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What format is needed for external USB drive to backup with Time Machine for Macbook pro

Time Machine can't back up to a disk formatted for Windows, or to an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. SO WHAT format does an external USB hard drive need to be in order to back up with Time Machine?.

MacBook Pro (2020 and later)

Posted on Apr 12, 2022 5:54 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 12, 2022 6:26 PM

older MacOS uses MacOS Extended (journaled).


MacOS 11 Big Sur and later will use Apple File System (APFS), if given a new drive.


If needed, Time machine can format the drive to its liking [by invoking Disk Utility] once you tell it the drive should be used for backups.

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What format is needed for external USB drive to backup with Time Machine for Macbook pro

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