Hey there, Mac user! If you’re anything like us, you probably love your Mac for its sleek design, powerful performance, and intuitive macOS. But let’s be real: even the best Macs can run out of storage, especially if you’re a creative professional dealing with massive video files, high-resolution photos, or extensive music libraries. That’s where a fantastic external SSD comes in, and Lexar is a brand that consistently delivers reliable, speedy, and durable options.
Finding the perfect external drive that not only works seamlessly with your Mac but also offers blazing-fast speeds and robust protection for your precious data can feel like a quest. That’s why we’ve rounded up the 5 top Lexar allintitle:best ssd external for Mac options currently on the market. We’ve dug deep into their features, performance, and what makes them stand out, so you don’t have to. Get ready to expand your Mac’s capabilities without missing a beat!
Why Lexar External SSDs Are a Great Choice for Mac Users
Lexar has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality memory solutions, and their external SSDs are no exception. For Mac users, specifically, these drives often boast features like USB-C connectivity, robust build quality, and excellent data transfer speeds that are crucial for demanding tasks like video editing, large file transfers, or running virtual machines directly from the drive. They’re designed to be highly compatible, offering a plug-and-play experience right out of the box with your MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, or iMac.
The Top 5 Lexar External SSDs for Mac
Let’s dive into our top picks, designed to give your Mac the speed and storage it deserves.
1. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD
The Lexar ES3 is a fantastic all-rounder for Mac users looking for a significant upgrade from traditional hard drives. It boasts speeds up to 9.5 times faster, making quick work of large file transfers and backups. What really sets it apart is its thoughtful design, featuring built-in graphite sheets for efficient heat dissipation – meaning it stays cool even during intense, prolonged use. Plus, with its drop-resistant build and included AES encryption software, your data isn’t just fast, it’s secure and safe.
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Key Features:
- 9.5X faster than hard disk drives with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for significantly faster transfers
- Super-fast backups and instant storage expansion
- Built-in, double layer graphite sheets quickly conduct heat, enhancing heat dissipation to keep the drive cool, even during blazing fast transfers
- The drive is drop-resistant up to 2 meters for protection, ensuring durability for everyday and office use.
- Plug-and-play compatibility with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable to easily use with your PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone, and more
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software to protect files and access to the Lexar Recovery Tool to help restore accidentally deleted files
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for daily tasks and large file handling
- Effective heat management prevents performance throttling
- Highly durable with 2-meter drop resistance
- Includes data encryption and recovery tools for enhanced security
- Broad compatibility with both USB-C and USB-A devices
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Cons:
- Speeds, while fast, aren’t the absolute highest available from Lexar
- 2TB might not be enough for extremely heavy video editors
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User Impressions: Mac users frequently praise the ES3 for its “snappy performance” and “robust feel.” Many appreciate the included security software and the convenience of the 2-in-1 cable, making it a truly versatile Lexar allintitle:best ssd external for Mac solution for everyday storage and backup needs.
2. Lexar Professional Go USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Portable SSD
For the Mac user who’s always on the move and needs more than just storage, the Lexar Professional Go is a game-changer. This compact powerhouse doesn’t just offer rapid data transfer speeds; it also features a unique built-in hub with four USB Type-C connectors, providing up to 30W power supply. Imagine connecting your camera, charging your phone, and transferring files all from one tiny, rugged device! Its IP65 dust and water resistance further ensures your data is safe whether you’re in the studio or out in the field.
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Key Features:
- BLAZING FAST TRANSFER SPEEDS – Experience rapid data access with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds, perfect for large files and demanding applications using USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- EXPANDED DEVICE CONNECTIVITY – Features a built-in hub with 4 USB Type-C connectors, offering up to 30W power supply, ideal for connecting multiple devices like cameras, smartphones, and tablets.
- RUGGED DURABILITY – Benefit from IP65 dust- and water-resistance and 3.3′ (1m) anti-drop protection, ensuring your data remains safe in various environments, both indoors and outdoors.
- COMPACT AND PORTABLE DESIGN – Its ultra-small dimensions of 1.71 x 0.98 x 0.32″ and a weight of just 0.5 oz make it easy to carry, fitting seamlessly into any workflow or travel setup.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY – Seamlessly works with Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows 11/10/7/8, iOS, and Android 4.4+, including iPhone 15 series, smartphones, PCs, Macs, tablets, iPads and cameras.
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Pros:
- Integrated USB-C hub is incredibly convenient for MacBooks with limited ports
- Excellent transfer speeds for most professional tasks
- Superior durability with IP65 rating and drop protection
- Extremely compact and lightweight, ideal for travel
- Broad compatibility across multiple operating systems and devices
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Cons:
- The focus on the hub might mean a slightly higher price point
- Only USB 3.2 Gen 2, not the faster Gen 2×2 standard
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User Impressions: Professionals rave about its “Swiss Army knife” utility, especially the built-in hub for Mac users on location. They appreciate its robust build and “unbeatable portability” for their demanding workflows, making it a standout choice among portable SSDs.
3. Lexar SL600 USB 3.2 Type-C Portable External SSD – 2TB
When sheer speed is your top priority for your Mac, the Lexar SL600 steps up to the plate. Harnessing the power of USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, this drive delivers an incredible 2000MB/s read and write speeds. This means less waiting and more doing, whether you’re transferring massive video projects, loading complex applications, or running a large virtual machine. Beyond its raw speed, the SL600 maintains Lexar’s commitment to durability in a sleek, pocket-friendly design, making it an ideal companion for any creative Mac user.
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Key Features:
- INCREDIBLE SPEED – Experience blazing-fast file transfers with up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds, powered by USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, saving you valuable time and boosting productivity.
- AMPLE STORAGE – Choose from a range of available capacities (1TB, 2TB, 4TB) to store all your important files, photos, videos, and more, ensuring you always have space for what matters most.
- RUGGED DURABILITY – Designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, this SSD is shock and vibration-resistant, protecting your valuable data from accidental bumps and drops for added peace of mind.
- COMPACT & PORTABLE – With dimensions of just 4.43 x 2.32 x 0.41 inches and a weight of 2.25 oz, this sleek, graphite gray SSD easily slips into your pocket or bag for on-the-go convenience.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY – Seamlessly works with Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows 11/10/7/8, and Android 4.4+ systems, offering versatile connectivity with included USB Type-C and Type-A cables.
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Pros:
- Outstanding 2000MB/s speeds for ultimate productivity
- Rugged design protects data from everyday hazards
- Compact and lightweight, perfect for portability
- Wide compatibility with Mac and other platforms
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for versatility
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port on your Mac to achieve maximum speeds (though still fast on Gen 2)
- May be overkill for users who don’t need top-tier speeds
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User Impressions: Mac power users consistently laud the SL600 for its “mind-blowing speed” that significantly cuts down transfer times for large video and photo libraries. Its “robust yet stylish” build is also a common highlight, making it a truly exceptional Lexar allintitle:best ssd external for Mac for demanding creative workflows.
4. Lexar SL600 USB 3.2 Type-C Portable External SSD – 4TB
For those who need the ultimate combination of speed and space for their Mac, the 4TB version of the Lexar SL600 is an absolute beast. It carries all the phenomenal features of its smaller sibling – the lightning-fast 2000MB/s read/write speeds, robust shock and vibration resistance, and sleek portable design – but quadruples the storage. This makes it perfect for archiving vast libraries of 4K video, RAW photos, or serving as a lightning-fast boot drive or project hub for even the most data-intensive Mac workflows. You won’t have to compromise on speed or capacity here.
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Key Features:
- INCREDIBLE SPEED – Experience blazing-fast file transfers with up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds, powered by USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, saving you valuable time and boosting productivity.
- AMPLE STORAGE – Choose from a range of available capacities (1TB, 2TB, 4TB) to store all your important files, photos, videos, and more, ensuring you always have space for what matters most.
- RUGGED DURABILITY – Designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, this SSD is shock and vibration-resistant, protecting your valuable data from accidental bumps and drops for added peace of mind.
- COMPACT & PORTABLE – With dimensions of just 4.43 x 2.32 x 0.41 inches and a weight of 2.25 oz, this sleek, graphite gray SSD easily slips into your pocket or bag for on-the-go convenience.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY – Seamlessly works with Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows 11/10/7/8, and Android 4.4+ systems, offering versatile connectivity with included USB Type-C and Type-A cables.
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Pros:
- Massive 4TB capacity for extensive data storage
- Blazing 2000MB/s read/write speeds for unparalleled performance
- Highly durable with shock and vibration resistance
- Compact and lightweight despite its large capacity
- Broad compatibility with included USB-C and USB-A cables
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Cons:
- Premium price reflects the large capacity and top-tier speed
- Maximum speeds require a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port (less common on older Macs)
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User Impressions: For Mac users with immense storage needs, the 4TB SL600 is “a lifesaver,” often cited for its ability to handle “entire project libraries” with ease and speed. Its reliable performance and substantial capacity make it a favorite for professionals who can’t afford slow data transfers.
5. Lexar Professional Workflow USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD – 4TB
Designed with the demanding professional workflow in mind, this 4TB Lexar Professional Portable SSD offers exceptional speed and robust construction. Achieving up to 2000MB/s read and write speeds via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, it’s perfect for photographers and videographers who need to offload huge files quickly or edit directly from the drive. Its impressive shock resistance (rated at 50G) provides an extra layer of confidence when carrying it to shoots or client meetings. This drive is a testament to Lexar’s commitment to delivering high-performance, durable storage solutions for heavy-duty Mac users.
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Key Features:
- INCREDIBLE TRANSFER SPEEDS – Experience rapid file transfers with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, achieving speeds up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write, boosting your workflow efficiency for large files.
- EXPANSIVE STORAGE CAPACITY – Choose between 2TB and 4TB options, providing ample space for high-resolution photos, videos, and other critical files, ensuring you never run out of storage.
- RUGGED DURABILITY – Designed to withstand harsh conditions, this SSD is shock-resistant (50G) and vibration-resistant, protecting your valuable data from accidental bumps and environmental factors.
- COMPACT AND PORTABLE DESIGN – With dimensions of 4 x 2.3 x 0.5″ and weighing only 5.1 oz, this portable SSD easily fits in your pocket or bag, making it perfect for on-the-go professionals.
- BROAD COMPATIBILITY – Compliant with FCC, CE, and other global standards, this SSD ensures seamless compatibility with a wide range of devices and operating systems for hassle-free usage.
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Pros:
- Top-tier 2000MB/s read/write speeds for extreme workloads
- High 4TB capacity caters to extensive professional data
- Exceptional ruggedness with 50G shock resistance
- Professionally oriented, built for reliability in harsh conditions
- Compact and portable for travel and fieldwork
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Cons:
- Premium pricing due to professional-grade features and capacity
- Full speed requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port
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User Impressions: Professionals consistently rate this drive highly for its “bulletproof reliability” and “unwavering speed” when handling mission-critical data. Many Mac-based photographers and videographers consider it an indispensable part of their mobile workflow, appreciating its robust build and the peace of mind it offers.
Conclusion: Picking Your Perfect Lexar Partner for Mac
So there you have it – our top 5 picks for the Lexar allintitle:best ssd external for Mac. Each of these drives offers something unique, whether it’s extreme durability, versatile connectivity, or sheer, unadulterated speed.
When choosing, think about your specific needs:
* Budget & Everyday Use: The Lexar ES3 offers a great balance of speed, durability, and features at a competitive price.
* On-the-Go Professional with Connectivity Needs: The Lexar Professional Go is unparalleled with its built-in USB-C hub and robust IP65 rating.
* Speed & Capacity for Creative Work: The Lexar SL600 (in 2TB or 4TB) and the Lexar Professional Workflow Portable SSD (4TB) are your go-to choices for the fastest data transfers and ample space for demanding projects.
No matter which Lexar external SSD you choose, you’re investing in a reliable, high-performance solution that will significantly enhance your Mac experience. Say goodbye to slow transfers and storage woes, and hello to seamless productivity!
FAQ: Lexar External SSDs for Mac
Q1: Why do I need an external SSD for my Mac?
A1: External SSDs offer several benefits for Mac users:
* Speed: They’re significantly faster than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), crucial for editing large files, running applications, or backing up data quickly.
* Storage Expansion: Macs often have limited internal storage, and an external SSD provides ample space for photos, videos, and documents without cluttering your main drive.
* Portability: They’re compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry your essential data wherever you go.
* Performance: You can run applications or even an entire macOS from an external SSD, potentially improving performance for older or lower-spec Macs.
* Data Backup: A fast external SSD makes regular backups of your Mac using Time Machine much quicker and more efficient.
Q2: What’s the difference between USB 3.2 Gen 2 and Gen 2×2?
A2: It’s all about speed!
* USB 3.2 Gen 2 (also known as USB 3.1 Gen 2 or SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps): Offers speeds up to 10 Gigabits per second (Gbps), which translates to around 1000MB/s in real-world performance. Many modern Macs support this.
* USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (also known as SuperSpeed USB 20Gbps): Doubles the lanes of Gen 2, offering speeds up to 20 Gbps, or around 2000MB/s. This is the fastest USB standard currently widely available and requires specific ports on your computer to achieve maximum speeds. While newer Macs might have Thunderbolt 3/4 ports which are compatible, ensuring your specific Mac has a Gen 2×2 port is important to get the full speed.
Q3: How do I format a Lexar external SSD for my Mac?
A3: Formatting an external SSD for Mac is straightforward using Disk Utility:
1. Connect your Lexar SSD to your Mac.
2. Open Disk Utility (you can find it in Applications > Utilities).
3. In the sidebar, select your external SSD (make sure to select the drive itself, not just a volume under it).
4. Click the Erase button in the toolbar.
5. Choose a Name for your drive.
6. For Format, select “APFS” (Apple File System) for macOS 10.13 High Sierra and later, or “Mac OS Extended (Journaled)” for older macOS versions.
7. For Scheme, choose “GUID Partition Map.”
8. Click Erase again to confirm.
Q4: Are Lexar SSDs compatible with older Macs, and do they work with Thunderbolt?
A4: Yes, Lexar external SSDs generally offer broad compatibility. They typically come with USB-C cables and often include a USB-A adapter, ensuring they work with both newer Macs (with USB-C/Thunderbolt 3/4 ports) and older Macs (with traditional USB-A ports). While they are USB-based, they will plug into a Thunderbolt 3 or 4 port on your Mac and operate at their maximum USB speed. True Thunderbolt drives offer even higher speeds, but Lexar’s USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 drives are very close in performance for many practical uses.
Q5: Is an external SSD better than a traditional HDD for Mac backups?
A5: Absolutely! External SSDs are superior to HDDs for Mac backups in several ways:
* Speed: Backups complete much faster, reducing the time your Mac is busy.
* Durability: SSDs have no moving parts, making them more resistant to drops and impacts than fragile HDDs.
* Silence: They operate silently.
* Compactness: SSDs are generally smaller and lighter.
While HDDs might offer a lower cost per terabyte, the benefits of an SSD for reliability and speed for important backups are usually worth the investment.
Q6: What capacity Lexar external SSD should I get for my Mac?
A6: The ideal capacity depends on your usage:
* 500GB-1TB: Good for basic document storage, a few large photo albums, or as a small boot drive.
* 2TB: A great all-around choice for most users, including photographers, designers, and those with growing video libraries. It offers a good balance of capacity and cost.
* 4TB+: Essential for professional videographers, photographers, or anyone dealing with massive 4K/8K video projects, extensive RAW photo collections, or large game libraries. This ensures you have ample room for current and future projects.
Q7: How durable are Lexar portable SSDs?
A7: Lexar takes durability seriously. Many of their portable SSDs, as highlighted in our reviews, feature:
* Shock and Vibration Resistance: Protecting your data from accidental bumps and drops.
* Drop Protection: Rated for specific drop heights (e.g., 2 meters for the ES3).
* Environmental Resistance: Models like the Professional Go offer IP65 dust and water resistance, making them suitable for outdoor or demanding environments.
These features give Mac users peace of mind that their valuable data is protected, even when on the go.