Cannot create new folder on APFS Case-sensitive external HD

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Cannot create new folder on APFS Case-sensitive external HD

Hi, I got a new drive and my husband formatted to APFS (case-sensitive) for my new MacBook Air. I have made a time machine back-up on it but I also want to use the drive to store videos and pictures that I don't want to keep on my Air. The option for folders is not available (light grey). Do I need to re-format? If so what is the best format? Or should I create a new volume on my external drive? Again what format? I am trying to find information on why APFS won't allow a new folder but I am not seeing any information. If I create a new volume will it delete the back-ups I've made?

Posted on Jan 2, 2021 9:57 AM

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Answer 1

KMB_12

Community Specialist

Jan 5, 2021 11:58 AM in response to Lullubelle13

Hello Lullubelle13,

Thanks for reaching out in Apple Support Communities. We understand that you would like to know what is the best format for your drive. It sounds like you also want to use the same drive to store videos and pictures. We're happy to help. Apple File System (APFS) is available for macOS 10.13 or later. "You can store your library on an external storage device, such as a USB or Thunderbolt drive formatted as APFS or Mac OS Extended (Journaled). However, you can't move your library to a disk that's used for Time Machine backups."

Check out the following article to reformat a storage device:

Erase and reformat a storage device in Disk Utility on Mac

The resource below has information on the File systems available:

File system formats available in Disk Utility on Mac

How to move videos and photos to an external drive:

Move your Photos library to save space on your Mac

Cheers!

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Cannot create new folder on APFS Case-sensitive external HD

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