---
id: mac-storage-basics.how-do-i-check-an-external-drives-speed
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/how-do-i-check-an-external-drives-speed
category: "Mac storage basics"
subcategory: "External storage and adding space"
question: "How can I check how fast my external drive is?"
alt_questions:
  - "test external ssd speed mac"
  - "disk speed test mac"
  - "benchmark drive mac"
  - "is my ssd running at full speed"
  - "check usb speed mac"
short_answer: "System Information shows the speed the drive is connected at; a disk speed test app measures reads and writes. A slow link usually means the cable, port or a hub."
tags: ["external drive", "speed", "system information"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/usb-c-thunderbolt-or-usb-a-what-is-the-difference-for-drives"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# How can I check how fast my external drive is?

Two quick checks:

- **What it's connected at**: open **System Information** (hold Option and choose the Apple menu → System Information) and look under USB or Thunderbolt for the drive and its link speed.
- **How fast it reads and writes**: use a disk speed test app. Storage Studio includes a drive speed test for the drive you set up — see [external drives](https://storagestudio.us/faq/external-drives/).

If the link speed is lower than expected, try another cable or port and avoid hubs.