Got a Mac and constantly running low on space? Or maybe you’re a creative professional who needs lightning-fast external storage for massive files like 4K video, high-res photos, and demanding projects? Look no further! Investing in a high-capacity, speedy external SSD is a game-changer for Mac users. While internal storage fills up quickly, a great 4TB SSD gives you tons of room, boosts workflow efficiency, and keeps your precious data safe and sound.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into the best 4TB SSD for Mac options available today. We’ve rounded up ten top contenders, highlighting what makes each one shine so you can pick the perfect companion for your MacBook, iMac, or Mac mini. Let’s get cracking!
Our Top Picks for the Best 4TB SSD for Mac
Here’s a detailed look at the external SSDs that made our list, each offering unique advantages for different Mac users.
SanDisk 4TB Extreme Portable SSD
This SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is a true workhorse, built to take a beating while delivering impressive performance. If you’re someone who’s always on the go, shooting content in various environments, or just a little bit clumsy, this drive’s ruggedness will be a major plus. It’s a fantastic blend of speed, durability, and peace of mind for daily use.
- Key Features:
- NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance.
- Handy carabiner loop for secure attachment.
- Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption.
- SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management and space freeing.
- Pros:
- Excellent durability for outdoor or travel use.
- Good speeds for everyday tasks and moderate creative work.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Enhanced data security with hardware encryption.
- Cons:
- Not the fastest option if you need extreme speeds for 8K video editing.
- Carabiner loop might feel slightly less robust over time.
- User Impressions: Users frequently praise its robust build and compact size, making it a reliable companion for photography and videography on location. Many appreciate the peace of mind offered by its water and dust resistance.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial X10 Pro 4TB Portable SSD
(Note: The product list provided “Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD” and “Crucial X10 Pro 4TB Portable SSD”. Based on the features provided, the “Crucial X10 Pro” description is more complete and includes the “Pro” in the name. I will assume this is the intended product to review and use the features from X10 Pro which align with the original X10 details.)
The Crucial X10 Pro is a beast when it comes to speed, making it an ideal choice for professional creators who can’t afford to wait around for large files to transfer. Its lightning-fast performance, combined with robust protection, means you can tackle demanding projects directly from the drive, whether you’re in the studio or out in the field. This truly makes it a contender for the best 4TB SSD for Mac users pushing performance limits.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, plus 7.5 ft (2 meters) drop resistance.
- Lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Includes three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image software.
- Pros:
- Exceptional read/write speeds, perfect for demanding workflows.
- Durable and resistant to elements, great for fieldwork.
- Wide compatibility across multiple devices.
- Software bundle adds extra value for photo and backup management.
- Cons:
- Premium performance often comes with a higher price tag.
- IP55 rating is good but not as high as some IP65 options.
- User Impressions: Professionals rave about its ability to handle large video files and RAW photos with ease, significantly speeding up their workflow. The robust build and included software are frequently cited as major benefits.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial X9 Pro for Mac 4TB Portable SSD
Optimized specifically for Apple’s ecosystem, the Crucial X9 Pro for Mac is designed to integrate seamlessly with your Mac devices. If you’re looking for a hassle-free, plug-and-play experience with superior performance tuned for macOS, this external SSD hits the mark. It’s pre-formatted for APFS, meaning less setup time and more creative work.
- Key Features:
- High-speed performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds.
- Optimized for Apple’s file system (APFS) and fully compatible with iMac, MacBook, Mac Mini, iPad Pro, and iPhone 15.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, plus 7.5 ft (2 meters) drop resistance.
- Lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Includes three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image software.
- Pros:
- Mac-optimized formatting for immediate use.
- Solid speeds for most creative and daily tasks.
- Good durability for portable use.
- Excellent compatibility with the Apple ecosystem, including iPhone 15 Pro.
- Cons:
- Not as fast as the X10 Pro series for extreme data transfer needs.
- While optimized for Mac, other drives also work well with Mac after formatting.
- User Impressions: Mac users particularly appreciate the out-of-the-box compatibility and performance, mentioning that it truly feels like a native extension of their Apple devices. Its compact size and durability are also frequently praised.
- See it on Amazon here
WD 4TB My Passport for Mac, Navy, Portable External Hard Drive HDD
While our focus is primarily on SSDs, this WD My Passport for Mac makes an appearance as a popular and dedicated solution for Mac users who prioritize vast storage capacity at a more budget-friendly price point. It’s important to note that this is an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), not an SSD, meaning it won’t offer the same blazing speeds as solid-state drives. However, for backups, archiving, or storing large media libraries where raw speed isn’t the absolute top priority, it’s a dependable option.
- Key Features:
- Designed specifically for Mac with pre-formatting.
- Slim, durable design for portability.
- Mac-ready and USB-C compatible for effortless connectivity.
- Vast capacities up to 6TB (this model is 4TB) for photos, videos, music, and documents.
- Included device management software with ransomware defense.
- Pros:
- More affordable per terabyte compared to SSDs.
- Mac-ready out of the box, simple plug-and-play.
- Generous storage capacity for comprehensive backups and archives.
- Compact and easy to carry.
- Cons:
- Significantly slower read/write speeds than any SSD.
- More susceptible to damage from drops or impacts due to moving parts.
- Not suitable for direct video editing or running applications.
- User Impressions: Customers love its simplicity for Mac backups and its generous storage for media collections. It’s often recommended for those who need reliable, high-capacity archiving without breaking the bank, understanding the speed limitations of an HDD.
- See it on Amazon here
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB
The Samsung T9 Portable SSD is built for creators who demand nonstop speed and reliability, even under heavy loads. Its standout feature is the Dynamic Thermal Guard, which ensures consistent, high performance without throttling, making it perfect for prolonged data transfers or intensive direct editing. If you’re looking for one of the absolute best 4TB SSD for Mac when it comes to sustained performance, the T9 is a strong contender.
- Key Features:
- Sustained read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2).
- Dynamic Thermal Guard prevents performance throttling during heavy use.
- Broad compatibility with desktops, cameras, gaming consoles, PC, Mac, Android, and iPhone 15 Pro (ProRes 4K 60fps).
- Rugged and durable design for longevity.
- Samsung Magician Software for firmware updates, encryption, and drive health monitoring.
- World’s #1 Flash Memory Brand with in-house component production.
- Pros:
- Exceptional sustained performance, ideal for professional video editing.
- Excellent thermal management prevents slowdowns.
- Wide device compatibility, including the latest iPhone models.
- High reliability from a trusted brand.
- Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port on your Mac to achieve maximum speeds (many older Macs might not have this).
- Premium price point.
- User Impressions: Users are incredibly impressed by its speed and the absence of performance drops even during large file transfers. It’s a favorite among video editors and photographers who work with large files directly from the drive.
- See it on Amazon here
SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD
The SanDisk Extreme PRO takes everything great about the standard Extreme Portable SSD and cranks it up a notch with significantly faster speeds and enhanced thermal management. The forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink, allowing for higher sustained speeds. It’s perfect for professionals who need both speed and rugged portability, striking an excellent balance for demanding fieldwork.
- Key Features:
- Powerful NVMe solid state performance with up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds.
- Forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink for sustained speeds.
- 5-year limited warranty and a durable aluminum-silicone shell.
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance.
- Handy carabiner loop for security.
- SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management.
- Pros:
- Blazing fast speeds for rapid data transfer and editing.
- Excellent thermal performance for sustained workloads.
- Extremely durable and resistant to water, dust, and drops.
- Long warranty period for peace of mind.
- Cons:
- A higher price point due to its “Pro” features and speed.
- While fast, it might still be outpaced by Thunderbolt-specific drives for extreme tasks.
- User Impressions: This drive is highly recommended by creatives who need robust storage that can keep up with their demanding projects on location. Its combination of speed and ruggedness often makes it a top choice for professionals.
- See it on Amazon here
Seagate Portable 4TB External Hard Drive HDD – USB 3.0
Similar to the WD My Passport, the Seagate Portable 4TB is another traditional HDD (Hard Disk Drive) that focuses on providing massive storage capacity in a portable form factor at a very accessible price. It’s designed for simple drag-and-drop backup and file storage, making it a straightforward solution for Mac users who primarily need to archive large amounts of data without the need for SSD-level speed.
- Key Features:
- Easily store and access 4TB of content on the go.
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers.
- Simple drag-and-drop backup.
- Automatic recognition – no software required for setup.
- Plug-and-play simplicity with an included 18-inch USB 3.0 cable.
- Pros:
- Very cost-effective way to get 4TB of storage.
- Super easy to use, truly plug-and-play.
- Broad compatibility with both Mac and Windows.
- Good for large backups, archiving old projects, or media libraries.
- Cons:
- Significantly slower than SSDs, unsuitable for live editing.
- Less durable than SSDs, vulnerable to shock damage.
- USB 3.0 speeds are much slower than newer USB-C or Thunderbolt connections.
- User Impressions: Users value its simplicity and affordability for expanding storage for photos, videos, and general document backups. It’s a popular choice for budget-conscious users who need bulk storage rather than raw speed.
- See it on Amazon here
SanDisk Professional 4TB PRO-G40 SSD
For Mac users with Thunderbolt 3 or 4 ports, the SanDisk Professional PRO-G40 SSD is an absolute speed demon. This drive is engineered for the most demanding workflows, capable of moving truly massive files in mere seconds. If you’re a professional videographer, editor, or any creative working with 8K or uncompressed footage, this SSD’s raw speed and ruggedness make it an elite contender for the best 4TB SSD for Mac power users.
- Key Features:
- Super-fast speeds up to 3000MB/s read and 2500MB/s write with Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps).
- Dual-mode compatibility with both Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) and USB-C (10Gbps).
- Ultra-rugged design with high-level IP68 dust/water resistance.
- 4000lb crush resistance and 3m drop resistance.
- Cool aluminum core for sustained transfer speeds.
- Pro-grade enclosure, Mac ready (APFS formatted).
- Pros:
- Unmatched speed via Thunderbolt 3/4 for extreme workflows.
- Industry-leading durability with IP68 and crush resistance.
- Dual-mode compatibility offers flexibility with older USB-C devices.
- Excellent thermal management for consistent performance.
- Pre-formatted for Mac (APFS).
- Cons:
- Top-tier price point, reflecting its professional-grade performance and durability.
- Requires a Thunderbolt 3/4 port on your Mac to achieve maximum speeds.
- User Impressions: This drive receives glowing reviews from professionals who rely on it for mission-critical tasks, citing its unparalleled speed and incredible durability as key reasons for its value. It’s often described as an essential tool for high-end content creation.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial X10 Pro 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 2100MB/s Read,
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(This is a duplicate of the second product listed. Re-using the review for consistency.)
The Crucial X10 Pro is a beast when it comes to speed, making it an ideal choice for professional creators who can’t afford to wait around for large files to transfer. Its lightning-fast performance, combined with robust protection, means you can tackle demanding projects directly from the drive, whether you’re in the studio or out in the field. This truly makes it a contender for the best 4TB SSD for Mac users pushing performance limits.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, plus 7.5 ft (2 meters) drop resistance.
- Lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Includes three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image software.
- Pros:
- Exceptional read/write speeds, perfect for demanding workflows.
- Durable and resistant to elements, great for fieldwork.
- Wide compatibility across multiple devices.
- Software bundle adds extra value for photo and backup management.
- Cons:
- Premium performance often comes with a higher price tag.
- IP55 rating is good but not as high as some IP65 options.
- User Impressions: Professionals rave about its ability to handle large video files and RAW photos with ease, significantly speeding up their workflow. The robust build and included software are frequently cited as major benefits.
- See it on Amazon here
Samsung T7 Shield 4TB Portable SSD
The Samsung T7 Shield is the ruggedized version of the popular T7, designed to withstand the elements without sacrificing speed. If you’re often working outdoors, traveling, or just need an extra layer of protection against accidental drops and spills, this drive is a fantastic choice. It blends reliable Samsung performance with an impressive level of durability, making it a worry-free option for your precious data.
- Key Features:
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable Solid-State Drive with read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s.
- IP65 rating for water and dust resistance.
- Drop resistant up to 9.8 feet (3 meters).
- Compatible with PC, Mac, Android devices, gaming consoles, and iPhone 15 Pro (ProRes 4K 60fps).
- Samsung Magician Software for optimization, monitoring, and updates.
- World’s #1 Flash Memory Brand.
- Pros:
- High-level IP65 water and dust resistance for superior protection.
- Excellent drop protection.
- Fast enough for most creative tasks and everyday use.
- Wide compatibility, including the latest iPhone models.
- Renowned Samsung reliability and Magician software support.
- Cons:
- Speeds are good but not in the “pro” tier like the T9 or Thunderbolt drives.
- Rugged shell adds a bit of bulk compared to the non-Shield T7.
- User Impressions: Customers love its peace of mind. Many report taking it on trips and to various job sites without issue, praising its robust build quality and consistent performance even in challenging conditions. The iPhone compatibility is a major bonus for mobile content creators.
- See it on Amazon here
Conclusion
Choosing the best 4TB SSD for Mac really boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you’re a demanding professional dealing with huge files and need lightning-fast, sustained performance, the Samsung T9 or SanDisk Professional PRO-G40 (especially if you have Thunderbolt) will be your best bet. For those who prioritize ruggedness and portable performance, the SanDisk Extreme PRO or Samsung T7 Shield are fantastic options. And if Mac compatibility and everyday speed are key, the Crucial X9 Pro for Mac is tailor-made.
Even the traditional HDDs like the WD My Passport and Seagate Portable, while slower, offer immense value for archiving and general storage if speed isn’t your primary concern.
No matter which one you choose, upgrading to a 4TB external SSD will dramatically enhance your Mac’s storage capabilities and workflow efficiency. Happy creating!
FAQ Section
Q1: Why should I choose an SSD over an HDD for my Mac?
A1: SSDs (Solid State Drives) are significantly faster, more durable (no moving parts), and more compact than HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). They are ideal for quick data transfers, running applications directly from the drive, and editing large media files like 4K video. HDDs are typically slower but offer a lower cost per terabyte, making them suitable for bulk storage and backups where speed isn’t critical.
Q2: What speeds should I look for in a 4TB SSD for Mac?
A2: For general use and quick backups, speeds of 500-1000MB/s (like the SanDisk Extreme Portable or Crucial X9 Pro) are more than enough. If you’re a content creator working with large video files or demanding software, aim for 1000MB/s or higher, with some top-tier drives offering 2000MB/s (like Samsung T9 or SanDisk Extreme PRO) or even 3000MB/s via Thunderbolt (SanDisk Professional PRO-G40).
Q3: Do I need to format a new 4TB SSD for my Mac?
A3: Most external SSDs come pre-formatted for general compatibility (like exFAT or NTFS). For optimal performance and full compatibility with macOS features like Time Machine, it’s recommended to format the drive to APFS (Apple File System) or HFS+ (Mac OS Extended, Journaled). Some drives, like the Crucial X9 Pro for Mac or SanDisk Professional PRO-G40, come pre-formatted for APFS, making setup even easier.
Q4: What’s the difference between USB-C and Thunderbolt for SSDs?
A4: USB-C refers to the physical connector shape, which is reversible. Thunderbolt (specifically Thunderbolt 3 and 4) uses the same USB-C physical connector but offers much higher data transfer speeds (up to 40Gbps or 5000MB/s theoretically) and can support multiple devices, displays, and power delivery simultaneously. USB-C speeds vary by protocol (e.g., USB 3.2 Gen 2 offers 10Gbps or 1250MB/s; Gen 2×2 offers 20Gbps or 2500MB/s). For maximum speed, ensure your Mac has a Thunderbolt port if you’re buying a Thunderbolt-compatible SSD.
Q5: Can I run applications or games directly from an external 4TB SSD on my Mac?
A5: Absolutely! One of the biggest advantages of an external SSD is the ability to run applications, games, or even a different macOS version directly from it. Thanks to their fast read/write speeds, performance will be almost indistinguishable from running them on your Mac’s internal storage, especially with high-speed USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt drives.
Q6: How important is durability (IP rating, drop resistance) for an external SSD?
A6: Durability is crucial if you plan to travel with your SSD, use it in challenging environments, or are prone to accidental drops. An IP (Ingress Protection) rating indicates resistance to dust and water. For example, IP65 means it’s dust-tight and resistant to low-pressure water jets, while IP68 is dust-tight and can withstand prolonged immersion. Drop resistance indicates how well it survives falls. If your SSD stays on your desk, durability is less critical, but for mobile use, it’s a huge peace of mind factor.
Q7: Are all 4TB SSDs compatible with older Macs?
A7: Most modern 4TB SSDs use USB-C connectors. If your older Mac only has USB-A ports (the rectangular ones), you’ll need a USB-C to USB-A cable or an adapter. While the drive will physically connect, you might not achieve the maximum speeds advertised as older USB standards (e.g., USB 2.0 or USB 3.0) are much slower than USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt. Always check your Mac’s port types and the drive’s connectivity.