Cloud backup, local backup, and archival solutions for Mac. We test Time Machine, Backblaze, Carbon Copy Cloner, and more so you know exactly what's protecting your data.
Time Machine is free. Backblaze is $7/month. Arq is $69 one-time. We break down which Mac backup solution is actually worth it for your specific situation.
Quick Verdict
Use Time Machine with a NAS for your local backup — it's free, fast, and always available. Add Backblaze for $7/month if you want off-site protection. That's the two-layer system that covers 95% of what most Mac users actually need.
The best hard drives for NAS enclosures and backup storage in 2026 — ranked by reliability, speed, and value. We tell you which drives to buy and which to avoid, based on real-world failure data.
Quick Verdict
Buy WD Red Plus or Seagate IronWolf — they're equivalent drives and the choice between them comes down to availability and specific capacity needs. If you're filling a DS923+ or similar high-end NAS, WD Red Pro is worth the premium. If you're buying for an external backup drive, WD Blue is fine. Never buy consumer-grade drives for a NAS that runs 24/7.
Backblaze and Arq are two of the best Mac backup solutions — but they take completely different approaches. Here's how to choose.
Quick Verdict
Backblaze wins for simplicity and value; Arq wins for control, privacy, and flexibility.
We tested the best Mac backup software for home users, creative professionals, and businesses. Here's what actually works.
Quick Verdict
Time Machine is the best free option; Backblaze is the best cloud backup; Arq is the best for power users who want full control.
The best NAS devices for Mac users in 2026 — ranked by setup simplicity, Mac compatibility, drive capacity, and what they actually cost to run. Including Time Machine support, Plex, and backup automation.
Quick Verdict
Start with the Synology DS224+. If you're serious about data — home photo/video library, Time Machine for multiple Macs, Plex media server — spend the extra $260 and get the DS923+. The Synology DSM software is what separates a NAS you set up once from one you fight with constantly.