Struggling with slow file transfers, running out of storage on your Mac, or constantly deleting old projects to make room for new ones? You’re not alone! Mac users, especially creative professionals, gamers, and anyone dealing with large files, know the pain of insufficient and sluggish storage. That’s where a high-performance 4TB external SSD comes in handy, offering blazing-fast speeds and ample space for all your digital needs.
While we’re specifically looking for the Lexar best 4TB external SSD drive for Mac, we’ve also rounded up some of the top contenders from other reputable brands. These portable powerhouses are designed to boost your productivity, protect your data, and seamlessly integrate with your Apple ecosystem. We’ll dive into what makes these drives stand out, their key features, and help you pick the perfect one for your setup.
Let’s explore the best external storage solutions that combine speed, durability, and capacity!
1. Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2
If you’re a creative professional, a hardcore gamer, or a student constantly on the move, the Crucial X10 Portable SSD is built to keep up. This sleek, matte blue external SSD isn’t just about looks; it delivers incredible performance with read speeds up to 2,100MB/s, making short work of massive file transfers and demanding applications. Its robust design, with IP65 dust and water resistance and serious drop protection, ensures your valuable data is safe wherever your adventures take you.
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds for rapid data access.
- Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Connects seamlessly with Mac, Windows, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Ultimate Storage Capacity: Compact 4TB SSD for all your photos, videos, backups, and more.
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Bonus Software: Includes three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed, ideal for heavy workflows.
- Extremely durable and travel-friendly.
- Wide range of device compatibility.
- Includes valuable bonus software.
- Cons:
- May run warm during extended, high-speed transfers.
- Premium price point due to performance and durability.
User Impressions: Users rave about the X10’s phenomenal speed, noting how it drastically cuts down transfer times for large video and photo files. Its rugged build is a major plus for those who need reliable storage on the go, with many appreciating its plug-and-play simplicity across various devices.
2. SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD, 4TB External Solid State Drive
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a widely popular choice for good reason, offering a fantastic blend of speed, compactness, and reliability. Perfect for content creators, photographers, or anyone needing quick access to their data, the T7 leverages PCIe NVMe technology to deliver read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s. Its sleek design fits easily in any pocket, while its sturdy aluminum unibody provides shock resistance for peace of mind. Plus, it’s a great companion for the latest iPhone 15 Pro, supporting 4K 60fps video recording directly.
- MADE FOR THE MAKERS: Fast speeds and durable features for creators.
- SHARE IDEAS IN A FLASH: PCIe NVMe technology with up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s read/write speeds.
- ALWAYS MAKE THE SAVE: Compact design with up to 4TB capacity.
- ADAPTS TO EVERY NEED: Extensive compatibility with PC, mobile, and other devices.
- HI RESOLUTION VIDEO RECORDING: Supports iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video and more.
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ALL FOR THE SHOT: Shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet with solid aluminum construction.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed and portability.
- Very compact and lightweight design.
- Robust aluminum build with good drop protection.
- Strong compatibility, including modern iPhones.
- Reliability from a top flash memory brand.
- Cons:
- Not as fast as some of the newer, higher-end SSDs.
- Lack of advanced dust/water resistance compared to some rivals.
User Impressions: Customers frequently praise the Samsung T7 for its consistent performance and small footprint. It’s a go-to for MacBook users who need a reliable, fast external drive for everyday tasks, backups, and even some light video editing, especially appreciating its seamless integration with Mac and iPhone devices.
3. Lexar SL600 USB 3.2 Type-C Portable External SSD – 4TB
When it comes to finding a Lexar best 4TB external SSD drive for Mac, the Lexar SL600 is a prime contender. This drive truly impresses with its symmetrical 2000MB/s read and write speeds, powered by the robust USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface. It’s designed for users who demand maximum performance without compromising on durability. The sleek graphite gray finish and compact form factor make it a stylish and practical choice for anyone needing high-speed, secure storage on the go, perfectly complementing your Mac setup.
- INCREDIBLE SPEED: Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2.
- AMPLE STORAGE: Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities to store all your files.
- RUGGED DURABILITY: Shock and vibration-resistant to protect valuable data.
- COMPACT & PORTABLE: Measures just 4.43 x 2.32 x 0.41 inches and weighs 2.25 oz.
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UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Works seamlessly with Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows, and Android; includes USB Type-C and Type-A cables.
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Pros:
- Exceptional read and write speeds, ideal for large video files and applications.
- Robust build quality for data protection.
- Highly portable and lightweight.
- Excellent cross-platform compatibility.
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for convenience.
- Cons:
- USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 requires a compatible port on your Mac to achieve full speeds (Thunderbolt 3/4 or USB4 ports often support these speeds).
- No official IP rating for water/dust resistance.
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the Lexar SL600’s blistering speeds, noting a significant improvement in workflow efficiency. Its sturdy feel and compact size are frequently highlighted, making it a reliable daily driver for creative work and large backups, especially for Mac users who appreciate its elegant design.
4. Crucial X9 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
The Crucial X9 Portable SSD steps in as a slightly more budget-friendly yet still highly capable option compared to its X10 sibling. Delivering speeds up to 1050MB/s, it’s a solid upgrade from traditional hard drives, perfect for casual gamers, students, and everyday users who need reliable and fast external storage. Its IP55 water and dust resistance, combined with drop protection, make it a durable companion for daily commutes or weekend trips, offering great peace of mind for your precious data.
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s, outperforming traditional hard drives.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- High-Capacity Storage: Store all your photos, videos, backups, and more with this compact 4TB SSD.
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Bonus Software: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Good speed for everyday tasks and casual use.
- Solid IP55 water and dust resistance and drop protection.
- Excellent compatibility across various devices.
- Compact form factor and high storage capacity.
- Includes useful bundled software.
- Cons:
- Speeds are lower than top-tier SSDs like the X10 or T9.
- Might not be sufficient for very demanding video editing workflows.
User Impressions: Many users find the Crucial X9 to be an ideal balance of cost and performance. They appreciate its robust build and seamless integration with their MacBooks for Time Machine backups and general file storage, often citing it as a significant upgrade from an HDD without breaking the bank.
5. SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 External
For Mac users who demand uncompromising speed and performance, the Samsung T9 Portable SSD is a powerhouse designed for creators. With sustained read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, this drive excels at loading, editing, and transferring even the most massive files. What truly sets it apart is the Dynamic Thermal Guard, which keeps the SSD cool during intensive, prolonged use – a crucial feature for video editors and graphic designers. It’s a premium external storage solution that consistently delivers.
- NONSTOP SPEED: Up to 2,000MB/s sustained read and write speeds.
- DYNAMIC THERMAL GUARD: Advanced thermal solution to maintain ideal temperatures during heavy use.
- ADAPTS TO EVERY NEED: Extensive compatibility with desktops, cameras, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
- STRONG. SOLID. STABLE: Built for longevity and heavy-duty use.
- WORKS LIKE MAGIC: Includes Magician Software for firmware updates, encryption, and drive health monitoring.
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SUPPORTS iPHONE: Ideal for iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video recording.
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Pros:
- Top-tier sustained speeds for professional workflows.
- Excellent thermal management prevents throttling.
- Highly durable and reliable build.
- Useful Magician software for drive management.
- Strong compatibility, including for high-res iPhone video.
- Cons:
- Higher price point.
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 compatible port on your Mac to achieve full speeds.
User Impressions: Professional users consistently highlight the Samsung T9’s incredible speed and the noticeable lack of throttling during demanding tasks. It’s often praised as a reliable workhorse for serious video editing on MacBook Pros, providing the performance and stability needed for critical projects.
6. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read, Storage
While our main focus is on 4TB drives, the Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD is worth a look if you need a slightly smaller capacity but still want Lexar quality and great performance. This drive offers significantly faster transfers than traditional HDDs, with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds. It’s designed with practicality in mind, featuring built-in graphite sheets for efficient heat dissipation and a drop-resistant build. Its plug-and-play simplicity and comprehensive software suite make it a versatile choice for expanding your Mac’s storage.
- 9.5X faster than hard disk drives: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
- Super-fast backups and instant storage expansion.
- Efficient Heat Dissipation: Built-in double-layer graphite sheets keep the drive cool.
- Drop-resistant: Up to 2 meters for daily durability.
- Plug-and-play compatibility: 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable for use with PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone.
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Includes Lexar DataShield: 256-bit AES encryption software and Lexar Recovery Tool.
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Pros:
- Solid speed for most everyday tasks.
- Effective thermal management.
- Good drop resistance for durability.
- Excellent compatibility with included 2-in-1 cable.
- Valuable security and recovery software included.
- Cons:
- Only 2TB capacity, not 4TB (important for those specifically seeking a 4TB external storage solution).
- Speeds are good but not in the top tier compared to 2000MB/s drives.
User Impressions: Users appreciate the Lexar ES3 for its reliable performance and robust design. Many Mac users find it an excellent choice for expanding storage for documents, photos, and general backups, especially valuing the bundled encryption software for added security. It’s a strong contender for those who don’t necessarily need the full 4TB.
7. Seagate Portable 4TB External Hard Drive HDD – USB 3.0
Let’s be clear: while the Seagate Portable 4TB External Hard Drive offers ample storage, it’s a traditional HDD (Hard Disk Drive), not an SSD (Solid State Drive). This means it will be significantly slower than any of the SSDs reviewed above. However, if your primary concern is massive storage capacity at the absolute lowest price point, and speed isn’t a critical factor, this drive is a viable option for simple archival and backup tasks. It’s incredibly easy to use, with plug-and-play simplicity for both Windows and Mac.
- Easily store and access 4TB of content on the go.
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers.
- Simple backup: Just drag and drop files.
- Automatic recognition: No software required for setup.
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Plug and play simplicity with included 18-inch USB 3.0 cable.
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Pros:
- Very cost-effective for 4TB of storage.
- Extremely easy to set up and use.
- Good for large-scale archival or infrequent backups.
- Compatible out-of-the-box with Mac and Windows.
- Cons:
- Significantly slower than any external SSD.
- More susceptible to damage from drops or impacts due to moving parts.
- Not suitable for running applications, video editing, or fast data transfers.
- Uses an older USB 3.0 standard.
User Impressions: Customers typically buy this Seagate HDD for its large capacity and low price, often for storing media libraries or infrequent backups. They understand its limitations in speed but appreciate its straightforward functionality as a budget-friendly mass storage solution. It’s not a performance drive, but it gets the job done for basic archiving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why should I choose a 4TB external SSD over an HDD for my Mac?
A1: An external SSD (Solid State Drive) offers dramatically faster read and write speeds compared to a traditional HDD (Hard Disk Drive). This means quicker file transfers, faster application loading, and smoother performance for demanding tasks like video editing or gaming. While HDDs are cheaper per terabyte, SSDs provide superior speed, durability (no moving parts), and often a more compact form factor, making them a much better choice for active Mac users who value performance.
Q2: What connection type is best for an external SSD with a Mac?
A2: For the best performance with your Mac, especially with a high-speed external SSD, look for drives with USB-C (USB 3.2 Gen 2, Gen 2×2) or Thunderbolt 3/4 connectivity. Most modern Macs feature these ports, offering speeds up to 10Gbps, 20Gbps, or even 40Gbps, respectively. This ensures you get the full benefit of your SSD’s speed capabilities.
Q3: How do I format a new external SSD for my Mac?
A3: When you connect a new external SSD to your Mac, you’ll likely want to format it for optimal performance and compatibility.
1. Open Disk Utility (found in Applications > Utilities).
2. Select your external SSD from the sidebar (ensure you select the top-level drive, not just a partition).
3. Click Erase.
4. Choose a name for your drive.
5. For Format, select APFS (for macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later) or Mac OS Extended (Journaled) (for older macOS versions).
6. For Scheme, select GUID Partition Map.
7. Click Erase again to confirm.
Q4: Can I use one of these 4TB external SSDs for Time Machine backups on my Mac?
A4: Absolutely! All the external SSDs reviewed, especially the 4TB options, are excellent for Time Machine backups. Their speed will significantly reduce backup times compared to an HDD, and the large capacity ensures you’ll have plenty of space for years of incremental backups. Just ensure it’s formatted correctly for your Mac (APFS is recommended for Time Machine on modern macOS).
Q5: Is Lexar a good brand for Mac external SSDs?
A5: Yes, Lexar is a reputable brand known for its memory solutions, including external SSDs. As seen with the Lexar SL600 and ES3, they offer competitive speeds, durable designs, and broad compatibility with Mac systems. Many Mac users find Lexar drives to be reliable and performant for various tasks, from simple storage to demanding creative workflows.
Q6: What does “IP65” or “IP55” water and dust resistance mean for an external SSD?
A6: These ratings indicate how well an electronic device is protected against solids (like dust) and liquids (like water).
* IP65: The first digit ‘6’ means it’s dust-tight (no ingress of dust). The second digit ‘5’ means it’s protected against low-pressure jets of water from any direction.
* IP55: The first digit ‘5’ means it’s protected against dust ingress (limited ingress permitted, but it won’t interfere with operation). The second digit ‘5’ means the same as IP65 for water.
These ratings mean the drives offer a good level of protection against environmental elements, making them more durable for outdoor or travel use.
Q7: Will using an external SSD improve my Mac’s performance if my internal storage is nearly full?
A7: Yes, to a degree. If your internal Mac storage is critically full, your system can slow down significantly as it struggles for space for temporary files and virtual memory. Offloading large files, applications, or even running a portable operating system from a fast external SSD can free up internal space, indirectly improving your Mac’s overall responsiveness. For heavy tasks like video editing, working directly from a fast external SSD can often be as performant, or even more so, than a slower internal drive.