WD My Passport 4TB
Score: 82/100
WD My Passport Ultra 5TB Silver
Score: 75/100Rankings
The WD My Passport Ultra 4 TB (Blue) combines high-capacity storage with USB-C connectivity, 256-bit AES hardware encryption and a suite of backup software, targeting users who need secure, portable backup across Windows and macOS. While performance is solid for a mechanical drive, the plastic chassis, heat buildup and lack of native macOS support are notable drawbacks.
The WD 5TB My Passport Ultra for Mac combines massive storage, a sleek metal case, and native USB-C connectivity, targeting macOS users who need large, encrypted backups.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
4,000 GB | 5,000 GBbest | |
115 MB/sbest | 110 MB/s | |
— | 110 MB/sbest | |
36 monthsbest | 36 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.21 kgbest | 0.23 kg |
64 MBbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 74.93 mmbest | 81.5 mm |
| ↓ lower better | 19.05 mmbest | 21.1 mm |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | ||
Interface | USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 | USB-C 3.0 |
Performance(1) | ||
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 115 MB/s | 110 MB/s |
Power & Connectivity(1) | ||
Power Source | bus-powered | Bus-powered |
Compatibility(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS (reformat) | Mac, Windows (reformat/driver) |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.21 kg | 0.2296 kg |
Width (mm) | 74.93 mm | 81.5 mm |
Height (mm) | 19.05 mm | 21.1 mm |
Depth (mm) | 107.19 mm | 110.0 mm |
Storage(1) | ||
Storage Capacity (GB) | 4000 GB | 5000 GB |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Cable Type | USB-C to USB-A cable | USB-C to USB-C cable |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the My Passport Ultra for its generous 4 TB capacity, built-in 256-bit AES encryption, and user-friendly backup software, noting excellent performance for a mechanical drive and a reassuring 3-year warranty. Criticisms focus on the lack of active cooling, the plastic chassis without shock protection, and the fact that it cannot match SSD speeds for demanding workflows.
Everyday users appreciate the drive's plug-and-play simplicity, strong encryption, and portability, often highlighting successful large-scale backups and the high overall rating, while recurring complaints revolve around heat buildup, the need to reformat for macOS, and the short cable.
“Works perfectly out of the box with Windows.”
“Love the encryption - feels secure storing sensitive files.”
“Backed up 2 years of photos in one go - no issues.”
Reviewers rate it highly for capacity, build quality, and encryption, but note the HDD-based speed limits and occasional reliability concerns.
Mac users appreciate the plug-and-play experience and Time Machine support, while some express disappointment over slower speeds and early failures.
