---
id: mac-storage-basics.how-do-i-change-where-browsers-save-downloads
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/how-do-i-change-where-browsers-save-downloads
category: "Mac storage basics"
subcategory: "Finding big files, Downloads and the Trash"
question: "How do I make Safari or Chrome save downloads to an external drive?"
alt_questions:
  - "change download location safari"
  - "chrome download folder mac"
  - "save downloads to external ssd"
  - "ask where to save downloads"
  - "default download folder mac"
short_answer: "Safari: Settings → General → File download location. Chrome: Settings → Downloads → Location. Firefox: Settings → General → Downloads. Choose a folder on the drive."
tags: ["downloads", "safari", "chrome", "external drive"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/how-do-i-clean-up-my-downloads-folder"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# How do I make Safari or Chrome save downloads to an external drive?

Each browser has a download-location setting; point it at a folder on your external drive.

- **Safari**: Settings → General → **File download location**, then choose **Other…** and pick a folder (or Ask for each download).
- **Chrome**: Settings → Downloads → **Location**, or turn on **Ask where to save each file**.
- **Firefox**: Settings → General → Files and Applications → Downloads.

If the chosen drive isn't connected, downloads may fail or fall back to the default folder, so pick a drive that's usually attached.