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Thunderbolt 5 and USB4 drives now deliver over 6,000 MB/s transfer speeds for the latest Mac machines.
Mac‑friendly external SSDs in 2025 support plug‑and‑play use with macOS, offering great value for Indian users.
Durability, heat dissipation, and cross‑platform support are becoming key differentiators in external SSD choices.
The demand for high-speed, reliable, and Mac-compatible external SSDs has dramatically increased as professionals and creators push their devices to the limit. With Apple’s latest Macs supporting Thunderbolt 5 and USB4, external storage is no longer a problem. Users now expect portable drives to match the speed and sophistication of their premium Apple devices.
From editing 8K videos on a MacBook Pro to managing massive photo libraries, storage needs have changed drastically. Therefore, choosing the best external SSDs for Mac isn’t just about space; it’s about speed, compatibility, and long-term value. Here are some of the best external SSDs for Mac devices.
Below are some handpicked portable SSDs for Mac machines that offer high-end performance and reliability:
Crucial X9 SSD can reach read speeds of up to 1,050 MB/s when connected via USB 3.2 Gen‑2. This makes it a great choice for rapid file transfers and heavy workflows. It is compact but has an eyelet for a lanyard and is also drop-resistant up to 2 meters, providing a sense of security during regular use.
Fully compatible with macOS, Windows, Android, and gaming consoles, it outpaces traditional USB flash drives in speed and reliability.
Price: Rs. 7,999
With speeds up to 2,000 MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, Samsung T9 is built for demanding tasks like 4K/8K video editing, gaming, and transferring large files. The device comes with AES 256-bit encryption to ensure maximum data security, a tough build that can withstand falls from a height of 3 meters, and the ability to work with various operating systems such as macOS, Windows, Android, and gaming consoles.
Ranging in storage from 1TB to 4TB, it is suitable for professionals, students, and people on the go. Its combination of speed, security, and durability makes it stand out from other SSDs.
Price: Rs. 20,999
Also Read: How to Optimize SSD Performance & Longevity
Engineered for the toughest environments, LaCie Rugged SSD Pro boasts lightning-fast 2,800 MB/s read speeds over Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C. Its IP67 rating ensures dust and water resistance, while it can withstand drops up to 3 meters and crushing force under a two-ton vehicle.
This robust design makes it perfect for creative professionals and field workers handling massive 6K/8K video projects and large media libraries. This model excels on both fronts; it combines top-tier speed with unmatched durability.
Price: Rs. 12,999
KINGSTER Portable SSD, a cost-effective solution, that offers storage capacity between 128GB to 4TB with USB 3.0 speeds up to 410MB/s for reading and 400MB/s for writing. Its lightweight and small size make it ideal for students and casual users who need reliable, everyday storage at an affordable price.
KINGSTER is a bit slower than the premium SSDs, but it gives a practical mixture of affordability and top-notch performance. The device is an excellent option for moderate storage needs.
Price: Rs. 4,150
Transcend 310C boasts read speeds reaching up to 1,050 MB/s and the addition of both USB-C and USB-A connectors for maximum compatibility with the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max, MacBook, iPad, and more. Its sleek and lightweight design is suitable for all users, including professionals, students, and general users.
Perfect for backups, media storage, and file transfers, it offers versatility and value, especially at an affordable cost. The dual-connector design sets it apart from many competitors.
Price: Rs. 9,412
Offering reliable read speeds of up to 800 MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2, SanDisk 1TB Portable SSD is designed for professionals and everyday users who need durable, high-performance storage. It stands out with 2-meter drop protection and comes with a USB-C to USB-A cable for compatibility across various devices.
This rugged SSD balances portability and toughness, making it a standout choice for users seeking a dependable storage solution.
Price: Rs. 8,499
Silicon Power's ultra-slim external SSD has an elegant thickness of just 10.3mm and weighs only 33g, together with USB 3.2 Gen 2 that allows for super-fast data transfer of up to 1,050 MB/s. The aluminum casing provides durability while supporting a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and game consoles.
The PX10 model is speedy, compact, and supports many devices, making it the best choice for users who want fast and mobile storage. Compared to other SSDs, its compact size, high speed, and broad compatibility make it a reliable, efficient storage option.
Price: Rs. 5,489
Also Read: How to Upgrade RAM and SSD in Your Laptop
Combining power and portability, the Kingston XS2000 delivers blazing read/write speeds up to 2,000 MB/s using USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 technology. Its tiny footprint (54 x 32.58 x 13.5mm) and featherweight design (9g) are complemented by a removable rubber sleeve offering IP55-rated water and dust resistance and shock protection.
Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS, this SSD is perfect for professionals and everyday users who need fast, durable storage on the go. It is the best choice available for users seeking reliable portable storage solutions.
Price: Rs. 19,309
Choosing the right external SSD means balancing speed, durability, and compatibility with the latest Mac technologies. Whether it’s the rugged power of the LaCie Rugged SSD Pro or the budget-friendly reliability of the KINGSTER Portable SSD, there’s a perfect option for every user’s needs.
Thunderbolt 5 and USB4 are among the significant advancements that these SSDs bring in terms of productivity and creative workflow. By purchasing a premium SSD today, you will experience faster and smoother interactions for a long time.
1. Will the external SSD fail?
SSDs don't have moving platters like hard drives, so they're more resilient to physical damage than traditional HDDs. However, physical force and environmental factors can still cause your SSD to fail.
2. How much does a 100TB SSD cost?
ExaDrive's 3.5-inch SSD called EDDCT100 offers a staggering 100TB of storage, for a cost of $40,000 or Rs 30.4 lakh. Nimbus Data now plans to break its own record with a 200TB solid-state drive, expected to launch within this year.
3. Which is better, a 512 GB SSD or a 1 TB SSD?
Choosing between a 512GB and 1TB SSD depends on your specific needs. While a 512GB SSD offers a good balance of performance and cost for many applications, a 1TB SSD provides more headroom for data-intensive tasks and future growth.
4. How long will a 512GB SSD last?
Current SSDs are made to last and even go beyond the life of other parts in a computer system. Typical usage span for most SSDs ranges from 5 to 10 years, and sometimes even longer.
5. What size SSD for MacBook Pro M4?
24GB or 32GB unified memory, 1TB or 2TB SSD, 96W USB-C Power Adapter. Nano-texture display.
