How External SSDs Can Solve Your Mac Storage Problems

TLDRExternal solid state drives (SSDs) can provide affordable and expandable storage options for Mac users. These drives offer fast performance and can be a reliable backup solution. By using Thunderbolt or USB 4 enclosures with internal NVMe drives, you can achieve even higher transfer speeds. Formatting the drives with APFS ensures data safety and efficiency.

Key insights

💻Mac storage can be expensive and non-upgradeable, but external SSDs offer an affordable and expandable solution.

External SSDs provide fast performance, often comparable to internal storage options.

🔒Using external drives as backups can protect your data in case of internal drive failure.

📶Thunderbolt 3 or USB 4 enclosures paired with internal NVMe drives offer even higher transfer speeds.

💡Formatting external drives with APFS ensures data safety and efficiency, despite limited cross-platform compatibility.

Q&A

Why are Mac storage options so expensive?

Apple charges high prices for internal storage upgrades due to their non-upgradeable design and premium brand positioning.

Are external SSDs as fast as internal storage options?

Yes, external SSDs can provide comparable or even faster performance than internal storage on Macs.

Why should I use external drives for backups?

External drives provide a separate storage location for backups, protecting your data in case of internal drive failure.

What is the advantage of using Thunderbolt or USB 4 enclosures with internal NVMe drives?

These setups offer higher transfer speeds and can be more cost-effective compared to ready-made portable Thunderbolt or USB 4 SSDs.

Why is APFS formatting recommended?

APFS provides better data safety and efficiency through journaling, although it is not compatible with Windows.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Mac users often face expensive and non-upgradeable internal storage options.

00:39External SSDs offer an affordable and expandable solution for Mac storage needs.

02:14External drives can serve as reliable backups, protecting data in case of internal drive failure.

04:43Thunderbolt 3 or USB 4 enclosures with internal NVMe drives provide higher transfer speeds.

08:45APFS formatting ensures data safety and efficiency, although it is not cross-platform compatible.