Macally Ultra-Slim USB Wired Computer Keyboard for Apple MacBook Pro/Air. Work Faster with Multi-Touch Gestures. The first thing you'll want to be familiar with is that massive.
- Best Mouse For Macbook
- Best External Mouse For Macbook Pro Model
- Best External Mouse For Macbook Pro Cases
The MacBook Pro is a powerful computer, but it's common knowledge that any laptop trackpad can restrict your ability to work productively, especially if you have larger or shaky hands. Additionally, the trackpad limits some functionalities you would normally have with a mouse, such as an easy secondary click or programmable buttons.
Getting a mouse for your MacBook will allow you to maximize the use of your laptop while providing extra comfort and reduce strain on your hands. Since you have plenty of options, we'll take you through some of the best mouse for your MacBook Pro and help you decide which mice or style is the best for you.
We also include some tips that you'll probably find useful to keep your mice in good shape and make the most of your devices. Read on for more!
Quick Summary
If you prefer a mouse with:
- a sleek design and great Mac integration, look no further than the Apple Magic Mouse 2.
- connection via Bluetooth for the greatest ease of use, Logitech M557 Bluetooth Mouse is a great choice.
- multiple tertiary buttons (gaming, advanced apps), get Razer DeathAdder Elite Gaming Mouse.
- a wired connection for stability and reliability, we recommend VicTsing USB Wired Mouse.
Do I Need A Mouse for My MacBook?
If you haven't already used a mice with your MacBook Pro, what are you waiting for? Almost everyone can benefit when taking a break from the trackpad in favor of the easier-to-operate mice. It will expand your workflow, provide additional functionality, and allow you to work in greater comfort.
A mouse might also be necessary if you work with complex software such as those for creative editing or engineering, where multiple click buttons are needed to properly execute commands.
However, we would like to acknowledge that some users might have less use for a mouse than others. If you travel frequently or work in uneven places a mouse will quickly become unwieldy, but you may still want to consider one for use at home.
The Best Mouse for MacBook Pro in 2020: Our Picks
Please note: These choices are listed in no particular order and do not represent the individual merits of each recommendation.
1. Apple Magic Mouse 2
A product built by Apple for Apple, the Magic Mouse won't disappoint you. You'll be able to be more productive by taking advantage of the touch gestures it supports, and the slim design fits smoothly in even the thinnest of computer bags for easy transport. It charges by lightning cable and connects to your MacBook Pro with Bluetooth.
Pros:
- Sleek design, lightweight, and rechargeable.
- It's a reliable product from one of the most reliable companies in the world — Apple.
- Fully optimized to work with your MacBook through gestures and it's extremely light.
Cons:
- There's no physical button separation or scroll wheel, might not be optimal for some applications.
- Also, the scrolling feature may not work if your MacBook is running an older macOS version.
2. Logitech M557 Bluetooth Mouse
If you're looking for something wireless but sturdy and well designed, this one from Logitech will check all your boxes. It's slim and compact for easy travel, but still big enough to be used comfortably. The scroll wheel has multiple functions, and the optical sensor will work on a variety of surfaces.
Pros:
- Thin and minimalist design is great during use and travel, lengthy battery life of 12 months, and designed for both left and right-handed users.
Cons:
- While equally functional on both Mac and Windows, the 4th button is only useful to Windows PC users.
3. Razer DeathAdder Elite Gaming Mouse
If you're a gamer or simply enjoy having a mouse with plenty of programmable functionality, this model from Razer is sure to meet your needs. The wired mice will allow you to create custom key functions and the smooth shape will fit neatly in your grip while gaming or working.
Note: you would need a connector for the latest MBP as they have phased out USB port.
Pros:
- Manufactured by a well-trusted brand, this product has a great shape for fitting in your hand with raised buttons that are easy to find.
- Programmable functions lend a huge amount of versatility, and it even features a color-changing logo and scroll wheel.
Cons:
- Not the right choice if you only need a few buttons, slightly larger than a normal product.
4. VicTsing USB Wired Mouse
This simple product maintains the classically curved hand rest and in addition to the primary and secondary click buttons, includes a physical scroll wheel (with button functionality) and a fourth, additional button in the middle. You'll have the familiarity of a desktop mouse at your fingertips for use with your MacBook.
Note: you would need a connector for the latest MBP as they have phased out USB port.
Pros:
- Wired design lends reliability and functions immediately upon being plugged in, buttons are smooth and sweat-resistant, includes settings for sensitivity adjustment.
Cons:
- 5-foot cord may be excessive for use with a laptop, it is chunky compared to the slim MacBook Pro and doesn't make for easy travel.
Mice for MacBook Pro: What to Consider in 2020?
Size/Shape
The size and shape of will greatly impact how you use it. Some mice come in 'travel' sizes which can be easy to transport but difficult to use, whereas larger mice are more comfortable to work with but bulkier. You should consider when and where you plan to use it before deciding a style that works best. Additionally, mice come in several shapes that may be more or less beneficial depending on how you use your mouse. For example, gaming mice typically have a bit more grip and are sturdier whereas the minimalist Apple Magic Mouse works smoothly but is meant for less intense work.
Style and Tools
Every brand offers unique features to their mice. Everything from touch gestures to programmable buttons are available, but it's up to you to determine which features you'll actually use and which will be a hindrance. For example, 'gaming' mice traditionally include a plethora of buttons for specific commands, but if you use your laptop mostly for browsing the web, these buttons could quickly become annoying. Thus, make sure you know what you need before deciding which type of mice best suits your needs.
Connection
There are several possible ways for the product to be connected to your computer. The classic wired one offers stability and reliability but includes a bothersome cord. Bluetooth mice eliminate the chord, but require batteries or charging to connect and may have pairing errors. A mouse with a USB dongle functions similarly to Bluetooth and requires batteries, but takes up one of your USB ports on the Mac which is super precious if you're on a newest MacBook model. The latest MBP has already phrased out USB ports.
Additional Tips
If you're a staunch Apple fan or simply enjoy the feel of the Apple Magic Mouse, you'll want to make sure to keep it clean and in working order. Whether you own a rechargeable model or a battery-operated model, they can both benefit from having their sensors checked and exterior cleaned. Follow this guide from Apple to keep your mice safe while you clean it.
Not sure if a mouse is for you but still want more space than the built-in trackpad? The Magic Trackpad 2 from Apple will give you six inches of trackpad space, and comes with the relatively recent Force Touch feature. It has a low profile and connects via Bluetooth, so you can use it with ease.
Also, a mouse pad may be worth considering if you want to protect your mice from physical scratch and have a smooth moving experience. The Belkin WaveRest Gel Mouse Pad with wrist support is a great choice.
FAQ
Can You Use Any Mouse With A MacBook Pro?
Most USB or wireless (BlueTooth) mouse can work with MacBook Pro, and it is always better to get one that specifies Mac compatibility to avoid risking incompatibility or losing connection (wireless). Do take note that the recent MBP has already phrased out USB port, hence you would need a connector.
Do I Need Magic Mouse for MacBook Pro?
No, you don't need a Magic Mouse as the built-in trackpad is sufficient for everyday use.
Final Words
Purchasing a mouse to use with your MacBook Pro can be a great way to increase your productivity and simplify your workflow. It will make working with complex programs easier, as well as allow you to use your MacBook in a more relaxed working environment, without confining your hands to a small space.
What mice do you use with your MacBook Pro? Or you don't use one at all because you're used to the trackpad? Tell us and share the stories and reasons why you like it.
For those who chose a MacBook over an ordinary laptop must be short for some storage space, right? Well, upgrading storage space through apple is as costly as purchasing a new laptop. In this case, an external hard drive is less expensive and beneficial for storage requirements.
You can switch your external hard drive from a Mac to a pc which makes data transfer for two different OS easier. Furthermore, external hard disks are less likely to get corrupted and are portable in nature.
Macbooks generally have SSDs which are capable of loading a program quickly but more likely to low on storage.
Furthermore, SSDs are quite costly and upgrading an SSD on a Macbook is definitely costlier than you could even imagine. An external hard drive is best for storing data such as photos, videos, movies, rendered projects and more.
Contents
- 1 Best External Hard Drives for MacBook in 2021
- 1.3 3. Seagate Backup Plus Slim (2 TB)
- 1.4 4. Western Digital My Book (8 TB)
- 1.5 5. Buffalo MiniStation Thunderbolt
- 1.6 6. G-Technology G-DRIVE USB 3.0 (4TB)
- 1.7 7. Adata SD700 External SSD
- 1.8 8. LaCie Rugged USB-C
- 1.9 9. Samsung X5 (1TB)
- 1.10 10. Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC external hard drive
- 2 What things to consider while buying External Hard Drive For Mac?
- 3 External Hard Drive Vs SSD: Which one is good for MacBook Pro?
Best External Hard Drives for MacBook in 2021
Although choosing an external hard drive is a complicated process but we have made a list of 10 best external hard drives for Mac that you should consider before your final decision.
1. Samsung Portable SSD T5
Starting off Samsung Portable SSD T5 which is an outstanding storage device, it can reach up to a speed of 550 MB per second for data transfer which is amazing. You can directly plug it into a USB-C port or USB-A port.
It contains no moving parts therefore chances of getting damaged due to mishandling are less. Even though SSD is costlier than a hard drive, the speed it offers is commendable. You will notice a significant boost in the overall performance while doing stuff that requires you to load large files and programs.
Overall, the SSD is fantastic but only if you can spare a few more bucks than your actual budget. You can get the SSD ranging from 250 GB to 2 TB from Amazon with some additional discounts.
2. Western Digital My Passport 4TB external hard drive
Western Digital My Passport 4TB external hard drive is the newest generation of external hard disks and is available in capacities from 1 TB to up to 4 TB. It offers cloud storage and 256-AES encryption alongside WD's software for backups.
The data transfer speeds won't disappoint you and the drive offers speed similar to what an SSD provides. If you are looking for a drive with good data transfer rate and maximum storage, consider Western Digital My Passport 4TB as a choice.
3. Seagate Backup Plus Slim (2 TB)
If you are looking for a reliable, portable, and affordable hard disk, Seagate backup plus slim is the thing you should have a look at. It supports Windows and Mac both and perfect for storing your essential data right away.
With the Seagate dashboard backup system, you can schedule backups and never lose your important files anymore. Backup automation can be set for daily, monthly, weekly or your desired time-frequency.
Also Check:
Alongside, Seagate also provides a two-month membership for adobe creative cloud photography plan and a one-year subscription to Mylio create to manage your photo library.
- Affordable price
- Metal body
- Supports USB 3.0
- Comes with an automation backup software
- Doesn't support USB 3.0 cables
4. Western Digital My Book (8 TB)
This Hard disk is probably for creators and organizations that require a lot of storage for various purposes. Faster data transmission rate will let you transfer data in the meantime, all thanks to USB 3.0 support.
It also offers 256 AES encryption for securing your data and makes sure your personal data is secured in the storage device. Even though it meets the requirements of a regular user, the only thing where Western Digital My Book (8 TB) lacks is portability.
Therefore, if you are looking for a hard disk for work purposes and if portability is not an issue, Western Digital My Book (8 TB) is definitely the right choice.
- High storage
- Data encryption
- Compatible with the time machine
- Requires power source to work
- Not portable
5. Buffalo MiniStation Thunderbolt
Buffalo MiniStation thunderbolt offers data transmission at a speed of twice of what USB 3.0 offers. You can enjoy this feature if your device has a thunderbolt port. Another good thing about Buffalo MiniStation thunderbolt is its price. It is affordable and portable.
- Also Check: 10 Best Cooling Pads For MacBook Pro Reviewed
However, it is a hard drive, not a solid-state, therefore, the data transmission will definitely be high but the overall performance of your pc will remain unchanged. Lastly, if you don't have a thunderbolt port in your pc, you can use the traditional USB 3.0 port.
- USB 3.0 port
- Affordable
- Formatted for Mac
- Not a Solid State drive
6. G-Technology G-DRIVE USB 3.0 (4TB)
With the new products, Apple is on its way to completely shift to USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 ports but there are still some people who are using old hardware and for them, G-Technology G-DRIVE USB 3.0 (4TB) is going to work like a charm.
The body of the HDD is made up of metal which makes it durable and strong against accidents such as dropping off the drive on the floor or whatnot. It runs at a speed of 7200 RPM and can transfer data at a rate of 195 MB/s which is efficient for transferring music, videos and software.
- Metallic body for durability
- High data transmission rate
- USB 3.0
- Should be reformatted for Windows OS
7. Adata SD700 External SSD
Adata SD700 is an affordable External SSD which is IP68 rated which certainly makes it a water-resistant storage device. The overall performance of this SSD is commendable and as per our research, Adata SD700 External SSD is the only SSD with an IP68 rating.
You can expect faster transfer rates and better booting speed if you are planning to install an OS on the SSD. Don't worry about the storage space as it is available in 1 TB capacity also. The maximum read and write speed is up to 440 MB/S, all thanks to the USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface.
- Lightweight and portable
- Shock resistant
- Supports Android, Mac, and Windows
- 3 years of Warranty
- Mac users must format it to FAT32 to use this product
8. LaCie Rugged USB-C
Lacie rugged USB-C hard disk can be distinguished easily because of its unique rubber casing that makes sure your hard drive doesn't get damaged when it drops from up to 1.3 m height. It can withstand rain, dust and can even survive 1-ton pressure. This is certainly the best choice for content creators.
Alongside hard disk, you will also get access to a one-month subscription to Adobe creative cloud all apps plan. The company also provides 3 years of warranty for the device and will also help you to restore the data if lost.
Also Check:
Best Mouse For Macbook
In terms of speed, Lacie rugged USB-C hard disk is not very fast as it provides only 120 MB/s which is comparatively lesser than the HDDs mentioned in this listicle. However, there are various variants available for this hard disk on Amazon.
- Durability
- Affordable
- Resistant to water
- Lesser data transmission speed
9. Samsung X5 (1TB)
Samsung never disappoints with its amazing hardware capabilities. With Samsung X5, you can transfer data at a rate of 2,300 MB/s which is the fastest speed an SSD can provide you. The build quality is super amazing as it is made up of metal, making it stronger than storage disks that are made up of plastic bodies.
The shock-resistant capability can save up your drive from a fall of 2 meters. Alongside this, it comes with Thunderbolt 3 technology that is ideal for faster data transfer of up to 40 GB per second which is unbelievable. You can take full advantage of this SSD on your MacBook or Macbook pro without having to format anything.
- High data transmission rate
- Supports thunderbolt 3
- Shock-resistant up to 2 meters
- Heats up really quick
- Comparatively expensive than the other disks
10. Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC external hard drive
In terms of flexibility, Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC external hard drive is really good as it supports both Mac and windows out of the box. The disk doesn't get damaged due to dust and water which is again a positive point.
It encrypts the user data at 256 bit AES security which additionally makes everything on the drive, secure. Overall, it is a great drive for Mac owners as well as windows owners too.
- Secure for handling user data
- Protects from water and dust
- Low-speed data transfer
What things to consider while buying External Hard Drive For Mac?
So those were some of the best external hard disk drive solutions for Mac. However, you must be confused about which external HDD to choose. But not to worry, let me just point some of the key factors that you need to consider while buying an external hard drive:
1. Storage
One of the first and the most important thing that you need to consider is the storage space of your external HDD. As you already know that Macbook does not come with a huge space. Hence, you better choose something which offers you enough space to store all your files.
For many users, 1 TB of space should be good enough. But if you need to store a huge number of files and save them for a longer period of time, then getting 2TB of HDD would be an ideal choice.
Apart from 1TB and 2TB of storage options, you can also consider getting huge storage options like 4TB. But for a day to day work, 4TB of HDD does not help much. Also, they are quite expensive.
2. Transfer speed
After the storing capacity, transfer speed is the second most important thing that you have to consider. You don't want to get an external hard disk drive for Mac, which takes too long to copy files. Instead, you need something that can get the job done as quickly as possible.
So the first thing that you must do is avoid USB 2.0 powered external HDD. As they are outdated and not fast enough. Instead, you should get an external HDD with USB 3.0, 3.1 Gen 1 or USB 3.2 Gen 1. All of these are capable of offering an exceptional transfer speed. On the other hand, I would like to recoomend you to buy the best external SSD for Mac that offers good transfer speed.
3. Compatibility
The next thing you need to check its compatibility. External HDD formatted for Windows 10 may have connectivity issues with Mac OS and vise versa. So since you are using a Mac powered machine, I would recommend you to get an external HDD with Mac OS compatibility.
Although there is no need to focus on the compatibility part way too much. Since you can always format your external HDD using a Windows Computer with exFat Format. So you can easily use the HDD with your Macbook. But yes, if you get a pre compatible external hard disk drive then it saves you from extra work and headaches that you have to face.
4. Security
Best External Mouse For Macbook Pro Model
If you are someone who takes security really seriously, then you must look for security features. Most of the manufacturers do ship security software and backup software. So you can easily encrypt your drive or take a backup of it. Even, if you don't consider the encryption feature, the backup feature is something that you must and should consider.
Even to make sure your HDD stays safe, they use strong casing from physical damage. So you can consider getting such external hard disk drives that save you from every side.
Best External Mouse For Macbook Pro Cases
External Hard Drive Vs SSD: Which one is good for MacBook Pro?
Whenever it comes to a primary storage solution for computers, HDD and SSD's are the only solutions we have. However, in the last couple of years, the usage of HDD has dropped drastically, and people are not moving to SSD's for better performance.
But there are quite a lot of users who are still unaware of the difference between a hard disk drive and a solid state drive or SSD.
However, not to worry, let me just draw a quick difference between both and help you to understand better.
1. Storage Capacity
Do I Need A Mouse for My MacBook?
If you haven't already used a mice with your MacBook Pro, what are you waiting for? Almost everyone can benefit when taking a break from the trackpad in favor of the easier-to-operate mice. It will expand your workflow, provide additional functionality, and allow you to work in greater comfort.
A mouse might also be necessary if you work with complex software such as those for creative editing or engineering, where multiple click buttons are needed to properly execute commands.
However, we would like to acknowledge that some users might have less use for a mouse than others. If you travel frequently or work in uneven places a mouse will quickly become unwieldy, but you may still want to consider one for use at home.
The Best Mouse for MacBook Pro in 2020: Our Picks
Please note: These choices are listed in no particular order and do not represent the individual merits of each recommendation.
1. Apple Magic Mouse 2
A product built by Apple for Apple, the Magic Mouse won't disappoint you. You'll be able to be more productive by taking advantage of the touch gestures it supports, and the slim design fits smoothly in even the thinnest of computer bags for easy transport. It charges by lightning cable and connects to your MacBook Pro with Bluetooth.
Pros:
- Sleek design, lightweight, and rechargeable.
- It's a reliable product from one of the most reliable companies in the world — Apple.
- Fully optimized to work with your MacBook through gestures and it's extremely light.
Cons:
- There's no physical button separation or scroll wheel, might not be optimal for some applications.
- Also, the scrolling feature may not work if your MacBook is running an older macOS version.
2. Logitech M557 Bluetooth Mouse
If you're looking for something wireless but sturdy and well designed, this one from Logitech will check all your boxes. It's slim and compact for easy travel, but still big enough to be used comfortably. The scroll wheel has multiple functions, and the optical sensor will work on a variety of surfaces.
Pros:
- Thin and minimalist design is great during use and travel, lengthy battery life of 12 months, and designed for both left and right-handed users.
Cons:
- While equally functional on both Mac and Windows, the 4th button is only useful to Windows PC users.
3. Razer DeathAdder Elite Gaming Mouse
If you're a gamer or simply enjoy having a mouse with plenty of programmable functionality, this model from Razer is sure to meet your needs. The wired mice will allow you to create custom key functions and the smooth shape will fit neatly in your grip while gaming or working.
Note: you would need a connector for the latest MBP as they have phased out USB port.
Pros:
- Manufactured by a well-trusted brand, this product has a great shape for fitting in your hand with raised buttons that are easy to find.
- Programmable functions lend a huge amount of versatility, and it even features a color-changing logo and scroll wheel.
Cons:
- Not the right choice if you only need a few buttons, slightly larger than a normal product.
4. VicTsing USB Wired Mouse
This simple product maintains the classically curved hand rest and in addition to the primary and secondary click buttons, includes a physical scroll wheel (with button functionality) and a fourth, additional button in the middle. You'll have the familiarity of a desktop mouse at your fingertips for use with your MacBook.
Note: you would need a connector for the latest MBP as they have phased out USB port.
Pros:
- Wired design lends reliability and functions immediately upon being plugged in, buttons are smooth and sweat-resistant, includes settings for sensitivity adjustment.
Cons:
- 5-foot cord may be excessive for use with a laptop, it is chunky compared to the slim MacBook Pro and doesn't make for easy travel.
Mice for MacBook Pro: What to Consider in 2020?
Size/Shape
The size and shape of will greatly impact how you use it. Some mice come in 'travel' sizes which can be easy to transport but difficult to use, whereas larger mice are more comfortable to work with but bulkier. You should consider when and where you plan to use it before deciding a style that works best. Additionally, mice come in several shapes that may be more or less beneficial depending on how you use your mouse. For example, gaming mice typically have a bit more grip and are sturdier whereas the minimalist Apple Magic Mouse works smoothly but is meant for less intense work.
Style and Tools
Every brand offers unique features to their mice. Everything from touch gestures to programmable buttons are available, but it's up to you to determine which features you'll actually use and which will be a hindrance. For example, 'gaming' mice traditionally include a plethora of buttons for specific commands, but if you use your laptop mostly for browsing the web, these buttons could quickly become annoying. Thus, make sure you know what you need before deciding which type of mice best suits your needs.
Connection
There are several possible ways for the product to be connected to your computer. The classic wired one offers stability and reliability but includes a bothersome cord. Bluetooth mice eliminate the chord, but require batteries or charging to connect and may have pairing errors. A mouse with a USB dongle functions similarly to Bluetooth and requires batteries, but takes up one of your USB ports on the Mac which is super precious if you're on a newest MacBook model. The latest MBP has already phrased out USB ports.
Additional Tips
If you're a staunch Apple fan or simply enjoy the feel of the Apple Magic Mouse, you'll want to make sure to keep it clean and in working order. Whether you own a rechargeable model or a battery-operated model, they can both benefit from having their sensors checked and exterior cleaned. Follow this guide from Apple to keep your mice safe while you clean it.
Not sure if a mouse is for you but still want more space than the built-in trackpad? The Magic Trackpad 2 from Apple will give you six inches of trackpad space, and comes with the relatively recent Force Touch feature. It has a low profile and connects via Bluetooth, so you can use it with ease.
Also, a mouse pad may be worth considering if you want to protect your mice from physical scratch and have a smooth moving experience. The Belkin WaveRest Gel Mouse Pad with wrist support is a great choice.
FAQ
Can You Use Any Mouse With A MacBook Pro?
Most USB or wireless (BlueTooth) mouse can work with MacBook Pro, and it is always better to get one that specifies Mac compatibility to avoid risking incompatibility or losing connection (wireless). Do take note that the recent MBP has already phrased out USB port, hence you would need a connector.
Do I Need Magic Mouse for MacBook Pro?
No, you don't need a Magic Mouse as the built-in trackpad is sufficient for everyday use.
Final Words
Purchasing a mouse to use with your MacBook Pro can be a great way to increase your productivity and simplify your workflow. It will make working with complex programs easier, as well as allow you to use your MacBook in a more relaxed working environment, without confining your hands to a small space.
What mice do you use with your MacBook Pro? Or you don't use one at all because you're used to the trackpad? Tell us and share the stories and reasons why you like it.
For those who chose a MacBook over an ordinary laptop must be short for some storage space, right? Well, upgrading storage space through apple is as costly as purchasing a new laptop. In this case, an external hard drive is less expensive and beneficial for storage requirements.
You can switch your external hard drive from a Mac to a pc which makes data transfer for two different OS easier. Furthermore, external hard disks are less likely to get corrupted and are portable in nature.
Macbooks generally have SSDs which are capable of loading a program quickly but more likely to low on storage.
Furthermore, SSDs are quite costly and upgrading an SSD on a Macbook is definitely costlier than you could even imagine. An external hard drive is best for storing data such as photos, videos, movies, rendered projects and more.
Contents
- 1 Best External Hard Drives for MacBook in 2021
- 1.3 3. Seagate Backup Plus Slim (2 TB)
- 1.4 4. Western Digital My Book (8 TB)
- 1.5 5. Buffalo MiniStation Thunderbolt
- 1.6 6. G-Technology G-DRIVE USB 3.0 (4TB)
- 1.7 7. Adata SD700 External SSD
- 1.8 8. LaCie Rugged USB-C
- 1.9 9. Samsung X5 (1TB)
- 1.10 10. Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC external hard drive
- 2 What things to consider while buying External Hard Drive For Mac?
- 3 External Hard Drive Vs SSD: Which one is good for MacBook Pro?
Best External Hard Drives for MacBook in 2021
Although choosing an external hard drive is a complicated process but we have made a list of 10 best external hard drives for Mac that you should consider before your final decision.
1. Samsung Portable SSD T5
Starting off Samsung Portable SSD T5 which is an outstanding storage device, it can reach up to a speed of 550 MB per second for data transfer which is amazing. You can directly plug it into a USB-C port or USB-A port.
It contains no moving parts therefore chances of getting damaged due to mishandling are less. Even though SSD is costlier than a hard drive, the speed it offers is commendable. You will notice a significant boost in the overall performance while doing stuff that requires you to load large files and programs.
Overall, the SSD is fantastic but only if you can spare a few more bucks than your actual budget. You can get the SSD ranging from 250 GB to 2 TB from Amazon with some additional discounts.
2. Western Digital My Passport 4TB external hard drive
Western Digital My Passport 4TB external hard drive is the newest generation of external hard disks and is available in capacities from 1 TB to up to 4 TB. It offers cloud storage and 256-AES encryption alongside WD's software for backups.
The data transfer speeds won't disappoint you and the drive offers speed similar to what an SSD provides. If you are looking for a drive with good data transfer rate and maximum storage, consider Western Digital My Passport 4TB as a choice.
3. Seagate Backup Plus Slim (2 TB)
If you are looking for a reliable, portable, and affordable hard disk, Seagate backup plus slim is the thing you should have a look at. It supports Windows and Mac both and perfect for storing your essential data right away.
With the Seagate dashboard backup system, you can schedule backups and never lose your important files anymore. Backup automation can be set for daily, monthly, weekly or your desired time-frequency.
Also Check:
Alongside, Seagate also provides a two-month membership for adobe creative cloud photography plan and a one-year subscription to Mylio create to manage your photo library.
- Affordable price
- Metal body
- Supports USB 3.0
- Comes with an automation backup software
- Doesn't support USB 3.0 cables
4. Western Digital My Book (8 TB)
This Hard disk is probably for creators and organizations that require a lot of storage for various purposes. Faster data transmission rate will let you transfer data in the meantime, all thanks to USB 3.0 support.
It also offers 256 AES encryption for securing your data and makes sure your personal data is secured in the storage device. Even though it meets the requirements of a regular user, the only thing where Western Digital My Book (8 TB) lacks is portability.
Therefore, if you are looking for a hard disk for work purposes and if portability is not an issue, Western Digital My Book (8 TB) is definitely the right choice.
- High storage
- Data encryption
- Compatible with the time machine
- Requires power source to work
- Not portable
5. Buffalo MiniStation Thunderbolt
Buffalo MiniStation thunderbolt offers data transmission at a speed of twice of what USB 3.0 offers. You can enjoy this feature if your device has a thunderbolt port. Another good thing about Buffalo MiniStation thunderbolt is its price. It is affordable and portable.
- Also Check: 10 Best Cooling Pads For MacBook Pro Reviewed
However, it is a hard drive, not a solid-state, therefore, the data transmission will definitely be high but the overall performance of your pc will remain unchanged. Lastly, if you don't have a thunderbolt port in your pc, you can use the traditional USB 3.0 port.
- USB 3.0 port
- Affordable
- Formatted for Mac
- Not a Solid State drive
6. G-Technology G-DRIVE USB 3.0 (4TB)
With the new products, Apple is on its way to completely shift to USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 ports but there are still some people who are using old hardware and for them, G-Technology G-DRIVE USB 3.0 (4TB) is going to work like a charm.
The body of the HDD is made up of metal which makes it durable and strong against accidents such as dropping off the drive on the floor or whatnot. It runs at a speed of 7200 RPM and can transfer data at a rate of 195 MB/s which is efficient for transferring music, videos and software.
- Metallic body for durability
- High data transmission rate
- USB 3.0
- Should be reformatted for Windows OS
7. Adata SD700 External SSD
Adata SD700 is an affordable External SSD which is IP68 rated which certainly makes it a water-resistant storage device. The overall performance of this SSD is commendable and as per our research, Adata SD700 External SSD is the only SSD with an IP68 rating.
You can expect faster transfer rates and better booting speed if you are planning to install an OS on the SSD. Don't worry about the storage space as it is available in 1 TB capacity also. The maximum read and write speed is up to 440 MB/S, all thanks to the USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface.
- Lightweight and portable
- Shock resistant
- Supports Android, Mac, and Windows
- 3 years of Warranty
- Mac users must format it to FAT32 to use this product
8. LaCie Rugged USB-C
Lacie rugged USB-C hard disk can be distinguished easily because of its unique rubber casing that makes sure your hard drive doesn't get damaged when it drops from up to 1.3 m height. It can withstand rain, dust and can even survive 1-ton pressure. This is certainly the best choice for content creators.
Alongside hard disk, you will also get access to a one-month subscription to Adobe creative cloud all apps plan. The company also provides 3 years of warranty for the device and will also help you to restore the data if lost.
Also Check:
Best Mouse For Macbook
In terms of speed, Lacie rugged USB-C hard disk is not very fast as it provides only 120 MB/s which is comparatively lesser than the HDDs mentioned in this listicle. However, there are various variants available for this hard disk on Amazon.
- Durability
- Affordable
- Resistant to water
- Lesser data transmission speed
9. Samsung X5 (1TB)
Samsung never disappoints with its amazing hardware capabilities. With Samsung X5, you can transfer data at a rate of 2,300 MB/s which is the fastest speed an SSD can provide you. The build quality is super amazing as it is made up of metal, making it stronger than storage disks that are made up of plastic bodies.
The shock-resistant capability can save up your drive from a fall of 2 meters. Alongside this, it comes with Thunderbolt 3 technology that is ideal for faster data transfer of up to 40 GB per second which is unbelievable. You can take full advantage of this SSD on your MacBook or Macbook pro without having to format anything.
- High data transmission rate
- Supports thunderbolt 3
- Shock-resistant up to 2 meters
- Heats up really quick
- Comparatively expensive than the other disks
10. Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC external hard drive
In terms of flexibility, Buffalo MiniStation Extreme NFC external hard drive is really good as it supports both Mac and windows out of the box. The disk doesn't get damaged due to dust and water which is again a positive point.
It encrypts the user data at 256 bit AES security which additionally makes everything on the drive, secure. Overall, it is a great drive for Mac owners as well as windows owners too.
- Secure for handling user data
- Protects from water and dust
- Low-speed data transfer
What things to consider while buying External Hard Drive For Mac?
So those were some of the best external hard disk drive solutions for Mac. However, you must be confused about which external HDD to choose. But not to worry, let me just point some of the key factors that you need to consider while buying an external hard drive:
1. Storage
One of the first and the most important thing that you need to consider is the storage space of your external HDD. As you already know that Macbook does not come with a huge space. Hence, you better choose something which offers you enough space to store all your files.
For many users, 1 TB of space should be good enough. But if you need to store a huge number of files and save them for a longer period of time, then getting 2TB of HDD would be an ideal choice.
Apart from 1TB and 2TB of storage options, you can also consider getting huge storage options like 4TB. But for a day to day work, 4TB of HDD does not help much. Also, they are quite expensive.
2. Transfer speed
After the storing capacity, transfer speed is the second most important thing that you have to consider. You don't want to get an external hard disk drive for Mac, which takes too long to copy files. Instead, you need something that can get the job done as quickly as possible.
So the first thing that you must do is avoid USB 2.0 powered external HDD. As they are outdated and not fast enough. Instead, you should get an external HDD with USB 3.0, 3.1 Gen 1 or USB 3.2 Gen 1. All of these are capable of offering an exceptional transfer speed. On the other hand, I would like to recoomend you to buy the best external SSD for Mac that offers good transfer speed.
3. Compatibility
The next thing you need to check its compatibility. External HDD formatted for Windows 10 may have connectivity issues with Mac OS and vise versa. So since you are using a Mac powered machine, I would recommend you to get an external HDD with Mac OS compatibility.
Although there is no need to focus on the compatibility part way too much. Since you can always format your external HDD using a Windows Computer with exFat Format. So you can easily use the HDD with your Macbook. But yes, if you get a pre compatible external hard disk drive then it saves you from extra work and headaches that you have to face.
4. Security
Best External Mouse For Macbook Pro Model
If you are someone who takes security really seriously, then you must look for security features. Most of the manufacturers do ship security software and backup software. So you can easily encrypt your drive or take a backup of it. Even, if you don't consider the encryption feature, the backup feature is something that you must and should consider.
Even to make sure your HDD stays safe, they use strong casing from physical damage. So you can consider getting such external hard disk drives that save you from every side.
Best External Mouse For Macbook Pro Cases
External Hard Drive Vs SSD: Which one is good for MacBook Pro?
Whenever it comes to a primary storage solution for computers, HDD and SSD's are the only solutions we have. However, in the last couple of years, the usage of HDD has dropped drastically, and people are not moving to SSD's for better performance.
But there are quite a lot of users who are still unaware of the difference between a hard disk drive and a solid state drive or SSD.
However, not to worry, let me just draw a quick difference between both and help you to understand better.
1. Storage Capacity
HDD's are a great option if you want something for storage. HDD's are available in a wide range of storage capacities from 500GB to 12 TB. Even, for enterprise uses, you will find a large capacity of HDDs.
SSDs are also available with large capacities. However, when it comes to the costs of an SSD and an HDD, SSDs are quite expensive. Hence, if your main goal is to store a huge amount of data, HDD is an ideal choice.
2. Speed
Whenever it comes to speed, SSDs are a better option. Since a hard disk drive uses a round plate with a layer of magnetic material. And the data is stored on this magnetic layer only. So the disk spins and the magnetic head is used for reading and writing data.
Also, the speed that the disk spins is measured in RPM. And on average, an HDD has about 5,400 RPM, and it will have a read/write speeds of around 100 MB/s.
However, when it comes to SSD's, there are no moving parts. As a result, it offers you a much faster data transfer rate. On average, it offers you around 550 MB/s and 520 MB/s of data transfer rate.
3. Reliability & Durability
There are quite a lot of factors that determine the lifespan of drivers. However, you should know that an SSD can sustain a limited number of write cycles compared to HDD which has no read/write limits.
But you should know that SSD has a write cycle limit between 3000 and 10,000 which is a high number. So it would not be a problem for you.
Also, SSD's are lesser affected by any sort of damages compared to HDD. Since there are no moving parts in SSD, they tend to survive more. While HDD's might stop working if it encounters any physical damage.
3. Cost
Finally, let's talk about pricing. Well, if you look at the cost of both HDD and SSD, you would happily pick up an HDD. Why? Because SSD's are expensive. When you choose an HDD, you will get a large amount of capacity for a lesser price. But on the other hand, if you choose an SSD, it would cost you 3-5x of an HDD price.
In the end, the conclusion is HDD's are a better option when it comes to storing data. Of course, SSD's are faster and more reliable. But they do come with a high price. But on the other hand, if you take care of your HDD in a good manner, it will offer you great performance for years.
Wrapping it up:
So, these were the 10 best external hard drives for Macbook Air and Pro. Every disk mentioned in this article has its own pros and cons, we have tried our best to list out the good and bad in every product. For Mac users, external SSD can be really helpful for storing content and transferring it to a different place.
Related posts:
