If you’re looking for the best external hard drives for Mac in 2025, I’ve got you covered. From sleek SSDs like SanDisk Extreme Portable to rugged options like LaCie Rugged Mini, there’s a perfect drive for every need. Some drives offer fast transfer speeds, others prioritize durability or security. With capacities up to 6TB and compatibility with macOS, you’ll find the ideal storage solution. Keep exploring to discover which one suits you best.
Key Takeaways
- Compatibility with macOS, including pre-formatted options and Time Machine support, ensures seamless integration for Mac users.
- A variety of connection interfaces like USB-C and Thunderbolt provide fast transfer speeds and broad device compatibility.
- Durable, portable, and rugged designs cater to different use cases, from everyday portability to outdoor professional needs.
- Storage capacities range from 1TB to 6TB, suitable for media libraries, backups, and high-performance workflows.
- Security features like hardware encryption and password protection safeguard data, making drives reliable for sensitive information.
Seagate 2TB External Hard Drive HDD with USB 3.0
If you’re looking for a reliable external hard drive that works seamlessly with your Mac, the Seagate 2TB Portable HDD is an excellent choice. It offers 2TB of storage, perfect for backing up files, gaming, or media. Its plug-and-play setup makes it easy to use—just connect via the included USB 3.0 cable, and it automatically recognizes your device. With a rotational speed of 7200 RPM, it provides fast data transfer. Compact and lightweight, it’s designed for portability, fitting comfortably in your bag. Plus, it’s compatible with Windows and Mac OS, making it versatile for different devices and setups.
Best For: users seeking a portable, reliable external hard drive compatible with both Windows and Mac for backing up files, gaming, or media storage.
Pros:
- Easy plug-and-play setup with automatic recognition on connection
- Fast data transfer with USB 3.0 interface and 7200 RPM rotational speed
- Compact, lightweight design ideal for portability and on-the-go use
Cons:
- Mechanical hard drive may be more susceptible to physical damage compared to SSDs
- Limited warranty of 1 year, which may be shorter than some competitors
- No included backup software, requiring manual file management or third-party tools
WD 2TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive for Windows and Mac
The WD 2TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive is an excellent choice for Mac users who need reliable, high-capacity storage that seamlessly works across both Windows and Mac systems. Its compact, lightweight design makes it perfect for on-the-go use, with up to 6TB of space for photos, videos, and documents. The drive features fast data transfer via USB 3.2 Gen 1, compatible with USB 3.0 and 2.0 devices. With a proven reputation for reliability, it’s bus-powered and easy to plug in, offering a plug-and-play experience. Backed by a warranty and highly rated by users, it’s a versatile, dependable storage solution.
Best For: users seeking a portable, high-capacity external hard drive compatible with both Windows and Mac systems for on-the-go storage and backup needs.
Pros:
- High-capacity storage up to 6TB in a compact, lightweight design
- Fast data transfer with USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps) connectivity
- Reliable performance backed by a reputable brand and warranty
Cons:
- Rotational speed of 5400 RPM may result in slower transfer compared to SSDs
- Limited to USB 3.0/2.0 and lacks additional connectivity options
- No included encryption or advanced security features
WD 5TB My Passport Ultra External Hard Drive for Mac
For Mac users seeking reliable portable storage, the WD 5TB My Passport Ultra External Hard Drive stands out with its seamless compatibility and robust security features. It offers a spacious 5TB capacity, perfect for backing up large files or expanding your storage. With USB-C and USB 3.1 interfaces, it works effortlessly with Macs and other devices. The device is formatted for macOS and supports Time Machine, making backups straightforward. Its sleek, metal design complements Mac aesthetics, while 256-bit AES hardware encryption and password protection keep your data secure. Overall, it’s a dependable, stylish option for those needing portable, secure storage on the go.
Best For: Mac users seeking a reliable and secure portable external hard drive for backup, storage expansion, or on-the-go data transfer.
Pros:
- Compatible with macOS and supports Time Machine for easy backups
- Secure with 256-bit AES hardware encryption and password protection
- Sleek, modern metal design that complements Mac aesthetics
Cons:
- Limited to 5TB capacity, which may be insufficient for very large data needs
- No included hardware encryption key or advanced security options beyond password protection
- Slightly higher price point compared to some non-encrypted or lower-capacity drives
SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD
With speeds up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write, the SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is an excellent choice for Mac users who need fast, reliable storage on the go. Its NVMe performance outpaces traditional drives, making file transfers quick and efficient. Designed for active lifestyles, it features up to two-meter drop protection, IP65 water and dust resistance, and a handy carabiner loop for secure attachment. With 256-bit AES hardware encryption and compatibility with macOS via software, it offers both speed and security. Compact and lightweight at just 1.76 ounces, it’s perfect for capturing moments and managing data anywhere.
Best For: Mac users and active individuals seeking fast, durable, and portable external storage for on-the-go data transfer and secure file management.
Pros:
- High-speed NVMe performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds
- Rugged design with up to two-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance
- Secure with 256-bit AES hardware encryption and compatibility with macOS
Cons:
- Requires compatible devices to fully utilize NVMe speeds, which may limit performance on older hardware
- Software download needed for macOS management, adding an extra step for setup
- Slightly premium price point compared to non-NVMe external drives
Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0
If you’re looking for a portable external hard drive that offers reliable storage and easy compatibility, the Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB is a solid choice, especially for Mac users willing to reformat. Its sleek, matte finish and compact design make it easy to carry around. With USB 3.0, it delivers quick data transfers, and its 2TB capacity is perfect for backing up files or freeing up space. The drive is plug-and-play, requiring no software installation. While pre-formatted for Windows, reformatting is simple for Mac users. Weighing just 5.3 ounces, it’s lightweight and unobtrusive, making it an excellent portable storage solution.
Best For: users seeking a reliable, portable external hard drive with high capacity and easy plug-and-play setup, especially Mac users willing to reformat for compatibility.
Pros:
- Sleek, compact, and lightweight design for portability
- Fast data transfer with USB 3.0 interface and 5400 RPM disk
- Easy to set up with plug-and-play functionality, no software required
Cons:
- Pre-formatted for Windows, requiring reformatting for Mac users
- Mechanical hard drive with slower access speeds compared to SSDs
- Limited to 2TB capacity, which may be insufficient for very large data needs
LaCie Rugged Mini 2TB External Hard Drive
The LaCie Rugged Mini 2TB External Hard Drive stands out as an ideal choice for Mac users who need durable, portable storage that can handle outdoor and travel conditions. Its compact design packs 2TB of storage, supporting fast USB 3.0 transfer speeds up to 130MB/s. Built to withstand shocks, dust, and water, it’s perfect for rugged environments. Compatible with Mac (reformatting needed), it includes password protection for security. Weighing just under a pound, it’s easy to carry anywhere. Plus, it comes with a one-month Adobe Creative Cloud membership and a two-year warranty, making it a reliable, versatile option for on-the-go storage.
Best For: outdoor enthusiasts and Mac users seeking durable, portable storage with fast transfer speeds and reliable protection.
Pros:
- Rugged, all-terrain durability resistant to shocks, dust, and water
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
- Includes password protection and a one-month Adobe Creative Cloud membership
Cons:
- Requires reformatting for Mac compatibility
- Uses a single AAAA battery which may need replacement over time
- Rotational speed of 5400 RPM may be slower compared to higher RPM drives
WD 2TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive
The WD 2TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive stands out as a perfect choice for Mac users seeking reliable, on-the-go storage. Its slim, durable design easily fits in your palm, making it ideal for travel. With 2TB of storage, it comfortably holds photos, videos, music, and documents. It connects via USB 3.1/3.0 for fast data transfer. Features like password protection, hardware encryption, and backup software help secure and manage your files. Weighing just 4.2 ounces, it’s lightweight yet dependable. Backed by a 3-year warranty and high customer ratings, it’s a versatile, secure solution for Mac users needing portable storage.
Best For: Mac users seeking a reliable, portable external hard drive with secure backup and data protection features.
Pros:
- Slim, lightweight design easily fits in your palm and is perfect for travel.
- Offers hardware encryption and password protection for enhanced security.
- Compatible with USB 3.1/3.0 for fast data transfer and reliable performance.
Cons:
- Mechanical hard drive may be slower compared to SSD options.
- Requires downloading and installing backup software separately.
- Limited to 2TB capacity, which may be insufficient for users with extensive storage needs.
1TB External Hard Drive Portable HDD with USB 3.0 and USB-C
A 1TB portable hard drive with USB 3.0 and USB-C offers fast, reliable data transfer in a compact design, making it ideal for Mac users who need mobility without sacrificing performance. Its ultra-slim, lightweight build (just 7.7 ounces) easily fits in a pocket, perfect for on-the-go use. The drive supports plug-and-play, so you can connect it instantly without installing software. With transfer speeds up to 133MB/s (read) and 103MB/s (write), it handles large files swiftly. The aluminum layer ensures heat dissipation and interference protection, while the included USB-C adapter boosts compatibility across devices. It’s a dependable, portable storage solution for Mac and other systems.
Best For: users seeking a portable, high-speed external hard drive compatible with multiple devices including Mac, PC, and gaming consoles for on-the-go data storage.
Pros:
- Ultra-slim, lightweight design for easy portability.
- Fast transfer speeds up to 133MB/s (read) and 103MB/s (write).
- Compatible with a wide range of devices via USB 3.0 and USB-C.
Cons:
- Uses a 5400 RPM mechanical disk, which may be slower than SSD options.
- No included backup software or encryption features.
- Limited to 1TB capacity, which might not suffice for extensive storage needs.
Samsung T7 Shield Portable External SSD (1TB) with IP65 Water Resistance
If you need a rugged external SSD that can keep up with your demanding Mac workflow, the Samsung T7 Shield is an excellent choice. It offers blazing-fast read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s thanks to USB 3.2 Gen 2 and PCIe NVMe technology. Its IP65 rating guarantees water and dust resistance, making it durable in harsh environments. The drive is compact, lightweight, and drop-resistant up to nearly 10 feet. Compatible with Mac, PC, Android, and gaming consoles, it’s perfect for editing large files on the go. Plus, Samsung’s Magician software helps manage and safeguard your data effortlessly.
Best For: Professionals and creatives who need a durable, high-speed external SSD for on-the-go data transfer and editing across multiple devices including Mac, PC, Android, and gaming consoles.
Pros:
- Ultra-fast read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s with PCIe NVMe and USB 3.2 Gen 2 technology.
- IP65 rated for water and dust resistance, suitable for harsh environments.
- Drop-resistant up to nearly 10 feet and lightweight for portable use.
Cons:
- Performance may vary depending on host device and cable support for USB 3.2 Gen 2 and UASP.
- Limited color options, primarily available in beige.
- Higher price point compared to basic external drives without rugged features.
Samsung T7 Portable SSD 1TB External Solid State Drive
For Mac users seeking fast, reliable external storage, the Samsung T7 Portable SSD 1TB stands out with transfer speeds up to 1050MB/s, making it ideal for handling large files and high-resolution videos. Its PCIe NVMe technology delivers rapid read/write speeds, markedly faster than traditional external drives. Compact and sleek, it weighs just over 2 ounces and is built with durable, shock-resistant aluminum to withstand drops up to 6 feet. Compatible with Mac, PC, Android, and gaming consoles, it supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 and UASP mode for maximum performance. Perfect for creators and professionals, it offers flexible storage options up to 4TB.
Best For: Creators, professionals, and users needing fast, reliable external storage for large files, high-resolution videos, and data-intensive projects across multiple devices including Mac, PC, Android, and gaming consoles.
Pros:
- Transfer speeds up to 1050MB/s for rapid data access and transfer
- Compact, durable design with shock-resistant aluminum construction
- Wide compatibility with USB 3.2 Gen 2 and UASP support for optimal performance
Cons:
- Performance depends on host device and cable support, which may limit speeds
- Some OS versions may require reformatting for full compatibility
- Higher capacity models may be more expensive compared to traditional HDD options
LaCie Rugged USB-C 4TB External Hard Drive
The LaCie Rugged USB-C 4TB External Hard Drive stands out as an ideal choice for Mac users who need durable, high-capacity storage that can withstand outdoor conditions. Its rugged design resists drops, dust, crushes, and rain, making it perfect for travel or outdoor work. With a 7200 RPM mechanical drive and USB-C support, it offers fast data transfers and easy connectivity to modern laptops. The included USB 3.0 adapter guarantees compatibility with older devices. Weighing just under 12 ounces and compact, it’s easy to carry. Plus, it comes with a one-month Adobe Creative Cloud membership and reliable customer support, making it a versatile, durable solution.
Best For: outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and Mac users in need of durable, high-capacity external storage that can withstand rugged environments.
Pros:
- Rugged design resistant to drops, dust, crushes, and rain for reliable outdoor use
- Fast data transfer with 7200 RPM mechanical drive and USB-C support
- Includes USB 3.0 adapter for compatibility with legacy devices
Cons:
- Mechanical hard drive may be more susceptible to wear over time compared to SSDs
- Slightly heavier at 11.8 ounces, which may be less ideal for ultra-light travel
- Limited to 4TB capacity, which might be insufficient for very large data needs
SanDisk Professional 5TB G-Drive ArmorATD External Hard Drive
The SanDisk Professional 5TB G-Drive ArmorATD stands out as an ideal choice for Mac users who need a rugged, high-capacity external drive that can withstand tough environments. Its 5TB mechanical HDD offers ample storage, and the USB-C interface ensures fast file transfers up to 130MB/s. Built with a durable anodized aluminum enclosure and an easy-grip bumper, it’s designed for durability. Certified IP54, it resists rain and dust, making it perfect for demanding setups. Compatible with macOS right out of the box, it provides reliable performance in rugged conditions, making it a solid option for professionals on the go.
Best For: professionals and outdoor enthusiasts who need a durable, high-capacity external hard drive for rugged environments and demanding workflows.
Pros:
- Rugged construction with anodized aluminum enclosure and easy-grip bumper for enhanced durability
- Certified IP54 for rain and dust resistance, suitable for tough conditions
- High-capacity 5TB HDD with fast transfer speeds up to 130MB/s via USB-C interface
Cons:
- Mechanical HDD may be more susceptible to damage from drops compared to SSDs
- Performance may vary depending on device and environmental conditions
- Reformatting required for Windows compatibility, which may be inconvenient for some users
Maxone 1TB Portable External Hard Drive HDD with USB 3.0
If you’re seeking a portable external hard drive that combines sleek design with reliable performance, Maxone’s 1TB Ultra Slim HDD with USB 3.0 is an excellent choice for Mac users. Its all-aluminum, anti-scratch body measures just 0.4 inches thick, making it lightweight at 8.4 ounces and highly portable. With transfer speeds up to 5 Gbit/s via USB 3.0, it ensures quick data movement. Compatibility with Windows systems and plug-and-play setup add convenience, while the durable metal construction helps with heat dissipation. Included accessories, a 3-year warranty, and over 57,000 positive reviews make this drive a practical and stylish storage solution.
Best For: Mac users seeking a sleek, lightweight external hard drive with fast data transfer and reliable durability.
Pros:
- All-aluminum, anti-scratch design offers durability and heat dissipation
- Ultra slim and lightweight at only 0.4 inches thick and 8.4 ounces, highly portable
- Fast transfer speeds up to 5 Gbit/s with USB 3.0 for quick data movement
Cons:
- Operates at a rotational speed of 5400 RPM, which may be slower than higher RPM drives
- Limited to 1TB storage capacity, which might be insufficient for users with large data needs
- Compatibility may require additional formatting or software for non-Windows systems outside of Mac and Windows
Toshiba Canvio Flex 2TB External Hard Drive
Looking for an external hard drive that effortlessly works across multiple devices? The Toshiba Canvio Flex 2TB is a great choice. It’s formatted in exFAT, so it works smoothly with PC, Mac, and tablets with USB-C ports. It comes with both USB-C and USB-A cables, ensuring broad compatibility. With a 2TB capacity, 5400 RPM speed, and a sleek, portable design, it’s perfect for on-the-go storage. It connects via USB 3.0 and weighs just 5.3 ounces. Since its release, it’s received positive reviews, averaging 4.5 stars, making it a reliable and versatile option for anyone needing flexible storage solutions.
Best For: users seeking a versatile, portable external hard drive compatible with multiple devices including PC, Mac, and tablets with USB-C ports.
Pros:
- Cross-device compatibility with exFAT formatting for seamless use across platforms
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for broad connectivity options
- Compact, lightweight design weighing only 5.3 ounces, ideal for portability
Cons:
- 5400 RPM speed may result in slower data transfer compared to higher RPM drives
- Requires reformatting for certain uses like Apple Time Machine, which may involve additional steps
- Limited flash memory cache of 2MB might impact performance during intensive data transfers
SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD
For professionals who demand lightning-fast data transfer and rugged durability, the SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD is an ideal choice. It offers NVMe performance with speeds up to 2000MB/s, making large file transfers quick and smooth. Its forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink, ensuring sustained performance, while IP65 water and dust resistance and up to 3-meter drop protection keep it safe during travel. The compact design, weighing just 2.75 ounces, is compatible with Mac and PC via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2. Plus, its five-year warranty and customer ratings of 4.4 stars make it a reliable, high-performance storage option for demanding users.
Best For: professionals and heavy users who require fast data transfer, rugged durability, and reliable performance for demanding content creation tasks.
Pros:
- Up to 2000MB/s NVMe read/write speeds for quick large file transfers
- Rugged design with IP65 water and dust resistance and drop protection up to 3 meters
- Forged aluminum chassis acting as heatsink for sustained high performance
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point compared to basic portable SSDs
- Limited to USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 compatibility, which may require newer ports
- No included carry case or additional accessories
Factors to Consider When Choosing External Hard Drives for Mac
When selecting an external hard drive for my Mac, I focus on compatibility to guarantee seamless connectivity. I also consider storage capacity, data transfer speeds, and how durable and portable the drive is for my needs. Security features are equally important to protect my data from unauthorized access.
Compatibility With Mac
Choosing an external hard drive that works seamlessly with your Mac starts with guaranteeing compatibility. First, check the drive’s file system—APFS or HFS+ are ideal since they’re optimized for macOS. Some drives come pre-formatted for Mac, saving you time, but others may need reformatting. Next, verify if the drive supports macOS-specific features like Time Machine, which might require compatible software or firmware. It’s also essential to confirm that the connection interface matches your Mac—USB-C, Thunderbolt, or USB 3.0— for fast, reliable data transfer. Additionally, see if the drive is truly plug-and-play or if it needs extra drivers. Finally, consider the physical design and ports to guarantee it fits your Mac’s available connections, especially on newer models with limited port options.
Storage Capacity Needs
Selecting the right storage capacity for your external hard drive depends on how much data you currently have and expect to accumulate. If you mainly need to back up documents or smaller files, a 1TB drive might suffice. For larger media libraries, like videos or high-resolution photos, 4TB or more is ideal. Consider your usage patterns—if you frequently edit videos or play demanding games, you’ll want extra space to avoid constant transfers. Also, think about whether your drive needs to support multiple devices or operating systems, which could influence capacity needs. Keep in mind that larger drives tend to cost more, so find a balance between your storage requirements and budget. Regularly assess your data growth to determine if an upgrade becomes necessary.
Data Transfer Speeds
Data transfer speeds play a crucial role in how efficiently you can move large files between your Mac and an external hard drive. Faster speeds mean less waiting and smoother workflows, especially when handling big projects. Drives with USB 3.0 or higher, like USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt, offer markedly faster transfer rates than USB 2.0. SSDs typically deliver over 1000MB/s, making them ideal for quick backups and editing large media files. In contrast, traditional HDDs usually range between 80-160MB/s. Remember, the actual speed depends on your Mac’s port capabilities, whether UASP is enabled, and the drive’s rotational speed if it’s a mechanical HDD. To maximize performance, ensure both your Mac and the drive support the same high-speed standards.
Durability and Portability
When looking for an external hard drive for your Mac, durability and portability are essential factors to contemplate. A rugged design with shock resistance, water, and dust resistance helps protect your drive from physical damage and environmental hazards. Hard drives with reinforced enclosures or metal casings are better equipped to withstand drops and impacts, especially during travel or outdoor use. Resistance ratings like IP65 or IP54 indicate protection levels against water, dust, and rain, ensuring reliable operation in challenging conditions. Portability is enhanced by compact, lightweight designs that easily fit into pockets or bags. Features like built-in bumpers, shock absorption, and secure cable connections also contribute to the drive’s longevity and dependable performance, making it easier to carry and protect your data on the go.
Security Features
Security features are vital considerations because they directly protect your sensitive data from unauthorized access and cyber threats. Hardware encryption, like 256-bit AES, offers strong protection at the device level, making it difficult for hackers to access your information. Password protection adds an extra layer of security, guaranteeing only authorized users can open or modify files. Compatibility with macOS features like Time Machine may require drives to support specific encryption protocols or software, so it’s important to check compatibility. Some drives include ransomware defense software, safeguarding backups from malicious attacks. Choosing drives with certified security standards helps affirm compliance and maintains data integrity. Prioritizing security features ensures your data remains safe, even if your device is lost or stolen.
Price and Warranty
Choosing the right external hard drive for your Mac involves balancing price and warranty to guarantee you get the best value and long-term protection. Prices vary widely—from budget models around $50 to premium rugged drives over $200—so your budget plays a key role. A longer warranty, typically 3 to 5 years, often indicates better build quality and manufacturer support, giving you peace of mind. Some drives offer extra services like data recovery plans, which can be worth contemplating but may come with additional costs. Always read the warranty terms carefully to understand what’s covered and the claim process. Investing in a reliable drive with solid warranty coverage ensures your data stays protected without surprises down the line.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do External Hard Drives Impact Macbook Battery Life?
External hard drives can slightly impact your MacBook’s battery life because they draw power when connected, especially if they’re powered via USB or Thunderbolt. I’ve noticed that using an external drive for extended periods can drain my battery faster, but the impact isn’t huge if you disconnect when not in use. To optimize battery life, I prefer using drives with their own power sources or disconnecting them when I don’t need extra storage.
Are There Compatibility Issues With Macos Updates?
Compatibility issues with macOS updates can happen, but I’ve found most external drives stay reliable when I keep my firmware and software up to date. Sometimes, a major macOS update might cause temporary hiccups, but manufacturers usually release updates quickly. I recommend checking compatibility details before updating your OS and ensuring your external drive has the latest firmware. Staying proactive helps me avoid disruptions and keeps my storage running smoothly.
What Are the Best Encryption Options for Mac External Drives?
I recommend using FileVault for encryption on your Mac external drives; it’s built into macOS and provides robust, seamless encryption. For additional security, consider third-party tools like VeraCrypt, which offer strong encryption options and cross-platform compatibility. Always verify your encryption software is updated, use strong passwords, and enable two-factor authentication where possible. This way, your data stays protected without sacrificing ease of access.
Can External Drives Be Used for Time Machine Backups?
Yes, external drives work perfectly for Time Machine backups. I connect my external drive, make sure it’s formatted correctly (APFS or Mac OS Extended), and select it in Time Machine preferences. Once set up, it automatically backs up my Mac regularly. Just make sure your drive has enough space and is reliably connected to avoid any backup hiccups. Using a dedicated external drive keeps my data safe and easily recoverable.
How Do I Safely Eject External Drives on Mac?
Ejecting an external drive on a Mac is as simple as safely removing a USB stick from a computer. I always drag the drive icon to the Trash, which turns into an eject symbol, or right-click and select “Eject.” This guarantees all data transfers are complete and prevents corruption, like gently unplugging a phone without turning it off. Always wait for the icon to disappear before physically disconnecting.
Conclusion
No matter which drive catches your eye, remember that the perfect storage solution quietly complements your Mac’s workflow. It’s less about the loud bells and whistles, and more about finding that subtle balance of speed, capacity, and reliability. When you choose wisely, your setup becomes smoother and more seamless—almost like a trusted sidekick. So, take your time, explore your options, and let your new external hard drive quietly elevate your Mac experience.
