Is your MacBook storage bursting at the seams? Are you tired of slow file transfers or waiting ages for large projects to load? If so, investing in a high-quality external SSD isn’t just a luxury – it’s a necessity. For MacBook users, speed, reliability, and seamless integration are paramount, and Crucial has consistently delivered some of the most impressive portable storage solutions on the market. But with so many options, how do you pick the Crucial best external SSD for MacBook that’s right for you?
We’ve done the heavy lifting, diving deep into the features and benefits of the top contenders. From lightning-fast speeds for creative pros to robust designs for on-the-go adventurers, this guide will help you find the perfect portable SSD to supercharge your Mac’s capabilities. Let’s get started!
Why Your MacBook Needs an External SSD
MacBooks are incredible machines, but their internal storage can fill up quickly, especially if you’re working with high-resolution photos, 4K videos, or large project files. An external Solid State Drive (SSD) offers a significant upgrade over traditional hard drives (HDDs) in several key areas:
- Blazing Fast Speeds: Unlike HDDs with spinning platters, SSDs use flash memory, allowing for incredibly fast read and write speeds. This means quicker file transfers, faster app loading times, and a smoother experience when editing demanding media.
- Portability & Durability: External SSDs are compact, lightweight, and often designed to withstand drops and splashes, making them ideal companions for travel and fieldwork.
- Expanded Storage: Easily add terabytes of storage without opening your MacBook, keeping your valuable internal drive free for critical applications and the operating system.
- Enhanced Performance for Creative Work: For video editors, photographers, and graphic designers, an external SSD can be a game-changer, allowing you to work directly from the drive with minimal latency.
- Reliable Backups: Create fast and efficient backups of your entire system or critical files, ensuring your data is safe.
Now, let’s explore the standout external SSDs that could be your next essential MacBook accessory.
Our Top Picks: Crucial & Best External SSDs for MacBook
1. Crucial X9 Pro for Mac 2TB Portable SSD
The Crucial X9 Pro for Mac is specifically designed with Apple users in mind, making it a standout choice for those looking for seamless integration and top-tier performance. Optimized for Apple’s file system (APFS), this 2TB drive offers quick access with impressive read/write speeds, ensuring your creative workflow never skips a beat. Its rugged build, complete with IP55 water and dust resistance, means it’s ready for any adventure or field shoot.
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Key Features:
- High-speed performance: Up to 1050MB/s read/write speeds.
- Optimized for Apple File System (APFS) and broad Mac compatibility (iMac, MacBook, iPad Pro, iPhone 16).
- IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Comes with 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image software.
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Pros:
- Excellent performance for creative professionals.
- Specifically optimized for Mac, ensuring smooth operation.
- Highly durable and rugged for outdoor or travel use.
- Enhanced security features with password protection.
- Generous 2TB capacity for large projects.
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Cons:
- Slightly higher price point due to Pro features and Mac optimization.
- Speed, while fast, isn’t the absolute fastest Crucial offers.
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User Impressions: Users rave about its seamless integration with their Mac devices and its robust build quality. Many creative professionals appreciate the peace of mind offered by the password protection and its ability to handle demanding tasks without a hitch. It’s often praised as a truly Crucial best external SSD for MacBook users prioritizing reliability and Mac-specific features.
2. Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD
Looking for a reliable everyday external SSD that doesn’t break the bank? The Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD is an excellent option for students, casual gamers, and anyone needing secure, fast storage for their daily files. With speeds up to 1050MB/s, it makes quick work of large file transfers and backups, far outperforming traditional hard drives. Its durable, compact design ensures it can handle the bumps and spills of daily life.
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Key Features:
- High-speed performance: Up to 1050MB/s read speeds.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, gaming consoles.
- Compact 1TB capacity for everyday storage needs.
- Includes 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image software.
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Pros:
- Great value for money for everyday use.
- Robust and travel-friendly design.
- Fast enough for most common tasks like media editing and backups.
- Wide device compatibility.
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Cons:
- Not designed for the absolute highest-tier professional demands.
- 1TB might be limiting for heavy video editors.
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User Impressions: Customers love the X9 for its balance of speed, durability, and affordability. It’s often recommended as a solid, no-nonsense external drive that “just works” right out of the box, offering a noticeable speed boost over older storage solutions.
3. Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD
If the 1TB version of the Crucial X9 caught your eye but you need more space, the 2TB model offers the same great features and performance with double the capacity. It’s still an ideal choice for casual gamers, students, and anyone needing reliable, fast storage for a growing library of photos, videos, and backups. The X9 2TB retains its impressive 1050MB/s speeds and rugged, travel-ready design.
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Key Features:
- High-speed performance: Up to 1050MB/s read speeds.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, gaming consoles.
- Spacious 2TB capacity for extensive file collections.
- Includes 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image software.
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Pros:
- Excellent capacity for its price segment.
- Reliable performance for daily tasks and moderate media work.
- Durable construction suitable for various environments.
- Plug-and-play ease of use.
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Cons:
- Doesn’t offer the ultra-high speeds of the X10 series.
- Still shares the same speed cap as the 1TB version.
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User Impressions: Reviewers frequently praise this 2TB version for providing ample storage without sacrificing the trusted performance and durability of the X9 line. It’s seen as a fantastic upgrade for those who’ve outgrown smaller drives but don’t need the Pro-level features.
4. Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD
For users who demand ultimate speed and massive storage, the Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD is a powerhouse. Boasting blistering read speeds up to 2,100MB/s, it’s perfect for 4K/8K video editors, serious PC gamers, and creators dealing with colossal files. Its enhanced IP65 dust and water resistance and 9.8 ft (3 meters) drop resistance make it even more robust than its X9 counterparts, ensuring your precious 4TB of data is safe wherever you go.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds.
- Superior IP65 dust and water resistance, drop-resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 meters).
- Massive 4TB storage capacity.
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, gaming consoles.
- Includes 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image software.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for demanding tasks like high-resolution video editing.
- Top-tier durability with IP65 rating and improved drop resistance.
- Huge capacity to store an entire digital library.
- Ideal for professional workflows and large gaming libraries.
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Cons:
- Higher price point reflecting its premium performance and capacity.
- Overkill for users with basic storage needs.
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User Impressions: This drive is a hit with users who need serious performance and space. The speed is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, making workflows significantly smoother. Its ruggedness also provides peace of mind for those who carry it into varied environments. A prime contender for the Crucial best external SSD for MacBook users with heavy demands.
5. Crucial X9 Pro 2TB Portable SSD
The Crucial X9 Pro 2TB Portable SSD is built for professional creators who need speed, security, and durability. With 1050MB/s read and write speeds, it facilitates a seamless workflow for editing large media files. Its IP55 rating, drop resistance, and password protection ensure your valuable data is kept safe, whether you’re in the studio or out in the field.
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Key Features:
- High-speed performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and write speeds.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, gaming consoles.
- Comes with 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image software.
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Pros:
- Excellent balanced performance for most creative tasks.
- Rugged design and security features are ideal for professionals.
- Reliable and consistent data transfer speeds.
- Good value for a Pro-level SSD with 2TB capacity.
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Cons:
- Not as fast as the X10 Pro series.
- The “Pro” designation might lead some to expect higher speeds.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the Crucial X9 Pro’s robust features, especially the security aspects, which are crucial for professional data. Its consistent performance and durability make it a go-to choice for photographers and videographers who need reliable storage on location.
6. Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD
If your creative projects demand even more space, the Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD delivers the same professional-grade performance and features as its 2TB counterpart, but with a whopping 4TB of storage. It maintains the 1050MB/s read/write speeds, IP55 water/dust resistance, drop protection, and password security, making it a stellar option for storing vast libraries of high-resolution content without compromise.
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Key Features:
- High-speed performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and write speeds.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Massive 4TB storage capacity.
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, gaming consoles.
- Comes with 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image software.
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Pros:
- Huge capacity combined with professional-grade features.
- Excellent for archiving large projects or running multiple virtual machines.
- High durability and security for valuable data.
- Consistent fast performance across its large storage.
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Cons:
- Premium price due to the high capacity.
- Speeds are limited to 1050MB/s, not the top tier.
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User Impressions: This 4TB version is highly valued by professionals who need to carry extensive portfolios or project files. Users often highlight its reliability under heavy load and its robust design as key selling points, making it a crucial best external SSD for MacBook users with massive storage needs.
7. Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD
Step up your game with the Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD, engineered for professional creators who demand nothing but the fastest. With impressive read speeds up to 2,100MB/s and write speeds up to 2,000MB/s, this drive dramatically accelerates your workflow, perfect for 4K/8K video editing or large file rendering. It also features IP55 protection, drop resistance, and password security for peace of mind.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds.
- Designed for professional creators and demanding workflows.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Massive 2TB capacity for high-resolution content.
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, gaming consoles.
- Comes with 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image software.
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Pros:
- Exceptional NVMe-level speed for professional applications.
- Combines speed with robust durability and security.
- Ideal for quickly transferring and working with large media files.
- Excellent choice for a primary working drive for creative tasks.
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Cons:
- Premium price point.
- The full speed might only be achievable with specific USB-C ports (e.g., Thunderbolt).
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User Impressions: Professionals consistently praise the X10 Pro for its unparalleled speed, stating it significantly cuts down on render and transfer times. Its compact yet durable design also makes it a favorite for on-location work, solidifying its place as a Crucial best external SSD for MacBook power users.
8. Crucial X10 Pro 1TB Portable SSD
If you’re a professional creator who values blistering speed but doesn’t require the full 2TB or 4TB capacities, the Crucial X10 Pro 1TB Portable SSD is an excellent choice. It delivers the same phenomenal 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds, enabling ultra-fast data access for your high-resolution photos and 4K/8K videos. Its rugged IP55 design and password protection ensure your smaller, yet critical, projects are always safe and accessible.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds.
- Designed for professional creators and demanding workflows.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Compact 1TB capacity for high-speed, focused projects.
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, gaming consoles.
- Comes with 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image software.
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Pros:
- Top-tier speed in a more accessible capacity.
- Great for professionals working on individual projects or as a boot drive.
- High durability and security features are included.
- More budget-friendly than its higher-capacity Pro siblings.
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Cons:
- 1TB might feel limiting for some long-term creative projects.
- Still a premium price for the capacity compared to standard SSDs.
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User Impressions: This 1TB version of the X10 Pro is a favorite for users who need a super-fast scratch disk or a dedicated project drive. Its speed is a consistent highlight, allowing quick iteration and minimizing wait times, making it a very strong contender for the Crucial best external SSD for MacBook in its capacity class.
9. SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD
While this guide focuses on Crucial, the SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD is an industry benchmark and deserves a spot on any list of top external SSDs for MacBooks. Offering NVMe solid-state performance with speeds up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write, it’s a robust and reliable choice. What really sets it apart is its extreme durability: up to 3-meter drop protection and an IP65 rating for water and dust resistance, plus a handy carabiner loop for ultimate portability and security.
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Key Features:
- NVMe solid state performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
- Superior durability: Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water/dust resistance.
- Handy carabiner loop for attachment.
- Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption.
- SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management.
- Robust 2TB capacity.
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Pros:
- Excellent NVMe-level speeds for a wide range of tasks.
- Outstanding durability and drop protection – one of the best on the market.
- Hardware encryption adds an extra layer of security.
- Carabiner loop is a practical touch for active users.
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Cons:
- Speeds are comparable to the Crucial X9 Pro, not the X10 Pro.
- The included software might not appeal to all users.
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User Impressions: The SanDisk Extreme is legendary for its toughness and consistent performance. Users often praise its “bulletproof” design and fast speeds, making it a highly trusted option for professionals and adventurers alike. Its reputation for reliability is a major draw.
10. Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD (with Adobe Acrobat Pro)
This version of the Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD offers the same incredible performance and features as its sibling (Product #7), with ultra-fast 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds, IP55 protection, and robust security. However, this specific package sweetens the deal with extended bonus software, including not just Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image, but also one month of Adobe Acrobat Pro. This makes it an even more enticing option for creative professionals who regularly work with PDF documents and need top-tier storage.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds.
- Designed for professional creators and demanding workflows.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Massive 2TB capacity for high-resolution content.
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, gaming consoles.
- Enhanced Bonus Software: Includes 3 months of Mylio Photos+, 1 month of Adobe Acrobat Pro, and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Blistering speeds perfect for professional media work.
- Robust and secure design for critical data.
- The added Adobe Acrobat Pro subscription is a significant bonus for many creatives.
- A powerful and reliable choice for a primary creative drive.
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Cons:
- Premium price, though offset by the software bundle if you use Acrobat Pro.
- Requires compatible USB-C/Thunderbolt ports to reach full potential.
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User Impressions: Users already love the X10 Pro’s performance, and this version’s added Adobe Acrobat Pro trial makes it an even better value proposition for those already in the Adobe ecosystem. It’s considered a top-tier choice for the Crucial best external SSD for MacBook users seeking ultimate speed and additional software perks.
Choosing the Crucial Best External SSD for Your MacBook: A Quick Guide
When sifting through these fantastic options, consider these factors to pinpoint the perfect drive for your needs:
- Speed Requirements:
- Everyday Use (documents, photos, basic backups): 1000-1050MB/s (Crucial X9 series, SanDisk Extreme) is more than enough.
- Creative Professionals (4K/8K video, large project files, gaming): Aim for 2000-2100MB/s (Crucial X10, X10 Pro series).
- Capacity:
- Casual User/Student (documents, small media library): 1TB might suffice.
- Photographer/Videographer/Gamer (large RAW files, game installs): 2TB is a good starting point.
- Heavy Creator/Archivist (multiple large video projects, extensive backups): 4TB will give you ample breathing room.
- Durability & Security:
- Occasional Travel/Light Field Work: IP55 rated and 7.5ft drop resistance (Crucial X9, X9 Pro, X10 Pro) is great.
- Extreme Environments/Heavy Travel: IP65 rated and 9.8ft/3-meter drop resistance (Crucial X10, SanDisk Extreme) offers maximum protection.
- Sensitive Data: Look for password protection and hardware encryption (most Pro models, SanDisk Extreme).
- Compatibility: All listed drives are broadly compatible with Mac via USB-C. The Crucial X9 Pro for Mac is specifically optimized for APFS, which is a nice bonus for pure Mac users. Ensure your MacBook has compatible USB-C or Thunderbolt ports to fully leverage the speeds of the faster drives.
- Budget: Higher capacities and faster speeds naturally come with a higher price tag. Balance your needs with what you’re willing to spend.
FAQ: External SSDs for MacBook Users
Q1: Why should I choose an external SSD over a traditional external HDD for my MacBook?
A1: External SSDs offer significantly faster data transfer speeds, are more durable (no moving parts), consume less power, and are much more compact and lightweight than traditional HDDs. For Mac users, this means quicker backups, smoother video editing directly from the drive, and a more portable solution.
Q2: What’s the difference between the Crucial X9, X9 Pro, X10, and X10 Pro series?
A2: The X9 series offers excellent everyday speeds (around 1050MB/s) and good durability. The X9 Pro steps up with the same speed but adds features like password protection and sometimes Mac-specific optimization. The X10 and X10 Pro series offer ultra-fast speeds (around 2100MB/s read, 2000MB/s write) using NVMe technology, making them ideal for the most demanding creative tasks. The X10 also often features enhanced ruggedness (e.g., IP65).
Q3: Do I need a specific external SSD for my MacBook, or will any USB-C SSD work?
A3: Most modern external SSDs with USB-C connectivity will work with your MacBook. However, some drives, like the “Crucial X9 Pro for Mac,” are specifically optimized for Apple’s file system (APFS), which can offer slightly better performance or out-of-the-box convenience for Mac users. Always ensure the drive is formatted correctly for Mac (APFS or HFS+).
Q4: How do I format an external SSD for my MacBook?
A4: You can format an external SSD using Disk Utility, which is pre-installed on your Mac. Connect the SSD, open Disk Utility (Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility), select the external drive in the sidebar, click “Erase,” choose “APFS” or “Mac OS Extended (Journaled)” as the format, and “GUID Partition Map” as the scheme, then click “Erase.”
Q5: Can I run applications or even a macOS operating system from an external SSD?
A5: Yes! Running applications or even a full macOS installation from a fast external SSD can significantly improve performance, especially if your MacBook has limited internal storage or an older, slower drive. The faster the external SSD (like the X10 Pro series), the better the experience will be.
Q6: What does “IP55” or “IP65” rating mean for an external SSD?
A6: IP ratings indicate how resistant an enclosure is to dust and water. The first digit (5 or 6) refers to dust protection (5 is dust protected, 6 is dust tight). The second digit (5) refers to water protection (protected against water jets from any direction). So, IP55 means good dust and splash protection, while IP65 offers even better dust protection and the same water jet resistance. IP65 is generally considered more robust for outdoor use.
Q7: Will I get the advertised speeds on any MacBook?
A7: To achieve the maximum advertised speeds (especially 2000MB/s+), your MacBook needs to have a compatible port, typically a Thunderbolt 3/4 or a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (20Gbps) USB-C port. Older MacBooks or those with only USB 3.0 ports will still be fast, but might not hit the absolute peak performance of the fastest SSDs.
Q8: Is it safe to carry my external SSD everywhere?
A8: Yes, external SSDs are designed for portability. Most of the products reviewed here offer excellent drop and water resistance, making them very safe for travel. Always consider a case for extra protection if you’re particularly rough on your gear.
Conclusion
Picking the Crucial best external SSD for MacBook can truly transform your digital workflow. Whether you’re a professional content creator needing the lightning-fast speeds of the Crucial X10 Pro, a student looking for a reliable and rugged drive like the Crucial X9, or someone who values the extreme durability of the SanDisk Extreme, there’s a perfect option out there for you.
Consider your primary use case, desired capacity, and budget, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying expanded storage, blazing-fast transfers, and a much smoother MacBook experience. Don’t let slow storage hold you back – upgrade to an external SSD today!