Pre-formatted for macOS with a gold finish that complements Apple hardware.
The X9 Pro for Mac comes formatted in APFS and ready for Time Machine out of the box. Speeds reach 1,050MB/s with IP55 protection and 7.5-foot drop resistance. The light gold colorway matches Apple’s aesthetic, and it includes Mylio Photos+ for photo management.
Pros:
- Pre-formatted for macOS — works immediately with Time Machine
- Attractive gold finish complements Mac hardware
- Includes Mylio Photos+ subscription
- IP55 water and dust resistance
Cons:
- Speeds are solid but not class-leading
- Limited to 4TB maximum capacity
Best for: Mac users who want plug-and-play simplicity with no reformatting required.
WD My Passport SSD — Best for Backups
Sleek, reliable, and available in multiple colors for users who prioritize style and simplicity.
Western Digital’s My Passport SSD delivers 1,050MB/s in a slim metal enclosure. The included backup software makes scheduling automatic backups simple, and it’s compatible with Time Machine after reformatting. Drop protection up to 6.5 feet keeps data safe.
Pros:
- Slim, stylish metal design in multiple colors
- Built-in backup software for easy scheduling
- 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Proven WD reliability
Cons:
- No water or dust resistance rating
- Requires reformatting for Time Machine
Best for: Users focused on automated backups who want a drive that looks good on their desk.
LaCie Rugged SSD Pro — Best for Field Work
Thunderbolt 3 speeds and extreme durability for filmmakers and photographers in harsh environments.
The Rugged SSD Pro delivers up to 2,800MB/s via Thunderbolt 3 — fast enough to edit 6K and 8K footage directly from the drive. IP67 rating means full dust protection and water submersion resistance. It survives 3-meter drops and 2-ton crushing force.
Pros:
- Thunderbolt 3 speeds up to 2,800MB/s
- IP67 rating — fully dust-tight and water submersion resistant
- Survives 3-meter drops and extreme pressure
- 5-year warranty with Rescue Data Recovery Services
Cons:
- Premium pricing reflects professional-grade specs
- Bulkier than USB-only alternatives
Best for: Filmmakers and photographers who work in demanding conditions and need Thunderbolt speeds.
Crucial X9 — Best Budget
Solid performance and durability at an entry-level price for everyday Mac storage needs.
The standard X9 offers 1,050MB/s read speeds with IP55 protection at a lower price than its Pro sibling. Drop protection up to 7.5 feet and broad compatibility with Mac, PC, and gaming consoles make it a versatile budget choice.
Pros:
- Competitive pricing for 1,050MB/s performance
- IP55 water and dust resistance
- 7.5-foot drop protection
- Includes Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image subscriptions
Cons:
- No hardware encryption
- 3-year warranty versus 5-year on Pro models
Best for: Students and casual users who need reliable external storage without premium pricing.
Verdict
For most Mac users, the Samsung T7 Shield offers the best balance of speed, durability, and value. Video editors working with Thunderbolt-equipped Macs should consider the LaCie Rugged SSD Pro for its unmatched speeds and field-ready construction. On a budget, the Crucial X9 delivers solid performance at an accessible price point.
