Most modern external hard drives and USB sticks are also compatible with Macs, but you must first format them using a file system that is suitable for the operating system produced by Apple (OS X or macOS). USB memory drives can be formatted quickly and easily using the Mac's Disk Utility system app.
Steps
Step 1. Connect the USB memory drive to be formatted to the Mac
Step 2. Go to the "Applications" folder and click on the "Utilities" icon
Step 3. Click on the "Disk Utility" icon
The "Disk Utility" dialog will be displayed.
Step 4. Click on the name of the USB drive to format
It is displayed in the left panel of the "Disk Utility" window.
Step 5. Click on the "Initialize" tab displayed at the top of the "Disk Utility" window
Step 6. Click on the "Format" drop-down menu
Step 7. Select the file system format "Mac OS Extended (Journaled)" or whatever you prefer according to your needs
This step ensures maximum compatibility and functionality of the USB memory drive with your Mac. This is a necessary step, as many of the USB drives on the market are sold pre-formatted for use with Windows systems.
Step 8. Name your USB drive by typing it into the "Name" text field
Step 9. Click on the "Initialize" button displayed in the lower right part of the window
Step 10. Click the "Initialize" button again when the confirmation pop-up window appears
The selected USB drive will be formatted with the chosen settings and, when the process is complete, it will be ready to be used in conjunction with your Mac.
