So, you’ve got your hands on the powerful new MacBook Air M4, and you’re loving its incredible performance, sleek design, and feather-light portability. But let’s be real – even with Apple’s fantastic internal storage, creative projects, massive photo libraries, and extensive game collections can quickly eat up space. That’s where an external SSD comes into play, giving your M4 MacBook Air the extra breathing room it deserves.
But which one should you choose? When it comes to reliable and high-performance storage, Lexar is often a top contender. We’re here to help you navigate the options and find the Lexar best external SSD for MacBook Air M4 that perfectly suits your needs. We’ll also look at a couple of other strong contenders that play exceptionally well with Apple’s latest silicon. Get ready to expand your storage, boost your workflow, and keep your precious data safe!
Why Your MacBook Air M4 Needs an External SSD
Even with generous internal storage, an external SSD offers several key advantages for MacBook Air M4 users:
- Expandable Storage: Easily add terabytes of space for large files, projects, and backups without cluttering your internal drive.
- Portability: Take your data with you wherever you go, ensuring access to your work or entertainment on the fly.
- Performance: External SSDs offer vastly superior speeds compared to traditional hard drives, perfect for editing video, large file transfers, or even running virtual machines.
- Backup Solution: A dedicated external SSD is a fantastic way to create regular backups of your important data, giving you peace of mind.
- Cost-Effective: Often, adding external storage is more economical than upgrading internal storage during purchase.
Let’s dive into our top picks, focusing on speed, durability, and compatibility with your shiny new M4 MacBook Air.
Product Reviews
1. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read
The Lexar ES3 is a fantastic all-rounder, offering a significant jump in speed over traditional hard drives while remaining highly portable. Its 2TB capacity provides ample space for most users, and the solid build ensures it can handle daily life. For users seeking the Lexar best external SSD for MacBook Air M4 that balances performance, capacity, and value, the ES3 is a compelling choice.
- 9.5X faster than hard disk drives with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
- Super-fast backups and instant storage expansion.
- Built-in double-layer graphite sheets for efficient heat dissipation.
- Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for enhanced durability.
- Plug-and-play compatibility with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable for various devices.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption and Lexar Recovery Tool access.
Pros:
– Excellent balance of speed and capacity for everyday use.
– Robust design with good heat management and drop resistance.
– Broad compatibility with included USB-C/A cable.
– Includes data encryption and recovery software for added security.
Cons:
– Speeds are good but not the fastest available compared to Gen 2×2 or Thunderbolt drives.
– No MagSafe feature on this particular model.
User Impressions: Users love the ES3 for its reliable performance and sturdy build. Many appreciate the straightforward plug-and-play setup and the peace of mind offered by the included security features. It’s often praised as a great value for the speed it delivers.
See it on Amazon here
2. Lexar 2TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
If speed is your ultimate priority, and you love the idea of magnetic attachment, the Lexar ES5 is a serious contender. This drive pushes the envelope with blazing-fast 2000MB/s speeds, making it ideal for professionals working with large files or high-resolution video. Its unique MagSafe-compatible design opens up interesting use cases, especially with mobile devices, making it a versatile piece of kit for your digital ecosystem.
- Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write for ultra-fast transfers (performance may vary based on host system’s USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support).
- MagSafe-compatible design for easy attachment to compatible smartphones; includes an additional metal ring for other devices.
- Supports recording Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS.
- Includes free access to the Lexar App for auto backups and mobile storage expansion.
- IP65 rated for dust and water resistance, and drop-resistant up to 3M.
- Thin, stylish liquid silicone build for comfortable grip, with a cable organizer/lanyard.
- Thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures for sustained high performance.
Pros:
– Exceptional transfer speeds, great for demanding tasks like 4K/8K video editing.
– Innovative MagSafe-compatible design enhances versatility and convenience.
– Excellent durability with IP65 rating and 3M drop resistance.
– Thermal management ensures consistent performance.
– Handy Lexar App for mobile backups.
Cons:
– Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port on the host device to achieve maximum speeds, which M4 MacBook Air doesn’t natively have (it has Thunderbolt/USB4, which are very fast but a different standard from 2×2). It will still be fast, just perhaps not peak 2000MB/s.
– Premium price point for the advanced features and speed.
User Impressions: Users rave about the ES5’s incredible speed and the convenience of the magnetic attachment. Content creators, in particular, highlight its ability to handle intensive video workflows with ease. The robust build and sleek design also receive high praise.
See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
This 1TB version of the Lexar ES3 brings the same reliable performance and sleek design, but in a more compact and potentially more budget-friendly capacity. If you don’t need the full 2TB but still want robust external storage for your M4 MacBook Air, this drive offers excellent value. It’s perfect for everyday backups, carrying project files, or expanding your app library without breaking the bank.
- High-speed Data Transfer: Supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (performance may be lower if host device doesn’t support USB 3.2 Gen 2).
- Wide Compatibility: Works with iPhone 15 series, Android mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, and more.
- On The Go: Thin, stylish, and durable metal design, weighing 42g and only 10.5mm thick, easily fits in a pocket.
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Note: MagSafe is not available in this version.
Pros:
– Good speed for a USB 3.2 Gen 2 drive.
– Extremely portable and lightweight with a durable metal design.
– Broad device compatibility, including newer iPhones.
– Includes data encryption for security.
Cons:
– 1TB capacity might be limiting for some users with very large data needs.
– No MagSafe feature.
– Not the absolute fastest Lexar drive available.
User Impressions: Customers appreciate this 1TB ES3 for its small footprint, solid build quality, and consistent performance. It’s often chosen as a reliable, everyday portable storage solution that’s easy to carry around.
See it on Amazon here
4. Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
For those who crave the exceptional speed and innovative magnetic attachment of the ES5 but find the 2TB version a bit much or prefer a lower price point, the 1TB Lexar ES5 is your sweet spot. You still get the breathtaking 2000MB/s speeds, robust durability, and mobile recording capabilities, making it a powerhouse for professional tasks and a fantastic external drive for your MacBook Air M4.
- Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write for lightning-fast transfers (performance may be lower if host system does not support USB 3.2 Gen 2×2).
- MagSafe-compatible design for easy attachment to compatible smartphones; includes an additional metal ring for other devices.
- Supports recording Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS.
- Includes free access to the Lexar App for auto backups and mobile storage expansion.
- IP65 rated for dust and water resistance, and drop-resistant up to 3M.
- Thin, stylish liquid silicone build for comfortable grip, with a cable organizer/lanyard.
- Thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures for sustained high performance.
Pros:
– Blazing-fast transfer speeds for demanding applications.
– Innovative MagSafe-compatible design for enhanced convenience.
– Excellent durability with IP65 rating and 3M drop resistance.
– Effective thermal management for consistent performance.
– Included Lexar App for mobile backups.
Cons:
– As with the 2TB version, peak speeds require USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, which is not native on M4 MacBook Air’s Thunderbolt/USB4 ports, though speeds will still be very high.
– 1TB capacity might be insufficient for some users.
User Impressions: Users value this 1TB ES5 for delivering top-tier performance in a more manageable capacity. It’s often highlighted for its speed and the clever MagSafe feature, making it a favorite for mobile content creation and quick data transfers.
See it on Amazon here
5. ORICO MiniMate Pro 2TB External SSD Compatibility with Mac
While not a Lexar product, the ORICO MiniMate Pro is specifically designed with Mac users in mind, making it a highly relevant option for your MacBook Air M4. Its focus on Thunderbolt speeds and seamless aesthetic integration with Mac Mini M4 makes it a stellar choice for a stationary desk setup where form factor and maximum speed are paramount. For an external SSD designed to truly complement your Apple ecosystem, this is a strong contender.
- Instant Storage Expansion: Ideal for storing videos, documents, and materials while keeping software on your Mac.
- Dimensionally Precise and Seamless: Sized to complement the new Mac Mini M4, enhancing desktop aesthetics.
- Lightning-Fast Thunderbolt Speeds: Optimized for Mac Mini M4’s Thunderbolt speeds, ensuring exceptional performance for large file transfers.
- Broad Compatibility Beyond Mac Mini: Also compatible with other USB 4.0 devices, offering versatile expansion.
Pros:
– Optimized for Thunderbolt speeds, providing extremely fast data transfer for M4 Macs.
– Aesthetically designed to blend seamlessly with Mac Mini, but also compatible with MacBook Air.
– Versatile compatibility with other USB 4.0 devices.
– Provides instant and substantial storage expansion.
Cons:
– Not a Lexar product, if you’re specifically looking for that brand.
– Design is more geared towards a stationary setup than ultimate portability (though still small).
– Might be overkill if you don’t utilize Thunderbolt’s full speed potential.
User Impressions: Mac users, especially those with Mac Minis, praise the ORICO MiniMate Pro for its stunning speeds and how well it integrates with their setup. The premium build quality and quiet operation are also frequently mentioned positives.
See it on Amazon here
6. OWC 250GB Aura Pro 6G Flash SSD Upgrade for 2012…
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR M4 MACBOOK AIR USERS: This OWC product is NOT an external SSD for your M4 MacBook Air. It is an internal SSD upgrade designed specifically for much older MacBook Pro (mid-2012 to early-2013) and MacBook Air (mid-2012) models that still use a SATA interface. While OWC is a reputable brand for Mac upgrades, this particular drive is incompatible with the M4 MacBook Air’s architecture and purpose as an external storage solution. We include it here as it was in the provided list, but please be aware it is not suitable for the target audience of this article.
- 250GB Flash SSD Drive Upgrade.
- Up to 27% faster than the factory SSD in compatible older models.
- Up to 530MB/s read/write speeds (SATA 6G).
- 5 Year OWC SSD Limited Warranty.
Pros (for its intended purpose):
– Provides a performance boost and capacity upgrade for specific older MacBook models.
– Backed by OWC’s reputation and a 5-year warranty.
Cons (for the M4 MacBook Air user):
– NOT compatible with MacBook Air M4 as an internal or external drive.
– Significantly slower than modern external SSDs designed for USB-C/Thunderbolt.
– Requires internal installation, not a plug-and-play external solution.
– Extremely limited capacity by today’s standards.
User Impressions: Users who bought this for their intended older Mac models appreciate the performance upgrade it offered over their original drives, extending the life of their devices. However, it’s crucial to reiterate it’s entirely irrelevant for current M4 MacBook Air owners looking for external storage.
See it on Amazon here
7. Lexar SL600 USB 3.2 Type-C Portable External SSD – 4TB
When your storage needs are truly massive, and you demand top-tier speed, the Lexar SL600 4TB delivers on all fronts. This drive is a beast, offering incredible 2000MB/s speeds and a colossal 4TB capacity. For serious professionals, video editors, or anyone who can’t compromise on space or speed, this is arguably the Lexar best external SSD for MacBook Air M4 that marries capacity with extreme performance and durability.
- INCREDIBLE SPEED: Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds, powered by USB 3.2 Gen 2×2.
- AMPLE STORAGE: Massive 4TB capacity for all your files, photos, and videos.
- RUGGED DURABILITY: Shock and vibration-resistant to protect data from bumps and drops.
- COMPACT & PORTABLE: Dimensions of just 4.43 x 2.32 x 0.41 inches and a weight of 2.25 oz, easily fits in a pocket or bag.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Works seamlessly with Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows, and Android, includes USB Type-C and Type-A cables.
Pros:
– Exceptional 4TB capacity, ideal for vast data libraries.
– Blazing-fast 2000MB/s speeds for highly demanding tasks.
– Robust and durable construction, providing peace of mind.
– Highly portable despite its large capacity.
– Broad compatibility with various operating systems and devices.
Cons:
– Maximum speeds require a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port, which your M4 MacBook Air won’t have natively, but it will still perform very fast via USB4/Thunderbolt.
– Higher price point due to capacity and speed.
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the SL600’s speed and the sheer amount of data it can hold. It’s frequently recommended by creative professionals who need to offload large projects quickly and reliably, appreciating its compact design despite the ample storage.
See it on Amazon here
8. Lexar SL600 USB 3.2 Type-C Portable External SSD – 2TB
The 2TB version of the Lexar SL600 strikes a perfect balance between high-end performance and practical capacity for many MacBook Air M4 users. You still get those incredible 2000MB/s speeds, making quick work of large file transfers and demanding applications, but at a more accessible capacity than the 4TB model. It’s an excellent choice for professionals and enthusiasts who need fast, reliable, and portable storage without going for the absolute maximum.
- INCREDIBLE SPEED: Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds, powered by USB 3.2 Gen 2×2.
- AMPLE STORAGE: Generous 2TB capacity to store a significant amount of files, photos, and videos.
- RUGGED DURABILITY: Shock and vibration-resistant to protect valuable data from accidental bumps and drops.
- COMPACT & PORTABLE: Dimensions of just 4.43 x 2.32 x 0.41 inches and a weight of 2.25 oz, perfect for on-the-go convenience.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Seamlessly works with Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows, and Android, with included USB Type-C and Type-A cables.
Pros:
– Blazing-fast 2000MB/s speeds for quick transfers and demanding workflows.
– Solid 2TB capacity, ideal for most power users.
– Durable and robust design for data protection.
– Extremely portable and lightweight.
– Excellent universal compatibility.
Cons:
– Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 on the host device for peak performance, though it will still be very fast with M4 MacBook Air’s Thunderbolt/USB4 ports.
– Premium pricing for the speed and capacity.
User Impressions: Customers love the 2TB SL600 for its impressive speed and how it handles heavy workloads. It’s often highlighted for its reliable performance and sturdy build, making it a go-to choice for those needing fast, portable storage.
See it on Amazon here
9. Lexar SL600 USB 3.2 Type-C Portable External SSD – 1TB
The 1TB Lexar SL600 offers the same incredible 2000MB/s speed as its larger siblings but in a more compact and entry-level capacity. If you’re looking for the sheer speed of the SL600 series for your M4 MacBook Air but only need 1TB of external storage for now, this is a perfect fit. It’s fantastic for quickly moving project files, consolidating your most important documents, or even running a portable OS.
- INCREDIBLE SPEED: Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds, powered by USB 3.2 Gen 2×2.
- AMPLE STORAGE: 1TB capacity, suitable for significant file storage.
- RUGGED DURABILITY: Shock and vibration-resistant to protect valuable data from accidental bumps and drops.
- COMPACT & PORTABLE: Dimensions of just 4.43 x 2.32 x 0.41 inches and a weight of 2.25 oz, easy to slip into a pocket or bag.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Seamlessly works with Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows, and Android, with included USB Type-C and Type-A cables.
Pros:
– Outstanding 2000MB/s speeds, even in the 1TB capacity.
– Highly durable and resistant to drops and shocks.
– Extremely portable and lightweight.
– Broad compatibility with various devices and operating systems.
Cons:
– 1TB might be too small for some users’ long-term storage needs.
– Achieving peak speeds requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port (will still be very fast on M4 MacBook Air).
User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate the 1TB SL600 for its blazing speed in a small form factor. It’s often praised as a high-performance solution for users who prioritize speed and portability over maximum capacity, making it a solid choice for their M4 MacBook Air.
See it on Amazon here
10. Lexar Armor 700 4TB USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Portable…
The Lexar Armor 700 is built for those who push boundaries – literally. Combining an enormous 4TB capacity with incredible 2000MB/s speeds and extreme ruggedness, this drive is practically indestructible. Whether you’re a photographer on location, an adventurer, or just someone who needs unwavering reliability and massive storage for your M4 MacBook Air, the Armor 700 stands out as one of the most robust and high-performing external SSDs available.
- INCREDIBLE SPEED: Up to 2000MB/s read and write speeds, thanks to the advanced USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface.
- MASSIVE STORAGE: Generous 4TB capacity for extensive photo, video, and project libraries.
- RUGGED DURABILITY: IP66-rated water and dust resistance, combined with 3-meter drop protection for extreme environments.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Seamlessly connect to PCs, Macs, tablets, smartphones (iPhone 15 series or above), cameras, and gaming consoles.
- COMPACT & PORTABLE: Sleek, pocket-sized design (3.39 x 2.14 x 0.52″ and 2.82 oz) makes it an ideal travel companion.
Pros:
– Unrivaled durability with IP66 water/dust resistance and 3-meter drop protection.
– Blazing-fast 2000MB/s speeds, excellent for professional workflows.
– Huge 4TB capacity, suitable for even the largest data sets.
– Highly portable and compact for its feature set.
– Exceptional universal compatibility.
Cons:
– Maximum speeds require a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port (M4 MacBook Air will still get excellent speeds but might not hit the absolute peak).
– Premium price reflects its top-tier features and ruggedness.
User Impressions: Users are blown away by the Armor 700’s blend of speed, capacity, and nearly indestructible build. It’s a favorite among outdoor professionals and anyone needing ultimate data protection on the go, often praised for its “bulletproof” feel and consistent performance.
See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section
Q1: Why do I need an external SSD for my MacBook Air M4?
A1: An external SSD provides crucial extra storage for large files, videos, and projects without filling up your MacBook Air’s internal drive. It’s also great for backups, running portable applications, and transferring data quickly between devices. Given the M4’s power, it can handle demanding tasks, and an external SSD ensures you have the storage to match.
Q2: What’s the difference between USB 3.2 Gen 2 and Gen 2×2?
A2: USB 3.2 Gen 2 offers speeds up to 10Gbps (around 1000MB/s), while USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 doubles that to 20Gbps (around 2000MB/s). Your MacBook Air M4 uses Thunderbolt/USB4 ports, which are very fast (up to 40Gbps). While it won’t natively support USB 3.2 Gen 2×2’s specific 20Gbps signaling, it can still achieve very high speeds with Gen 2×2 drives, often approaching their maximum, thanks to the superior bandwidth of Thunderbolt.
Q3: Is Lexar a good brand for Mac external SSDs?
A3: Absolutely! Lexar has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality memory and storage solutions. Their external SSDs are known for reliability, speed, and durability, making them an excellent choice for MacBook users. Many of their drives include Mac-compatible features and software.
Q4: How do I format an external SSD for my MacBook Air M4?
A4: You can format an external SSD using macOS’s Disk Utility. Plug in the drive, open Disk Utility (find it in Applications > Utilities), select your external SSD from the sidebar, click ‘Erase,’ choose ‘APFS’ as the Format (recommended for macOS), and ‘GUID Partition Map’ as the Scheme. Then click ‘Erase’ again.
Q5: Can I use an external SSD to run apps or an operating system on my MacBook Air M4?
A5: Yes, you can! With the high speeds of modern external SSDs, you can comfortably run applications directly from the drive. You can even install a separate macOS instance on an external SSD to boot from, which is great for testing or having a portable workspace. However, performance might be slightly lower than running from the internal SSD.
Q6: What does IP65/IP66 rating mean for an SSD?
A6: IP ratings indicate how resistant a device is to dust and water.
* IP65: The ‘6’ means it’s dust-tight (no ingress of dust). The ‘5’ means it can withstand low-pressure water jets from any direction.
* IP66: The ‘6’ is the same for dust-tightness. The second ‘6’ means it can withstand high-pressure water jets from any direction.
These ratings mean the drive is well-protected against elements, making it suitable for outdoor or rugged use.
Q7: Should I prioritize speed or capacity for my M4 MacBook Air external SSD?
A7: This depends on your usage.
* Prioritize Speed: If you frequently transfer very large files (like 4K/8K video), run demanding applications from the external drive, or need quick access to large project libraries, opt for faster drives (e.g., 2000MB/s).
* Prioritize Capacity: If your main need is long-term storage for photos, documents, or backups, and extreme speed isn’t critical, a higher capacity drive (2TB, 4TB) with good but not necessarily top-tier speeds might be more cost-effective. Many of the Lexar drives offer a great balance of both.
Conclusion
Choosing the right external SSD for your MacBook Air M4 is an investment in your workflow and data security. Whether you prioritize sheer speed for demanding creative tasks, massive capacity for extensive libraries, or rugged durability for on-the-go adventures, Lexar offers a fantastic range of options.
We’ve explored several top-tier Lexar models, from the reliable ES3 series to the blazing-fast and durable SL600 and Armor 700 drives, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every need. Remember to consider your primary use case, desired speed, and budget when making your final decision. No matter which you pick, you’ll be giving your M4 MacBook Air the powerful external storage it deserves!