Best Format For External Hard Drive Mac

Apr 14,2020 • Filed to: Hard Drive Recovery • Proven solutions

• Best Format For External Hard Drive Mac Mojave
• Best Format For External Hard Drive For Mac
• Reformatting External Drive For Mac
• Seagate External Hard Drive Mac
• External Hard Drive Mac Review

The easiest way to add storage to your Mac is to buy an external hard drive. Once you have it, your first task is to pick a suitable file system for that drive depending on your intended usage. Using Apple's free Disk Utility app, you can easily format the drive, give it a label, or even partition it and create multiple volumes from a single drive. But the reality is quite different. Whether it is a hard drive or USB or internal drive, Mac uses different format support. So, you can't simply use the same drive with both Windows and Mac. As a result, you will need to format the hard drive for Mac. Using the Mac preferred file system is important otherwise the files will be of no use to you. How to Format an External Drive for Mac Compatibility. This is a simple procedure and is achieved the same way for all drive types and through all connections, be they USB, Firewire, or Thunderbolt. Formatting a drive will erase all data and partitions on the disk: Connect the hard drive or USB key to the Mac.

'I need to reformat my Mac and just wondering which best hard drive format is for Mac. And is it possible to recover a drive that I've lost?'

The simplest way to add storage to Mac is by buying an external hard drive. And most of the external drive comes formatted for Windows or both Windows and Mac. If you want to ensure maximum efficiency, it might require you to format a hard drive for Mac compatibility.

Even though the formatting of a drive is necessary at some point, you may, also, mistakenly erase some data that you didn't intend to. And it happens in a flick of time. Yes, losing a drive is the most painful part especially when you are handling a delicate document. But technological advances are slowly easing this pain. There are ways to recover formatted hard drive Mac. But before looping to how to do a successful recovery, let's see the plenty of other reasons you might want to reformat the hard drive for Mac.

Part 1: What Causes to Format Hard Drive for Mac?

Formatting hard disk for Mac is particularly necessary for purchases of generic PC drives, which nearly all come preformatted for Windows rather than Mac OS.

And even though connecting the preformatted hard drive for Windows will work fine on Mac, it is important highly recommendable you format the hard drive exclusively for Mac compatible file system. This is important if you aren't going to use it on another platform.

In fact, here are some occasions that will force you to format Mac compatible File System:

• When you want to use the drive with the Time Machine.


• When you want to make a disk bootable on Mac.


• When you want to resolve corruption or unreadable error of storage drive.


• Format the startup disk to reinstall macOS.


• Format the storage drive incase Disk Utility fails to repair it.

Part 2: What is the Best Format for Mac Hard Drive?

When the time comes, it will require you to format HDD for Mac. Because most of the new drives come already formatted—most likely in NTFS for Windows, or FAT32 for maximum compatibility.

While the Mac system can open both, none of the two above is desirable for Mac User. For maximum performance, you'll need to reformat the drive to one of Mac's file systems.

And there are several file systems that Mac can support. But which one is the best?

Let's explore 4 file systems—Apple File System (APFS), Mac OS Extended (HFS+), exFAT (Extended File Allocation Table), and MS-DOS (FAT) to give a detailed take of each of the 4, and correctly identify which one you should pick.

Apple File System (APFS)

It is the most recent file system from Apple intending to replace the Mac OS Extended file system. Today, all new Macs come with macOS preinstalled on an APFAS file system.

Apple optimizes this file system for use with solid-state drives (SSDs) and flash storage, but you can still use it on the traditional mechanical hard disk drive (HDD) too.

This file system is appropriate when you have an SSD or a new flash drive that you do not intend to use on the Windows system.

The best part of this new system is that it is speed-optimized. You can execute common functions almost instantaneously due to the flawless data organization.

Better yet, the file system focuses on data encryption and advanced metadata handling.

The only problem is that you cannot use the APFS file system to backup with Time Machine yet.

Mac OS Extended (HFS+)

It was the main file system used for Mac system storage from 1998 until Apple launched APFS.

This file system is suitable for both SSDs and HHD. Besides, it works efficiently with all Apple's operating systems and allows back up on the Time Machine. In fact, this is the best file system you can use for Mac.

ExFAT

ExFAT is a file system by Microsoft that provide compatibility on both Windows and Mac platform.

The only problem with exFat is that it is more prone to fragmentation than using an Apple-based file system. This system file is more stable than third-party NTFS or HFS+ drivers the reason why many consumer devices, like media playback devices and TV, natively supports it.

MS-Dos (FAT)

This option offers near-universal interoperability with either Mac or Windows operating systems. When your drive is formatted this way, it can easily transfer data from your Mac device and other PCs. Furthermore, it becomes easy to transfer files to video game systems such as Xbox. The only drawbacks are that this format does not support the transfer of larger files ranging from 4 GB and neither can you create a startup drive for your Mac OS device using this option.

Of the 4, which is the best file system for Mac? The correct question, however, is:

Why do you want to format the hard drive for Mac? Answering this question right directs you to the right file system to opt-in.

Part 3: How to Format a Hard drive for Mac without Data Loss

Now that you know the best File System for Mac, how do you format hard drive for Mac compatibility without data loss?

The procedure is simple, similar on all drives, and the same through all connections.

But note that:

Formatting a drive removes all reference to the data stored on it, it is wise you back up the drive before you format it.

Back up the Mac start-up drive to an external storage medium to ensure you lose no data. Alternatively, you can use the Time Machine for backup.

Step-by-Step Guide to Format Hard Drive for Mac Using the Disk Utility

1. Launch the Disk Utility. You have 2 options to execute this step. One, head to Applications and advance to Utilities. Alternatively, tap Command and Space simultaneously and start typing Disk Utility.


2. On the Disk Utility windows, you'll see a listing of the available drives on the left pane.
3. Hit the Erase option. Then advance to selecting the Name, Format, and Scheme in the respective field and click Erase.


4. Your drive will format with the File System you've opted in.

Part 4: How to Recover Data from Formatted Mac Hard Drive

Suppose you didn't create a back for your data, and you've lost your data, you might want to recover them. And you'll require a recovery tool to get your data back.

And online, there are plenty of data recovery options to get your data back. But not all deliver excellent recover solutions. So, we are going to focus on one that delivers powerful results for Mac.

Introducing Recoverit (IS) Tool This is a recovery tool for all Mac devices and the best solution to un-format data. The tool comes with a well-knitted resource that deep-scan your drive to deliver a 98% chance of bringing your data back.

Recoverit (IS)

Features

• Unlimited Data Recovery for Mac: Retrieve all formatted files regardless of the file type even from the latest encrypted APFS file system.
• The tool comes with a lineup of sophisticated utilities to that scrap deeper into your hard drive to bring back photos, videos, documents, audio, emails, archives, and even more format files.
• Data Recovery on Any Storage Device on Mac: Recover any data from any storage media on Mac starting with the Mac itself, memory cards, digital devices like (camera, iPod, Player,) hard drives, removable drives, and even more.
• Effortless Data Recovery: Besides the recovery of formatted data, you can recover nearly all types of data loss—from mistaken deletion, disk formatting, hard drive corruption, macOS reinstall, hardware failure, system crash, and even more in simple three-step. No codes. No-fuss. Just a three-step simple procedure—Start, select, and preview before recovery.

User Guide: How to Recover Formatted Hard Drive for Mac Using iSkyoft Data Recovery

Best Format For External Hard Drive Mac Mojave

On the home screen of the Recoverit (IS)y tool, select a location or a partition where your lost files were initially in. Next, hit the ‘Start' button to let the software commence the recovery process.

How to paint on mac. Hit the ‘Scan' button to execute the scan and wait while the tool crawls deeper into your formatted storage device.

Hit the ‘Preview' feature to preview data before recovery. You can keenly select your recoverable files by checking the boxes against them.

After the file preview process, click on the ‘Recover' button to retrieve data from your formatted hard drive for macOS device.

Conclusion

There are plenty of reasons why you might want to format a hard drive for Mac. Fortunately, Disk Utility—built right into macOS is readily available to help you execute the formatting.

The way you'll format your hard drive depends on how you want to use it.

If you want to format the drive to use on both Mac and Windows systems, you'll choose the ExFAT from the list format options.

If you want to format it for use with the time machine, it will require you to select the HFS+ option from the format list available.

Mac External Hard Drive Reviews

These days everyone is purchasing external hard drives for their computers, because you never know what's going to happen. Should you lose your computer, or if something happens to its hard drive, then you have completely lost the data on your computer. That means that owning and using an external drive is a smart way to store your information in a separate location, so that you're prepared in case the unexpected should happen.

Also, people have more data than ever, when you consider all the photos, videos, music, and so much more that folks keep on their computers. Even MacBooks aren't designed to store all this information, and that's why an external hard drive will help you to clear some space on your computer. Lets take a look at the top rated Mac external hard drives so that you can be well on your way to finding the right drive for you and your unique requirements.

1. Western Digital

Best Overall Mac External Hard Drive

You get a whopping USB 3.0 connectivity, and the drive is formatted for MAC OS X, so reformatting will be required for Windows. With a 3 year limited warranty, you can be sure that this drive is going to stand the test of time, and should anything go wrong, it's easy to simply return it for a refund.

The chances are there's not going to be any reason to return this drive because it's solidly constructed and made from only the best materials. Perfect for all your backup and storage needs, you're going to see that this drive outperforms the rest, and that's why it's one of the top rated models on the market.

– Darius Spieth

2. Toshiba

Best Format For External Hard Drive For Mac

Best Overall Mac External Hard Drive – Runner Up

The drive accommodates large digital files with a spacious storage capacity that customers swear by. Also, the body of this drive is compact, and smudge-resistant so that you don't have to deal with unsightly fingerprints. All in all, this is a top rated external drive for Mac because it offers ample storage space in the perfect sized device.

It's easy to carry on the go, and you can be confident when you're using it that you're getting a safe and effective means of saving your important data, so that you can retrieve it whenever you need it most.

– Darius Spieth

3. Seagate

Best Budget Mac External Hard Drive

You can only redeem one offer with your OneDrive account, but you're going to see that this is really all the storage that you're going to need. The program allows you to create customized backup plans that include the signature Seagate dashboard software. You can also backup your mobile device photos and videos anytime using the Lyve App which works automatically.

You experience the fastest file transfer with powerful USB 3.0 connectivity. Also, the USB powered backup drive needs no power supply to operate. All in all, what you're getting here is a tremendous backup drive that is going to give you all the storage that you so desperately need.

– Darius Spieth

We highlighted the top rated external hard drives on the market, and these are popular because they have an ample amount of storage, are affordable, and constructed from the highest quality materials. These top rated models also have the latest technology that makes them easy to use and reach lightening-fast speeds.

If you're not yet convinced that one of these drives is right for you, then you can take a look at this buyer's guide to find some other options that are out there for you. Each drive is so different, so it's important to know what options are available to you so that you can make an informed decision.

Mac External Hard Drive Comparison

Mac External Hard Drive Buying Guide

When it comes to finding the right external hard drive for your Mac, you have a lot of options out there. When looking for the right solution, you need to consider how much data you have to store, and whether you have multiple computers that are connected to your home network. You also need to take into account backup speed, the sensitivity of our data, how good you are with computers, and the physical size of the drive. This is going to effect the portability.

How Much Storage Do You Need?

It's possible to spend up to $200 on a 2 terabyte drive, or even $300 for a 4TB model, but having all that space may not be necessary for you. You basically want to get the largest drive that you can afford, because this will allow you to store all your data for years to come. Keep in mind that your storage is going to accumulate, but it's about knowing how much data you really have on a consistent basis.

You for sure want to get a drive that has at least the same amount of storage as your computer's hard drive. The physical size of the drive is another consideration, especially if you want it to be portable. Should you need to take your backup with you, then you want to make sure that it's small enough to carry.

Reformatting External Drive For Mac

How Fast Should it Be?

The speed of the external hard drive is another consideration that you need to take into account. Some people think that online storage options are a good idea but the problem is that they're really too slow. Sometimes after your first backup it can take almost days to complete the next one, and that's why an external hard drive offers you a faster solution. This makes it quick and easy to store music, videos, and images in a flash. Keep in mind that installation of the drive is going to require a little bit of technical know-how. Once you learn the ropes, you're going to see that an external hard drive is a great alternative to all other forms of storage.

How Many Computers Do You Have?

This is something you definitely need to consider when buying an external hard drive. If you have many computers running on the same network then consider purchasing a network drive that can cover all these devices at once, and helps you to share data that you save. It's going to take a little more time to figure out the installation, but in the long run it's the easiest solution. Also, if your computer is placed near a router then connecting it with an Ethernet cable is a smart choice that is going to give you faster speeds. When you have a wired connection it makes it up to 50 times faster than your usual wireless connection.

Are You Good With Computers?

This is going to help determine which drive you purchase. It's fairly easy to set up a backup, but when you're not tech savvy it's important to choose the simplest option. When it comes to going with the handiest choice, and these are thumb drives and optical discs, it's going to require you to use multiple discs and devices to get the backup done. A good alternative if you know you're not adept at technology is an external hard drive that runs without software or a drive that does backup at the push of a button.

Supplementing your Software

You can find inexpensive drives that do not require software but they're a bit short when it comes to features and flexibility. You can even get software that is bundled with other drives, and these have their limitations as well. Often these are not able to back up onto CDs and DVDs. Third-party backup software is going to be quite inexpensive, and sometimes this option is well worth it. Some operating systems come with their own backup software such as Max OS X 10.5, and these will automatically back up everything that you have and they let you restore anything from a single file onto the entire drive.

It's possible to restore the most recent version of a file that you have modified, and Time Machine in particular makes it easy to do this. The interface of this is quite simple to use, but it does take a little effort to learn the basics of the backup process. Windows 8 also comes with a backup program that has a feature called ‘File History' that will backup copies of files similar to the way that Mac OS X does it.

Add More Protection

Should your backup and computer live in the same area then your data can be prone to fire, burglary, flood and other problems. If you want your content to be as safe as possible then consider a supplementary backup that is in a different location. This means that your content will always be safe should something happen to your computer.

Types of Backup

There are a number of different backup options, including internal, external, online services, network drives, and thumb devices. You get the fastest backup with an internal drive, but installation of this can be quite complicated. This kind of backup is also susceptible to malware that may infect the primary drive. Optical discs are quite easy to use, but you're going to need a lot of them, and the discs themselves are prone to wear and tear.

Seagate External Hard Drive Mac

Thumb drives are another good option and they offer higher capacities than optical drives. Keep in mind that it is easy to lose these and they don't have the same capacity as hard drives. With all the types of backup that you should consider, an external hard drive seems to be the most appealing.

Conclusion

If you're someone that owns a lot of data then having an external hard drive is a must to ensure that all that data is safe and secure. Most computers just don't have the storage capacity that people need, and that is why an outside source helps to take the load off your computer while also keeping this data safe in a remote location. There are a lot of external drives out there to choose from, and when you're looking for a model that is specifically designed for the Mac then you're going to see that the options almost seem endless. We highlighted the top rated external drives on the market, and these are praised by customers because they deliver solid performance, durability, and are made from the highest quality materials. You can be confident when you purchase one of these models that you're getting a product that will safely store all your material and will be able to handle ample volume.

External Hard Drive Mac Review

The buyer's guide took it a step further by highlighting the various features that are available to you. When it comes to finding the right drive for you, it's really about knowing yourself and what you're looking for. If you're someone who is not very tech savvy, then it's smart to go with a simpler option that isn't going to require as much installation and upkeep. If you're very good with technology, then you can select one of the more complicated options that is probably going to work faster and more efficiently. No matter what device you choose, you're going to love the benefit that you get from owning an external hard drive, and the peace of mind that it gives you.

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