The Best External Hard Drive for Mac: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking for the best external hard drive to collect Time Machine backups on your Mac? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of selecting an external hard drive that suits your needs.

Connection Method: Consider Your Workstyle

Before purchasing an external hard drive for collecting Time Machine backups, take a moment to review how you typically work. If your Mac has a Thunderbolt/USB-C port free or you're using a third-party dock offering traditional USB-A ports, you may not need a full-size external hard drive that requires its own power source.

Capacity: Choose the Right Size

Another crucial factor to consider is the storage capacity of the external hard drive. A good rule of thumb is to purchase an external backup drive that's at least three times larger than your Mac's own disk. If your Mac uses a 1TB drive, for example, consider purchasing a 3TB or 4TB external disk.

Portable vs. Desktop Options

When it comes to selecting an external hard drive, you have two main options: portable and desktop drives. Portable offerings such as Western Digital's My Passport for Mac (Figure A) and Seagate's Basic Portable Drive are proving more popular due to their flexibility and ease of transport.

Form Factor: Full-Size or Compact?

Among the first questions to address is whether you need a full-size external hard drive that requires its own power source. If not, a docking station can be a great solution to your connectivity needs.

Best External Hard Drives for Time Machine Backups

In conclusion, selecting the best external hard drive for macOS Time Machine backups depends on several factors, including connection method, capacity, and form factor. By considering these factors and choosing an external hard drive that suits your needs, you can ensure reliable backup solutions for your Mac.

The Best External Hard Drives for Your Needs

Here are some of the best external hard drives to consider for Time Machine backups:

* Western Digital's My Passport for Mac

* Seagate's Basic Portable Drive

* SanDisk's G-DRIVE (desktop drive)

Remember, it's essential to physically connect an external drive to your Mac to ensure reliable backup solutions. With these tips and guidelines, you can select the best external hard drive for your needs and enjoy peace of mind knowing your Mac is backed up securely.

Best external hard disk for mac