How to Open NTFS Drive on Mac: 2 Ways

Can Mac open an NTFS drive once it's connected? Definitely.

Although NTFS is not a file system listed officially on Apple's User Guide, it's able to access on Mac by default. The problem is just that you cannot write NTFS. To be specific, it means that you can not create a file or folder for the NTFS drive as well as delete it using a Mac.

But, you do have chances to make NTFS usable on Apple devices. This article will guide you on how to open NTFS drives on your Mac. If you'd like to learn more about reading and writing an NTFS partition on macOS, check the guide below.

When coming to open NTFS on Mac, the first thing you need to do is to plug the NTFS hard drive into your device. Use a USB cable or Thunderbolt converter according to the Mac models. Here are two methods to open the drive.

Method 1: How to Open NTFS Drive on Mac on the Desktop?

1. Generally, the NTFS drive will appear automatically with its name on Mac.

2. Double-click the hard drive icon on the desktop. And now you can see the files within the NTFS device.

Note: If you can’t see it, it’s likely because you didn't set showing “Hard disks” on the desktop. Go to Finder - Settings and tick Hard disks.

Method 2: How to Open NTFS Drive on Mac Using Disk Utility?

1. Use the shortcut of Spotlight Search by pressing "⌘+ space."

2. Enter "Disk Utility" and click it in the search bar.

3. Find your NTFS drive name and right-click to open the operations.

4. Click "Show in Finder," and you will open the NTFS drive immediately.

How to Read and Write NTFS on Mac?

Since the NTFS format is not compatible with macOS, you can use third-party software to help. This is the easiest way for the software will mount the NTFS drive automatically and give read-write access.

Step 1. Install Kingshiper NTFS for Mac.
Step 2. Log into your account, and you can activate the writing support right away.
Step 3. Open the connected NTFS drive and start editing.