The Best External SSD for MacBook Pro in 2025
If you’re a MacBook Pro user looking to expand your storage or boost your workflow speed, choosing the best external SSD for MacBook Pro can make a huge difference. Whether you’re editing 4K video, managing large creative projects, or simply backing up files, the right drive will balance speed, portability, and reliability.
This guide explores the top portable and Thunderbolt SSDs, explains key technologies like USB4 and NVMe, and compares options for performance and value. We’ll also touch on insights from trusted sources like The Verge, TechRadar, and Tom’s Hardware to help you make an informed decision.
Why You Need an External SSD for MacBook Pro
Modern MacBook Pros are built with incredible internal storage performance, but that speed comes at a premium cost. Even a 1TB upgrade can add hundreds of dollars to your configuration. An external SSD offers a smarter solution: high-speed, flexible storage that travels with you.
Main benefits include:
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Faster data access: NVMe-based drives can reach speeds beyond 2000 MB/s with Thunderbolt 3 or 4 connections.
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Seamless compatibility: USB-C and Thunderbolt SSDs work natively with macOS.
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Expandable storage: You can add terabytes without opening your laptop.
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Durability: Many models are shock-resistant or waterproof for on-the-go creators.
According to Engadget, 2025’s best portable SSDs are now balancing not just speed, but durability and wide compatibility, especially as USB4 and Thunderbolt 5 begin to merge into mainstream standards.
Top Features to Consider Before Buying
Before selecting the best external SSD for your MacBook Pro, look out for these key aspects:
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Connection Type (USB4 vs Thunderbolt):
Thunderbolt SSDs (like the SanDisk Pro-G40 or Samsung X5) deliver the highest sustained speeds. As The Verge notes, these drives target professionals needing reliable working performance for tasks like 8K editing. -
Speed (Read/Write):
Standard USB-C SSDs may reach 1000 MB/s, while Thunderbolt SSDs can exceed 3000 MB/s. -
Form Factor & Portability:
Some users prefer ultra-compact drives like Samsung T9, while others need rugged models with IP ratings. -
Security:
Encrypted drives are recommended for professionals dealing with sensitive data. -
Price-to-Performance Ratio:
As Tom’s Guide highlights, newer USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and USB4 drives now offer near-Thunderbolt speeds at lower prices.
Comparison Table: Leading SSDs for MacBook Pro (2025)
| SSD Model | Interface | Max Speed (Read/Write) | Best For | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung T9 | USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 | 2000 / 1950 MB/s | Everyday use | Compact & lightweight |
| SanDisk Pro-G40 | Thunderbolt 3 / USB4 | 2700 / 1900 MB/s | Video editing | Dual interface support |
| LaCie Rugged SSD Pro | Thunderbolt 3 | 2800 / 2400 MB/s | Field work | Rugged, IP67 rated |
| Crucial X10 Pro | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | 2100 / 2000 MB/s | Value option | AES 256-bit encryption |
| OWC Envoy Express (NVMe Enclosure) | Thunderbolt 3 | Depends on SSD | Custom setup | DIY flexibility |
| ADATA SE920 | USB4 | 3800 / 3200 MB/s | Futureproof users | Collapsible heat dissipation design |
Based on independent testing and insights from Tom’s Hardware, TechRadar, and The Verge.
Thunderbolt vs USB4: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between Thunderbolt and USB4 is one of the biggest decisions for Mac users in 2025.
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Thunderbolt SSDs offer consistent top-tier speed and macOS optimization, ideal for creators.
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USB4 drives, on the other hand, provide great flexibility — compatible across devices and often cheaper.
According to TechRadar, many recent drives such as the SanDisk Pro-G40 blur the line, offering dual compatibility so users can benefit from both standards depending on their workflow.
If your MacBook Pro has a Thunderbolt 3 or 4 port, you’ll get maximum benefit from Thunderbolt SSDs. However, for general users, a USB4 external SSD for Mac offers an excellent balance between price and performance.
For Video Editors: Speed Meets Reliability
Video editors often deal with multi-gigabyte files, and internal storage fills up fast. The best external SSD for video editing on MacBook Pro combines sustained write speed and thermal management.
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The Verge noted that Thunderbolt drives like LaCie Rugged SSD Pro are popular among film professionals because they sustain top speeds even during long transfers.
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TechRadar highlighted that rugged models also offer shock resistance and dustproof design, critical for field recording.
When editing directly from an external drive, you should always format it as APFS or exFAT to ensure macOS compatibility and optimized performance.
How to Format an External SSD for Mac
Before you can use a new external SSD, you’ll need to format it properly. Here’s a quick tutorial:
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Connect the SSD to your Mac.
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Open Disk Utility from Applications → Utilities.
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Select your drive and click Erase.
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Choose one of the following:
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APFS for SSDs used exclusively on macOS.
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exFAT for drives shared between macOS and Windows.
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Name your drive and click Erase again.
That’s it — your drive is now ready to store or edit files directly in macOS.
If you’re using an external NVMe SSD enclosure for Mac, the same formatting process applies, but ensure you select a Thunderbolt-certified enclosure for maximum speed.
SSD vs HDD: Why SSD Always Wins for Mac Users
Some users still consider HDDs for backup due to their cheaper price per gigabyte. However, when compared with modern SSDs:
| Feature | SSD | HDD |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 10x faster or more | Slow mechanical read/write |
| Durability | Shock-resistant | Fragile moving parts |
| Noise | Silent | Audible spinning |
| Power use | Efficient | Higher |
| Lifespan | Longer (for portable use) | Shorter (mechanical wear) |
As Tom’s Guide explains, SSDs are now so efficient and affordable that HDDs make sense only for massive, cold-storage backups — not for daily workflows on MacBook Pros.
Security and Encryption Options
If you’re dealing with sensitive data — like business files or client footage — look for drives with built-in encryption. Models like the Crucial X10 Pro and Samsung T9 offer AES 256-bit hardware encryption.
Some drives even include password protection via macOS Disk Utility. According to Engadget, security is becoming a major purchase factor as professionals travel more frequently with their data.
Future-Proofing: USB4 and Thunderbolt 5
The external SSD market is evolving quickly. The Verge reported that Thunderbolt 5 and USB4 devices now reach multi-gigabyte speeds, offering both backward compatibility and higher power efficiency. New rugged drives from LaCie and Seagate have adopted these interfaces to serve creators and engineers needing fast, stable mobile storage.
So if you plan to keep your SSD for years, choosing a USB4 or Thunderbolt 5-compatible model ensures longevity across future Mac devices.
Final Recommendations
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For creators and editors: SanDisk Pro-G40 or LaCie Rugged SSD Pro.
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For students or general users: Samsung T9 or Crucial X10 Pro.
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For security-conscious professionals: Crucial X10 Pro or Samsung T9 with encryption.
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For DIY enthusiasts: OWC Envoy Express enclosure + NVMe drive.
Each of these drives represents a solid investment in performance and reliability.
Conclusion
The best external SSD for MacBook Pro in 2025 isn’t just about the highest speed — it’s about choosing the right mix of interface, durability, and usability. With options like USB4 and Thunderbolt 5 becoming standard, Mac users now enjoy more flexibility than ever.
Berdasarkan laporan The Verge, Tom’s Guide, TechRadar, Tom’s Hardware, dan Engadget, the external SSD market continues to evolve toward faster, tougher, and more affordable solutions — perfect for everyone from content creators to everyday professionals.
So, before your next project or trip, invest in the right SSD. Your MacBook Pro — and your productivity — will thank you.