Best Format for External Hard Drive on a Mac

When it comes to formatting an external hard drive for use with a Mac, there are several options to consider. The best format depends on your specific needs and the type of drives you plan to use.

For SSD drives, APFS (Apple File System) is a great choice due to its speed and security features. This format is also compatible with M1 Macs. However, if you plan to share your drive with an older Mac running Sierra or earlier, it's best to format as Mac OS Extended (HFS+).

For hard disk drives, formatting as APFS can provide the widest options for use. You can copy and paste files onto the drive, or use it for Time Machine backups. However, if you plan to share your drive with a Windows computer, it's recommended to format as ExFAT.

It's also important to note that Mac computers running Sierra or earlier OS's cannot use an APFS formatted external drive. In this case, formatting as Mac OS Extended (HFS+) is the best choice.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

* If you plan to share your drive with an older Mac running Sierra or earlier, format as Mac OS Extended (HFS+).

* If you plan to use your external hard drive for Time Machine backups on a Mac running Catalina or later, format as Mac OS Extended (HFS+).

* APFS is the default file system format for internal drives and can be used for SSD drives.

* ExFAT is a good choice if you need to share your drive with Windows computers.

In conclusion, the best format for an external hard drive on a Mac depends on your specific needs and the type of drives you plan to use. By considering these options, you can ensure that your external hard drive is formatted correctly for optimal performance and compatibility.

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