Looking for the best external drives to back up your iMac in 2025? I’ve explored many options, from speedy SSDs like Samsung T7 and T9 to large-capacity HDDs like Seagate’s 24TB expansion. There are stylish, portable drives like WD My Passport and rugged options like T7 Shield. Each offers different speeds, capacities, and security features to fit your needs. Keep exploring, and you’ll find the perfect backup solution for your iMac.
Key Takeaways
- The list includes reliable external drives compatible with Mac, supporting Time Machine and macOS backups.
- It features various drive types, such as SSDs and HDDs, offering different capacities and performance levels.
- Durability, security features, and ruggedness are highlighted for drives suitable for demanding environments.
- Compatibility with macOS, software features, and user-friendly design are key considerations for the best options.
- High-speed data transfer and large storage capacities ensure efficient and comprehensive Mac backups.
WD 2TB My Passport External Hard Drive for Mac
If you’re looking for a reliable and portable backup solution specifically designed for Mac, the WD 2TB My Passport External Hard Drive is an excellent choice. Its sleek navy design is both stylish and durable, making it perfect for on-the-go storage. With USB-C and USB 3.1/3.0 compatibility, it offers fast data transfer and is fully Mac-ready, though reformatting might be needed for other OS. It provides ample space for photos, videos, and documents, plus features like backup software, password protection, and ransomware defense to keep your files secure. At just over four ounces, it’s lightweight and easy to carry anywhere.
Best For: Mac users seeking a sleek, portable external hard drive with reliable backup features and enhanced security.
Pros:
- Stylish navy design that is durable and portable for on-the-go storage
- Compatible with USB-C and USB 3.1/3.0 for fast data transfer
- Includes backup software, password protection, and ransomware defense for secure file management
Cons:
- May require reformatting for use with non-Mac operating systems
- Limited capacity options beyond 6TB are not specified for this model
- Warranty and support are subject to manufacturer policies, which may vary by region
SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD 2TB External Drive
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD 2TB is an excellent choice for anyone needing fast, reliable backups for their iMac, especially those working with large files or high-resolution videos. Its 2TB capacity handles massive data, from high-res images to 4K videos, with options up to 4TB. Thanks to PCIe NVMe technology, it offers speeds up to 1,050 MB/s read and 1,000 MB/s write, making file transfers quick and seamless. The sleek, solid aluminum design is shock-resistant and durable enough to handle on-the-go use. Compatibility with Macs, PCs, and mobile devices makes it versatile, perfect for content creators, students, and professionals seeking dependable portable storage.
Best For: professionals, content creators, and students who need fast, reliable portable storage for large files and high-resolution videos.
Pros:
- Ultra-fast read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s for quick data transfer
- Durable solid aluminum construction with shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet
- Compatible with a wide range of devices including Macs, PCs, smartphones, and cameras
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to traditional external HDDs
- Limited to 2TB of storage in the base model (up to 4TB available)
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2 port to maximize performance
Crucial X9 Pro 2TB Portable SSD for Mac
For creative professionals and power users who need fast, reliable backups, the Crucial X9 Pro 2TB Portable SSD delivers impressive read and write speeds of up to 1050MB/s. Its high-speed performance makes file transfers, 4K video editing, and large data management seamless. With 2TB or 4TB options, you can store high-resolution photos, videos, and essential files without worry. Designed for Mac and other platforms, it supports APFS for faster data handling and is fully compatible with Windows, Linux, Android, and gaming consoles. Rugged and durable, it features water and dust resistance, drop protection, and built-in security, making it perfect for on-the-go professionals.
Best For: creative professionals, power users, and on-the-go individuals needing fast, reliable external storage for high-resolution files and large data management.
Pros:
- High-speed read/write speeds of up to 1050MB/s enable quick data transfers and smooth 4K video editing.
- Rugged design with water, dust resistance, and drop protection ensures durability in harsh environments.
- Wide compatibility with Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, gaming consoles, and support for APFS maximizes versatility.
Cons:
- Slightly premium price point may be a consideration for budget-conscious users.
- Limited availability of higher capacity options (2TB and 4TB) compared to larger external drives.
- Compact size, while portable, could make it easier to misplace or lose if not stored carefully.
WD 5TB My Passport Ultra External Hard Drive for Mac
The WD 5TB My Passport Ultra External Hard Drive for Mac stands out as an excellent choice for Mac users seeking reliable, high-capacity backups. Its sleek silver design complements Mac aesthetics, and with USB-C and USB 3.1 interfaces, data transfers are fast and efficient. Formatted specifically for macOS and Time Machine, it’s ready to go right out of the box. Security features like 256-bit AES hardware encryption and ransomware protection keep your data safe. At 5TB, it offers ample space for backups, and its compact size makes it portable. This drive combines style, security, and performance—making it a top pick for dependable Mac backups in 2025.
Best For: Mac users seeking a reliable, high-capacity external hard drive for backups, security, and data transfer.
Pros:
- Seamless integration with macOS and Time Machine for easy backups.
- Fast data transfer speeds with USB-C and USB 3.1 interfaces.
- Enhanced security features including 256-bit AES hardware encryption and ransomware protection.
Cons:
- Only compatible with Mac systems out of the box, limiting cross-platform use.
- Slightly heavier and larger compared to some portable drives.
- Price may vary and could be higher than comparable non-Apple-specific drives.
SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD
Looking for a portable drive that combines speed and durability for your iMac backups? The SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD delivers impressive NVMe performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds, making backups quick and efficient. Its IP65 rating guarantees water and dust resistance, plus it can withstand drops from up to 3 meters. The compact design includes a carabiner loop, perfect for on-the-go use. With 256-bit AES hardware encryption and the SanDisk Memory Zone app, your data stays secure and organized. This drive is reliable across a wide temperature range, making it an excellent choice for any environment.
Best For: users seeking a durable, high-speed portable SSD for backing up large files on the go, especially in rugged environments.
Pros:
- Fast NVMe performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
- IP65 water and dust resistance with up to 3-meter drop protection.
- Secure data encryption with 256-bit AES hardware encryption and easy file management via the SanDisk Memory Zone app.
Cons:
- Performance may vary depending on the host device and usage conditions.
- Limited to USB-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2 interfaces, which may require adapters for some devices.
- Non-operating temperature range (-20°C to 85°C) might be unsuitable for extreme temperature environments.
Seagate Expansion 24TB External Hard Drive HDD
If you need a high-capacity external hard drive for seamless Mac backups, the Seagate Expansion 24TB HDD stands out as a reliable and straightforward option. It offers ample storage—around 21.8TB usable after formatting—perfect for large backups, media libraries, and files. The drive features easy plug-and-play setup with USB 3.0, ensuring fast transfer speeds. Its sleek, lightweight design makes it portable and suitable for home, office, or travel use. With a 7200 RPM speed, it delivers reliable performance and quiet operation. Plus, its durable build and warranty support give peace of mind, making it a solid choice for those needing massive storage.
Best For: users needing extensive external storage for large backups, media libraries, and high-capacity data transfer with reliable performance.
Pros:
- Massive 24TB storage capacity with around 21.8TB usable after formatting
- Fast plug-and-play setup with USB 3.0 for quick data transfer speeds
- Quiet operation with a durable build and portable, lightweight design
Cons:
- Reformatting required for Mac users wanting to use Time Machine
- No external power cord needed, which may limit power options in certain setups
- Slight noise during startup, which some users find noticeable
LaCie Rugged 5TB Portable External HDD
For those seeking a rugged, high-capacity external drive to back up their iMac, the LaCie Rugged 5TB Portable External HDD stands out. It offers a solid 5TB of storage in a compact, lightweight design, perfect for on-the-go use. Built to withstand drops up to 4 feet, dust, and water, it’s ideal for outdoor or rough environments. With USB 3.0 and USB-C compatibility, transfer speeds reach up to 130MB/s. It includes a one-month Adobe Creative Cloud subscription and a two-year warranty. Note that reformatting is needed for Mac, but its durable construction and ample capacity make it a reliable backup partner for any user.
Best For: users needing a durable, high-capacity portable external hard drive for outdoor, travel, or rugged environments, especially creative professionals and Mac users who can reformat the drive.
Pros:
- Rugged design with shock, dust, and water resistance for all-terrain use
- Ample 5TB storage capacity suitable for large backups and media files
- Fast transfer speeds up to 130MB/s with USB 3.0 and USB-C compatibility
Cons:
- Reformatting required for Mac compatibility, which may be inconvenient for some users
- Rotational speed of 5400 RPM may be slower than higher RPM drives for certain tasks
- Some users might find the drive somewhat heavier and larger compared to ultra-compact portable options
LaCie Rugged USB-C 2TB External Hard Drive
The LaCie Rugged USB-C 2TB External Hard Drive is an excellent choice for anyone who needs durable, portable storage for their iMac backups, especially those who frequently work outdoors or in challenging environments. Its rugged design withstands drops up to 4 feet, dust, water, and physical shocks, making it perfect for fieldwork. Featuring USB-C and USB 3.0 interfaces, it offers high-speed transfer rates and compatibility with the latest Macs and PCs (reformatting required for Mac). Compact and lightweight at just over 11 ounces, it’s easy to carry. Customers praise its durability, capacity, and ease of use, though some note slow speeds with incompatible cables.
Best For: users needing rugged, portable storage for outdoor work, field professionals, and creative creators who require reliable data backup and transfer in challenging environments.
Pros:
- Highly durable with drop resistance up to 4 feet, dust, water, and shock protection
- Compact, lightweight design ideal for on-the-go use and fieldwork
- High-capacity 2TB storage with fast USB-C and USB 3.0 transfer speeds
Cons:
- Reformatting required for Mac compatibility, which may be inconvenient for some users
- Slow transfer speeds reported when using incompatible or low-quality cables
- Occasional reports of failure or difficulty with data recovery services
SanDisk 2TB Portable SSD with USB-C and USB 3.2
When I need a reliable, fast, and durable external drive for my iMac backups, the SanDisk 2TB Portable SSD stands out. It offers impressive read speeds of up to 800MB/s, making data transfers quick and efficient. Its USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface ensures fast connectivity, and the compact design with a tough rubber hook makes it perfect for on-the-go use. Built to withstand drops from up to two meters, it’s rugged enough for demanding environments. Weighing just 1.44 ounces and measuring under four inches, it’s portable without sacrificing performance. Trusted by professionals, this drive combines affordability, durability, and speed, making it a top choice for backups in 2025.
Best For: those seeking a reliable, fast, and durable portable SSD for on-the-go backups, especially for demanding environments like professional photography or intensive data transfer needs.
Pros:
- Up to 800MB/s read speeds provide rapid data transfer.
- Rugged design with up to two-meter drop protection enhances durability.
- Compact and lightweight (1.44 ounces) for easy portability.
Cons:
- Performance may vary depending on the host device and usage conditions.
- Limited to 2TB capacity, which might be insufficient for some users with larger storage needs.
- Requires USB-C or USB 3.2 compatible devices for optimal performance.
SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD
If you’re a professional photographer or videographer needing quick, reliable backups for your iMac, the SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD is an excellent choice. It offers blazing-fast NVMe speeds of up to 2000MB/s, making large file transfers swift and efficient. Its durable forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink, maintaining performance during intensive use, while its rugged design provides up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance. Compact and lightweight, it’s easy to carry on the go. With broad compatibility via USB-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, plus a 5-year warranty, this drive delivers both performance and peace of mind.
Best For: professional photographers and videographers requiring fast, durable external storage for large files and on-the-go backups.
Pros:
- Extremely fast NVMe read/write speeds up to 2000MB/s for swift data transfers
- Rugged design with forged aluminum heatsink, drop protection up to 3 meters, and IP65 water and dust resistance for durability
- Compact, lightweight, and equipped with USB-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 compatibility for broad device connectivity
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to standard portable SSDs due to premium features and durability
- Limited color options, primarily available in sleek black finish
- Requires compatible USB-C ports for optimal performance; older devices may need adapters
SanDisk Professional 5TB G-Drive ArmorATD External Hard Drive
For those needing a rugged, high-capacity external drive to back up their iMac, the SanDisk Professional 5TB G-Drive ArmorATD offers an excellent solution. Its 5TB mechanical HDD provides ample storage for files, photos, and footage, with USB-C support for fast data transfer up to 130MB/s. Built with a durable anodized aluminum enclosure and an easy-grip bumper, it’s designed to withstand tough conditions, being IP54 rated for dust and water resistance. Compatible with macOS out of the box (and Windows after reformatting), it’s perfect for on-the-go backups, combining reliability, portability, and ruggedness in one package.
Best For: professionals and outdoor enthusiasts needing a durable, high-capacity external drive for quick backups and data transfer in challenging environments.
Pros:
- Rugged design with IP54 dust and water resistance for durability outdoors and on the go
- High-capacity 5TB HDD suitable for large files like photos and footage
- Fast USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface delivering transfer speeds up to 130MB/s
Cons:
- Mechanical HDD may be slower than SSD options for ultra-fast data transfer needs
- Requires reformatting for Windows users, which could be inconvenient for some
- Slightly heavier and bulkier compared to more compact portable drives
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB External Solid State Drive
The SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB stands out as an excellent choice for professionals and creative users who need rapid, reliable backups for their iMacs. It offers impressive speeds up to 2,000MB/s, making data transfer, editing, and project loading quick and efficient. Its compact, durable design includes Dynamic Thermal Guard technology, ensuring safe heat management during heavy use. Compatible with various devices, including iPhones and gaming consoles, it supports USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 with UASP mode for peak performance. With a sleek black finish and a 4TB capacity, the T9 is a versatile, high-performance external drive built for demanding workflows.
Best For: professionals, creative users, and gamers who require fast, reliable external storage for large files, editing projects, and heavy-duty workflows.
Pros:
- High-speed data transfer with speeds up to 2,000MB/s for efficient workflow
- Durable, compact design with Dynamic Thermal Guard technology for safe heat management
- Versatile compatibility with desktops, iPhones, gaming consoles, and more
Cons:
- Performance may vary depending on host device compatibility and connection cables
- USB 3.0 interface may limit maximum speeds compared to newer standards
- Price point could be higher compared to traditional external HDDs
SAMSUNG T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD
Designed for users who need fast, durable storage, the Samsung T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD stands out as an ideal choice for iMac backups. It features USB 3.2 Gen 2 and PCIe NVMe technology, delivering speeds up to 1,050 MB/s read and 1,000 MB/s write. Its rugged design boasts an IP65 rating, making it water and dust resistant, and it can withstand drops up to 9.8 feet. Compact and lightweight at just over 3 ounces, it’s perfect for on-the-go use. Compatibility across Mac, PC, Android, and gaming consoles ensures versatile use. With Samsung Magician software, monitoring drive health and performance is simple, making it a reliable, high-performance external drive.
Best For: users seeking a fast, durable, and portable external SSD for backups, multimedia editing, gaming, or on-the-go data transfer across multiple devices.
Pros:
- High-speed performance with up to 1,050 MB/s read and 1,000 MB/s write speeds
- Rugged design with IP65 water and dust resistance and drop protection up to 9.8 feet
- Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, and gaming consoles, offering versatile use
Cons:
- Slightly heavier and larger than some portable SSDs, which may affect pocketability
- Requires USB-C port for optimal performance, potentially limiting compatibility with older devices
- Premium price point relative to lower-capacity or non-rugged external drives
Toshiba Canvio Flex 4TB Portable External Hard Drive
If you need a versatile external drive that works seamlessly across multiple devices and operating systems, the Toshiba Canvio Flex 4TB is an excellent choice. It’s compatible with Mac, Windows PCs, and supported tablets with USB-C ports, making it ideal for diverse backup needs. Formatted in exFAT, it offers cross-device compatibility, though reformatting may be necessary for Time Machine. Weighing just 7.4 ounces and featuring USB 3.0, it delivers fast data transfer in a compact, lightweight design. Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables, ensuring easy connectivity. With a 4TB capacity and solid customer ratings, it’s a reliable, portable option for your iMac backups.
Best For: users seeking a versatile, portable external hard drive compatible with Mac, Windows, and tablets for reliable backup and data transfer.
Pros:
- Compatible with multiple operating systems including Mac, Windows, and supported tablets via USB-C
- Portable and lightweight design weighing only 7.4 ounces for easy transport
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables, ensuring versatile connectivity options
Cons:
- Reformatting may be necessary for use with Apple Time Machine
- 5400 RPM rotational speed may result in slower data transfer compared to higher RPM drives
- Actual formatted storage capacity may vary from the advertised 4TB
LaCie Mobile Drive 1TB Portable External Hard Drive
For those seeking a sleek, portable external drive that combines high capacity with eco-friendly materials, the LaCie Mobile Drive 1TB is an excellent choice for iMac backups. Designed by Neil Poulton, it features a minimalist silver Moon Silver finish and is made from post-consumer recycled aluminum and plastic, emphasizing sustainability. It works seamlessly with Mac, PC, and iPad via USB-C 3.2. With a 7200 RPM hard drive, it offers fast data transfer, supporting up to 5TB of storage. The drive supports one-click and scheduled backups through LaCie Toolkit and includes a three-year warranty plus Rescue Data Recovery Services for added peace of mind.
Best For: users seeking a stylish, eco-friendly external hard drive with high capacity and seamless compatibility for backing up Mac, PC, or iPad devices.
Pros:
- Sleek minimalist design with eco-conscious recycled materials
- Fast data transfer with USB-C 3.2 interface and 7200 RPM drive
- Includes software for easy backups, along with a three-year warranty and data recovery services
Cons:
- Limited to 1TB base storage with up to 5TB capacity, which may be insufficient for very large data needs
- Mechanical hard drive may be less durable than SSD options
- Compatibility mainly emphasized for Mac, PC, and iPad, potentially limiting use with other devices
Factors to Consider When Choosing External Drives for Imac Backups
When selecting an external drive for your iMac backups, I consider factors like storage capacity, compatibility with Mac, and transfer speeds to guarantee smooth performance. Durability, portability, and security features also matter to protect your data and make backups convenient. Understanding these points helps me choose the best drive for my needs.
Storage Capacity Needs
Choosing the right external drive for your iMac backups hinges on understanding your current and future data storage needs. Think about how much data you generate daily and how your files grow over time. For daily backups of large media libraries or high-resolution videos, a minimum of 4TB to 6TB is recommended. If you work with multiple backups or large projects, consider drives with 8TB or more to guarantee ample space. It’s wise to evaluate your data growth rate so your drive stays sufficient for several years, avoiding constant upgrades. Match your capacity to your backup strategy, including incremental backups, snapshots, and archives. Properly appraising your storage needs helps you choose a drive that will reliably support your backup demands now and in the future.
Compatibility With Mac
Ensuring your external drive is compatible with your iMac is vital for smooth backups and reliable performance. First, check if the drive is pre-formatted for macOS or if you can easily reformat it using Disk Utility—this avoids compatibility issues. Support for USB-C or Thunderbolt connections is essential since these interfaces are optimized for Mac systems, ensuring fast and stable data transfer. Make sure the drive works seamlessly with macOS backup software like Time Machine, which simplifies the backup process. Confirm that its file system is compatible with Mac OS X, such as APFS or HFS+, or that it can be reformatted without risking data loss. Additionally, opt for drives with macOS-certified security features like hardware encryption and password protection to keep your backups safe.
Transfer Speed Requirements
Transfer speed is a key factor in selecting an external drive for your iMac backups because it directly affects how quickly data is copied and how efficiently your backup process runs. Faster read/write speeds mean less time waiting, especially when handling large files or multiple backups at once. SSDs with speeds over 1,000 MB/s can drastically cut backup times compared to traditional HDDs. The interface type also matters—USB 3.1, USB 3.2, and Thunderbolt 3 or 4 offer increasing data transfer rates, so choosing a newer interface guarantees faster speeds. Additionally, sustained transfer speeds are vital; drives with good thermal management maintain high performance during prolonged backups. Understanding your backup volume and frequency helps determine the necessary speed to keep your backups timely and reliable.
Durability and Portability
When selecting an external drive for your iMac backups, durability and portability are crucial factors to take into account. I look for drives with rugged designs or protective casings that can withstand drops, shocks, and environmental hazards during transport. Lightweight and compact models make it easier to carry without sacrificing toughness. I also check for water, dust, and impact resistance ratings, such as IP ratings or shockproof certifications, to guarantee resilience in various conditions. The construction materials matter too—aluminum or reinforced plastics enhance robustness and longevity. Additionally, secure cable connections and tamper-proof enclosures prevent damage and maintain performance while on the move. Prioritizing these features helps me choose drives that are both durable and portable, ensuring my backups stay safe wherever I go.
Security Features
Security features are vital to protect your iMac backups from unauthorized access and cyber threats. Hardware encryption and password protection are fundamental, guaranteeing that only you can access your data. Ransomware defense integrated into backup software adds an extra layer of security, preventing malicious attacks from corrupting or encrypting your files. Physical security measures like lockable enclosures or tamper-evident seals can deter theft or tampering. Support for secure transfer protocols, such as AES-256 encryption, keeps sensitive information safe during transmission. Additionally, regular firmware updates from manufacturers are essential—they fix vulnerabilities and improve security over time. When choosing an external drive, prioritize these features to guarantee your backups remain protected from evolving threats and unauthorized access, giving you peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do External Drives Impact Macbook Battery Life During Backups?
External drives don’t considerably impact my MacBook’s battery life during backups, as the process mainly relies on the drive’s activity, not the MacBook’s power. I make sure to connect my external drive to a power source if it’s bus-powered to avoid draining my battery. Usually, I perform backups when I’m plugged in or have ample battery, ensuring smooth operation without affecting my MacBook’s overall battery performance.
Are There Specific External Drives Optimized for Macos Time Machine?
Yes, there are external drives optimized for macOS Time Machine. I recommend drives with HFS+ or APFS formatting, which Time Machine handles seamlessly. Look for options with USB-C or Thunderbolt connections for faster backups. Brands like LaCie, Western Digital, and Samsung offer reliable drives designed for Mac. I always choose drives with good durability and warranty, ensuring my backups stay safe and accessible whenever I need them.
What Security Features Are Available on External Drives for Sensitive Data?
When protecting sensitive data, I look for external drives with hardware encryption, password protection, and secure access controls. These features guarantee my information stays private and safe from unauthorized access. I also prefer drives with automatic encryption and tamper-proof designs. By choosing drives with robust security features, I can confidently back up my data, knowing it’s shielded against theft, hacking, or accidental exposure.
Can External Drives Be Used for Both Backups and Regular File Storage?
Yes, external drives can definitely be used for both backups and regular file storage. I often use mine to back up my iMac regularly and to store large files like videos and photos. It’s convenient because I can access my documents anytime without cluttering my internal drive. Just make sure to choose a reliable drive with good speed and security features for both purposes.
How Do External Drive Warranties Compare Across Different Brands?
I’ve found that warranty differences between brands really matter when choosing an external drive. Some brands offer longer warranties—up to five years—showing confidence in their product’s durability. Others only provide one or two years, which might leave you hanging if something goes wrong. I recommend checking each brand’s warranty terms carefully, considering the longer coverage options, and reading reviews to see how they handle customer service.
Conclusion
Choosing the right external drive isn’t just about storage—it’s about finding a reliable partner for your iMac backups. I found that sometimes, the best options come when you least expect them, like a trusted drive appearing just when you need it most. Whether it’s a sleek SSD or a spacious HDD, the perfect backup companion might be closer than you think. Trust your instincts, and your iMac will thank you in unexpected ways.
