Are you tired of sluggish load times, constant game deletions to make space, or worse – losing your precious game saves? If you’re a serious gamer, you know that storage isn’t just about capacity; it’s about speed, reliability, and portability. With games growing larger and more detailed every year, having a lightning-fast external solid-state drive (SSD) is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. Especially as we look ahead to 2025, the demand for high-performance external storage for gaming will only intensify.
We’re diving deep into the world of external SSDs, focusing on top contenders from Lexar, a trusted name in storage, and other industry leaders. Our mission is to help you find the Lexar best external SSD for gaming 2025 that fits your needs, whether you’re a PC enthusiast, a console warrior, or a gamer on the go. Get ready to supercharge your gaming experience with faster load times, seamless gameplay, and plenty of space for your ever-expanding game library!
What Makes an External SSD “Gaming Ready”?
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly chat about what factors truly matter when picking an external SSD for your gaming setup:
- Speed (Read/Write): This is paramount. Faster speeds mean quicker game installations, reduced loading screens, and smoother in-game texture streaming. Look for drives with USB 3.2 Gen 2 (up to 10Gbps or ~1000MB/s) or even USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (up to 20Gbps or ~2000MB/s) if your device supports it. NVMe-based external SSDs often provide the best performance.
- Capacity: Modern games gobble up hundreds of gigabytes. A 1TB drive is a good starting point, but 2TB or even 4TB offers more breathing room and future-proofing.
- Durability & Portability: If you plan to move your games between systems or take them to a friend’s house, a rugged, compact design is key. Look for features like drop resistance and water/dust protection.
- Compatibility: Ensure the SSD works seamlessly with your gaming PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, or whatever platform you’re using.
Now, let’s check out our top picks, including what we consider the Lexar best external SSD for gaming 2025 contenders and some strong competition!
Our Top 10 Lexar & Other Best External SSDs for Gaming in 2025 Reviews
1. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD
The Lexar ES3 2TB is a solid choice for gamers looking for a blend of speed, reliability, and value. It offers a significant upgrade over traditional hard drives, ensuring your games load much faster, and its durable build makes it a reliable companion for gaming on the go or expanding your console’s storage. With its emphasis on heat dissipation and data protection, it’s designed to keep your valuable game library safe and accessible.
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Key Features:
- Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds
- Built-in double layer graphite sheets for enhanced heat dissipation
- Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for increased durability
- Plug-and-play compatibility with PC, Mac, tablets, smartphones, and gaming consoles (via 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable)
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption and Lexar Recovery Tool
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for its class
- Robust heat management for sustained performance
- Highly durable and drop-resistant
- Wide compatibility across devices
- Includes useful security and recovery software
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Cons:
- Not as fast as USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 drives
- Design might be a bit basic for some users
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise the ES3 for its noticeable speed improvements over HDDs and its reliable performance. Many appreciate the peace of mind offered by its durability and the included data protection features. It’s often recommended as a great mid-range option.
See it on Amazon here
2. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD
Essentially the same powerful drive as its 2TB sibling, the Lexar ES3 1TB offers the same high-speed data transfer in a more compact and perhaps more budget-friendly package. It’s perfect if you need ample space for a good selection of games without committing to a larger capacity, or if you primarily game on platforms like the iPhone 15 where its wide compatibility shines. Its slim, metal design makes it incredibly portable for gaming wherever you are.
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Key Features:
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Wide compatibility including iPhone 15 series, Android, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5
- Thin, stylish, and durable metal design (42g, 10.5mm thick)
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play
- Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software
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Pros:
- Great balance of speed and portability
- Very wide device compatibility, including newer iPhones
- Slim and lightweight design for easy carrying
- Robust metal casing for durability
- Data encryption for security
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Cons:
- 1TB might eventually feel restrictive for a large game library
- Not the fastest interface available (USB 3.2 Gen 2 vs. Gen 2×2)
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User Impressions: Users love the ES3 1TB for its sleek design and how easily it fits into a pocket. Its fast performance for its size is a common highlight, making it a favorite for gamers who need a reliable, portable solution for their console or PC games.
See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar 2TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD
Stepping up the game, the Lexar ES5 Magnetic SSD brings serious speed to the table, making it a strong contender for the Lexar best external SSD for gaming 2025 title, especially if you have devices supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2×2. Its blazing fast read/write speeds mean near-instantaneous game loading. What truly sets it apart is its innovative MagSafe-compatible design, offering a unique solution for mobile gamers and content creators, seamlessly integrating with your smartphone for storage expansion or direct video recording.
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Key Features:
- Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
- MagSafe-compatible design with an additional metal ring accessory for non-MagSafe devices
- Supports Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS recording
- IP65 rated for dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 3M
- Liquid silicone build for comfortable grip, includes cable organizer/lanyard
- Thermal control design for sustained high performance
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Pros:
- Blazing fast speeds, ideal for demanding games and content creation
- Unique magnetic attachment, great for mobile use cases
- Exceptional durability with IP65 rating and 3M drop resistance
- Excellent thermal management
- Includes Lexar App for auto backups
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for maximum speed
- Magnetic feature might not be essential for all gamers
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User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by the ES5’s incredible speed, noting how it drastically cuts down on transfer and load times. The magnetic feature is seen as a clever bonus for smartphone users, and its rugged build quality gives confidence to those who travel with their gear.
See it on Amazon here
4. Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD
For those who want the incredible speed and innovative features of the ES5 series but at a 1TB capacity, this model is your go-to. It packs the same formidable 2000MB/s read/write speeds into a portable form factor, making it perfect for competitive gamers who need their favorite titles to load instantly. Its magnetic design and robust build quality mean it’s ready for any adventure, providing top-tier performance for both gaming and creative pursuits.
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Key Features:
- Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
- MagSafe-compatible design with an additional metal ring accessory
- Supports Apple ProRes 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS
- IP65 rated for dust/water resistance, drop resistant up to 3M
- Thin, stylish liquid silicone build with cable organizer/lanyard
- Advanced thermal control design
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Pros:
- Extreme speeds for minimal load times
- Rugged durability for outdoor or travel use
- Magnetic attachment offers unique versatility
- Excellent for both gaming and high-resolution video work
- Effective heat management
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Cons:
- Full speed requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 host device
- 1TB capacity might fill up quickly for extensive game libraries
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User Impressions: Users love the speed and the compact, durable design of the 1TB ES5. It’s often highlighted for its ability to handle large file transfers quickly and reliably, making it a favorite for gamers who need speedy access to their essential games.
See it on Amazon here
5. Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe
While not a traditional external SSD, the Lexar Play SSD is an absolute powerhouse designed specifically to be an internal storage expansion for gaming consoles like the PS5 and high-performance gaming PCs. If you’re looking for the absolute best performance for expanding your console’s game library without a separate enclosure, this drive is a phenomenal choice. Its integrated heatsink ensures peak performance even during the most intense gaming sessions.
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Key Features:
- Designed for PS5 and PC gaming
- Up to 7400MB/s max read and 6500MB/s max write speeds (PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe)
- Tested and approved storage for PS5, allowing direct gameplay from the drive
- Unique integrated heatsink for enhanced cooling
- HMB and SLC Dynamic cache for improved performance on PC
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Incredibly fast speeds, rivaling internal console/PC drives
- Purpose-built with heatsink for PS5/PC gaming
- Allows direct game storage and play on PS5
- High 4TB capacity for massive game collections
- Long warranty for peace of mind
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Cons:
- Requires internal installation (not a plug-and-play external drive)
- Not suitable for traditional external portable use cases
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User Impressions: Gamers rave about the Lexar Play SSD’s transformative effect on their PS5 or PC gaming experience. The speed is frequently lauded, eliminating load screens and stutters. The integrated heatsink is also a huge plus, ensuring stable, high performance.
See it on Amazon here
6. Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD
The Crucial X9 2TB is a fantastic external SSD that offers a robust blend of performance, durability, and broad compatibility, making it a strong alternative to Lexar for many gamers. It’s designed for casual gamers and everyday users who need reliable, fast storage that can withstand the rigors of travel. Its IP55 rating and significant drop resistance provide peace of mind, ensuring your game library is safe wherever you go.
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Key Features:
- High-speed performance up to 1050MB/s
- IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters)
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox
- Compact 2TB capacity for photos, videos, backups, and games
- Includes three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image software
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed and ruggedness
- Very wide platform compatibility
- Compact and travel-friendly design
- Generous 2TB capacity
- Bonus software adds value
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Cons:
- Speed is not top-tier compared to 2000MB/s drives
- No hardware encryption (relies on software)
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User Impressions: Users frequently commend the Crucial X9 for its reliability and robust build. Gamers appreciate its fast load times for console and PC games, and its portability makes it a hit for those who game on multiple systems.
See it on Amazon here
7. SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD
SanDisk has long been a leader in portable storage, and the 2TB Extreme Portable SSD continues that legacy. Offering NVMe-based performance in a rugged, go-anywhere design, it’s an excellent choice for gamers who prioritize both speed and extreme durability. Its updated IP65 rating and 3-meter drop protection mean your valuable game files are secure even in challenging environments, making it ideal for esports travel or outdoor adventures.
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Key Features:
- NVMe solid-state performance 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 securing to bags or belts
- Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management
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Pros:
- Very high durability with superior drop and environmental protection
- Hardware encryption for enhanced data security
- Compact and lightweight with a useful carabiner loop
- Reliable NVMe performance
- Excellent brand reputation
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Cons:
- Speeds are capped at around 1000MB/s
- Plastic casing might feel less premium than metal alternatives
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User Impressions: This SanDisk drive is consistently praised for its ruggedness and fast performance. Gamers and content creators alike appreciate the peace of mind that comes with its extreme durability and data security features, making it a reliable choice for gaming on the go.
See it on Amazon here
8. SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD
For those who demand uncompromising speed and maximum capacity in a portable package, the SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD is a powerhouse. With read/write speeds up to 2000MB/s, it rivals the fastest internal SSDs, virtually eliminating load times for even the most demanding games. The forged aluminum chassis not only gives it a premium feel but also acts as a heatsink, ensuring sustained performance during intense use, while its robust construction protects your extensive game library.
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Key Features:
- NVMe solid-state performance up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds
- Forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink for sustained high speeds
- 5-year limited warranty
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance
- Handy carabiner loop for securing the drive
- SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast 2000MB/s speeds for ultimate gaming performance
- High 4TB capacity for enormous game collections
- Premium and durable metal design with integrated heatsink
- Excellent environmental protection (IP65) and drop resistance
- Long warranty period
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to performance and capacity
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for maximum speeds
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User Impressions: Users are blown away by the Extreme PRO’s speed and robust build. Gamers confirm that load times become a non-issue, and professionals love it for demanding tasks. The elegant, durable design and integrated heatsink are frequently highlighted as major selling points.
See it on Amazon here
9. Lexar SL600 USB 3.2 Type-C Portable External SSD – 4TB
The Lexar SL600 4TB is another excellent offering from Lexar, combining incredible speed with massive storage capacity and robust durability, positioning it as a strong contender for the Lexar best external SSD for gaming 2025 title. Its 2000MB/s read/write speeds ensure you’re always ahead of the game, while the shock and vibration-resistant design means your extensive game collection is safe from accidental bumps and drops. With universal compatibility, it’s a versatile powerhouse for any gamer.
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Key Features:
- Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
- Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities (this review is for 4TB)
- Shock and vibration-resistant for rugged durability
- Compact and portable (4.43 x 2.32 x 0.41 inches, 2.25 oz)
- Universal compatibility with Mac, Windows, and Android systems
- Includes USB Type-C and Type-A cables
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds for superior gaming performance
- Huge 4TB capacity for vast game libraries
- Highly durable and resistant to impacts
- Extremely compact and lightweight
- Broad compatibility with included cables
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Cons:
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for full speed potential
- Lacks the specific IP rating of some competitors
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User Impressions: The SL600 is praised by users for its impressive speed, which makes a tangible difference in workflow and game loading. Its compact size despite the large capacity is a highlight, and the durable build quality gives users confidence in its longevity.
See it on Amazon here
10. KingSpec Z5 2TB External SSD
The KingSpec Z5 2TB external SSD stands out not just for its high-speed performance but also for its distinctive, modern RGB light design. Offering speeds up to 2100MB/s, it pushes the boundaries of portable storage, ensuring your games load at lightning speed. Beyond its looks and speed, its zinc alloy casing provides increased durability and improved heat dissipation, making it a stylish and reliable choice for gamers who want to make a statement.
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Key Features:
- High-speed data transfer up to 2100MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C interface)
- Modern RGB light design with 128-color breathing ambient lights
- Increased durability with zinc alloy casing (impact and wear resistance, improved heat dissipation)
- Versatile usage with Android phones, laptops, TVs, PCs, PlayStation consoles
- Lightweight design for on-the-go use
- Limited 3-year warranty and professional after-sales service
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Pros:
- Highest speeds in this roundup (up to 2100MB/s)
- Unique and eye-catching RGB lighting
- Robust zinc alloy casing for durability and heat management
- Wide compatibility with various gaming and computing devices
- Good warranty and customer support
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Cons:
- Not compatible with Apple iPhone (and limited speed on MacBooks)
- RGB lighting might not appeal to all users
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User Impressions: Users are generally impressed by the KingSpec Z5’s speed, often noting it performs as advertised. The RGB lighting is a divisive but often appreciated feature, adding a unique aesthetic. Its sturdy build quality and compatibility with various gaming consoles are also frequently mentioned positives.
See it on Amazon here
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Gaming SSD
Deciding on the Lexar best external SSD for gaming 2025 (or a top competitor!) isn’t just about picking the fastest one. Here’s a quick guide to help you narrow down your options:
- Speed Tiers:
- 1000-1050 MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen 2): Great for PS4/Xbox One game archives, older PC games, and general console game storage where the console itself might cap speeds. It’s a solid balance of performance and value.
- 2000 MB/s+ (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 / NVMe): Essential for playing current-gen games directly from the drive on PS5 or Xbox Series X|S, and for high-performance PC gaming. If your PC or console supports this, it’s worth the investment for minimal load times.
- Capacity Needs:
- 1TB: Good for a small, rotating library of current-gen games or as an expansion for a single console.
- 2TB: A sweet spot for many gamers, allowing for a healthy selection of AAA titles.
- 4TB+: Ideal for archiving massive game libraries, future-proofing, or if you play many large games regularly.
- Form Factor & Ruggedness:
- Portable & Rugged: If you travel or move your drive frequently, look for IP ratings (dust/water resistance) and drop protection.
- Magnetic/Unique Features: Consider these if you have specific mobile use cases (e.g., direct recording to phone).
- Console vs. PC:
- PS5: Look for drives specifically “Tested and Approved” (like Lexar Play) or very fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 drives for playable storage. Note that only internal M.2 NVMe SSDs can fully expand PS5 storage for new PS5 games, external drives are for PS4 games or archiving PS5 games.
- Xbox Series X|S: Requires proprietary expansion cards for playing optimized games directly, but fast external SSDs (1000MB/s+) can store and play older Xbox One games, and archive new Series X|S games.
- PC: Benefits most directly from the fastest external SSDs (2000MB/s+) if you have a compatible USB-C port, for playing games with minimal load times.
- Budget: Performance and capacity directly correlate with price. Decide what you’re willing to spend for the speed and space you need.
Conclusion
Finding the Lexar best external SSD for gaming 2025 means balancing blazing-fast speeds, robust durability, ample storage, and seamless compatibility. Lexar clearly offers some phenomenal options, from the reliable ES3 series to the ultra-fast, feature-rich ES5 Magnetic and the specialized internal Lexar Play SSD for consoles. Competitors like SanDisk, Crucial, and KingSpec also bring strong contenders to the table with their own unique blends of speed, ruggedness, and aesthetics.
Ultimately, the “best” drive depends on your specific gaming setup, needs, and budget. Whether you prioritize extreme portability, maximum speed, or a balance of both, our detailed reviews should equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision and upgrade your gaming experience significantly in 2025 and beyond!
FAQ Section
Q1: Why should I choose an external SSD over an external HDD for gaming?
A1: External SSDs offer significantly faster read and write speeds compared to traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). This translates to much quicker game load times, faster installations, smoother in-game texture streaming, and overall a more responsive gaming experience. HDDs are cheaper per gigabyte, but the performance difference is substantial for gaming.
Q2: Can I play PS5 or Xbox Series X|S games directly from an external SSD?
A2: For PS5, you can store PS5 games on an external SSD, but you can only play PS4 games directly from it. To play PS5 games, they must be on the internal drive or an installed internal M.2 NVMe SSD (like the Lexar Play SSD). For Xbox Series X|S, you can store optimized games on an external SSD, but you can only play Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox games directly. To play optimized Series X|S games, they need to be on the internal drive or an official Seagate/Western Digital expansion card.
Q3: What do “USB 3.2 Gen 2” and “USB 3.2 Gen 2×2” mean for external SSDs?
A3: These refer to the interface speed. USB 3.2 Gen 2 provides transfer speeds of up to 10 Gigabits per second (Gbps), which translates to around 1000MB/s. USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 doubles that with speeds up to 20Gbps (around 2000MB/s). For the fastest possible gaming performance from an external drive, you’ll want a Gen 2×2 compatible SSD and a device with a Gen 2×2 port.
Q4: Is a 1TB external SSD enough for gaming in 2025?
A4: It depends on your gaming habits. Modern AAA games can easily take up 100-200GB each. A 1TB drive could hold 5-10 such games, which might be sufficient for a rotating library. However, if you have a large game collection or play many graphically intensive titles, 2TB or 4TB will offer much more breathing room and better future-proofing.
Q5: How important is durability (IP ratings, drop resistance) for a gaming external SSD?
A5: It’s very important if you plan to move your drive frequently, take it to friends’ houses, or use it in varied environments. IP ratings (like IP65) indicate resistance to dust and water, while drop resistance protects against accidental falls. These features ensure your valuable game data and the drive itself can withstand the rigors of portable use.
Q6: Do external SSDs require external power?
A6: Most modern portable external SSDs, especially those using USB-C, are bus-powered. This means they draw all the power they need directly from the USB port of your PC, console, or device, eliminating the need for a separate power adapter. This adds to their portability and convenience.
Q7: Can I use an external SSD for both PC and console gaming?
A7: Yes, many external SSDs are cross-compatible with both PCs (Windows/Mac) and major gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox). However, you might need to format the drive specifically for one system, which could erase data. Some drives also come with software to manage partitions for multi-platform use, or you might need to reformat when switching primary platforms. Always check the manufacturer’s compatibility notes.